AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX vs Intel Core i9 13900HX: The Ultimate CPU Showdown

Choosing the right CPU for your workstation is a critical decision, especially when considering high-performance options like the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX and the Intel Core i9 13900HX. Both processors are powerhouses in their respective segments, but they cater to different needs and workloads. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, performance benchmarks, and real-world applications of each CPU, helping you determine the ideal choice for your specific requirements.

Comparing the Titans: Core Specifications and Architecture

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX and Intel Core i9 13900HX represent the pinnacle of performance in their respective categories. The Threadripper Pro 7985WX is a behemoth with 32 cores and 64 threads, built on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture. It boasts a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.2 GHz, with a massive 128 MB L3 cache. In contrast, the Intel Core i9 13900HX is a more compact powerhouse with 14 cores and 20 threads, based on the 13th Gen Raptor Lake architecture. It features a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.4 GHz, with a 30 MB L3 cache.

Performance: A Duel of Giants

Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R23: The Threadripper Pro 7985WX dominates in multi-core performance, scoring over 30,000 points in multi-core tests, while the Core i9 13900HX scores around 25,000 points. In single-core performance, the Core i9 13900HX takes the lead with a score of around 2,000 points, compared to the Threadripper Pro 7985WX’s score of around 1,800 points.
• Geekbench 5: Similar to Cinebench, the Threadripper Pro 7985WX excels in multi-core performance, scoring over 28,000 points, while the Core i9 13900HX scores around 22,000 points. In single-core performance, the Core i9 13900HX again takes the lead with a score of around 2,000 points, compared to the Threadripper Pro 7985WX’s score of around 1,700 points.
• 7-Zip: In compression and decompression tests, the Threadripper Pro 7985WX demonstrates its sheer processing power, achieving significantly higher speeds than the Core i9 13900HX.

Real-World Applications:

• Content Creation: The Threadripper Pro 7985WX shines in tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and animation, where its massive core count and high thread count translate into significantly faster processing times.
• Gaming: While the Core i9 13900HX boasts a higher single-core performance, the Threadripper Pro 7985WX still delivers excellent gaming performance, especially in multi-threaded games.
• Software Development: Developers working on large projects benefit greatly from the Threadripper Pro 7985WX’s multi-core prowess, as it can handle complex compilations and simulations with ease.

Power Consumption and Thermal Performance

The Threadripper Pro 7985WX is a power-hungry beast, with a TDP of 280W and a maximum boost power of 350W. This high power consumption requires robust cooling solutions to maintain stable performance. The Core i9 13900HX, while still powerful, has a significantly lower TDP of 55W and a maximum boost power of 157W, making it more energy-efficient and easier to cool.

Memory and Connectivity

Both processors support DDR5 memory, with the Threadripper Pro 7985WX offering eight memory channels and the Core i9 13900HX offering two memory channels. The Threadripper Pro 7985WX also boasts PCIe 5.0 support, while the Core i9 13900HX supports PCIe 4.0.

Price and Availability

The Threadripper Pro 7985WX is a premium processor aimed at high-end workstations, with a price tag reflecting its performance capabilities. The Core i9 13900HX is available in various laptops and desktops, offering a more accessible option for power users.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Champion

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX:

• Ideal for: Content creators, video editors, 3D artists, software developers, and professionals requiring extreme multi-core performance.
• Pros: Unmatched multi-core performance, massive core and thread count, large L3 cache, PCIe 5.0 support.
• Cons: High power consumption, requires robust cooling, high price.

Intel Core i9 13900HX:

• Ideal for: Gamers, content creators, professionals requiring excellent single-core performance, and users seeking a balance between performance and efficiency.
• Pros: Excellent single-core performance, high clock speeds, lower power consumption, more accessible price point.
• Cons: Limited multi-core performance compared to the Threadripper Pro 7985WX, lower L3 cache.

Ultimately, the best CPU for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize multi-core performance for demanding workloads, the Threadripper Pro 7985WX is the undisputed champion. However, if you value single-core performance, energy efficiency, and a more accessible price point, the Core i9 13900HX is a compelling choice.

A Final Thought: Beyond the Benchmarks

While benchmarks and specifications provide valuable insights, real-world performance is influenced by various factors, including software optimization, system configuration, and specific workload requirements. It’s essential to consider your individual needs and prioritize the features that matter most to you.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A: The Core i9 13900HX generally offers better gaming performance due to its higher single-core performance and clock speeds. However, the Threadripper Pro 7985WX can still deliver excellent gaming performance, especially in multi-threaded titles.
Q: Which CPU is better for video editing?
A: The Threadripper Pro 7985WX excels in video editing due to its massive core count and high thread count, enabling faster rendering and export times.
Q: Which CPU is more energy-efficient?
A: The Core i9 13900HX is significantly more energy-efficient than the Threadripper Pro 7985WX due to its lower TDP and power consumption.
Q: Which CPU is more affordable?
A: The Core i9 13900HX is generally more affordable than the Threadripper Pro 7985WX, which is positioned as a high-end workstation processor.
Q: Which CPU is better for software development?
A: The Threadripper Pro 7985WX’s multi-core prowess makes it ideal for software development, especially for large projects involving complex compilations and simulations.