AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX vs Intel Core i9 10920X: Which CPU Reigns Supreme?

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX and the Intel Core i9 10920X are both powerful CPUs designed for workstation-grade performance. They are both capable of handling demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software development. But which one comes out on top? In this detailed comparison, we’ll delve into their performance, features, and pricing to help you make an informed decision.

Performance: A Head-to-Head Showdown

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX boasts 12 cores and 24 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz. On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10920X features 10 cores and 20 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz.
In terms of raw performance, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX generally outperforms the Intel Core i9 10920X in multi-threaded workloads. This is primarily due to its higher core count and thread count. In benchmarks like Cinebench R23, the Threadripper Pro 3945WX consistently scores higher in multi-core performance, indicating its ability to handle complex tasks with greater efficiency.

Memory and Connectivity: A Closer Look

Both CPUs support high-speed DDR4 memory, but the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX has a distinct advantage in terms of memory bandwidth. It supports up to 256GB of DDR4-3200 memory, while the Intel Core i9 10920X only supports up to 256GB of DDR4-2666 memory. This difference in memory bandwidth can significantly impact the performance of memory-intensive applications.
In terms of connectivity, both CPUs offer a wide range of options. The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX features 80 PCIe lanes, while the Intel Core i9 10920X offers 44 PCIe lanes. This allows for the connection of multiple high-speed peripherals and expansion cards, making them ideal for demanding workstation setups.

Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP): Efficiency Matters

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX has a TDP of 280W, while the Intel Core i9 10920X has a TDP of 165W. This means that the Threadripper Pro 3945WX consumes more power, which can lead to higher operating temperatures and potentially higher electricity bills. However, it’s important to note that the Threadripper Pro 3945WX also offers significantly higher performance, making it a more efficient choice in terms of performance per watt.

Features: A Deeper Dive

Both CPUs offer a range of features designed for workstation performance. The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX features AMD‘s Precision Boost 2 technology, which automatically boosts clock speeds based on workload and thermal headroom. It also includes AMD’s StoreMI technology, which allows for the creation of a hybrid storage solution that combines the speed of an SSD with the capacity of a hard drive.
The Intel Core i9 10920X features Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, which identifies the best performing cores and prioritizes workloads to them. It also includes Intel Optane Memory support, which can accelerate storage performance by caching frequently accessed data.

Pricing: Finding the Right Value

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX is generally priced higher than the Intel Core i9 10920X. However, it’s important to consider the overall value proposition. The Threadripper Pro 3945WX offers significantly higher core count, thread count, and memory bandwidth, making it a more powerful choice for demanding workloads.

Which CPU Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX and the Intel Core i9 10920X ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require the highest possible multi-threaded performance and are willing to pay a premium, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX is the clear winner. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and your workloads are less demanding, the Intel Core i9 10920X can still deliver excellent performance.

The Verdict: A Matter of Perspective

Both the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX and the Intel Core i9 10920X are powerful CPUs capable of handling demanding workstation tasks. The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX offers superior multi-threaded performance, higher memory bandwidth, and a greater number of PCIe lanes, making it a compelling choice for professional users. However, the Intel Core i9 10920X remains a solid option for those seeking a more affordable alternative.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What are the main differences between the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX and the Intel Core i9 10920X?
The main differences lie in core count, thread count, memory bandwidth, and pricing. The Threadripper Pro 3945WX offers more cores, threads, and memory bandwidth, but it comes at a higher price point.
2. Which CPU is better for video editing?
Both CPUs are capable of handling video editing, but the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX’s higher core count and thread count make it a better choice for complex video editing projects.
3. Which CPU is better for 3D rendering?
Similar to video editing, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX’s multi-core performance advantage makes it a more suitable choice for 3D rendering tasks.
4. Is the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX worth the extra cost?
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3945WX is worth the extra cost if you require the highest possible performance and your workloads are demanding enough to justify the investment.
5. Which CPU is better for gaming?
Neither CPU is specifically designed for gaming. However, the Intel Core i9 10920X’s higher clock speeds may provide a slight edge in gaming performance.