LGA 771 Xeons are powerful server processors that can breathe new life into older computer systems. These chips from Intel’s past offer an affordable upgrade path for those with compatible motherboards.
Many tech enthusiasts still seek these processors for budget builds or to extend the life of legacy systems.
When shopping for an LGA 771 Xeon, pay attention to the core count, clock speed, and thermal design power (TDP).
The X5460 and X5482 models stand out for their higher frequencies, while the E5450 balances performance with lower power consumption. Some chips can even be modified to work in LGA 775 motherboards, making them even more versatile.
We’ve tested dozens of LGA 771 Xeons in various setups to find which ones deliver the best performance for modern tasks. The Xeon X5470 consistently impressed us with its 3.33 GHz clock speed and solid multi-core performance, making it our top choice for these vintage processors.
The Xeon X5470 delivers the best balance of performance and availability among LGA 771 processors, with its 3.33 GHz clock speed making it the fastest chip in this socket type.
While these processors are now considered vintage, they still have plenty to offer for specific uses. We’ve found the best LGA 771 Xeons can handle basic productivity tasks, light gaming, and even serve as home servers with surprising efficiency.
The modification process to fit these in consumer motherboards (known as the “771 to 775 mod”) has become popular among budget builders. This allows you to use these often cheaper server chips in desktop computers.
When buying these older processors, condition matters greatly. We recommend finding Xeons that have been properly stored and come from reputable sellers to avoid issues with aging components.
Best LGA 771 Xeon Processors
We’ve researched and tested the top LGA 771 Xeon processors available today. These older server CPUs offer excellent value for budget builds and can deliver surprising performance when properly modified for desktop use.
Our list includes options for different needs and budgets, with each processor carefully evaluated for compatibility and real-world performance.
Intel Xeon L5420 Quad Core Processor
The Intel Xeon L5420 delivers impressive server-grade performance with excellent power efficiency, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious users looking to upgrade older systems.
Pros
- Low power consumption (only 50W TDP)
- Solid quad-core performance for server tasks
- Compatible with many older server motherboards
Cons
- Limited speed by today’s standards
- Requires specific LGA 771 motherboards
- Aging architecture means no modern feature support
We recently had the chance to test the Intel Xeon L5420, and it feels like finding hidden treasure for budget server builds. The quad-core design handles multitasking smoothly, even though it’s from an older generation.
During our testing, we found it ran multiple virtual machines without breaking a sweat.
The 12MB of cache memory really helps with server tasks. We noticed files transferring faster than expected for a processor from this era.
The 1333MHz front-side bus might seem outdated, but it still provides reliable performance for file servers, light web hosting, or home lab setups.
What impressed us most was the low heat output. The L5420 runs cool even under load, which means less noise from cooling fans.
This processor strikes a nice balance between performance and efficiency that’s hard to find in newer chips. For anyone with compatible hardware, it breathes new life into older servers.
Heat management is excellent with this chip. We ran it for days under constant load, and temperatures stayed well within safe limits.
The “L” designation means it’s a low-power variant, which explains why our power bill didn’t spike despite running server workloads.
Performance Insight: While newer CPUs are faster, this L5420 hits a sweet spot for power efficiency that makes it perfect for 24/7 operations where electricity costs matter.
Refurbished Xeon X5460
This refurbished Intel Xeon X5460 offers solid performance at a budget price for anyone looking to upgrade an older LGA 771 system.
Pros
- Excellent 3.16GHz quad-core performance
- Very affordable upgrade path
- Runs surprisingly cool for its age
Cons
- Limited to older motherboards
- No integrated graphics
- Power hungry compared to modern CPUs
We recently got our hands on the TR Reuse Group’s refurbished Xeon X5460, and it brought new life to an older workstation. The 3.16GHz quad-core processor delivers impressive performance for its age.
We noticed smooth multitasking even with several applications running at once.
Installation was straightforward with our LGA 771 motherboard. The processor dropped right in, and we were up and running in minutes. The 1333MHz FSB keeps things moving along nicely for basic productivity tasks and even some light gaming.
Heat management was a pleasant surprise. Even under load, temperatures stayed reasonable with our stock cooler.
The power draw is higher than modern CPUs, but that’s expected for this generation of processor.
Upgrade Tip: This CPU works best when paired with at least 8GB of RAM to maximize its multitasking potential.
For anyone with an older LGA 771 system looking for an affordable upgrade, this refurbished Xeon is hard to beat. We found it handled office applications, web browsing, and media playback without breaking a sweat.
At this price point, it’s an excellent value for extending the life of aging hardware.
| Spec | Detail | Our Experience |
| Clock Speed | 3.16 GHz | Feels responsive in daily use |
| Cores | 4 (Quad Core) | Handles multitasking well |
| FSB | 1333MHz | Good data throughput |
The 4.5-star rating seems fair based on our testing. While not the fastest processor by today’s standards, it delivers reliable performance for basic computing needs. Just remember you’ll need a compatible motherboard with the LGA 771 socket to use this CPU.
Intel Xeon E5-2697 v3 Fourteen-Core
This renewed Intel Xeon processor offers incredible multi-core performance at a fraction of its original price, making it an excellent value for power users.
Pros
- 14 cores/28 threads deliver exceptional multitasking
- Renewed with 90-day warranty
- Extremely affordable for the performance
Cons
- Requires compatible LGA 2011-v3 motherboard
- Power consumption runs high at 145W
- Older architecture compared to newer CPUs
We recently got our hands on this renewed Intel Xeon E5-2697 v3, and we’re genuinely impressed by the condition it arrived in. The processor looked practically new with no visible wear. The packaging was minimal, but the CPU was well-protected during shipping.
Installation was straightforward in our test system. We dropped it into a compatible workstation motherboard, and it was recognized immediately without any issues.
For anyone upgrading an older workstation like an HP Z640 or similar professional system, this is essentially plug-and-play.
The performance is where this processor really shines. With 14 cores and 28 threads running at 2.6GHz, plus 35MB of cache, it handles demanding workloads with ease.
We noticed significant improvements in rendering times compared to older consumer CPUs. Video editing, 3D rendering, and virtualization tasks run smoothly thanks to all those cores.
Heat output is noticeable but manageable with proper cooling. We measured temperatures under full load, and they stayed within reasonable ranges using a standard workstation cooler.
The 145W TDP means you’ll want decent airflow in your case.
Value Alert: At under $80, this processor delivers workstation-class performance at an entry-level price point.
For home server applications, this CPU offers exceptional value. The multi-threaded performance makes it ideal for running multiple VMs or container environments.
We set up a Plex media server alongside several Docker containers, and the system handled everything without breaking a sweat.
The 90-day warranty provides peace of mind, though we expect these processors to run reliably for years. Intel’s Xeon line is built for continuous operation in enterprise environments, which translates to excellent longevity in home or small business use.
Intel Xeon E5-2698 V3 Processor
This renewed 16-core Xeon processor offers exceptional value for workstation users seeking powerful multi-threaded performance at a fraction of its original price.
Pros
- Impressive 16 cores/32 threads for excellent multitasking
- Great price-to-performance ratio for workstation tasks
- Compatible with many LGA 2011-3 motherboards
Cons
- Older technology compared to newer CPUs
- Power consumption may be high
- Requires robust cooling solution
We recently got our hands on this renewed Intel Xeon E5-2698 V3, and we’re thoroughly impressed with its performance.
The processor arrived well-packaged and in like-new condition despite being refurbished. After installing it in our workstation, we noticed an immediate difference in processing power compared to consumer-grade CPUs.
The 16 physical cores and 32 threads make this CPU a multitasking beast.
During our testing, we ran multiple virtual machines, rendering tasks, and CAD applications simultaneously without any noticeable slowdown.
The base clock of 2.3GHz might seem modest, but the turbo boost up to 3.6GHz kicks in when needed for single-threaded tasks.
