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 E5-2696 V3 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2015-01-01. It is based on the Haswell-EP (2014−2015) architecture. It features 18 cores and 36 threads. Base frequency is 2.3 GHz, with boost up to 3.8 GHz. L3 cache: 45 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2011-3. Thermal design power (TDP): 145 Watt. Memory support: DDR3, DDR4 2133 MHz Quad-channel. Passmark benchmark score: 21,435 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.•
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Performance Per Dollar

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon E5-2696 V3 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon E5-2696 V3 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Xeon E5-2696 V3 is a 18-core / 36-thread processor based on the Haswell-EP (2014−2015) architecture, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.8 GHz from a base frequency of 2.3 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 45 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 21,435, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon E5-2696 V3
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	18C / 36T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.3 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Haswell-EP (2014−2015)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	22 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	45 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	356 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	2,600 million
64-bit Support	Yes
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	21,435

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Memory & Platform

The Xeon E5-2696 V3 fits into the LGA2011-3 socket and supports PCIe 3.0. It supports DDR3, DDR4 2133 MHz Quad-channel memory.

Specification	Xeon E5-2696 V3
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA2011-3
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3, DDR4 2133 MHz Quad-channel
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	2

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Power & Cooling

The Xeon E5-2696 V3 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 145 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Xeon E5-2696 V3
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	145 Watt

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #712 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon E5-2696 V3
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$800
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#712
Release DateLaunch date	2015-01-01
Release Year	2014
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel