OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Intel Core i7 5960X Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£840
PassMark benchmark result: 13659
N. of physical cores: 8
CPU boost clock speed: 3.5 GHz

Intel Core i7 5960X review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.6

Good

5.3

Good

8.1

Excellent

3.4
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
3.2
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
3.6
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
3.1
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
3.8
L3 cache
8.0%
3.5
N. of physical cores
6.4
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
9.0
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
3.5
N. of physical cores
20.0%
5.2
CPU threads
15.0%
3.8
L3 cache

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#47 in Best Workstation CPUs

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-5960X is a high-end desktop processor based on the Haswell-E architecture, featuring 8 physical cores and 16 threads with a 3.0 GHz base clock and a 3.5 GHz Turbo Boost. Built on a 22nm process, it was the first consumer CPU to support quad-channel DDR4 memory (up to 2133 MHz) and offers a massive 20MB of L3 Smart Cache along with 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes for multi-GPU configurations. Its primary strengths include exceptional multi-threaded performance for 4K video editing or 3D rendering and an unlocked multiplier that provides significant overclocking headroom. However, its main drawbacks include a high 140W TDP that requires robust cooling, the lack of integrated graphics, and the necessity of a specific X99 motherboard with an LGA 2011-v3 socket, making for an expensive platform entry.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 5960X

Overall score

5.6

Show more

Hide

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.

Platform

7.6

Show more

Hide

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

Intel

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

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

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

X99

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

Show more

Performance

5.6

Show more

Hide

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+

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+

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

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

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

Show more

Cache & Architecture

4.4

Show more

Hide

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

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

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

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

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

Show more

Memory & PCIe

6.5

Show more

Hide

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

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

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

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

?

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

Show more

Integrated Graphics

2.8

Show more

Hide

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

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

N/A

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

Show more

Power & Thermal

3.0

Show more

Hide

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

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

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

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

?

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

Show more

Intel Core i7 5960X vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 5960X better than the average processor?

Show more

Hide

24 more PCIe lanes
Intel Core i7 5960X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (40 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe 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
Intel Core i7 5960X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (40 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.40 vs 16
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 5960X 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
Intel Core i7 5960X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
8 more CPU threads
Intel Core i7 5960X has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 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+
Intel Core i7 5960X has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.16 vs 8
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 5960X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.
Importance: MEDIUM
Intel Core i7 5960X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
45.9% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 5960X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=2 MB/core
Intel Core i7 5960X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core
2.5x larger L3 cache
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (20 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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (20 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.20 MB vs 8 MB
5 °C higher TJ Max
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.105 °C vs 100 °C
2 more CPU cores
Intel Core i7 5960X has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 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+
Intel Core i7 5960X has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.8 vs 6
Higher-end processor class
Intel Core i7 5960X belongs to a higher-end processor class than the average processor (workstation vs mobile).
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 5960X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
8 more CPU threads
Intel Core i7 5960X has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
2 more CPU cores
Intel Core i7 5960X has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
29.7% higher PassMark score
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (13,659 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
2.5x larger L3 cache
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (20 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
45.9% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 5960X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
24 more PCIe lanes
Intel Core i7 5960X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (40 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 5960X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
48.5% higher memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (68 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
5 °C higher TJ Max
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Why is Intel Core i7 5960X worse than the average processor?

