Core 2 Duo T5900
Intel
PassMark
2,123
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 T5900 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. Max frequency: 2.2 GHz. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 65 nm process technology. Socket: P. Thermal design power (TDP): 2 MB. Passmark benchmark score: 2,123 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 T5900
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo T5900 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 T5900 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core 2 Duo T5900 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 2.2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,123, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5900 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.2 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Merom (2006−2008) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 65 nm |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 2 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 128 kB |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 800 MHz |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,123 |
Memory & Platform
The Core 2 Duo T5900 fits into the P socket and supports PCIe 1.1.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5900 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core 2 Duo |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | P |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 1.1 |
Power & Cooling
The Core 2 Duo T5900 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 2 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5900 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 2 MB |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $5, the Core 2 Duo T5900 delivers 425 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #3262 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T5900 |
|---|---|
| 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 | #3262 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2008-01-01 |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| 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 T5900
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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