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 W3520 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 March 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Bloomfield (2008−2010) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.66 GHz, with boost up to 2.93 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1366. Thermal design power (TDP): 130 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,940 points. Launch price was $404.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon W3520 is positioned at rank #861 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 W3520

Xeon Platinum 8454H

MSRP: $6540|Avg: N/A

20080%

Xeon Gold 6240R

MSRP: $2444|Avg: N/A

3791%

#10

Xeon 6337P

MSRP: $60|Avg: $5

3368%

#15

EPYC 9174F

MSRP: $194|Avg: $30

2602%

#485

Xeon Gold 6258R

MSRP: $3950|Avg: $1400

99%

#486

EPYC 9175F

MSRP: $4256|Avg: $3703

99%

#488

EPYC 9534

MSRP: $8803|Avg: $2999

98%

#489

EPYC 9654

MSRP: $11805|Avg: $5345

98%

#490

EPYC 7H12

MSRP: $6950|Avg: $1340

97%

#491

EPYC 7742

MSRP: $6950|Avg: $800

97%

#492

Xeon Platinum 8352M

MSRP: $4471|Avg: $4471

96%

#493

Xeon Platinum 8570

MSRP: $9595|Avg: $9595

94%

#861

Xeon W3520

MSRP: $284|Avg: $15

100%

#862

Xeon E3-1271 v3

MSRP: $727|Avg: $831

100%

#863

Xeon E5603

MSRP: $188|Avg: N/A

99%

#871

Xeon 6315P

MSRP: $1166|Avg: $160

97%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon W3520 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Xeon W3520 is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Bloomfield (2008−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.93 GHz from a base frequency of 2.66 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 2,940, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon W3520
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.93 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.66 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Bloomfield (2008−2010)
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)	68 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,940

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Xeon W3520 fits into the LGA1366 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.

Specification	Xeon W3520
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	1

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Xeon W3520 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 130 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Xeon W3520
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	130 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	68 °C

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $15 (MSRP: $284), the Xeon W3520 delivers 196 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #861 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2273 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon W3520
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$284
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$15
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$404
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#861
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2273
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