Xeon w3-2525
Intel
PassMark
28,641
MSRP
$609
AVG Price
$800
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 w3-2525 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 24 August 2024 (1 year ago). It is based on the Sapphire Rapids (2023−2024) architecture. It features 8 cores and 16 threads. Base frequency is 3.5 GHz, with boost up to 4.5 GHz. L3 cache: 22.5 MB. L2 cache: 2 MB (per core). Built on Intel 7 nm process technology. Socket: LGA4677. Thermal design power (TDP): 175 Watt. Memory support: DDR5-4400. Passmark benchmark score: 28,641 points. Launch price was $609.
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 w3-2525
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon w3-2525 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 w3-2525 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon w3-2525 is a 8-core / 16-thread processor based on the Sapphire Rapids (2023−2024) architecture, manufactured on a Intel 7 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.5 GHz from a base frequency of 3.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 22.5 MB of L3 cache, plus 2 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 80 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 28,641, placing it in the High-End performance tier as a Recent generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 2,000, while multi-core reaches 15,000.
| Specification | Xeon w3-2525 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 8C / 16T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.5 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.5 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Sapphire Rapids (2023−2024) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | Intel 7 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 22.5 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 2 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 80 kB (per core) |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 28,641 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 2,000 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 15,000 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon w3-2525 fits into the LGA4677 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 64 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR5-4400 memory at speeds up to DDR5-4400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 2 TB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Xeon w3-2525 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA4677 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 5.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 64 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR5-4400 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR5-4400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 2 TB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 4 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | None |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | W790 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Xeon w3-2525 is primarily designed for Workstation. It supports AVX-512 instructions — specialized SIMD operations that significantly accelerate AI inference, scientific computing, and video encoding workloads. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7945WX.
| Specification | Xeon w3-2525 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Workstation |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ✅ Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7945WX |
Power & Cooling
The Xeon w3-2525 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 175 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: AIO 360mm+.
| Specification | Xeon w3-2525 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 175 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | AIO 360mm+ |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $800 (MSRP: $609), the Xeon w3-2525 delivers 36 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #464 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon w3-2525 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $609 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $800 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $609 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #464 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 24 August 2024 (1 year ago) |
| Release Year | 2024 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Xeon w3-2525
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Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
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