AMD

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X

AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores

16
Cores
32
Threads
4.4
GHz Boost
180W
TDP
🔓Unlocked

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X Specifications

⚙️

Ryzen Threadripper 2950X Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X features 16 physical cores and 32 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.

Cores
16
Threads
32
SMP CPUs
1
⏱️

Threadripper 2950X Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Ryzen Threadripper 2950X benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
3.5 GHz
Boost Clock
4.4 GHz
Multiplier
35x 🔓
💾

AMD's Ryzen Threadripper 2950X Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Threadripper 2950X processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
96 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
512 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
32 MB
🏗️

Zen+ Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X is built on AMD's 12 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in Threadripper 2950X incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
Zen+
Codename
Colfax
Process Node
12 nm
Foundry
GlobalFoundries
Transistors
9,600 million
Die Size
2x 213 mm²
Generation
Ryzen Threadripper (Zen+ (Colfax))
🔢

Zen+ Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X by AMD supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
SSSE3
SSE4A
SSE4.1
SSE4.2
AES
AVX
AVX2
BMI1
BMI2
SHA
F16C
FMA3
AMD64
AMD-V
SMAP
SMEP
SMT
Precision Boost 2
XFR 2
🔌

Threadripper 2950X Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 180W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.

TDP
180W
🔧

AMD Socket SP3r2 Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X uses the AMD Socket SP3r2 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.

Socket
AMD Socket SP3r2
PCIe
Gen 3, 60 Lanes(CPU only)
Package
sTR4
DDR5

AMD Socket SP3r2 Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the Threadripper 2950X define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Ryzen Threadripper 2950X determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.

Memory Type
DDR4
Memory Bus
Quad-channel
Memory Bandwidth
93.9 GB/s
📦

Ryzen Threadripper 2950X Product Information

Release and pricing details

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X is manufactured by AMD and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Ryzen Threadripper 2950X by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.

Manufacturer
AMD
Release Date
Aug 2018
Launch Price
$899
Market
Desktop
Status
Active
Part Number
YD295XA8UGAAF

Ryzen Threadripper 2950X Benchmark Scores

cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource

Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. Higher scores mean faster render times in professional applications.

cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicore #291 of 1788
2,523
17%
Max: 14,978

cinebench_cinebench_r15_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R15 single-core measures the speed of one CPU thread rendering 3D geometry. This score indicates how AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X handles tasks that can't be parallelized across multiple cores. Games and many desktop applications still rely heavily on single-thread performance.

cinebench_cinebench_r15_singlecore #290 of 1245
356
17%
Max: 2,114

cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource

Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X.

cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicore #291 of 1788
10,516
17%
Max: 62,412
Compare with other CPUs

cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X.

cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecore #291 of 1784
1,484
17%
Max: 8,811

cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource

Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X after thermal limits kick in.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicore #291 of 1788
25,040
17%
Max: 148,601
Compare with other CPUs

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X maintains boost clocks under continuous load.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecore #291 of 1788
3,535
17%
Max: 20,979

geekbench_multicoreSource

Geekbench multi-core tests AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X across real-world workloads including image processing, machine learning, and data compression. All available threads are utilized to measure parallel performance.

geekbench_multicore #155 of 711
8,469
38%
Max: 22,515
Compare with other CPUs

geekbench_singlecoreSource

Geekbench single-core measures how fast one thread of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X can process tasks like web browsing and document editing. This score correlates with how snappy the system feels during normal use.

geekbench_singlecore #370 of 711
1,255
37%
Max: 3,401

About AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X packs 16 cores and 32 threads into a 12nm Zen+ architecture, delivering a base clock of 3.50 GHz and turbo up to 4.40 GHz for serious multi-threaded workloads. In real-world scenarios, expect this beast to crush video encoding and 3D rendering, where its 32 MB L3 cache shines by feeding data efficiently to all those threads. Benchmarks back it up with Cinebench R23 multicore at 25,040 points and R20 multicore hitting 10,516 points, proving it's no slouch even years after its 2018 launch. Single-core performance clocks in at 3,535 in R23, solid for lighter tasks but where it truly dominates is heavy productivity lifts. Geekbench multicore scores 8,469, underlining reliable all-around grunt for creators pushing limits daily. That 180W TDP means it runs hot under load, so pair it with beefy cooling to sustain those turbo boosts.

Diving into productivity benchmarks, the Threadripper 2950X's Cinebench R15 multicore result of 2,523 points highlights its prowess in simulation and CAD apps that scale with core count. This 2950X monster excels in Adobe Premiere exports and Blender renders, often outpacing contemporaries in multi-threaded suites by wide margins. Cost-effectiveness shines at its $899 launch price, offering workstation-grade power without enterprise premiums, especially now on the used market. For pros, the value per core crushes Intel rivals of the era, delivering 32 threads for under a grand back then. Real-world throughput in V-Ray or Cinema 4D aligns with those multi-core scores, making it a budget beast for freelancers scaling up. Platform-wise, it demands TR4 motherboards, but the ROI from benchmark dominance justifies the build.

Platform requirements for the 2950X Threadripper are no joke, starting with the sTRX4 socket on SP3r2, which locks you into high-end X399 or later boards packing PCIe 3.0 lanes galore. You'll need a robust PSU at least 750W gold-rated to handle that 180W TDP plus GPU hunger. Cooling is critical; stock air coolers won't cut it, so go AIO or custom loop for sustained loads. Here's a quick rundown of must-haves:

  1. TR4-compatible motherboard with strong VRM for overclocking headroom.
  2. High-capacity cooler rated for 200W+ to tame thermals.
  3. Quad-channel DDR4 RAM up to 2933 MHz for bandwidth bliss.

Once built, the payoff is immense unleashing workstation fury that still holds up in 2023 benchmarks.

The Intel Equivalent of Ryzen Threadripper 2950X

Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i9-9960X offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.

Intel Core i9-9960X

Intel • 16 Cores

View Specs Compare

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