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 X5660 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 16 March 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Westmere-EP (2010−2011) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 2.8 GHz, with boost up to 3.2 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1366. Thermal design power (TDP): 95 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 5,979 points. Launch price was $33.

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.

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 X5660

Xeon W-2195

MSRP: $150|Avg: $5

936%

Xeon 6337P

MSRP: $60|Avg: $5

700%

EPYC 9174F

MSRP: $194|Avg: $30

291%

EPYC 7261

MSRP: $501|Avg: $8

233%

EPYC 9375F

MSRP: $5306|Avg: $108

148%

Xeon E7-8895 v2

MSRP: $6841|Avg: $65

147%

Xeon W-2191B

MSRP: $1333|Avg: $39

122%

EPYC 9135

MSRP: $1214|Avg: $95

102%

Xeon X5660

MSRP: $1219|Avg: $10

100%

#10

EPYC 7543P

MSRP: $2730|Avg: $115

97%

#11

EPYC 7J13

MSRP: $7890|Avg: $150

95%

#12

Xeon E5-2689

MSRP: $1800|Avg: $18

92%

#13

Xeon X5680

MSRP: $450|Avg: $13

89%

#14

Xeon Silver 4114

MSRP: $612|Avg: $30

73%

#15

EPYC 7D12

MSRP: $1000|Avg: $100

71%

#16

Xeon E5-2676 V3

MSRP: $1800|Avg: $36

61%

#17

Ryzen Threadripper PRO 3945WX

MSRP: $1149|Avg: $100

56%

#18

Xeon E5-4620 v2

MSRP: $273|Avg: $30

53%

#19

Xeon W3540

MSRP: $284|Avg: $10

51%

#20

EPYC 7302

MSRP: $978|Avg: $109

51%

#21

Xeon W3530

MSRP: $294|Avg: $10

51%

#22

EPYC 7473X

MSRP: $3900|Avg: $200

50%

#23

Ryzen Threadripper PRO 5965WX

MSRP: $2399|Avg: $225

50%

#24

Xeon E5-2650 v4

MSRP: $1166|Avg: $45

49%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon X5660 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon X5660 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Xeon X5660 is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Westmere-EP (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.2 GHz from a base frequency of 2.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 12 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 5,979, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon X5660
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	6C / 12T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.2 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.8 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Westmere-EP (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	12 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	239 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	1,170 million
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	81 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	5,979

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Xeon X5660 fits into the LGA1366 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads) across 3 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.

Specification	Xeon X5660
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 RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1333
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	3
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	Yes
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	No
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Intel X58,Intel 5520
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	2

🔧

Advanced Features

The Xeon X5660 is primarily designed for Workstation. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i7-980X.

Specification	Xeon X5660
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Workstation
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x, VT-d, EPT
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Core i7-980X

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Xeon X5660 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95 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: Tower 140mm.

Specification	Xeon X5660
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	95 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	81 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Tower 140mm

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $10 (MSRP: $1219), the Xeon X5660 delivers 598 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1721 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon X5660
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$1219
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$10
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$33
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#1721
Release DateLaunch date	16 March 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel

Specifications Reference

Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.

4 categories

General Information

7 specs

Type	server
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$33
Manufacturer	Intel
Release Date	16 March 2010 (15 years ago)
Architecture Codename	Westmere-EP (2010−2011)
Performance Ranking Position	1721

Technical Specifications

13 specs

Cores	6
Threads	12
Die Size	239 mm2
L1 Cache	64 kB (per core)
L2 Cache	256 kB (per core)
L3 Cache	12 MB (total)
Max Frequency	3.2 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	2.8 GHz
Transistor Count	1,170 million
Process Technology	32 nm
Max Core Temperature	81 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-