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 E7-4890 v2 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2015-01-01. It features 15 cores and 30 threads. Base frequency is 2.8 GHz, with boost up to 3.4 GHz. L3 cache: 37.5 MB. Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2011. Thermal design power (TDP): 155 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600. Passmark benchmark score: 30,946 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 E7-4890 v2 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon E7-4890 v2 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Xeon E7-4890 v2 is a 15-core / 30-thread processor, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.4 GHz from a base frequency of 2.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 37.5 MB of L3 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 30,946, placing it in the High-End performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 730, while multi-core reaches 5,500. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 6,500.

Specification	Xeon E7-4890 v2
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	15C / 30T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.4 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.8 GHz
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	22 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	37.5 MB
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	8 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	77 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	30,946
Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance	6,500
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	730
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	5,500

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Memory & Platform

The Xeon E7-4890 v2 fits into the LGA2011 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 32 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 1536 GB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.

Specification	Xeon E7-4890 v2
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA2011
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	32
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	1536 GB
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	C602
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	4

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Advanced Features

The Xeon E7-4890 v2 is primarily designed for Enterprise Server (Legacy). Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Xeon E5-2697 v2.

Specification	Xeon E7-4890 v2
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Enterprise Server (Legacy)
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	Xeon E5-2697 v2

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Power & Cooling

The Xeon E7-4890 v2 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 155 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: LGA2011 standard cooling.

Specification	Xeon E7-4890 v2
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	155 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	77 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	LGA2011 standard cooling

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #412 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon E7-4890 v2
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$800
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#412
Release DateLaunch date	2015-01-01
Release Year	2014
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel