Intel Core 2 Quad Q9650

The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9650 offers 4 cores and 8 threads. Clocks span 3GHz base to 3GHz boost. It drops into the LGA775 socket with a 95W TDP — about 23.8W per core. Confirm motherboard socket compatibility before anything else, then size the cooler to the TDP.

At $229.95 it sits in the mid-range processor bracket. Use the PlanMyPC system builder to verify it works alongside your other components and to watch live retailer pricing. Warranty coverage follows Intel's standard policy — confirm regional terms on the listing. The full specification sheet below breaks out every listed detail, and the compatibility checker flags conflicts with parts already in your build.