Xeon Platinum 8256
Intel
PassMark
16,787
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
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 Platinum 8256 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 11 December 2018 (6 years ago). It is based on the Cascade Lake-SP (2018) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 3.8 GHz, with boost up to 3.9 GHz. L3 cache: 16.5 MB (total). L2 cache: 1 MB (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA3647. Thermal design power (TDP): 105 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-2933. Passmark benchmark score: 16,787 points. Launch price was $7,007.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Xeon Platinum 8256
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon Platinum 8256 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Xeon Platinum 8256 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon Platinum 8256 is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Cascade Lake-SP (2018) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.9 GHz from a base frequency of 3.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 16.5 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 1 MB (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 16,787, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Xeon Platinum 8256 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.9 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.8 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Cascade Lake-SP (2018) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 16.5 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 8,000 million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 72 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 16,787 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon Platinum 8256 fits into the LGA3647 socket and supports PCIe 3.0. It supports DDR4-2933 memory.
| Specification | Xeon Platinum 8256 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Xeon Platinum |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA3647 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4-2933 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 8 (Multiprocessor) |
Power & Cooling
The Xeon Platinum 8256 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 105 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Xeon Platinum 8256 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 105 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 72 °C |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #939 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon Platinum 8256 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $7,007 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #939 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 11 December 2018 (6 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2019 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Xeon Platinum 8256
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