Core 2 Duo T5550
Intel
PassMark
1,826
AVG Price
$5
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 T5550 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2008-01-01. It is based on the Merom (2006−2008) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.83 GHz, with boost up to 1.83 GHz. L3 cache: 2 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 65 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 1,826 points. Launch price was $249.
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 T5550
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo T5550 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 T5550 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core 2 Duo T5550 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Merom (2006−2008) architecture, manufactured on a 65 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.83 GHz from a base frequency of 1.83 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 2 MB L2 Cache of L3 cache, plus 2 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,826, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5550 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 1.83 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.83 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Merom (2006−2008) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 65 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 2 MB L2 Cache |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 2 MB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 143 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 291 Million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 667 MHz |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Core Voltage Range | 1.075V-1.25V |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,826 |
Memory & Platform
The Core 2 Duo T5550 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5550 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Power & Cooling
The Core 2 Duo T5550 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5550 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 35 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $5, the Core 2 Duo T5550 delivers 365 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #3292 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5550 |
|---|---|
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $5 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $249 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3292 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2008-01-01 |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core 2 Duo T5550
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