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Intel Core i9 7980XE Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£330
Avg. price in US: ~$450
PassMark benchmark result: 29638
N. of physical cores: 18
CPU boost clock speed: 4.4 GHz

Intel Core i9 7980XE review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.0

Good

5.9

Good

6.5

Good

4.7
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
4.0
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
4.0
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
5.8
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
4.5
L3 cache
8.0%
7.5
N. of physical cores
4.8
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
1.4
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
7.5
N. of physical cores
20.0%
10
CPU threads
15.0%
4.5
L3 cache

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#38 in Best Workstation CPUs

Verdict

The Intel Core i9-7980XE is an Extreme Edition flagship processor from the Skylake-X architecture, featuring a massive 18 cores and 36 threads on the LGA 2066 socket. It operates at a base clock of 2.6 GHz, with a Turbo Boost Max 3.0 frequency of up to 4.4 GHz, and includes 24.75 MB of L3 cache alongside a 165W TDP. Its primary pros include unparalleled multi-threaded performance for professional content creation, 44 PCIe lanes for extensive expandability, and quad-channel DDR4-2666 memory support. However, its main cons are its extremely high power consumption under load (often exceeding 450W when overclocked), substantial thermal output requiring high-end cooling solutions, and a high initial launch price.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i9 7980XE

Overall score

6.0

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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

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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

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

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Performance

5.7

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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+

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

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Cache & Architecture

6.3

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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

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

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Memory & PCIe

7.3

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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

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

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Integrated Graphics

2.8

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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

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

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Power & Thermal

4.6

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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

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

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Intel Core i9 7980XE vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i9 7980XE better than the average processor?

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12 more CPU cores
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more CPU cores than the average processor (18 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 i9 7980XE has more CPU cores than the average processor (18 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.18 vs 6
28 more CPU threads
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more CPU threads than the average processor (36 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 i9 7980XE has more CPU threads than the average processor (36 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.36 vs 8
2.76x better multi-core performance
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (7,671 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
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (7,671 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.7,671 vs 2,783
7.2x larger L2 cache
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (18 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
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (18 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.18 MB vs 2.5 MB
2.81x higher PassMark score
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (29,638 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
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (29,638 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.29,638 vs 10,532.5
28 more PCIe lanes
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (44 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 i9 7980XE has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (44 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.44 vs 16
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i9 7980XE 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 i9 7980XE has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
3.09x larger L3 cache
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (24.8 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 i9 7980XE has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (24.8 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.24.75 MB vs 8 MB
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core i9 7980XE uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA2,066 vs FP2).
Higher-end processor class
Intel Core i9 7980XE belongs to a higher-end processor class than the average processor (workstation vs mobile).
12 more CPU cores
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more CPU cores than the average processor (18 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
28 more CPU threads
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more CPU threads than the average processor (36 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
2.76x better multi-core performance
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (7,671 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
2.81x higher PassMark score
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (29,638 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i9 7980XE has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
3.65x better overclocked performance
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher overclocked performance than the average processor (33,025 vs 9,051). The average processor scores 9,051 in overclocked PassMark.
7.2x larger L2 cache
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (18 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
3.09x larger L3 cache
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (24.8 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
2x more L2 per core
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
50% larger L1 cache
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (576 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
28 more PCIe lanes
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (44 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i9 7980XE supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
85.6% higher memory bandwidth
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (85 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
2x more memory capacity
Intel Core i9 7980XE has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
10 °C higher TJ Max
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (110 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
6 °C lower CPU temperature
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (94 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Why is Intel Core i9 7980XE worse than the average processor?

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3 year/s older release date
Intel Core i9 7980XE has an older release date than the average processor (2,017 vs 2,020).
September 2017
No crypto acceleration
Intel Core i9 7980XE does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
70.2% lower multi-core score
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,428 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
8.7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (442 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
2.72x larger die size
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher die size than the average processor (484 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
19.8% less L3 per core
Intel Core i9 7980XE has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.4 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
Less advanced microarchitecture
Intel Core i9 7980XE uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Skylake vs Kaby Lake).
2 fewer memory channels
Intel Core i9 7980XE has fewer memory channels than the average processor (4 vs 2). The average processor supports 2 memory channels.
9.1% lower memory speed
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,666 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
No integrated graphics
Intel Core i9 7980XE does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
3.67x higher base power
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher base power draw than the average processor (165 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
3.67x higher TDP
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher TDP than the average processor (165 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i9 7980XE does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
70.2% lower multi-core score
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,428 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >8500
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,428 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.1,428 vs 4,793
3.67x higher base power
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher base power draw than the average processor (165 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 i9 7980XE has a higher base power draw than the average processor (165 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.165 W vs 45 W
2.72x larger die size
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher die size than the average processor (484 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 i9 7980XE has a higher die size than the average processor (484 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².484 mm² vs 178 mm²
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher process node than the average processor (14 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 i9 7980XE has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
19.8% less L3 per core
Intel Core i9 7980XE has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.4 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 i9 7980XE has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.4 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.1.375 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
3.67x higher TDP
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a higher TDP than the average processor (165 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 i9 7980XE has a higher TDP than the average processor (165 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.165 W vs 45 W
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i9 7980XE does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
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
Intel Core i9 7980XE does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
8.7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (442 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >600
Intel Core i9 7980XE has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (442 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.442 vs 484

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i9 7980XE and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i9 7980XE?

Unmatched multi-threaded performance with 18 cores and 36 threads, ideal for heavy rendering and video editing tasks.
Strong single-core performance for an HEDT chip, reaching parity with top-tier gaming CPUs like the i7-7700K in some tests.
Significant overclocking headroom, with some reviewers achieving over 4.4 GHz on all cores with proper cooling.
Support for 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes and quad-channel memory, providing massive bandwidth for multi-GPU setups and fast storage.
Retains the performance crown over competing high-end desktop chips like AMD's first-generation Threadripper in most workstation benchmarks.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i9 7980XE?

Prohibitively high launch price (roughly $2,000), making it twice as expensive as competing 16-core alternatives.
Extreme power consumption under load, with overclocked units drawing 450W to over 800W depending on settings.
Requires high-end cooling solutions and a robust X299 motherboard with strong VRMs to prevent thermal throttling.
Diminishing returns for gaming; many games cannot effectively utilize 18 cores, offering little benefit over much cheaper consumer CPUs.
Intel's use of thermal paste instead of solder under the integrated heat spreader (IHS) can lead to higher operating temperatures compared to soldered competitors.

Expert reviews

phoronix.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9 7980XE Linux Benchmarks

The Intel Core i9-7980XE is an 18-core/36-thread HEDT processor that delivers exceptional multi-threaded performance on Linux for tasks like scientific modeling, rendering, and code compilation. While maintaining a 165W TDP through a lower 2.6GHz base clock, it achieves high throughput via Turbo Boost Max 3.0 at 4.4GHz. Key advantages include top-tier, parallelized workload...Read more

bit-tech.net

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Review

The bit-tech.net review describes the Intel Core i9-7980XE as a "monstrous" 18-core, 36-thread Skylake-X processor that reclaimed the desktop performance crown, delivering unparalleled multi-threaded speed in professional tasks. A key pro is its remarkable overclocking capability, achieving a 4.5GHz all-core frequency, which led to significant gains in Cinebench and HandBrake....Read more

hothardware.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE And Core i9-7960X Review

The HotHardware review of Intel's Core i9-7980XE (18-core) and i9-7960X (16-core) highlights top-tier HEDT performance, dominating multi-threaded tasks like Cinebench and Blender. While offering exceptional performance and strong single-core capabilities, the chips demand heavy power and expensive X299 motherboards. The main drawback is the extreme pricing compared to AMD...Read more

extremetech.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Review

The ExtremeTech review describes the 18-core Intel Core i9-7980XE as a top-performing chip for professional tasks, featuring a 1MB L2 cache per core and impressive overclocking potential, often reaching 4.6GHz. However, at $1,999, the chip faces stiff competition from AMD's Threadripper, which offers better value, and its 44 PCIe lanes are fewer than rival platforms. Additionally,...Read more

gamersnexus.net

25/09/2017

Intel i9-7980XE & 7960X Review: Delidded Thermals, Power & Performance

The Gamers Nexus review of the Intel i9-7980XE and i9-7960X characterizes these CPUs as high-performance, power-hungry, and often difficult-to-cool processors, suitable primarily for professional rendering workstations. A significant pro is the exceptional multithreaded performance and 25% overclocking headroom, while major cons include extreme power consumption—exceeding 500W when...Read more

pcmag.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Extreme Edition Review

The Intel Core i9-7980XE Extreme Edition, featuring 18 cores and 36 threads, is a high-end desktop processor designed for heavy multi-threaded workloads, offering immense performance in 3D rendering and 4K video editing. Pros include unmatched multi-core performance, such as a massive jump in Cinebench scores, alongside surprisingly capable single-core speeds and significant...Read more

techradar.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE review

The Intel Core i9-7980XE is an 18-core, 36-thread flagship processor designed to reclaim the performance crown, delivering massive, "showstopping" multi-core results in creative tasks like 4K rendering. It provides unmatched performance, exceptional overclocking potential to 4.4GHz, and superior functionality compared to rival HEDT chips. However, its $1,999 price tag, high power...Read more

overclockersclub.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9 7980XE & Core i9 7960X: Conclusion Gamers Nexus

The Overclockers Club review identifies the Intel Core i9-7980XE and i9-7960X as high-end processors that reclaim the performance crown for multi-threaded tasks, though with significant power and financial costs. While the 18-core i9-7980XE is the fastest option, the i9-7960X often provides better all-core performance, making both suitable for demanding workstation environments,...Read more

wccftech.com

30/01/2018

The Fastest Chip On The Planet: Intel's Core i9-7980XE Reviewed

The Wccftech review highlights the Intel Core i9-7980XE as an 18-core, 36-thread processor designed to regain the performance crown, offering blistering speed for multi-threaded tasks, rendering, and heavy workstation workloads. While showcasing superior performance through Skylake-X architecture, the chip is noted as overkill for gaming, catering specifically to professionals. Key...Read more

hardwarecanucks.com

28/09/2017

Intel i9-7980XE & i9-7960X Performance Review

The Hardware Canucks review of the 18-core i9-7980XE and 16-core i9-7960X highlights their unmatched multithreaded performance in rendering and video encoding, offering 15% to 20% leads over competitors and excellent overclocking potential. However, these chips face significant cons, including excessive power consumption and extreme heat output, requiring top-tier cooling and robust...Read more

overclock3d.net

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE 18 Core HEDT CPU Review

The Overclock3D review of the Intel Core i9-7980XE characterises the 18-core/36-thread Skylake-X processor as a "monstrous" HEDT chip designed for raw, "sledgehammer" performance. It delivers "mind-blowing" multi-threaded results, particularly in Cinebench and Blender, while maintaining high single-core turbo speeds of up to 4.2 GHz. Pros include unparalleled multi-threaded...Read more

bit-tech.net

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Review

The Intel Core i9-7980XE is described by bit-tech as a "beast in every sense," marking a massive leap to 18 cores and 36 threads to counter AMD's Threadripper, delivering unmatched multi-threaded performance in rendering and video transcoding. Pros include this incredible raw power and surprisingly high overclocking headroom, with testers achieving an all-core frequency of 4.5GHz,...Read more

tweaktown.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE and i9-7960X CPU Review

The TweakTown review highlights the Intel Core i9-7980XE and i9-7960X as top-tier HEDT processors, boasting 18 and 16 cores respectively to dominate multi-threaded workloads while maintaining strong 4.4GHz single-core performance. While offering unmatched performance, the processors come with a high $1,999/$1,699 price point and significant thermal management challenges due to the...Read more

techspot.com

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE & 7960X Review

The TechSpot review of the Intel Core i9-7980XE (18-core) and i9-7960X (16-core) highlights them as top-tier workstation processors, utilizing the Skylake-X architecture for superior multi-threaded performance. Key advantages include industry-leading performance in tasks like rendering and compression, outperforming competitors in specific tests, alongside significant overclocking...Read more

video.golem.de

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE with 18 processor cores review (Video Review)", "Intel Core i9-7980XE review: The world's fastest CPU", "Intel i9-7980XE 18-core...

The Intel Core i9-7980XE serves as a 18-core/36-thread flagship "Skylake-X" processor, utilizing the X299 platform with an LGA 2066 socket, quad-channel memory, and 44 PCIe lanes. Operating with a 165W TDP, it offers a base clock of 2.6 GHz, boosting up to 4.4 GHz on select cores to tackle both workstation and, to a lesser extent, traditional workloads. Performance-wise, the CPU...Read more

hardwareluxx.de

25/09/2017

Core i9-7980XE and i9-7960X: Intel's answer to Threadripper

The Intel Core i9-7980XE and i9-7960X serve as a direct, high-end counter to AMD's Threadripper, utilizing a refined Skylake-X architecture with restructured cache to regain the multi-threaded performance crown. The 18-core i9-7980XE specifically excels in raw compute power, rendering, and encoding tasks. However, this performance comes with significant, "monstrous" power...Read more

computerbase.de

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE & 7960X Review: 18 Cores Outshine Everything in Performance and Price

The ComputerBase review of the Intel Core i9-7980XE (18 cores) and i9-7960X (16 cores) confirms Intel's reclamation of the performance crown from AMD Threadripper, though at a very high cost. The i9-7980XE delivers record-breaking multi-threaded performance in benchmarks like Cinebench and AVX-512 applications, while the i9-7960X offers a balanced alternative with higher clock...Read more

computerbild.de

21/06/2018

Intel Core i9-7980XE Review: Testing the 18-Core CPU

The Intel Core i9-7980XE, featuring 18 cores and 36 threads, is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor designed to dominate multi-threaded tasks such as 4K video rendering and 3D modeling, with base and boost frequencies of 2.6 GHz and up to 4.4 GHz respectively. Key advantages include massive performance for professional workloads and notable overclocking capability, while significant...Read more

hardwareinside.de

17/11/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE: Testing the MONSTER

The Intel Core i9-7980XE (Skylake-X) is an 18-core/36-thread HEDT processor designed for extreme multi-threaded workloads, demonstrating superior performance in rendering and content creation tasks, particularly in benchmarks like Cinebench. It offers significant advantages, including massive overclocking potential (4.4 GHz+ on all cores), 44 PCIe lanes, and strong single-core...Read more

valid.x86.fr

01/07/2026

CPU-Z Benchmark for Intel Core i9-7980XE (16T): Would you like more information on its application performance or overclocking potential?

The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X, validated with 16 threads on an ASUS ROG CROSSHAIR VII HERO motherboard, demonstrates strong multi-threaded performance utilizing 12nm "Pinnacle Ridge" architecture, base-clocked at 3.7 GHz. Its core strengths lie in high-efficiency multi-core processing, ideal for workstation tasks, paired with superior memory latency and robust power delivery from the X470...Read more

comptoir-hardware.com

25/09/2017

Review • Intel Core i9-7960X / 7980XE - Le Comptoir du Hardware

The Intel Core i9-7960X and i9-7980XE (Skylake-X) established themselves as top-tier, high-core-count processors upon release, challenging AMD Threadripper with superior multi-threaded performance in professional workloads like rendering and video editing. Pros included exceptional workstation performance, full 44 PCIe lanes, and high 4.4GHz Boost speeds, with the 16-core i9-7960X...Read more

hardware.fr

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7960X and Core i9-7980XE: 18 cores, almost too many

The Hardware.fr review highlights the Intel Core i9-7960X and i9-7980XE as high-performance Skylake-X processors designed for top-tier multi-threaded tasks, featuring 16 and 18 cores respectively, Mesh architecture, and Turbo Boost Max 3.0. Key pros include undisputed leadership in heavy workloads, impressive single-core speeds, and robust 44 PCIe lane support, with the 16-core...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

29/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Review: 18-Core Powerhouse

The Les Numériques review characterizes the Intel Core i9-7980XE as a "monstrous" 18-core, 36-thread processor that redefined desktop performance benchmarks at its launch, dominating in heavily multi-threaded creative workloads. Key advantages include its immense rendering power and Turbo Boost Max 3.0 technology, which boosts single-threaded responsiveness. However, the chip is...Read more

geeknetic.es

26/09/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Skylake-X [Full Review]

The Geeknetic review of the Intel Core i9-7980XE highlights it as a top-tier Skylake-X processor, boasting 18 cores and 36 threads with impressive multi-threaded performance in workstation tasks like 3D rendering and video encoding. A significant pro is its superior benchmark performance compared to competitors, featuring a 2.6 GHz base clock and 4.4 GHz Turbo Boost max. However,...Read more

profesionalreview.com

10/11/2017

Intel Core i9-7980XE Review (Full Analysis)

The Intel Core i9-7980XE, an 18-core/36-thread Skylake-X processor, redefines HEDT performance with unmatched multi-threaded power in tasks like Cinebench R15, supported by quad-channel DDR4 and 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes. While offering high clock speeds (up to 4.4 GHz boost) and excellent overclocking potential—often reaching 4.6 GHz across all cores—it comes with a high $1,999 launch...Read more

techtesters.eu

29/12/2017

Noctua NH-D15, NA-HC3 & NF-A15 Chromax.black.swap Review (Tested with i9-7980XE)

The TechTesters.eu review highlights the Noctua NH-D15 Chromax.black.swap, equipped with NA-HC3 covers, as a reigning champion in air cooling, offering premium performance that rivals AIO liquid coolers while solving previous aesthetic concerns with a sleek black design. Key advantages include exceptional, quiet performance from the NF-A15 PWM fans, top-tier build quality, and easy...Read more

nl.hardware.info

25/09/2017

Intel Core i9 7980XE / 7960X review: Intel back on top with 18 cores - Overclocking

The Hardware.info review of the Intel Core i9-7980XE (18-core/36-thread) highlights its position as a high-end desktop (HEDT) performance leader upon its 2017 release, specifically for multi-threaded tasks like rendering, where it outperformed competitors. A key pro is its massive rendering performance and overclocking capability, pushing to 4.5GHz+. However, the CPU has significant...Read more

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