AMD Threadripper 2990WX vs. Intel Core i9-7980XE: Multitasking Performance Compared

AMD Threadripper 2990WX vs. Intel Core i9-7980XE: Multitasking Performance Compared

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Review of Threadripper CPUs
3. Concerns about Windows 10 Performance
4. Multitasking Benchmark Results
   • Blender and 7-Zip Performance
   • Handbrake and Realbench Performance
   • Veracrypt and Corona Performance
   • Handbrake, CPU-Z, and 7-Zip Performance
   • PoV-Ray, WinRAR, and F1 2017 Performance
5. Analysis of Multitasking Results
6. Gaming Performance
7. Conclusion
8. Pros and Cons
9. Highlights
10. Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Welcome back to Harbor Unboxed! In this article, we will be diving deep into the world of processor performance, specifically focusing on the AMD Threadripper CPUs. Yesterday, we took an in-depth look at the Threadripper 2990 WX and 2950 X, and today we will be addressing some concerns raised by our viewers regarding our testing methodology. We will also be conducting multitasking benchmark tests to evaluate the performance of the 2990 WX compared to the Intel Core i9-7980XE. So, let's jump right in and see how these CPUs stack up against each other!

Review of Threadripper CPUs

Before we get into the multitasking benchmark results, let's do a quick Recap of the Threadripper CPUs we have tested. The Threadripper 2950 X impressed us with its stellar performance across various tasks, all at a highly competitive price. On the other HAND, the Threadripper 2990 WX left us a bit underwhelmed with its mixed performance and steep price tag. Many users have attributed the mixed results to issues with Windows 10 compatibility. In this article, we will explore this further and hope for a future update that improves performance.

Concerns about Windows 10 Performance

One of the concerns raised by viewers was the single application testing approach we used in our previous benchmarks. Many felt that this did not accurately represent real-world usage scenarios. We did acknowledge this concern and, as promised, conducted separate multitasking benchmark tests. Our aim is to address these concerns and provide a more comprehensive analysis of the CPUs' multitasking capabilities.

Multitasking Benchmark Results

Blender and 7-Zip Performance

In our first multitasking benchmark, we compared the performance of the Threadripper 2990 WX and the Core i9-7980XE while running Blender and 7-Zip simultaneously. When these applications were executed individually, the 2990 WX outperformed the Core i9-7980XE in the Blender BMW 27 workload by 36% and in the Barber Shop workload by 25%. However, when both applications were running simultaneously, the 2990 WX showed even more impressive results, outperforming the Core i9-7980XE by 58% in the BMW 27 workload and 30% in the Barber Shop workload. On the other hand, the 2990 WX showed a drop in performance in the 7-Zip compression test, being 3% slower than the Core i9-7980XE.

Handbrake and Realbench Performance

Moving on to the next multitasking benchmark, we tested the performance of the CPUs while running Handbrake and Realbench simultaneously. The 2990 WX lagged behind the Core i9-7980XE in Handbrake, being 31% slower. Similarly, in Realbench, the 2990 WX took 10% longer to complete a single pass compared to the Core i9-7980XE. However, when both applications were running simultaneously, the 2990 WX showed improvement, being 17% slower in Handbrake and 15% slower in Realbench compared to the Core i9-7980XE.

Veracrypt and Corona Performance

Next, we tested the performance of the CPUs in multitasking scenarios involving Veracrypt and Corona. Here, the 2990 WX displayed a mixed performance. It outperformed the Core i9-7980XE by 28% in the Corona benchmark, showcasing its rendering capabilities. However, in Veracrypt, the 2990 WX was 47% slower. Running both applications simultaneously didn't significantly change the results, with the 2990 WX still showing a 34% reduction in Veracrypt performance and a 61% increase in Corona rendering time.

Handbrake, CPU-Z, and 7-Zip Performance

In this multitasking benchmark, we tested the performance of the CPUs while running Handbrake, CPU-Z, and 7-Zip simultaneously. Individually, the 2990 WX was 22% slower in Handbrake, 75% faster in CPU-Z, and showed mixed results in 7-Zip performance. However, when all three applications were running simultaneously, the 2990 WX showed an impressive 29% improvement in Handbrake performance compared to the Core i9-7980XE. Although there was a slight hit in CPU-Z performance, the 2990 WX still maintained a 21% advantage over the Core i9-7980XE. In 7-Zip, the 2990 WX managed to outperform the Core i9-7980XE in both compression and decompression tests.

