Intel Core 2 Duo E6550

The Intel Core 2 Duo E6550 brings 2 cores and 4 threads. Clocks span 2.33GHz base to 2.33GHz boost. It drops into the LGA775 socket with a 65W TDP — about 32.5W per core. Board socket comes first when pairing parts — after that, make sure your cooler's rating covers the chip.

At $55.13 it sits in the budget processor bracket. Use the PlanMyPC system builder to verify it works alongside your other components and to watch live retailer pricing. Intel backs the product through its standard warranty channels; check the listing for region-specific terms. The full specification sheet below breaks out every listed detail, and the compatibility checker flags conflicts with parts already in your build.