Intel Xeon Gold 6242R vs Intel Xeon Gold 6278C

Updated Jun 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

The Intel Xeon Gold 6278C and Intel Xeon Gold 6242R are closely matched at 60 and 59/100. The Intel Xeon Gold 6278C edges ahead on Core Specifications, while the Intel Xeon Gold 6242R leads on Benchmark — pick the one whose strengths match what you'll actually use.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Xeon Gold 6278C and Intel Xeon Gold 6242R are closely matched

Intel Xeon Gold 6278C

Intel Xeon Gold 6242R

Where Intel Xeon Gold 6278C stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 26
Core Specifications Threads: 52
Core Specifications L2 Cache: 26 MB (30% more)

Where Intel Xeon Gold 6242R stands out

Core Specifications Base Frequency: 3.1 GHz (19% more)
Core Specifications Maximum Frequency: 4.1 GHz (17% more)
Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 205 W (11% more)

Winner by category for Intel Xeon Gold 6242R vs Intel Xeon Gold 6278C
Category	Intel Xeon Gold 6278C	Intel Xeon Gold 6242R	Winner
Core Specifications	55	45	Intel Xeon Gold 6278C
Integrated Graphics	0	0	Tie
Benchmark	62	66	Intel Xeon Gold 6242R

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.

Intel Xeon Gold 6242R

The Intel Xeon Gold series represents a class of powerful microprocessors within the broader range of Intel Xeon processors. These chips are designed for server applications and systems requiring sustained, high-performance computing.

Best for serversBest for high-performance computing

Pros

Is part of the general list of Intel Xeon processors by generation
Includes models across various generations (e.g., Skylake-based, Comet Lake-based, Ice Lake-based, Sapphire Rapids-based)

Intel Xeon Gold 6278C

The Intel Xeon Gold 6278C is one of a long list of generation-specific Intel Xeon microprocessors. These processors are designed for enterprise and data center applications, supporting various compute loads.

Best for Data CenterBest for Enterprise Compute

Pros

Supports the Gold tier designation (Source 1)

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Intel Xeon Gold 6242R

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Intel Xeon Gold 6278C

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Xeon Gold 6242R35,025

Intel Xeon Gold 6278C32,835

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Xeon Gold 6242R	Intel Xeon Gold 6278C
Cores	20	26
Threads	40	52
Base Frequency	3.1 GHz19% more	2.6 GHz
Base Power Consumption	205 W11% more	185 W
Maximum Frequency	4.1 GHz17% more	3.5 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	1,664 KB
L2 Cache	20 MB	26 MB30% more
L3 Cache	35.75 MB	35.75 MB
Lithography Process	14 nm	14 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Xeon Gold 6242R	Intel Xeon Gold 6278C
Model	N/A	N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Xeon Gold 6242R	Intel Xeon Gold 6278C
PassMark CPU Mark	35,0257% more	32,835

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Intel Xeon Gold 6242R vs Intel Xeon Gold 6278C comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Xeon Gold 6242R scores 66/100 and Intel Xeon Gold 6278C scores 65/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 point. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Intel Xeon Gold 6242R and Intel Xeon Gold 6278C are compared side by side above across every spec in the cpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 66/100 for Intel Xeon Gold 6242R and 65/100 for Intel Xeon Gold 6278C.

It's close — Intel Xeon Gold 6242R (66/100) and Intel Xeon Gold 6278C (65/100) score almost the same. Pick based on price and the individual specs that matter most to you; the comparison above shows where each one pulls ahead.