7 most expensive and powerful processors in the world

Review of the best according to the editorial board. About selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

In any modern electronics, power is conventionally meant most often performance. And this applies to any functional parts – processors, video cards, RAM, etc. When planning a complete set of a home or office computer, the processor power is most often taken into account, since the performance of the system as a whole will largely depend on it.

The editors of the online magazine, together with the experts of the analytical portal https://rankquality.com/, have prepared for you a special review of the most powerful and, accordingly, expensive processors in the world as of March 2020. We will consider exactly the mass segment, that is, processors for home desktops and optional office servers, excluding industrial models that are not applicable for individual purposes or small office tasks.

Rating of the most expensive and powerful processors in the world

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The most expensive and powerful processors Intel	1	Core i9-7960X	RUB 129,995
	2	Core i9-7980XE	RUB 155,238
	3	Core i9-10980XE Extreme Edition	RUB 125 550
	4	Xeon Gold 6134M	RUB 475 079
	5	Xeon Platinum 8180	RUB 783,006
Most expensive and powerful AMD processors	1	AMD Ryzen 9 3950X	RUB 63,488
	2	AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX	RUB 124,772

The most expensive and powerful processors Intel

The first of the two sets represents processors Intel. It will also be the most extensive, since with all the success of AMD with their series of powerful and inexpensive Ryzen processors, Intel still remains the leader and quickly makes up for lost market positions.

Core i9-7960X

Rating: 5.0

Let's start with the most 'modest' processor in this collection, if this term is generally applicable to these most powerful solutions to date. But its modesty is imaginary, and stems from the impression of a lower clock speed compared to its direct competitor from AMD. But first things first.

Core i9-7960X, if it was developed in advance as a 'blank', then entered the market as an explicit response from the company Intel to the Ryzen Threadripper 2950X, which became another link in AMD's 'multi-pass' with the entire Ryzen series .

The processor contains 16 Skylake-X cores, works in 16 threads. When it was created Intel, they stubbornly continued to adhere to the idea of ​​squeezing the maximum out of 14nm lithography, although AMD has already gone far ahead in this regard. The nominal clock frequency is 2.8 GHz, in TurboBoost mode – up to 4.4 GHz. The multiplier is unlocked, the coefficient is 28. Cache configuration: 1024KB first level, 16MB second and 22MB third.

There is a built-in memory controller with a bandwidth of 85.3GB / s. Supports up to 128GB DDR4 RAM, operating at up to 2666MHz. The number of memory channels is up to 4.

In normal operating mode, the processor's heat dissipation is estimated at 165W TDP. An unexpectedly high bar for a maximum operating temperature of 98 degrees.

The advantages of the Core i9-7960X are best seen in comparison. And if in dry numbers of clock frequency it loses to its direct competitor (the Ryzen Threadripper 2950X has a base frequency of 3.5 GHz), then the results of numerous comprehensive tests indicate a much better realized efficiency of using available resources.

Benchmarks and other types of tests in Monte Carlo simulations in Excel 2010 and Cinebench R15, in PCMark 8, with the maximum possible use of all cores, both processors showed approximately equal results. In the HandBrake utility, this model turned out to be noticeably more efficient.

The reasons for this equality of opportunity, with an obvious difference in clock frequency, can be hidden in the number of instructions per clock cycle, the difference in the size of the L2 cache, or anything else, the essence of this does not change. But here the fans Intel will have to pay a heavy price for such efficiency in the literal sense. Even in the spring of 2020, when more than two years have passed since the release of the Core i9-7960X, the model remains very expensive – more than 100 thousand rubles on Russian trading floors.

Advantages

• power and performance;
• acceptable heating;
• optimization;
• overclocking available;
• support for 4-channel memory.

disadvantages

• overcharge.

Core i9-7980XE

Rating: 4.9

Now let's take a look at the maximum 'stuffed' version of the Core i9-7980 processor in the Core i9-7980XE version, that is, the Extreme Edition. There are not so many fundamental differences from the previous solution for this model, and the processor does not differ much in price. Therefore, from the point of view of an upgrade, the transition from the first to the second does not make sense, but it makes sense to consider it as the first configuration, since the Core i9-7980XE still has some advantages.

