Core i9-9990XEvsRyzen Threadripper 9980X
The Core i9-9990XE is a high-frequency 14-core server-derived chip for pro workloads that need single-thread speed, while the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is a massive 64-core monster built for multi-threaded rendering and heavy parallel tasks.
Core i9-9990XE
Skylake (server) · 14 nm · 2019
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Ryzen Threadripper 9980X
Shimada Peak · 4 nm · 2025
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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 for its vastly faster performance and much higher core count.
For budget/value buyers, the Core i9-9990XE is the smarter pick if you find it cheaply used.
The weaker Core i9-9990XE is the right choice for a compact, lower-power workstation where extreme multicore speed isn't needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Core i9-9990XE 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 18 out of 100), so it leads the Core i9-9990XE in most workloads.
How much faster is the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X than the Core i9-9990XE?
Based on our aggregated benchmark scores the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is roughly 378% faster than the Core i9-9990XE overall. The real-world gap varies by game, resolution and settings.
Which should you buy, the Core i9-9990XE or the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X?
If you want the most performance, pick the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X. If the Core i9-9990XE 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.