AMD’s Threadripper CPUs return with a 96-core monster chip

AMD is making a big return with its new Threadripper CPUs, offering two brand-new classes and two new chipsets. These CPUs are designed to cater to professionals and high-end desktop users who are in need of high-performance machines.

The Threadripper Pro series is specifically created for professionals who require top-notch workstations. These chips come equipped with features like manageability, eight-channel memory, and a large number of PCIe Gen 5 lanes. The flagship model in this series is the 7995WX, which offers an impressive 96 cores and 192 threads, a max boost of 5.3GHz, up to 384MB of L3 cache, and 128 PCIe Gen 5 lanes. AMD is also offering six other Threadripper Pro chips, with the entry-level model having 12 cores and 24 threads.

The non-Pro series, on the other hand, is targeted at high-end desktop users and “prosumers” who don’t necessarily need the manageability features and other high-end specifications. Both the Pro and HEDT (high-end desktop) chips are based on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture and feature the latest PCIe Gen 5 high-speed storage. These chips offer impressive performance and are suitable for professionals working in design, manufacturing, architecture, engineering, and media.

AMD will be offering three Ryzen Threadripper chips in the HEDT series. The flagship model, the 7980X, boasts 64 cores and 128 threads, a boost clock speed of 5.1GHz, and 320MB of total cache. However, these high-performance chips come with a hefty price tag, with the flagship model costing $4,999.

If you’re considering getting a Threadripper CPU for your workstation, it’s important to keep in mind that they only support registered memory. Unbuffered dual in-line memory module (UDIMM) is not compatible with these CPUs.

AMD has also introduced new motherboard options for its Threadripper CPUs. The TRX50 motherboards are designed for the HEDT chips, while the WRX90 motherboards are for the Pro platform. Interestingly, the TRX50 motherboards are also compatible with the Pro chips, so it’s possible to build a high-end desktop with 96 cores and 192 threads. However, you won’t have the support for eight-channel memory or the 128 lanes of PCIe Gen 5 that the Pro platform offers.

To fully understand the capabilities of these processors, it will be necessary to wait for reviews and benchmark tests. By comparing their performance in professional tasks and gaming against Intel’s Xeon and Core processors as well as AMD’s regular Ryzen 7000 series, users will be able to make informed decisions. Both variants of the Ryzen 7000 Threadripper CPUs will be available for purchase on November 21st.