So, the Core i9-7980XE is already an 18-core processor, and in this it is fundamentally different from the previous one, although it is generally similar. The technical process of creation is the same – 14nm. Skylake-X cores run in 36 threads. The clock frequency in the normal mode is 2.6 GHz, in the TurboBoost mode – up to 4.2 GHz. The multiplier is unlocked, the coefficient is 26.

The integrated memory controller supports up to 128GB of RAM, including 4-channel. Compatible memory type – DDR4, operating frequency – 2666MHz. The cache configuration is 1152KB of the first level, 18MB of the second and 24.75MB of the third. 44 PCI Express lanes are supported, like the previous model.

In terms of heat dissipation, this model is generally comparable to the previous one – TDP 165W, as well as in terms of maximum operating temperature – up to 94 degrees. A little explanation does not hurt here. If we compare the Core i9-7980XE with the Core i9-7900X, then, with some bewilderment, we notice the difference in clock frequency that is far from in favor of the reviewed model. So, the 7900X has a base clock speed of 3.3GHz, and thus only one-tenth less than AMD's tough competitor Ryzen Threadripper 1950X. In the new i9-7980XE model, the company Intel deliberately decided to lower the clock frequency, not least in order to win a clear advantage at least in heat dissipation, which was achieved. The lack of performance was compensated for by more efficient optimization and other points, which were already mentioned above.

In general, the Core i9-7980XE, as a phenomenon, can be assessed strictly positively, despite the fact that it is simply impossible to load all its power at home and there is nothing – the most voracious toy at maximum speed will not even use all the cores. On the other hand, the production of such microcircuits is very expensive, which translates into a decent market price. Again, AMD, with much more advanced lithographic resolution and comparable power, can easily afford significantly lower prices without any dumping.

Advantages

• 18 cores;
• power and performance;
• acceptable TDP level;
• effective optimization;
• lends itself to overclocking;
• support for 4-channel memory.

disadvantages

• overcharge.

Core i9-10980XE Extreme Edition

Rating: 4.8

Rounding out the top three Core i9 in the first selection will be another Extreme Edition. This is not just a powerful processor – this is a special edition where the developers tried to maximize the full potential of the technologies available to the corporation Intel. This model was released in 2019 in a limited edition, and it is far from available on sale everywhere. But it makes sense to search, as it will impress anyone.

So, i9-10980XE Extreme Edition is an 18-core processor (36 threads), created according to the 14nm process technology. Cores – Cascade Lake-X. The nominal clock frequency is 3GHz, in TurboBoost mode – up to 4.6GHz. Cache configuration: 1152KB of the first level, 18MB of the second and 24.75MB of the third.

Among other things, the multiplier is unlocked in the i9-10980XE Extreme Edition, and in combination with the LG A2066 platform, this provides far from symbolic opportunities for additional overclocking. The frequency potential of the processor is sufficient for effective overclocking, and with a reasonable increase in the supply voltage, the 'stone' behaves very responsive. The inevitable in this case, serious increases in heat dissipation are already a “matter of technology” – increasing the efficiency or replacing the cooling system.

In terms of working with RAM, this model supports a huge amount of RAM – 256GB of DDR4 type with an operating frequency of 2933MHz. The number of supported memory channels – up to 4.

Heat dissipation in normal operating mode corresponds to a TDP of 165W. The maximum operating temperature is 86 degrees. During overclocking, especially through increasing the voltage, the situation changes dramatically, and the heat dissipation can jump up to TDP 350W. Therefore, overclocking should be approached with the utmost responsibility and all safety precautions should be followed.

The release of the Core i9-10980XE Extreme Edition turned out to be such a bright event that it overshadowed its equally striking predecessor, the Core i9-9980XE. Of course, the new top flagship Intel immediately appeared under the microscopes of all well-known reviewers, specialized publications and independent testers. And, I must say, the processor did not disappoint at all, despite the fact that in numerous tests the difference between it and the 9980XE turned out to be minimal. The point of talking about the advisability of buying it would take place if it cost several times more. But the fierce competition with AMD did not allow Intel to collect super-profits from the Core i9-10980XE Extreme Edition, and from the moment of its release until today its cost has dropped by half.

