Table of Contents
Xeon E5 2690 v4 is the most powerful and most interesting 14-core processor among models based on the Broadwell-EP architecture. With solid clocks and strong multithreaded throughput, the E5‑2690 v4 is a versatile pick for mixed workloads and budget gaming.
Originally designed for servers and workstations, this CPU has found new life in the budget gaming market, offering exceptional value for money in 2025.
Specifications
| Model | Xeon e5 2690 v4 |
|---|---|
| Socket | LGA2011-3 |
| Release Date | Q1 2016 |
| Architecture | Broadwell-EP, 14 nm |
| Cores / Threads | 14 / 28 |
| Memory support | DDR4-2400, 4-channel |
| Base Frequency | 2600 MHz |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 3500 MHz (1-2 Cores) 3300 MHz (3 Cores) 3200 MHz (4-14 Cores) |
| Extensions & Features | MMX instructions SSE / Streaming SIMD Extensions SSE2 / Streaming SIMD Extensions 2 SSE3 / Streaming SIMD Extensions 3 SSSE3 / Supplemental Streaming SIMD Extensions 3 SSE4 / SSE4.1 + SSE4.2 / Streaming SIMD Extensions 4 AES / Advanced Encryption Standard instructions AVX / Advanced Vector Extensions AVX2 / Advanced Vector Extensions 2.0 BMI / BMI1 + BMI2 / Bit Manipulation instructions F16C / 16-bit Floating-Point conversion instructions FMA3 / 3-operand Fused Multiply-Add instructions EM64T / Extended Memory 64 technology / Intel 64 HT / Hyper-Threading technology VT-x / Virtualization technology VT-d / Virtualization for directed I/O TBT 2.0 / Turbo Boost technology 2.0 TSX / Transactional Synchronization Extensions NX / XD / Execute disable bit ? TXT / Trusted Execution technology Enhanced Intel SpeedStep technology |
| AVX Offset | -3 |
| L3 Cache | 35 Mb |
| PCIe Lanes | 40, Gen 3.0 |
| TDP | 135 W |
| Maximum operating temperature | 89°C |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| CPUID | 0x406F1 |
| Approximate Price | $25 - $30 (Aliexpress) |
- Many cores, excellent multi-threaded performance
- Moderate heat generation, suitable for inexpensive coolers with 4+ heat pipes
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Wide availability on the used market
Main disadvantages:
- Already quite old architecture, low IPC compared to current ones
- Large AVX Offset reduces performance in AVX workloads
- Not suitable for budget boards with weak VRM
- Maximum memory frequency of only 2400 MHz (though it supports quad-channel)
Power Consumption and Thermals
Despite the 135W TDP, real-world power consumption typically stays between 80-100W during gaming and can reach the full TDP only under extreme multi-threaded workloads. A quality tower cooler with 4+ heat pipes is recommended for optimal performance and maintaining boost clocks under sustained loads.
Overclocking Capability
The processor has a locked multiplier, which prevents overclocking for most users. Only some branded boards released during the heyday of LGA2011-3 are capable of slightly raising the bus frequency, increasing overall performance by 3-4%, but such overclocking cannot significantly change the performance landscape.
Note that Turbo Boost Unlock is only possible on Haswell (V3) processors.
Performance and Tests
E5 2690 v4 demonstrates both confident multi-threaded performance and a decent level of single-core performance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
CPU-Z
Cinebench R15, R20, R23
Passmark
3DMark Time Spy
AIDA64 Cpu-Queen
Summary
| Xeon E5 2690 v4 | |
|---|---|
| CPU-Z (single) | ~410 |
| CPU-Z (multi) | ~6850 |
| Cinebench R15 | ~2300 |
| Cinebench R20 | ~4900 |
| Cinebench R23 | ~12500 |
| PassMark Multithread | ~19300 |
| 3DMark Time Spy | ~10400 |
| AIDA64 CPU Queen | ~103500 |
Similar models in terms of multi-threaded performance level:
| Model | Cores / Threads | Cinebench R15 | Cinebench R20 | Cinebench R23 | CPU-Z Multi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Xeon E5-2690 v4 | 14c / 28t | ~2350 | ~4900 | ~12600 | ~6900 |
| Intel Xeon E5-2697 v3 (TBU) | 14c / 28t | ~2400 | ~5100 | ~13000 | ~7000 |
| AMD Ryzen 7 3700X | 8c / 16t | ~2100 | ~4800 | ~12500 | ~5500 |
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920X | 12c / 24t | ~2400 | ~5400 | ~14500 | ~6500 |
Gaming Performance
E5 2690 v4 handles modern games quite well, especially those optimized for multi-threading. The processor will allow you to comfortably play through a significant portion of new releases, but don’t expect high FPS in heavy CPU-intensive games.
The 14 cores provide excellent frame time consistency and minimize stutters in modern games that can utilize multiple threads. However, the lower single-core performance may limit maximum FPS in older or poorly optimized titles.
- Games up to 2020: 95% run well (60+ FPS), 5% are playable (40-60 FPS)
- Games 2020-2025: 80% run well (60+ FPS), 10% are playable (40-60 FPS), 10% are unplayable (low FPS, stutters, micro-freezes).
Gaming performance with RTX 4060:
Most suitable graphics cards for FullHD and 1440p: Nvidia 1070 (TI), 1660 (TI\Super), 2060 (Super), 3060 (TI), AMD RX 5600 (XT), RX 5700 (XT), RX 6600 (XT), RX 7600 (XT).
Close Alternatives
- Xeon E5 2667 v4 – fewer cores but higher frequency, better choice for gaming-focused builds
- Xeon E5 2697 v3 – top 14-core processor of the previous generation. With TBU applied, it can show slightly better performance, but runs hotter and is more demanding on VRM
- Xeon E5 2680 v4 – junior 14-core of this generation. Has lower frequency, but costs less and is not as demanding on VRM. Choose it if you’re not sure your board can handle the 2690 v4
- Xeon E5 2697A v4 – 16 cores and higher frequency. Costs more and requires a quality motherboard
Here you can view the complete list of processors for LGA2011-3.
Revisions
Besides the final version, there are also engineering versions of the E5 2690 v4. They can be distinguished by the s-spec code, which is engraved on the processor lid. The final version has the code SR2N2. The revision can also be determined by the HWiNFO utility.
| S-spec Code | Stepping | Version |
| QHV5 | L0 | ES |
| QK8X | M0 | QS\ES |
| SR2N2 | M0 | Final |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is undervolting possible?
Only for QS models, in final versions the ability to undervolt is blocked.
Is there solder or thermal paste under the lid?
There’s solder under the lid, as with the entire Xeon E5 v3\v4 lineup.
Is the processor compatible with Win11?
No, the Xeon E5-2690 v4 is not officially supported by Windows 11, but it works fine if you bypass the CPU and TPM checks during installation.