Show more

Hide

6 year/s older release date
Intel Core i7 5960X has an older release date than the average processor (2014 vs 2020).
August 2,014
No crypto acceleration
Intel Core i7 5960X does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
18.6% lower boost clock
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
15.3% weaker single-core performance
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,103 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
11.8% lower single-core score
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,298 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
37.5% lower bus transfer rate
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
37.5% lower bus speed
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower bus speed than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
83.3% larger process node
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
2x larger die size
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher die size than the average processor (356 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
50% less L2 per core
Intel Core i7 5960X has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
Less advanced microarchitecture
Intel Core i7 5960X uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Haswell vs Kaby Lake).
33.3% smaller L1 cache
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
20% smaller L2 cache
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (2 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
Less advanced foundry
Intel Core i7 5960X uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
47.5% fewer transistors
Intel Core i7 5960X has fewer transistors than the average processor (2.6 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
27.3% lower memory speed
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,133 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
2 fewer memory channels
Intel Core i7 5960X has fewer memory channels than the average processor (4 vs 2). The average processor supports 2 memory channels.
No integrated graphics
Intel Core i7 5960X does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
3.11x higher base power
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
2.19x higher boost power
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (140 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
3.11x higher TDP
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher TDP than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 5960X does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
5 °C higher CPU temperature
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher CPU temperature than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
18.6% lower boost clock
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
83.3% larger process node
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.22 nm vs 12 nm
3.11x higher base power
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (140 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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.140 W vs 45 W
2.19x higher boost power
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (140 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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (140 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.140 W vs 64 W
2x larger die size
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher die size than the average processor (356 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <150 mm²
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher die size than the average processor (356 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².356 mm² vs 178 mm²
15.3% weaker single-core performance
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,103 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >3200
Intel Core i7 5960X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,103 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,103 vs 2,483
50% less L2 per core
Intel Core i7 5960X has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=1 MB/core
Intel Core i7 5960X has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
3.11x higher TDP
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher TDP than the average processor (140 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
Intel Core i7 5960X has a higher TDP than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.140 W vs 45 W

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 5960X and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 5960X?

Unmatched multi-threaded performance due to 8 cores and 16 threads
Excellent for professional content creation, such as 4K video editing and 3D rendering
High overclocking potential, with many users reaching 4.4GHz or higher stably
Provides a full 40 PCIe lanes, ideal for multi-GPU configurations
Runs impressively cool and efficient for its power class
Supports DDR4 memory and the modern X99 chipset platform

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 5960X?

Extremely high initial launch price (approx. £760 / $1,050)
Requires expensive platform upgrades (new X99 motherboard and DDR4 RAM)
Limited performance gains in gaming compared to much cheaper quad-core processors
Lower stock base clock speed (3.0 GHz) than some previous-generation flagships
Single-threaded tasks are often handled better by higher-clocked mainstream CPUs

Expert reviews

pcper.com

29/08/2014

Haswell-E: The Intel Core i7-5960X 8-core Processor Review

The PC Perspective review of the Intel Core i7-5960X highlights it as the first 8-core consumer processor, utilizing the X99 platform and DDR4 memory. Operating on the 22nm Haswell-E architecture, it boasts 16 threads, though it utilizes a lower 3.0 GHz base clock compared to previous models. While offering unparalleled multi-threaded performance in tasks like CineBench, its lower...Read more

tomshardware.com

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X, -5930K And -5820K CPU Review

The Intel Core i7-5960X review on Tom's Hardware introduces the first eight-core desktop processor for the enthusiast market, featuring 16 threads, 20MB of L3 cache, and support for quad-channel DDR4 memory. Based on the Haswell-E architecture, this CPU is designed to dominate heavily threaded tasks such as 4K video editing and 3D rendering due to its massive core count. Key pros...Read more

tomshardware.com

22/07/2015

Overclocking Retail Intel Core i7-5960X CPUs Would you like more details on the benchmarking methodology used in these specific reviews or perhaps a c...

Tom’s Hardware tested five retail Intel Core i7-5960X CPUs to evaluate real-world overclocking, finding that these eight-core chips can reach impressive 4.7 to 4.8 GHz speeds while offering high bandwidth through DDR4-4000+ support. However, the testing revealed significant challenges, with high voltages causing temperatures to exceed 80°C and difficulties in achieving stable...Read more

techradar.com

13/12/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X review - Page 3

The TechRadar review identifies the Intel Core i7-5960X as an "astoundingly quick" eight-core flagship with unprecedented multi-threading performance, driven by the X99 platform's DDR4 support and 40 PCIe lanes. Key pros include exceptional thermal efficiency (running nearly 20∘C20 raised to the composed with power C20∘C cooler than predecessors) and high overclocking potential to...Read more

expertreviews.co.uk

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X review

The Intel Core i7-5960X, featuring eight cores and 16 threads, offers exceptional multi-threaded performance, yielding high scores in video editing and multitasking. While the CPU boasts significant power, its high cost—compounded by the need for a new X99 motherboard and DDR4 memory—constitutes a major disadvantage. Despite its superior multi-core capabilities, the processor's...Read more

kitguru.net

30/08/2014

Intel Core i7 5960X Haswell-E (8-core) CPU Review

The Intel Core i7-5960X Haswell-E, reviewed by KitGuru, introduced eight cores to the consumer market, featuring 16 threads, 20MB of L3 cache, and 40 PCIe Gen 3 lanes. The platform requires X99 motherboards and DDR4 memory, which delivers high bandwidth exceeding 50GBps. While excelling in multi-threaded tasks like 3D rendering and video encoding, it carries a high entry price,...Read more

digitalfoundry.net

30/08/2014

Intel Core i7 5960X review | Digital Foundry(www.kitguru.net，u-review/all/1/) | August 30 2014 | Intel Core i7-5960X Haswell-E (8-core) CPU Review - K...

The Digital Foundry review of the Intel Core i7-5960X highlights it as a "colossus" in performance, marking a significant leap by packing eight full hyper-threaded cores (16 threads) onto a single enthusiast-grade chip, with a major pro being its unmatched raw power for video encoding and multi-threaded tasks. However, a significant con is that its lower base clock speed meant it...Read more

techgage.com

29/08/2014

Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition Review: Intel's Overdue Desktop 8-Core Is Here

The Techgage review of the Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition marks the arrival of Intel’s first eight-core desktop processor, utilizing the Haswell-E architecture and X99 platform for massive multi-threaded performance. Boasting 16 threads and 20MB of L3 cache, the chip demonstrates up to 69% faster performance than quad-core alternatives in heavy workloads like video encoding,...Read more

bit-tech.net

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Review, X99 Chipset and DDR4 - Bit-Tech

The Intel Core i7-5960X, a 22nm Haswell-E eight-core/16-thread CPU, introduces DDR4 support and the X99 chipset, offering substantial performance gains over previous Extreme Editions. Its key strength is dominant multi-threaded rendering performance, though a lower stock base clock (3GHz) results in weaker single-threaded, gaming, and basic application performance compared to...Read more

hexus.net

29/08/2014

Review: Intel Core i7-5960X (22nm Haswell) - CPU - HEXUS.net

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition is a 22nm Haswell-based processor, recognized by HEXUS as the first consumer-grade eight-core, 16-thread CPU, offering massive 20MB L3 cache and 40 PCIe Gen 3 lanes. While its 3.0GHz base clock is conservative, the chip dominates in heavily threaded tasks like video rendering, outperforming previous flagships by up to 25%. The platform...Read more

guru3d.com

29/08/2014

Core i7-5960X - 5930K and 5820K processor review - Guru 3d

The Guru3D review of Intel’s Haswell-E lineup showcases the 8-core Core i7-5960X, 6-core 5930K, and 5820K, marking a significant transition to DDR4 memory and the X99 chipset with native USB 3.0 and SATA 6Gbps. The platform, utilizing a 22nm process, offers massive quad-channel memory bandwidth, although it requires high-end liquid cooling for overclocking to 4.4-4.5 GHz. Pros...Read more

hothardware.com

29/08/2014

Haswell-E Debuts: Intel Core i7-5960X Processor Review - HotHardware

The HotHardware review of the Intel Core i7-5960X spotlights the chip as the first 8-core desktop flagship using the Haswell-E architecture and X99 chipset, introducing support for quad-channel DDR4 memory. It features 16 threads, a 3.0GHz base clock, and a 20MB L3 cache, delivering exceptional performance in content creation tasks compared to previous 6-core models. While offering...Read more

pugetsystems.com

29/08/2014

Core i7 5960X vs. 4960X Performance Comparison

The Puget Systems review of the Intel Core i7-5960X (Haswell-E) highlights a transition to eight cores and DDR4 support, resulting in superior multi-threaded performance despite lower base clock speeds compared to the i7-4960X. Testing on the X99 platform showed significant advantages in AVX2-optimized tasks, with up to 114% faster results in Linpack and a 30% boost in Adobe...Read more

overclockers.com

29/08/2014

Intel i7 5960X Haswell-E CPU Review - Overclockers

The Intel Core i7-5960X, reviewed at Overclockers.com, introduces the first 8-core consumer desktop processor on the X99 platform, featuring 16 threads, 20MB L3 cache, and native DDR4 support. It provides immense multi-threaded performance (80% faster than previous flagships in tasks like Cinebench) and 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes, making it ideal for workstations, while showing exceptional...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

26/09/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition - Review 2014 - PCMag UK

The PCMag review of the Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition highlights it as a "power user's dream," primarily due to its 2014-era milestone of eight physical cores and 16 threads, supporting quad-channel DDR4 memory. It boasts "massive" performance in heavily threaded workloads like 4K video editing, with excellent overclocking potential that allows the 3GHz base clock to exceed...Read more

technic3d.com

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Haswell-E Processor | Review | Technic3D

The Technic3D review of the Intel Core i7-5960X Haswell-E highlights its status as the first 8-core, 16-thread consumer desktop processor, utilizing the 22nm process, a 3.0 GHz base clock, and a 20 MB L3 cache. It introduces the LGA 2011-v3 socket, X99 chipset, and DDR4 memory support, offering significant performance gains in heavily multi-threaded, professional applications like...Read more

chip.de

23/10/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X (Desktop Processor) Review - CHIP

The Intel Core i7-5960X, a "Haswell-E" flagship, is a high-end 8-core, 16-thread processor designed for demanding, multi-threaded tasks like 4K video editing and 3D rendering. It introduces the X99 platform with DDR4 memory support and 40 PCIe Gen 3 lanes for enthusiasts, though it carries a high cost and has lower stock clock speeds compared to previous Extreme Edition chips. Pros...Read more

gamestar.de

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7 5960X - Eight processor cores for a hallelujah?

The Intel Core i7-5960X, highlighted by GameStar, launched as a landmark eight-core, 16-thread consumer processor utilizing the Haswell-E architecture and DDR4 memory support. It boasts superior performance in heavily threaded applications, such as 3D rendering and 4K video editing, yet offers limited advantages for gaming over lower-core alternatives. Pros include massive...Read more

pcgameshardware.de

30/08/2014

Haswell Extreme: Intel Core i7-5960X and i7-5820K (ES) Review

The PCGamesHardware review of Intel’s Haswell-E processors, specifically the Core i7-5960X and i7-5820K, highlights a major shift to 8-core computing on the X99 platform with quad-channel DDR4 memory support. While the 5960X offers unmatched multi-threaded performance, the review finds its lower base clock speed provides diminishing returns in gaming compared to high-frequency...Read more

overclocking.com

08/09/2014

Testing the Intel Core i7-5960X, Haswell-E, and LGA2011-3

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition, a 22nm Haswell-E 8-core/16-thread processor, marked a shift toward high-core-count consumer CPUs, operating at 3.0 GHz with a 140W TDP. It necessitates an X99 motherboard and introduces DDR4 memory and 40 PCIe Gen 3 lanes, providing robust support for multi-GPU configurations. Pros include exceptional multi-threading performance for heavy...Read more

generation-nt.com

01/09/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Review: What performance for the unlocked processor?

The Intel Core i7-5960X, as analyzed by Generation-NT, represents a significant milestone as Intel's first 8-core desktop processor, utilizing the 22nm Haswell-E architecture and DDR4 memory support. The chip delivers exceptional performance in heavily threaded tasks—like video rendering—outpacing predecessors by up to 30%, while offering substantial overclocking potential and 40...Read more

tomshardware.fr

29/08/2014

Haswell-E is finally here: Core i7-5960X, i7-5930K and i7-5820K review

The Tom's Hardware review of Intel’s Haswell-E platform highlights the debut of the 8-core Core i7-5960X and 6-core i7-5930K/i7-5820K, marking the transition to the X99 chipset and DDR4 memory, which delivers higher bandwidth and lower voltages. While the 22nm architecture provides a significant boost for heavily threaded professional applications and video rendering, gaming...Read more

clubic.com

29/08/2014

Core i7 5960X review: testing the new 8-core €1000 powerhouse

a little longer The Clubic review of the Haswell-E architecture introduces the Core i7-5960X and i7-5820K as Intel's first 8-core desktop processors, highlighting the flagship 5960X as a "beast" for professional, multi-threaded tasks. The 5820K is positioned as a high-value, 6-core alternative, making the platform accessible to enthusiasts despite the high cost of the required X99...Read more

cowcotland.com

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Processor Review

The Intel Core i7-5960X, as analyzed by Cowcotland, was a landmark 22nm Haswell-E 8-core/16-thread processor, introducing DDR4 support and the X99 platform with substantial 20MB L3 cache and 40 PCIe lanes. It offered exceptional multi-threaded performance, yielding over 30% gains in content creation tasks, alongside significant overclocking capability to 4.3–4.5GHz. However, the...Read more

journalmetro.com

17/12/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X: Testing an Eight-Core Processor - Tom’s Hardware

The Journal Métro review of the Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition highlights its position as a pioneer in the consumer market, being Intel's first eight-core desktop processor. Built on the 22nm Haswell-E architecture, it boasts 20MB of L3 cache and supports 16 simultaneous threads, significantly boosting professional workloads like 4K video editing and 3D rendering. Key...Read more

ginjfo.com

29/08/2014

Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition Review: 8 Cores and DDR4 in Action

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition review from Ginjfo highlights this 22nm Haswell-E processor as a significant milestone, being Intel's first eight-core, 16-thread desktop CPU, while introducing DDR4 memory support on the X99 platform. It delivers massive performance in heavily multithreaded tasks like 4K rendering, outperforming older six-core chips by over 30%, though its...Read more

cowcotland.com

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Processor Review: What a Beast", "Intel Core i7-5960X Test: An Absolute Monster

The Intel Core i7-5960X, as reviewed on Cowcotland, is a landmark 22nm Haswell-E processor introducing the first 8-core, 16-thread consumer chip paired with DDR4 memory and the X99 chipset. While featuring a 3.0 GHz base clock, its 20MB L3 cache makes it a powerhouse for workstation-level tasks at home, notes Cowcotland. Performance benchmarks reveal that the i7-5960X dominates in...Read more

comptoir-hardware.com

29/08/2014

Test: Intel X99 and Core i7-5960X - Hardware Bench

The Comptoir-Hardware review highlights the Intel Core i7-5960X and X99 platform as a significant leap for high-end desktops, featuring the first 8-core consumer processor and DDR4 support. While delivering superior performance in heavily multi-threaded, professional applications (up to 32% faster), its lower base clock of 3.0 GHz can result in slightly lower gaming performance...Read more

hardware.fr

29/08/2014

Core i7-5960X, i7-5930K and i7-5820K - Intel Haswell-E, LGA 2011-v3 and DDR4

The Hardware.fr review of Intel’s Haswell-E family (i7-5960X, i7-5930K, i7-5820K) marks a significant, high-performance shift to the X99 platform and DDR4 memory. The 8-core i7-5960X offers massive multi-threaded gains, while the 6-core 5930K and 5820K differ mainly in PCIe lanes, with the 5820K highlighted for its superior price-to-performance ratio. Key advantages include...Read more

profesionalreview.com

26/01/2015

Intel Core i7-5960X Review

The Intel Core i7-5960X, as reviewed by Profesional Review, was a pioneering 22nm Haswell-E processor, marking Intel's first 8-core, 16-thread consumer chip for the X99 platform and DDR4 memory. It excelled in multi-threaded productivity tasks, such as 4K rendering, and demonstrated impressive overclocking capabilities under liquid cooling, though it required a significant...Read more

geeknetic.es

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X Haswell-E [Full Review]

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition (Haswell-E) introduces the first native eight-core desktop processor with 16 threads, built on a 22nm process, 20MB L3 cache, and 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes. It serves as the flagship for the X99 platform, ushering in DDR4 memory and the LGA 2011-v3 socket, primarily catering to professional content creation with its superior multi-threaded...Read more

tomshw.it

30/07/2015

Testing Five Intel Core i7-5960X Processors in Overclocking

Tom’s Hardware tested five retail Intel Core i7-5960X processors to evaluate overclocking consistency, finding that all chips could achieve a stable 4.5–4.6 GHz on the X99 platform, offering significant multi-threaded performance gains. The processors demonstrated good voltage-to-frequency scaling with high-quality cooling, making the high-core-count CPU a strong performer for...Read more

tomshw.it

01/09/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X, 5930K, and 5820K CPU Review

The Tom's Hardware review of Intel’s Haswell-E processors (i7-5960X, 5930K, 5820K) marks a significant shift, introducing the first 8-core desktop CPU (i7-5960X) alongside the X99 chipset, LGA 2011-3 socket, and DDR4 memory support. The flagship 5960X delivers unmatched multi-threaded performance for content creation, while the 5930K and 5820K offer 6-core alternatives with higher...Read more

hwupgrade.it

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7 5960X: The 8-Core Enthusiast CPU

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition represents a milestone as Intel's first 8-core desktop consumer processor, utilizing the 22nm Haswell-E architecture with 16 threads, 20MB L3 cache, and DDR4 memory support on the X99 platform. It delivers exceptional multi-threaded performance, excelling in content creation tasks, and offers significant overclocking potential, often exceeding...Read more

multiplayer.it

23/09/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X - Special Edition - Processors

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition, a 22nm Haswell-E processor with eight cores and 16 threads, introduces the LGA 2011-v3 socket, X99 chipset, and DDR4 memory, offering a substantial performance leap for professional, multi-threaded workloads. While it excels in tasks like 4K rendering, its gaming performance is comparable to higher-clocked quad-core processors, notes the...Read more

hwupgrade.it

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7-5960X: The 8-Core Enthusiast CPU

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition is a 22nm Haswell-E processor, representing Intel's first 8-core desktop chip with 16 threads and 20MB of L3 cache. It offers massive performance gains, up to 80% faster than previous 6-core models in fully threaded tasks such as 4K rendering. Pros include unmatched multi-core performance, 40 PCIe lanes for advanced graphics configurations,...Read more

nl.hardware.info

02/08/2015

From air cooling to LN2: how far can you go with each cooling method? (Testing the i7 5960X)

Liquid nitrogen (LN2) cooling provides unmatched performance for extreme overclocking by keeping CPUs under −100∘𝐶, allowing for world-record-breaking speeds, though it is limited to temporary use due to constant evaporation. The process requires a copper pot for manual LN2 pouring, enabling high voltages, but requires meticulous insulation with materials like foam or eraser to...Read more

nl.hardware.info

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7 5960X / 5930K / 5820K Haswell-E review: 8 cores at last

The Hardware.info review of Intel’s Haswell-E platform, featuring the 8-core Core i7-5960X, highlights its significant leap in multi-threaded performance, supported by the new X99 chipset and DDR4 memory. While the 5960X dominates in rendering and encoding, the 6-core i7-5930K and i7-5820K offer strong, high-value alternatives for professional workloads. The platform excels in...Read more

hardware.info

29/08/2014

Intel Core i7 5960X / 5930K / 5820K Haswell-E review: 8 cores at last

The Hardware Info review of Intel's Haswell-E platform highlights the introduction of 8-core desktop processors, with the Core i7-5960X offering 8 cores/16 threads and 20MB L3 cache. The i7-5930K and i7-5820K bring 6 cores/12 threads, with the platform introducing the X99 chipset, DDR4 memory support, and 40 PCIe lanes for higher-end models. Key advantages include massive...Read more

tweakers.net

29/08/2014

Intel X99 Platform Review: The X99 Platform with Haswell-E

Intel's X99 platform with Haswell-E processors introduces the first consumer 8-core CPU (Core i7-5960X) and DDR4 memory support, aiming at high-end desktop (HEDT) performance. It offers increased PCIe lanes (up to 40) for multi-GPU configurations, making it ideal for professional workstation tasks like 3D rendering. The platform also features native USB 3.0 and 10 SATA 6Gbps ports...Read more

id.nl

14/11/2014

Intel Haswell-E - The world's fastest CPU

The Intel Haswell-E platform, featuring the Core i7-5960X, was the first consumer desktop processor to introduce 8-core, 16-thread performance, utilizing the X99 chipset and DDR4 memory. It offers 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes for advanced multi-GPU setups. In professional applications like 4K editing and rendering, it delivers superior performance, but is expensive and yields limited benefits...Read more

tweakers.net

31/05/2016

Broadwell-E Review (Includes benchmarks comparing against the i7-5960X)

The Tweakers review of the Intel Broadwell-E platform highlights the Core i7-6950X as the first 10-core, 20-thread consumer desktop processor, utilizing a 14nm process within a 140W TDP. The platform introduces Turbo Boost Max 3.0 to optimize single-threaded performance for these high-core-count chips. Key advantages include "monster" multi-threaded performance, making it excellent...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9965WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9995WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9960X

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9985WX

Processors

Intel Core Ultra 9 285

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9975WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d

Processors

Intel Core i9 13900K

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7965WX

Processors

Compare Intel Core i7 5960X with other processors

Compare