Ryzen Threadripper 3970XvsRyzen Threadripper 9980X
The Ryzen Threadripper 3970X is a 32-core workhorse for creators who need solid multi-threaded power without breaking the bank, while the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is a 64-core monster built for professionals who demand the absolute highest throughput.
Ryzen Threadripper 3970X
Matisse · 7 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 with much higher core count and faster clock speeds for heavy workloads.
For budget/value buyers, the older Ryzen Threadripper 3970X offers strong multi-threading at a lower cost.
The Ryzen Threadripper 3970X is the right choice when you need solid multi-core performance but have a strict budget and older hardware compatibility.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X 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 38 out of 100), so it leads the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X in most workloads.
How much faster is the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X than the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X?
Based on our aggregated benchmark scores the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X is roughly 126% faster than the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X overall. The real-world gap varies by game, resolution and settings.
Which should you buy, the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X or the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X?
If you want the most performance, pick the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X. If the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X 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.