Xeon W-1290TE
Intel
PassMark
14,505
MSRP
$552
AVG Price
$552
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 Xeon W-1290TE is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 13 May 2020 (5 years ago). It is based on the Comet Lake (2020−2025) architecture. It features 10 cores and 20 threads. Base frequency is 1.8 GHz, with boost up to 4.5 GHz. L3 cache: 20 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1200. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 14,505 points. Launch price was $552.
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 Xeon W-1290TE
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon W-1290TE across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Overwatch 2
Path of Exile 2
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Xeon W-1290TE specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon W-1290TE is a 10-core / 20-thread processor based on the Comet Lake (2020−2025) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.5 GHz from a base frequency of 1.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 20 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 14,505, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Aging generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 2,507, while multi-core reaches 2,478.
| Specification | Xeon W-1290TE |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 10C / 20T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.5 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.8 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Comet Lake (2020−2025) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 20 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 206 mm2 |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 14,505 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 2,507 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 2,478 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon W-1290TE fits into the LGA1200 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2933 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics P630 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Xeon W-1290TE |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1200 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2933 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 128 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel UHD Graphics P630 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | W480 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Xeon W-1290TE is primarily designed for Workstation. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Xeon W-1290TE |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Workstation |
| 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 |
Power & Cooling
The Xeon W-1290TE 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. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Standard 120mm+.
| Specification | Xeon W-1290TE |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 35 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Standard 120mm+ |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $552, the Xeon W-1290TE delivers 26 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1037 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon W-1290TE |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $552 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $552 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $552 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1037 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 13 May 2020 (5 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2020 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for Xeon W-1290TE
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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