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 X6550 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2015-01-01. It features 8 cores and 16 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 2.4 GHz. L3 cache: 18 MB L3 Cache. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1567. Thermal design power (TDP): 130 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 1,936 points. Launch price was $800.

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

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon X6550 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon X6550 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Xeon X6550 is a 8-core / 16-thread processor, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.4 GHz from a base frequency of 2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. With a massive 18 MB L3 Cache L3 cache (3D V-Cache technology), this processor has a significant gaming advantage — the large cache drastically reduces memory latency in game engines.. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,936, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon X6550
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	8C / 16T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.4 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2 GHz
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	18 MB L3 Cache
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	69 °C
64-bit Support	No
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,936

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Memory & Platform

The Xeon X6550 fits into the LGA1567 socket and supports PCIe 5.0. It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.

Specification	Xeon X6550
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA1567
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 5.0
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1333
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	4
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	Yes
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	No
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Nehalem-EX

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Advanced Features

The Xeon X6550 is primarily designed for Server. 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 X6550
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Server
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

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Power & Cooling

The Xeon X6550 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. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Tower 140mm.

Specification	Xeon X6550
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	130 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	69 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Tower 140mm

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #2610 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon X6550
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$800
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2610
Release DateLaunch date	2015-01-01
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel

Specifications Reference

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

3 categories

General Information

5 specs

Type	server
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$800
Release Date	2015-01-01
Performance Ranking Position	2610

Technical Specifications

9 specs

Cores	8
Threads	16
L3 Cache	18 MB L3 Cache
Max Frequency	2.4 GHz
64-Bit Support	-
Base Frequency	2 GHz
Process Technology	45 nm
Max Core Temperature	69 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-