Intel Core i9-9980XE

The Intel Core i9-9980XE is an end-of-life 18-core (36-thread) processor built for the desktop CPU market. It launched in Q4 2018 with a suggested retail price of $1,979. It is part of Intel's Core i9 Extreme lineup, which is based on the X-Series 9th Gen microarchitecture. The i9-9980XE is compatible with Intel Socket 2066 motherboards and is fabricated on Intel's 14 nm manufacturing process.

Memory and Cache

The Core i9-9980XE supports DDR4 memory and features a quad-channel memory controller, allowing it to utilize 4 memory modules simultaneously. In terms of cache, the Core i9-9980XE has multiple levels of cache. Its L1 cache, which is the smallest and fastest, is 64 KB in size, providing rapid access to crucial instructions. Its L2 cache, at 1 MB, is larger but slower than the L1. Its L3 cache, a shared resource among the CPU's cores, has a capacity of 24.75 MB.

Cores and Clock Speeds

The Core i9-9980XE features 18 total cores which can process 36 threads simultaneously. The multi-threading capability allows the CPU to execute multiple computational tasks in parallel. The base clock speed of the CPU is 3.0 GHz, and it can boost up to 4.5 GHz under heavy workloads. Higher clock speeds result in better performance for the same microarchitecture. The multiplier is unlocked, enabling overclocking for those seeking to push the CPU's performance further.

Integrated Graphics

The Core i9-9980XE does not include an integrated graphics solution. A dedicated graphics card will be required if you require a monitor with your computer.

Benchmark Performance & Value

The Core i9-9980XE has the 77th best 3DMark 11 Performance Physics score among the 721 benchmarked CPUs in our database. It achieves 52.00% of the performance of the best benchmarked CPU, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D. Its 19,237 score and $1,979 launch price (MSRP) gives it a performance per dollar of 9.72. This is the 194th best in value for the 3DMark 11 Perf. Physics benchmark.