Upgrade from i7-6800K to Threadripper 2950X: 3x Faster Benchmarks

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Need for Upgrading CPUs
3. Introducing the Threadripper 2950X
4. Comparing Performance: Threadripper vs. Broadwell
5. Benchmarks and Performance Tests
   1. CPU-Z and Cinebench
   2. Blender
   3. 7-Zip
   4. Handbrake
   5. Passmark CPU Mark
6. Choosing the Right CPU for Your Needs
7. Future Developments and Upcoming Releases
8. Conclusion
9. Additional Resources

Introduction

In 2016, I built a powerful computer system for 4k content creation on YouTube. However, three years later, CPUs have advanced significantly. The question arises: is it worth upgrading to a newer, more powerful CPU? In this article, we will explore the performance difference between a modern 16-core Threadripper CPU and a six-core chip from three years ago. We will also examine the cost-effectiveness of this upgrade and the potential performance gains it offers.

The Need for Upgrading CPUs

As technology evolves, the demands of content creation and other resource-intensive tasks continue to grow. Upgrading your CPU allows for faster rendering, improved multitasking capabilities, and a smoother overall computing experience. With the rapid advancements in CPU technology, it is essential to assess whether upgrading is worth the investment.

Introducing the Threadripper 2950X

The Threadripper 2950X is a 16-core, 32-thread CPU that offers exceptional processing power. While it comes with a higher price tag compared to older models, its performance justifies the cost. In this article, we will analyze whether the Threadripper 2950X delivers a significant performance upgrade over its predecessors.

Comparing Performance: Threadripper vs. Broadwell

Before delving into performance benchmarks, it is crucial to compare the Threadripper 2950X to the six-core Broadwell CPU from 2016. Although the Threadripper falls short of having three times the cores of the Broadwell chip, it compensates through higher clock speeds and improved architecture. This section will examine the key differences between these two processors.

Benchmarks and Performance Tests

To determine whether the Threadripper 2950X genuinely offers three times the performance of the Broadwell chip, we will run a series of benchmarks and performance tests. This section will delve into various tests, including CPU-Z, Cinebench, Blender, 7-Zip, Handbrake, and Passmark CPU Mark. By analyzing the results, we can evaluate the actual performance gains of the Threadripper 2950X.

CPU-Z and Cinebench

CPU-Z and Cinebench provide a comprehensive assessment of the CPU's single-threaded and multi-threaded performance. Through these tests, we can understand the scaling of the Threadripper's cores and Threads and identify its strengths and limitations.

Blender

Blender is a widely used 3D animation program that heavily relies on CPU performance. By comparing the rendering time of a complex 3D job between the Broadwell chip and the Threadripper 2950X, we can gauge the magnitude of the performance improvement.

7-Zip

The 7-Zip benchmark examines file compression and decompression speeds. This test will reveal how much faster the Threadripper CPU is when compressing and decompressing files compared to the Broadwell chip.

Handbrake

Handbrake is a popular transcoding tool used for converting videos into different formats. By measuring the time it takes for the Threadripper and Broadwell CPUs to transcode a 4K video, we can assess the performance difference in video processing tasks.

Passmark CPU Mark

Passmark CPU Mark provides an overall performance score based on multiple tests. This section will analyze various sub-tests to understand the Threadripper's key strengths and weaknesses compared to the Broadwell chip.

Choosing the Right CPU for Your Needs

After analyzing the benchmarks and performance tests, it is essential to consider your specific needs when choosing a CPU. This section will provide guidance on selecting the most suitable CPU based on your requirements, budget, and the performance gains demonstrated by the Threadripper 2950X.

Future Developments and Upcoming Releases

This section will discuss the future of CPU technology, including the release of Zen 2 cores later in 2019 and the anticipated third-generation Threadripper. By considering these future developments, readers can make informed decisions about their CPU upgrades.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Threadripper 2950X offers a significant performance boost compared to the six-core Broadwell chip from 2016. While it may not provide precisely three times the performance, it excels in multi-threaded tasks and demonstrates substantial gains in many benchmarks. However, selecting the right CPU depends on your specific needs and budget.

Additional Resources

For more information on building content creation computers, the history of the Broadwell chip, and Where To purchase new components Mentioned in this article, please refer to the following resources:

• Full playlist on computer builds: [Link to playlist]
• Storytime with Tech video on the history of the Broadwell chip: [Link to video]
• Links to purchase new Threadripper components: [Link to Amazon] [Link to Newegg]
• Recommended alternatives to Threadripper for a more budget-friendly option: [Link to Rison processors]