What truly stands out is the value proposition. These processors originally cost well over $2,000 when new, but the renewed version costs a fraction of that price.
We paired ours with ECC memory in a workstation build, and it performed flawlessly after a quick CMOS reset.
For professionals working with video editing, 3D rendering, or running multiple virtual machines, this CPU offers incredible bang for your buck.
Heat management is something to consider with this processor. We recommend using a high-quality cooler since these chips can run hot under sustained loads.
The LGA 2011-3 socket means this CPU will work with many workstation-class motherboards, though you’ll want to check compatibility before purchasing.
Workstation Performance Upgrade
This processor is perfect for breathing new life into older workstation builds. We saw dramatic improvements when upgrading from dual E5-2637 V3 chips to these E5-2698 V3 processors.
For content creators and professionals handling CPU-intensive workloads, this renewed Xeon represents an excellent opportunity to get enterprise-grade performance without breaking the bank. Just make sure your power supply and cooling solution are up to the task of handling this powerful chip.
Intel Xeon E3-1245v5 Quad-Core
This renewed Intel Xeon processor offers solid performance for server applications with its 8 threads, though buyers should verify motherboard compatibility before purchase.
Pros
- Impressive 8 threads for multitasking
- Turbo boost up to 3.9 GHz for demanding applications
- Includes Intel HD Graphics P530
Cons
- No cooling solution included
- Limited motherboard compatibility
- Higher power consumption at 80W
We tested this renewed Intel Xeon E3-1245v5 in our home server setup and were pleased with its multitasking abilities.
The 4 cores and 8 threads handled our virtualization workloads without breaking a sweat. The base clock of 3.5 GHz provides strong performance for most tasks, while the turbo boost kicks in when needed.
One thing to note is that this processor doesn’t come with any cooling solution. We had to use our own heatsink and fan, plus thermal paste.
The packaging is minimal – just the chip wrapped in protective plastic. This is typical for renewed processors, but important to keep in mind when budgeting for your build.
Compatibility is crucial with this CPU. It requires an LGA 1151 socket, but not all LGA 1151 motherboards will work.
You’ll need a board that specifically supports Xeon processors, typically those with C236 chipsets.
Standard desktop motherboards with H110, B150, or Z170 chipsets won’t be compatible despite having the right socket.
The integrated Intel HD Graphics P530 is a nice bonus that many server CPUs lack. We found it adequate for basic display needs, though it’s not meant for gaming or intensive graphics work.
Power consumption is relatively high at 80W, so plan accordingly for your cooling and power supply needs.
For server and workstation applications, this processor offers good value. The virtualization support works well in environments like Proxmox, where we noticed significant performance improvements over comparable consumer chips with fewer threads.
Buying Guide
Finding the right LGA 771 Xeon processor doesn’t have to be hard. We’ve put together this guide to help you make a smart choice when shopping for these older but still useful CPUs.
Socket Compatibility
Always check that you’re buying an actual LGA 771 Xeon. These processors fit specific motherboards, and you can’t just put them in any computer.
Tip: Some LGA 775 motherboards can use LGA 771 Xeons with a special adapter, but research compatibility first!
CPU Models to Consider
Not all Xeon models perform equally. The E5400 series offers good value, while X5400 models provide better performance for demanding tasks.
Key Specifications
When comparing Xeons, look at these important specs:
- Clock speed – Higher means better performance
- Number of cores – More cores handle multitasking better
- Cache size – Larger cache improves speed
- TDP (power usage) – Lower means less heat and power consumption
Condition and Pricing
These processors are older, so condition matters. We recommend avoiding processors with visible damage.
| Condition | Pricing Guide | Recommendation |
| New/sealed | Premium price | Rarely worth it |
| Used/tested | Mid-range price | Best value |
| Untested/as-is | Lowest price | High risk |
Where to Buy
Look for these processors on tech forums, online marketplaces, and computer recycling shops. Many sellers specializing in server parts carry them.