
Core 2 Duo P8700
Intel
PassMark
2,805
MSRP
$241
AVG Price
$85
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 Core 2 Duo P8700 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 January 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2.53 GHz, with boost up to 2.53 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 3 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 25 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 2,805 points. Launch price was $209.
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 Core 2 Duo P8700
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo P8700 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Counter-Strike 2

League of Legends

Path of Exile 2

Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo P8700 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core 2 Duo P8700 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.53 GHz from a base frequency of 2.53 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB L2 Cache of L3 cache, plus 3 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,805, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo P8700 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.53 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.53 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Penryn (2008−2011) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 45 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 3 MB L2 Cache |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 3 MB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 107 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 410 Million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 1066 MHz |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 105 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Core Voltage Range | 1V - 1.25V |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,805 |
Memory & Platform
The Core 2 Duo P8700 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo P8700 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core 2 Duo |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | PGA478 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 1.1 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 0 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | 1066 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 8 |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | None |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | GM45,GS45,PM45 |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Turion II Ultra M600.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo P8700 |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | true |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Turion II Ultra M600 |
Power & Cooling
The Core 2 Duo P8700 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 25 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Laptop Integrated.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo P8700 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 25 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 105 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | false |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Laptop Integrated |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $85 (MSRP: $241), the Core 2 Duo P8700 delivers 33 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #3088 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo P8700 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $241 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $85 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $209 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3088 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 1 January 2009 (16 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2009 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)












AMD (12)












Our Recommendation for Core 2 Duo P8700
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)









Recommended (Balanced) (12)











High-End (Max Performance) (12)












Popular Comparisons
Compare Core 2 Duo P8700 with other popular CPUs












Compare Core 2 Duo P8700
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
















Similar or Lower Performance (8)
















