The Intel Core i9-9980XE is the flagship processor from Intel’s Extreme Edition lineup, designed for enthusiasts and content creators who demand unparalleled performance. This 18-core behemoth boasts an impressive array of features, including hyper-threading, high clock speeds, and a robust cooling system. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Core i9-9980XE and explore its capabilities.

Architecture and Cores

The Intel Core i9-9980XE is built on the 14nm++ process node, which provides improved efficiency and reduced power consumption compared to previous generations. This processor features 18 cores with hyper-threading enabled, resulting in a massive 36 threads that can be utilized by the operating system.

Each core operates at a base clock speed of 3.0 GHz, while the boost clock reaches an impressive 4.5 GHz under optimal conditions. The Intel Core i9-9980XE also features a generous amount of cache memory: 24.75MB of L3 cache and 2.25MB of L2 cache per core.

Power Consumption and Cooling

As a high-performance processor, the Intel Core i9-9980XE requires a significant amount of power to operate at its maximum potential. The TDP (Thermal Design Power) is set at 165W, but under heavy load, it can easily exceed this value. As such, the processor requires a robust cooling system to maintain optimal temperatures.

Intel recommends using a high-end cooler with a heat sink and fan capable of dissipating 250-300W of thermal energy. The company also provides a comprehensive list of compatible coolers that meet these requirements.

Memory Support

The Intel Core i9-9980XE supports up to 256GB of quad-channel DDR4 memory, running at speeds up to 2933 MHz. This generous amount of RAM allows for seamless multitasking and enables users to run multiple resource-intensive applications simultaneously.

PCIe Lanes and Storage

This processor features a robust set of PCIe lanes: 44 lanes in total, with 28 dedicated to the CPU. This configuration supports high-speed storage devices like NVMe SSDs and fast graphics cards. The Intel Core i9-9980XE also supports SATA Express for legacy storage solutions.

Graphics and Integrated Graphics

The Intel Core i9-9980XE does not come with a built-in GPU, but it’s designed to work in conjunction with high-end discrete graphics cards from NVIDIA or AMD. This processor is an excellent choice for content creators who require the highest levels of performance and can benefit from dedicated graphics processing.

Competitors and Comparison

The Intel Core i9-9980XE faces stiff competition from other high-performance processors like the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X. While both processors offer impressive core counts and clock speeds, they differ in their architectures and feature sets.

Here’s a comparison of these two processors:

Processor	Cores/Threads	Base Clock Speed (GHz)	Boost Clock Speed (GHz)
Intel Core i9-9980XE	18/36	3.0	4.5
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X	32/64	3.7	4.5

As you can see, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X boasts a higher core count and a slightly faster base clock speed.

Conclusion

The Intel Core i9-9980XE is an exceptional processor designed for enthusiasts and content creators who demand unparalleled performance. With its impressive array of cores, high clock speeds, and robust cooling system, this processor is well-suited for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations.

While it may not be the most affordable option on the market, the Intel Core i9-9980XE is an investment worth considering for those who require the highest levels of performance from their desktop computer.

Technical Specifications:

• Cores/Threads: 18/36
• Base Clock Speed (GHz): 3.0
• Boost Clock Speed (GHz): 4.5
• Cache Memory: 24.75MB L3 + 2.25MB L2 per core
• TDP (W): 165
• Power Consumption: Up to 250-300W
• RAM Support: Up to 256GB quad-channel DDR4, 2933 MHz
• PCIe Lanes: 44
• Graphics: None (discrete graphics card required)
• Storage: Supports NVMe SSDs and SATA Express