Intel has just announced the launch of it’s latest HEDT processor, the Core i9 9980XE which is a direct replacement for the existing Core i9 7980XE. The new CPU built on the Skylake-X platform features 18 cores and 36 threads, the same as before. However it boasts a slightly higher clock speed of 3.0GHz (vs. 2.6GHz) and a turbo frequency of 3.8GHz (vs. 3.4GHz).
Aside from the clock speeds all other specs remain the same. Processor support is still based on the same X299 platform which uses the LGA2066 socket. While actual benchmarks don’t exist as of yet, it will be interesting to see how it stacks up to its predecessor and if the price increase is justifiable. No word yet if these CPUs will work on Intel’s up and coming X599 or Z399 chipsets which release date is unknown at this point.
Specifications of the Intel Core i9 9980XE vs Core i9 7980XE
Processor Model | Core i9 7980XE | Core i9 9980XE |
---|---|---|
CPU core | Skylake-X | Skylake-X |
Socket | LGA2066 | LGA2066 |
Clock frequency | 2.6GHz | 3.0GHz |
Cores turbo clock | 3.4GHz | 3.8GHz |
Max. turbo clock | 4.4GHz | 4.5GHz |
Number of cores | 18 cores | 18 cores |
Number of threads | 36 | 36 |
HyperThreading / SMT | Yes | Yes |
Thermal design power | 165W | 165W |
Production process | 14 nm | 14 nm |
Number of PCIe lanes | 44 | 44 |
The Core i9 9980XE is available for order now and can be purchased for $1979.00 USD. More information can be found on Intel’s product page.