AMD Athlon II X2 235e
AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores
AMD Athlon II X2 235e Specifications
Athlon II X2 235e Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The AMD Athlon II X2 235e features 2 physical cores and 2 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.
Athlon II X2 235e Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Athlon II X2 235e benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Athlon II X2 235e by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
AMD's Athlon II X2 235e Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Athlon II X2 235e processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Athlon II X2 235e's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
K10 Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The AMD Athlon II X2 235e is built on AMD's 45 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in Athlon II X2 235e incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
K10 Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Athlon II X2 235e by AMD supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.
Athlon II X2 235e Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The AMD Athlon II X2 235e has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 45W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.
AMD Socket AM3 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Athlon II X2 235e uses the AMD Socket AM3 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.
AMD Socket AM3 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the Athlon II X2 235e define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Athlon II X2 235e determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.
AMD's Athlon II X2 235e Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The AMD Athlon II X2 235e includes integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in basic computing scenarios. Integrated graphics are ideal for office productivity, video playback, and light gaming. While not designed for demanding GPU benchmarks, the iGPU in the Athlon II X2 235e provides hardware video encoding and decoding capabilities. This makes the processor suitable for compact builds, HTPCs, and systems where power efficiency is prioritized over gaming performance.
Athlon II X2 235e Product Information
Release and pricing details
The AMD Athlon II X2 235e is manufactured by AMD and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Athlon II X2 235e by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.
Athlon II X2 235e Benchmark Scores
cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource
Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how AMD Athlon II X2 235e performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. The R15 version remains useful for comparing against older hardware benchmarks. Higher scores directly correlate with faster render times in Cinema 4D and similar 3D applications.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource
Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on AMD Athlon II X2 235e. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of AMD Athlon II X2 235e. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource
Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of AMD Athlon II X2 235e after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how AMD Athlon II X2 235e maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.
About AMD Athlon II X2 235e
The AMD Athlon II X2 235e processor represents a classic budget-oriented dual-core CPU from the late 2000s. With a base clock of 2.7 GHz and a low 45W TDP, this chip was designed for energy efficiency rather than breaking performance records. In modern terms, this Regor-based CPU's benchmark scores, such as a Cinebench R23 multi-core result of 917 points, indicate performance suitable only for the most basic computing tasks. Gamers investigating this processor will find it severely lacking for any contemporary titles, struggling with even lightweight e-sports games. Its two cores and two threads are a significant bottleneck, making this particular Athlon II model a relic of its time. For a retro gaming rig focused on Windows XP-era games, it might hold some nostalgic value, but it's completely outmatched today.
When considering workstation performance, the Athlon II X2 235e dual-core processor is not a viable option for any serious productivity work. Applications like video editing, 3D rendering, or even handling large spreadsheets will bring this CPU to its knees, as evidenced by its Cinebench R20 multi-core score of just 385 points. The lack of multi-threading means it cannot efficiently handle multiple demanding applications running simultaneously. While its low power consumption is a minor advantage for a always-on file server, the raw processing power is simply insufficient. This AMD Socket AM3 CPU is best forgotten for any task beyond web browsing and document editing. Investigating its capabilities reveals a component that was entry-level even at its release in 2009.
The primary appeal of the 45nm Athlon II X2 235e today lies purely in its cost-effectiveness for specific, limited scenarios. If you are building an ultra-budget PC for a family member to check email or for a dedicated firewall, this processor can be sourced for a very low price on the used market. Pairing this 45-watt CPU with a compatible AM3 motherboard and a modest amount of RAM creates a system with minimal electricity costs. However, for gamers, the value proposition is poor because the money is better invested in a more modern platform with an upgrade path. The performance ceiling of this dual-core AMD processor is simply too low to justify building around it for any use case requiring responsiveness. Ultimately, this chip is a testament to how far processor technology has advanced, serving now as a lesson in the rapid pace of obsolescence.
The Intel Equivalent of Athlon II X2 235e
Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i5-750 offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.
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