PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.

Overview

The Xeon L5520 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 March 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Gainestown (2009−2010) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.26 GHz, with boost up to 2.48 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1366. Thermal design power (TDP): 60 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,274 points. Launch price was $100.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon L5520 is positioned at rank #832 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Xeon L5520

Xeon Platinum 8454H

MSRP: $6540|Avg: N/A

18278%

Xeon Gold 6240R

MSRP: $2444|Avg: N/A

3451%

#10

Xeon 6337P

MSRP: $60|Avg: $5

3066%

#15

EPYC 9174F

MSRP: $194|Avg: $30

2369%

#472

EPYC 9845

MSRP: $13564|Avg: $8670

99%

#473

EPYC 7F32

MSRP: $2100|Avg: $179

97%

#474

EPYC 9654P

MSRP: $10625|Avg: $5345

96%

#475

EPYC 9965

MSRP: $14813|Avg: $10000

95%

#476

EPYC 9745

MSRP: $12141|Avg: $10588

95%

#477

EPYC 7J13

MSRP: $7890|Avg: $150

95%

#832

Xeon L5520

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#837

Xeon W3550

MSRP: $294|Avg: $30

97%

#839

Xeon E5-2450

MSRP: $694|Avg: $795

96%

#841

Xeon E5-2630L v2

MSRP: $612|Avg: $149

95%

#842

Xeon E3-1246 v3

MSRP: $667|Avg: $215

95%

#843

Xeon W3540

MSRP: $284|Avg: $10

95%

#844

Xeon E-2124G

MSRP: $667|Avg: $462

95%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon L5520 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon L5520 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Xeon L5520 is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Gainestown (2009−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.48 GHz from a base frequency of 2.26 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,274, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon L5520
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.48 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.26 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Gainestown (2009−2010)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	8 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256 kB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	263 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	731 million
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	70 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,274

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Xeon L5520 fits into the LGA1366 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.

Specification	Xeon L5520
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA1366
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	2

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Xeon L5520 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 60 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Xeon L5520
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	60 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	70 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #832 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2474 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon L5520
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$100
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#832
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2474
Release DateLaunch date	30 March 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel