AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£1,610
  • Avg. price in US: ~$1,800
  • PassMark benchmark result: 31991
  • N. of physical cores: 32
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.2 GHz

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

6.1

Technical Score

10.0%

7.5

User score

Good
6.1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

6.0

Performance

18.0%

6.6

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

7.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

1.9

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.4

Platform

1.0%

3.4

Integrated Graphics

Good
7.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

5.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(85)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Very good
  • 5.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.6

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.4

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    5.2

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    10

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    10

    N. of physical cores

  • 7.2
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    3.8

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    10

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    10

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    10

    L3 cache

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a high-end desktop (HEDT) workstation processor featuring 32 physical cores and 64 threads built on the 12nm Zen+ architecture. It operates with a base clock of 3.0GHz and a max boost frequency of up to 4.2GHz, supported by a massive 80MB of total cache (64MB L3), quad-channel DDR4 memory support, and 64 PCIe Gen 3.0 lanes for extensive expandability. Its primary advantages include unparalleled multi-threaded performance for heavy rendering, encoding, and scientific workloads, along with compatibility with the existing X399 chipset. However, its drawbacks include a high 250W TDP requiring robust cooling, inconsistent performance in memory-bound applications due to its quad-die NUMA topology, and mediocre gaming results compared to lower-core-count processors.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

6.0

Performance

18.0%

6.6

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

7.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

1.9

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.4

Platform

1.0%

3.4

Integrated Graphics

6.1
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a technical score of 6.08 points, which is higher than that of 65.3% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.4

User reviews

30.0%

5.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(85)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

7.5
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a user score of 7.49 points, which is lower than that of 90.3% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
5.4
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a popularity of 5.4 points, which is higher than 83.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.2

Overall score

40.0%

2.0

Price

5.0
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a quality-to-price ratio of 5 points, which is lower than 96.5% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

AMD
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

workstation
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX belongs to the workstation processor class, which is more advanced than that of 95.1% of processors and equal to that of 4.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

sTR4
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses the sTR4 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 59.5% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

X399
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports X399 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 97% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

32
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has 32 CPU cores, which is more than 98.7% of processors and equal to 0.6% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

64
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX offers 64 CPU threads, which is more than 98.8% of processors and equal to 0.5% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

4.2 GHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX reaches a boost clock of 4.2 GHz which is lower than that of 51.9% of processors and equal to that of 4.3% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

32 x 3.0 GHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a base clock of 32x3.0 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

12 nm
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses a 12 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 49.3% of processors and equal to that of 2.9% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

GlobalFoundries 12 nm
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is built on the GlobalFoundries 12 nm foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 49.3% of processors and equal to that of 2.9% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

64 MB
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an L3 cache of 64 MB which is larger than that of 94.6% of processors and equal to that of 2.8% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

16 MB
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an L2 cache of 16 MB which is larger than that of 89.8% of processors and equal to that of 2.7% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

3,072 KB
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an L1 cache of 3072 KB which is larger than that of 98.4% of processors and equal to that of 0.1% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

2,933 MHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports memory speeds up to 2933 MHz, which is higher than that of 46.3% of processors and equal to 5.1% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2933 MHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2933 MHz, which is higher than that of 46.8% of processors and equal to 4% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

2,933 MHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 2933 MHz, which is higher than that of 90% of processors and equal to 0.5% of processors.
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

2048 GB
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports up to 2048 GB of memory, which is more than 98.4% of processors and equal to 1.7% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

no
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX does not include integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

N/A
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

?
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

N/A
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

250 W
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a TDP of 250 W which is higher than that of 97.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.1% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

250 W
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a base power of 250 W which is higher than that of 97.6% of processors and equal to that of 0.1% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

250 W
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a boost power of 250 W which is higher than that of 96.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.8% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

N/A
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX vs the average processor

  • 26 more CPU cores
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more CPU cores than the average processor (32 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more CPU cores than the average processor (32 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.32 vs 6
  • 4.12x better multi-core performance
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (11,463 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (11,463 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.11,463 vs 2,783
  • 56 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more CPU threads than the average processor (64 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
    What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
    When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 16+

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more CPU threads than the average processor (64 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.64 vs 8
  • 8x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (64 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
    What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
    When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=16 MB

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (64 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.64 MB vs 8 MB
  • 3.04x higher PassMark score
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (31,991 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (31,991 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.31,991 vs 10,532.5
  • 6.4x larger L2 cache
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
    What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
    When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=6 MB

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.16 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • 48 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (64 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    60 usable lanes
    What it is: The number of PCIe lanes provided directly by the processor.
    When it matters: When you connect fast GPUs, SSDs, or expansion cards.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=20

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (64 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.64 vs 16
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • Higher-end processor class
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX belongs to a higher-end processor class than the average processor (workstation vs mobile).
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (sTR4 vs FP2).
  • 26 more CPU cores
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more CPU cores than the average processor (32 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 4.12x better multi-core performance
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (11,463 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 56 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more CPU threads than the average processor (64 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 3.04x higher PassMark score
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (31,991 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 58.7% higher multi-core score
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (7,605 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 8x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (64 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 6.4x larger L2 cache
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 8x larger L1 cache
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (3,072 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 3.88x more transistors
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more transistors than the average processor (19.2 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • More advanced foundry
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (GlobalFoundries 12 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 48 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (64 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 32x more memory capacity
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (2,048 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • 2.05x higher memory bandwidth
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (93.9 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 32 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (68 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
  • 2 year/s older release date
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has an older release date than the average processor (2,018 vs 2,020).
    August 2018
  • Older TPM support
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).
  • 80.4% slower Blender rendering
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (65 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • 92% slower classroom rendering
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (63 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
  • 18.2% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,203 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 8.3% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,276 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 2.3% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4.2 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Colfax vs Kaby Lake).
  • 2 fewer memory channels
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has fewer memory channels than the average processor (4 vs 2). The average processor supports 2 memory channels.
  • No integrated graphics
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
  • 3.91x higher boost power
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (250 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 5.56x higher base power
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher base power draw than the average processor (250 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 5.56x higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher TDP than the average processor (250 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 32 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (68 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 80.4% slower Blender rendering
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (65 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >290

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (65 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.65 vs 331.88
  • 3.91x higher boost power
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (250 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
    When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <50 W

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (250 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.250 W vs 64 W
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Colfax vs Kaby Lake).
    What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
    When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.

    Importance: LOW

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Colfax vs Kaby Lake).Colfax vs Kaby Lake
  • 92% slower classroom rendering
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (63 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the Classroom scene, used to show how quickly the processor can complete a demanding rendering workload.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >1500

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (63 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.63 vs 791.745
  • 5.56x higher base power
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher base power draw than the average processor (250 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher base power draw than the average processor (250 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.250 W vs 45 W
  • 18.2% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,203 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,203 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,203 vs 1,471
  • 5.56x higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher TDP than the average processor (250 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
    When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <30 W

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a higher TDP than the average processor (250 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.250 W vs 45 W
  • 32 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (68 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    What it is: The highest safe operating junction temperature before the CPU starts throttling or protecting itself.
    When it matters: When you tune cooling or monitor thermals under load.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=100 °C

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (68 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.68 °C vs 100 °C

Graphic comparison of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX?

  • Unmatched multi-threaded performance for 3D rendering, video encoding, and heavy scientific workloads
  • Massive 32-core and 64-thread count providing high aggregate compute power on a consumer platform
  • Drop-in compatibility with existing X399 chipset motherboards via a BIOS update
  • Supports up to 64 PCIe Gen 3.0 lanes for extensive multi-GPU and NVMe storage configurations
  • Excellent value for high-end workstation performance compared to competing Intel HEDT processors
  • Precision Boost 2 and XFR2 technology effectively manage clock speeds based on thermal headroom

What customers dislike about AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX?

  • Inconsistent performance in memory-sensitive applications due to two dies lacking direct DRAM access
  • Poor gaming performance and lower single-threaded IPC compared to mainstream Ryzen or Intel CPUs
  • High power consumption and significant heat generation, especially under full load or when overclocked
  • Software and OS optimization issues, with some applications struggling to utilize all 32 cores effectively
  • Steep entry price for the processor and required high-end cooling solutions
  • Platform is considered a 'dead end' as it is incompatible with later Zen 2 and Zen 3 Threadripper generations

Expert reviews

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techradar.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core, 64-thread processor built on the 12nm Zen+ architecture, designed to deliver unprecedented multi-tasking and rendering capabilities. Pros include world-class multi-threaded performance that outclasses competitors in Cinebench, competitive pricing, and compatibility with existing X399 motherboards. However, the chip requires extreme...Read more

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servethehome.com
15/10/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX, analyzed by ServeTheHome, is a 32-core/64-thread workstation processor offering immense multi-threaded performance for rendering and video encoding, delivering high value compared to Intel competitors at its $1,799 price point. The review highlights superior performance in tasks like POV-Ray, driven by 12nm "Zen+" architecture, but notes it...Read more

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techspot.com
13/08/2018

The TechSpot review identifies the 16-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X as the superior all-around high-end desktop CPU, offering improved efficiency and performance over its predecessor with a 5-8% boost. The 32-core 2990WX is highlighted as a specialized workstation "monster" for rendering, frequently beating Intel's flagship, though it suffers from severe bandwidth bottlenecks in...Read more

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guru3d.com
13/08/2018

The Guru3D review finds the 32-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX to be a "monstrous" workstation processor that dominates in multi-threaded tasks like 3D rendering but faces performance bottlenecks in general desktop applications. Pros include exceptional content creation value on the X399 platform, improved memory support, and effective auto-overclocking via XFR2, alongside a...Read more

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tomshardware.com
13/08/2018

Tom's Hardware reviews the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX and 2950X, highlighting a major expansion in high-end desktop (HEDT) performance. The 32-core 2990WX boasts unmatched multi-threaded power for rendering, though its unique quad-die architecture leads to poor scaling in bandwidth-sensitive, non-optimized tasks. Conversely, the 16-core 2950X is praised as a versatile...Read more

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aecmag.com
30/08/2018

The 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen Threadripper review by AEC Magazine highlights a significant workstation market shift with the 32-core 2990WX and 16-core 2950X, leveraging the 12nm "Zen+" architecture for improved clock speeds and power management. These processors, particularly the 2990WX, offer exceptional multi-threaded performance for ray-tracing and design-viz, with features like...Read more

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develop3d.com
30/08/2018

The DEVELOP3D review highlights the 2nd Generation AMD Ryzen Threadripper, particularly the 32-core 2990WX, as a major workstation shift offering unprecedented rendering power based on 12nm Zen+ architecture. A key pro is its massive multi-core performance in tasks like 4K rendering in KeyShot, which nearly matches more expensive dual Xeon systems. However, a significant con is the...Read more

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techgage.com
13/08/2018

The Techgage review highlights the 32-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX as a dominant HEDT workstation processor, offering unrivalled rendering performance in applications like Cinebench. Key advantages include its massive multi-threading capabilities, compatibility with existing X399 motherboards, and surprisingly manageable thermal efficiency for its class. However, the 2990WX...Read more

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pugetsystems.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Threadripper 2990WX is identified as the top-performing single-CPU solution for V-Ray rendering, delivering 46% faster rendering times than the Intel Core i9-7980XE at a lower price point. It provides unparalleled multi-threaded performance, making it an excellent choice for workstation users focused on heavy rendering tasks, often outperforming much more expensive dual-CPU...Read more

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overclock3d.net
13/08/2018

The Overclock3D review of AMD's 2nd Generation Threadripper CPUs distinguishes the 16-core 2950X as a balanced choice for gaming and content creation, while the 32-core 2990WX is positioned as a specialized "number crunching" workstation beast. A key advantage for the 2950X is its improved efficiency and higher overclocking potential via Precision Boost 2, whereas the 2990WX faces...Read more

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bit-tech.net
13/08/2018

The bit-tech review highlights the 32-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX as a specialized workstation powerhouse, offering unmatched rendering performance in applications like Cinebench and POV-Ray. Its major cons stem from a unique architecture where only two of four dies have direct memory access, causing performance bottlenecks, alongside high power consumption and immense heat....Read more

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guru3d.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core, 64-thread workstation processor based on the 12nm Zen+ architecture, designed for immense multi-threaded performance in rendering and encoding. It operates at a 3.0 GHz base clock with high power demands (250W TDP) and utilizes the existing X399 platform. Pros include top-tier rendering performance, 64 PCIe lanes, and excellent...Read more

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anandtech.com
13/08/2018

AnandTech’s review of the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2nd Generation highlights the 32-core 2990WX and 16-core 2950X as disruptive processors offering unmatched multi-threaded performance in rendering and AI workloads. Pros include dominant workstation capabilities and competitive pricing, with the 2950X praised for improved boost algorithms and a lower launch price than its predecessor....Read more

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hexus.net
13/08/2018

The HEXUS review of the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX highlights the 32-core/64-thread processor as a "monster" workstation chip, capable of delivering immense multi-threaded performance, often beating Intel's top HEDT offerings by over 70% in rendering tasks like Cinebench and Blender. However, the 2990WX faces significant limitations due to its NUMA architecture, resulting in high...Read more

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techadvisor.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core, 64-thread workstation processor optimized for heavy rendering tasks like Blender, offering superior multi-threaded performance at a lower price point than competitors. While it excels in specific, heavily threaded applications, the CPU faces limitations due to an architecture where only two of four dies have direct memory access, resulting...Read more

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kitguru.net
14/08/2018

The Armari Magnetar S32T-RD1000G2 workstation, reviewed by KitGuru, showcases the 32-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX, delivering unmatched multi-threaded performance with a 5,739 Cinebench R15 score, roughly 53% faster than the Intel i9-7980XE. The system utilizes a custom, robust chassis with an Enermax Liqtech TR4 liquid cooler to manage the CPU's high power demands. Key pros...Read more

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pcgameshardware.de
14/08/2018

The PCGamesHardware review highlights the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX and 2950X as a significant leap in high-end desktop performance, utilizing 12nm Zen+ architecture for improved clocks and reduced latency. The 32-core 2990WX excels in rendering tasks (Cinebench, POV-Ray), while the 16-core 2950X offers superior value for mixed gaming and productivity workflows. Both processors...Read more

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chip.de
02/11/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core, 64-thread workstation processor based on the 12nm Zen+ architecture, designed to dominate heavily parallelized tasks like rendering and scientific simulation. It offers superior performance in applications such as Cinebench and V-Ray compared to competitors like the Intel Core i9-7980XE, while supporting 64 PCIe lanes on existing X399...Read more

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video.golem.de
13/08/2018

The AMD Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core, 64-thread workstation processor based on the 12nm Zen+ architecture, featuring a 3.0 GHz base clock and 250W TDP. Pros include unmatched multi-threaded performance in rendering tasks, outperforming Intel’s Core i9-7980XE while maintaining compatibility with X399 motherboards. Conversely, cons involve high memory latency due to its...Read more

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pcwelt.de
14/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core/64-thread workstation CPU designed for heavy rendering, boasting immense performance per dollar on the X399 platform. While excelling in productivity, it suffers from high 250W power consumption and requires niche optimization, with lower performance than lower-core counterparts in bandwidth-limited tasks. Pros include unmatched...Read more

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computerbild.de
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX, analyzed by Computer Bild, is a 32-core/64-thread high-end desktop (HEDT) processor designed for intense professional workloads. It offers superior performance in multi-threaded tasks like rendering and video encoding, earning a "good" rating (2.3) as a specialized workstation solution. However, its high power consumption, elevated price, and...Read more

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chip.de
14/11/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX, analyzed by CHIP.de, is a 32-core, 64-thread workstation processor based on the 12nm "Zen+" architecture with a 3.0 GHz base clock. It offers exceptional multi-threaded performance in rendering and video encoding, outperforming higher-priced competitors in professional workloads. However, its design, with only two dies having direct memory access,...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
15/08/2018

The second-generation Threadripper, specifically the 32-core 2990WX, dominates in heavy professional, multi-threaded workloads, offering superior core counts, better price-per-core value, and improved thermals due to soldered heat spreaders. While offering 64 PCIe lanes and ECC support for workstations, the 2990WX faces challenges with its unique quad-die architecture, causing lower...Read more

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comptoir-hardware.com
13/08/2018

The Comptoir-Hardware review covers AMD's 16-core 2950X and 32-core 2990WX Threadripper processors, highlighting a design shift where only two of the 2990WX's four dies have direct memory access. This architectural decision enables immense core counts for workstations but creates latency issues for compute-only dies, with the 2990WX targeting heavy rendering tasks while the 2950X...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX, analyzed by Les Numériques, is a 32-core, 64-thread processor tailored for heavy professional creative workloads, offering unmatched multi-threaded performance in tasks like 3D rendering. However, the processor suffers from significant performance bottlenecks in memory-sensitive applications because only two of its four internal dies have direct...Read more

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geeknetic.es
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core, 64-thread workstation processor based on the 12nm Zen+ architecture, designed to dominate heavily multi-threaded tasks like 3D rendering and scientific simulations. It offers superior performance in applications such as Cinebench and Blender while maintaining a 250W TDP, making it a powerful, cost-effective option for professional...Read more

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tomshw.it
13/08/2018

The Tom’s Hardware review of the Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX and 2950X highlights a major leap in high-end desktop (HEDT) performance, with the 32-core 2990WX dominating in 3D rendering while the 16-core 2950X offers a more balanced, efficient experience. Power consumption is a critical factor, with the 2990WX reaching 500W-600W under load with Precision Boost Overdrive enabled,...Read more

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tomshw.it
11/08/2018

The Tom's Hardware review highlights the 32-core Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX as a workstation powerhouse offering unmatched multi-threaded performance (up to 51% faster than Intel's i9-7980XE in specific tasks). However, the chip faces significant, a, performance regressions in gaming and general applications due to its unique "WX" architecture. The 2950X, conversely, serves as a...Read more

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hwupgrade.it
13/08/2018

The HWUpgrade review highlights the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2nd Generation, featuring the 32-core 2990WX for heavy rendering and the 16-core 2950X, both built on 12nm Zen+. The 2990WX provides unmatched multi-threaded performance but faces bottlenecks in memory-intensive tasks due to its four-die architecture. The 2950X is considered superior for general high-end desktop use,...Read more

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tweakers.net
13/10/2018

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX is a 32-core workstation processor designed for heavy, parallelized tasks like 3D rendering and encoding, offering exceptional multi-threaded performance [1.1]. It leverages Zen+ architecture refinements, such as improved latency and support for 2933MHz DDR4 memory, to deliver immense computational "firepower" [1.1]. However, the processor is...Read more

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tweakers.net
13/08/2018

Tweakers reviewed AMD’s second-gen Threadripper 2950X (16-core) and 2990WX (32-core), which feature a 12nm architecture, improved Precision Boost 2/XFR2 algorithms, and backward compatibility with TR4 motherboards. The 2990WX excels in heavily multi-threaded workloads like rendering and ray tracing, offering extreme performance. Conversely, the 2950X is better suited for a mix of...Read more

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