PoV-Ray, WinRAR, and F1 2017 Performance

Our final multitasking benchmark involved running PoV-Ray, WinRAR, and F1 2017 simultaneously. In the PoV-Ray test, the 2990 WX was 36% faster compared to the Core i9-7980XE. However, in WinRAR, the 2990 WX was significantly slower, being 59% slower than the Core i9-7980XE. In F1 2017, the 2990 WX was 24% slower in terms of average frame rate and 30% slower in terms of the 1% low result. Running all three applications simultaneously showed improved performance for the 2990 WX, with a 45% advantage in PoV-Ray, a reduced margin in WinRAR (37% slower), and positive results in F1 2017.

Analysis of Multitasking Results

After analyzing the multitasking benchmark results, it is evident that the Threadripper 2990 WX excels in handling rendering workloads, as evidenced by its impressive performance in Blender and Corona. However, it falls short in tasks such as Veracrypt and WinRAR. When running multiple applications simultaneously, the 2990 WX continues to prioritize rendering workloads, while the Core i9-7980XE focuses on more memory-intensive tasks. This suggests that the Windows scheduler and memory latency may be contributing factors to the mixed performance of the 2990 WX.

Gaming Performance

Unfortunately, when it comes to gaming performance, the Threadripper 2990 WX struggles. In our F1 2017 test, the Game was practically unplayable on the 2990 WX due to frequent lag spikes and stuttering. On the other hand, the Core i9-7980XE provided a more playable experience, with frame rates averaging around 100 FPS. It is clear that the 2990 WX is not optimized for gaming, and users should consider other options for a smooth gaming experience.

Conclusion

Based on the information and benchmark results available, it is difficult to recommend the Threadripper 2990 WX or the Core i9-7980XE for general consumers. The 2990 WX's performance in multitasking scenarios remains mixed, and the high price makes it a risky investment. Additionally, the Windows 10 compatibility issues and the promise of upcoming improvements further add to the uncertainty surrounding the 2990 WX. For those interested in purchasing a high-performance processor, we suggest considering alternatives like the Threadripper 2950 X. Furthermore, with advancements in technology, it is highly likely that more efficient processors will become available in the near future.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Impressive rendering performance
• Competitive pricing of the Threadripper 2950 X
• Potential future improvements through Windows updates

Cons:

• Mixed multitasking performance
• Compatibility issues with Windows 10
• High price point
• Poor gaming performance of the Threadripper 2990 WX

Highlights

• The Threadripper 2990 WX and Core i9-7980XE were tested in multitasking scenarios.
• Rendering workloads showcased the strength of the Threadripper 2990 WX.
• Windows 10 compatibility and memory latency may affect performance.
• Gaming performance on the Threadripper 2990 WX was disappointing.
• Consider alternatives like the Threadripper 2950 X for high-performance needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will future Windows updates improve the performance of the Threadripper 2990 WX? A: There is a possibility that future Windows updates could address some of the performance issues faced by the Threadripper 2990 WX. However, it is wise to base purchasing decisions on the current available information rather than making assumptions about future improvements.

Q: Which processor would you recommend for multitasking and general consumer use? A: Based on our testing, the Threadripper 2950 X would be a more suitable choice for multitasking and general consumer use. It provides impressive performance at a competitive price point.

Q: Is the Threadripper 2990 WX worth the high price tag? A: Considering the mixed multitasking performance and compatibility issues with Windows 10, the Threadripper 2990 WX may not be worth the steep price for most consumers. Alternatives like the Threadripper 2950 X offer better value for money.

Q: Are there any future processor developments that I should consider before purchasing? A: It is highly likely that processors utilizing the 7-nanometer process will be available in the near future, offering significant improvements in performance and efficiency. Therefore, it might be worth waiting for these advancements before making a purchase.

Resources:

• Harbor Unboxed YouTube Channel
• Patreon Page for Harbor Unboxed