Unleashing the Power: Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Evolution of AMD Processors
3. The Second-Generation Ryzen Threadripper Processors
4. The Features of the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX
5. Comparing the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX with Intel's High-End Desktop Processors
6. Performance Benchmarks
   • 6.1 3D Mark Time Spy
   • 6.2 Blender Performance
   • 6.3 Cinebench R15
   • 6.4 Handbrake 8K H.264 Encoding
   • 6.5 PCMark 10
   • 6.6 POV-Ray
   • 6.7 SuperPi
   • 6.8 x264 Encoder
7. Power Consumption and Cooling
8. Conclusion
9. Resources

🚀 The Second-Generation Ryzen Threadripper Processors

AMD has made significant strides in the processor market since the introduction of its Zen architecture. Now, AMD is taking another leap forward with the launch of the second-generation Ryzen Threadripper processors. These processors feature the advanced Zen+ cores, which bring AMD's Instructions Per Cycle (IPC) on par with Intel's modern cores. This, combined with the CPU efficiency advantage, allows AMD to deliver a processor with a staggering number of cores and Threads.

The Features of the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX

The flagship of the second-generation Ryzen Threadripper processors is the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX. This beast of a CPU boasts an impressive 32 cores and 64 threads, surpassing Intel's halo product that supports 28 cores and 56 threads. With a base frequency of 3.0GHz and a maximum boost frequency of 4.2GHz, the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX delivers exceptional performance. It features 16MB of L2 cache and 64MB of L3 cache, providing a total of 80MB of available cache on a single chip. With a TDP of 250 watts, this processor is aimed at content creators, developers, and those who require massive multi-threaded performance.

Comparing the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX with Intel's High-End Desktop Processors

When comparing the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX with Intel's high-end desktop processors, the performance and value proposition become clear. The Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX not only offers a better architecture based on a 12-nanometer process, but it also provides 14 more cores and 28 more threads than Intel's Core i9-7980XE, all for a lower price. While the Intel Core i9-7980XE costs $2000, the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX is priced at $1700. It's apparent that AMD is disruptively challenging Intel's dominance in the high-end desktop market.

Performance Benchmarks

To truly understand the capabilities of the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX, let's dive into some performance benchmarks. In 3D Mark Time Spy, the 32-core beast outperforms the Core i9-7980XE, even at stock clocks. Blender performance showcases the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX completing workloads at an impressive pace, rivaling the overclocked performance. Cinebench R15 shows the multi-core dominance of the 2990 WX with a score of 6000, and Handbrake 8K H.264 encoding runs butter smooth at over 69 frames per second. PCMark 10 highlights the benefits of overclocking, while POV-Ray flexes the chip's muscles with its ray tracing demands. SuperPi, a single-threaded test, demonstrates the overclock's impact, while x264 Encoder showcases the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX's unmatched power.

Power Consumption and Cooling

Due to the nature of a processor with 32 cores and 64 threads, questions arise about power consumption and cooling. The Ryzen Threadripper processors feature a refined 12-nanometer process, offering better temperatures and power efficiency compared to Intel's 14-nanometer offerings. The Ryzen Threadripper chips come with liquid metal thermal paste on each of the four dies, ensuring superior heat transfer. The processors also feature gold plating on the back for better thermal cycling. Despite the power offered by the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX, it maintains a TDP of 250 watts, showcasing AMD's focus on efficiency.

Conclusion

The Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX is a true monster in terms of performance and value. It excels in multi-threaded workloads and provides an impressive gaming experience. However, for those solely seeking gaming performance, the X series processors from AMD offer similar performance at a lower cost. With the launch of the second-generation Ryzen Threadripper processors, AMD has solidified its position as a formidable competitor to Intel in the high-end desktop market. The Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX establishes AMD as a leader in the ultra-premium niche, leaving Intel's high-end desktop market in trouble.

Highlights:

• The Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX offers 32 cores and 64 threads, surpassing Intel's flagship.
• AMD's Zen+ cores deliver improved IPC on par with Intel's modern cores.
• The Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX outperforms Intel's Core i9-7980XE while costing $200 less.
• Performance benchmarks showcase the extraordinary capabilities of the Ryzen Threadripper 2990 WX.
• The processor maintains a TDP of 250 watts while offering outstanding power and cooling efficiency.
• AMD's second-generation Ryzen Threadripper processors establish the company as a dominant force in the high-end desktop market.