Core i9-9980XEvsRyzen Threadripper 9980X
The Intel Core i9-9980XE is a high-core-count CPU for professionals who need reliable server-grade performance, while the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is a massive multi-threaded monster aimed at creators who want to crush the heaviest workloads.
Core i9-9980XE
Skylake (server) · 14 nm · 2018
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases.
Ryzen Threadripper 9980X
Shimada Peak · 4 nm · 2025
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases.
Overall Performance Score
A unified score from combined synthetic and real-world benchmarks. 100 represents the fastest desktop CPU available.
Side-by-Side Specs
Every detail compared. Highlighted cells indicate the leading value for that metric.
Which should you buy?
The Ryzen Threadripper 9980X wins overall with far more cores and faster clock speeds, making it the stronger performer for heavy workloads.
For budget/value buyers, the Core i9-9980XE is the smarter pick if you need fewer cores and lower power consumption.
The Core i9-9980XE is the right choice when your work doesn't need extreme multi-threading and you want a cooler, less power-hungry system.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Core i9-9980XE better than the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X?
Overall the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is the stronger processor: it ranks higher in our aggregate performance score (86 vs 19 out of 100), so it leads the Core i9-9980XE in most workloads.
How much faster is the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X than the Core i9-9980XE?
Based on our aggregated benchmark scores the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is roughly 353% faster than the Core i9-9980XE overall. The real-world gap varies by game, resolution and settings.
Which should you buy, the Core i9-9980XE or the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X?
If you want the most performance, pick the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X. If the Core i9-9980XE is meaningfully cheaper where you shop, it can be the better value for similar real-world results — check current prices and the full spec comparison above before deciding.