Advantages

• 18 Cascade Lake-X cores, 36 threads;
• Supports up to 256GB of RAM
• lends itself to fairly effective overclocking;
• practically universal for its intended purpose;
• combination of potential and current market value.

disadvantages

• limited edition.

Xeon Gold 6134M

Rating: 4.8

Now let's move on to the conditional subsection of the first collection of the review, where we will consider two processors of a fundamentally different type than the three described above. These are special solutions Intel designed for server bundling. With all their prohibitive power, multicore and overall performance, they are definitely not suitable for a gaming computer and, moreover, a regular home or office PC. Their scope of application is much more serious and highly specialized. And if the previous model is considered expensive, then the Xeon Gold 6134M is twice as expensive, but here it is quite justified.

This processor was released in 2017 as part of the Xeon Scalable Solutions Collection Intel. Made by lithography 14nm. Includes 8 cores (16 threads) Skylake-SP. The nominal clock frequency is 3.2GHz. TurboBoost mode allows you to only slightly increase the frequency – up to 3.7GHz. But the multiplier is unlocked, the coefficient is 32.

The integrated memory controller supports an impressive 1536GB DDR4 RAM at 2666MHz with up to six channels, including 'advanced' ECC memory capable of error correction. The cache allocation is 512KB first, 8MB second, and 24.75MB third.

In terms of heat dissipation, the processor is characterized by a very moderate TDP – 130W. At the same time, the maximum allowable operating temperature is quite low – 79 degrees, so the cooling of the processor should still be quite effective.

This model implements the following improvement technologies: acceleration Intel Speed ​​Shift; Turbo Boost version 2.0; Intel vPro; Hyper-Threading; virtualization Intel (VT-x); reliability and safety technologies AES, Trusted Execution, Run Sure, execution cancellation bit.

The physical dimensions of the processor case are 76×56.5mm. The compatible socket is FC LG A3647.

Advantages

• support up to 1.5TB of RAM;
• support for 6 memory channels;
• overall high performance;
• support for up to 48 PCI Express lanes;
• moderate heat generation.

disadvantages

• no obvious flaws were found.

Xeon Platinum 8180

Rating: 4.7

And the top of the series of Xeon server processors, the insanely powerful, multi-core and prohibitively expensive Xeon Platinum 8180 processor, completes the review of the most expensive and powerful processors in the world according to the magazine. The model was released in July 2017 and is still the most powerful and expensive in the lineup.

In terms of its 'nuclear' composition, this processor leaves the above described far behind. Here we see no less than 28 Skylake-SP cores working in 56 threads. The nominal clock frequency is 2.5GHz, in TurboBoost mode – up to 3.8GHz. From pure academic interest, we can report that this 'monster' in a good way consists of 8 billion transistors.

The multiplier is locked for overclocking. This circumstance could be a disadvantage for any other processor Intel, but not for the Xeon Platinum 8180. Overclocking here is just an excessive measure bordering on recklessness.

The memory controller in the processor supports up to 768GB DDR4 RAM at 2666MHz, including six-channel and error correction. The cache distribution is 1792KB for the 1st level, 28MB for the second and 38.5MB for the third.

This model implements the following improvement technologies (mainly): Speed ​​Shift; Turbo Boost 2.0; vPro; Hyper-Threading; virtualization VT-x, VT-d; TSX-NI technology (scaling performance in multi-threaded environments); a range of safety and reliability technologies.

Up to eight processors are allowed in a single server configuration. When planning a cooling system, you need to take into account the TDP level, and in this model it is noticeably increased – 205W. The maximum allowable operating temperature is 84 degrees.

The dimensions of the processor case are 76×56.5mm. The compatible socket is FC LG A3647.

Advantages

• top processor of the Xeon series;
• 28 cores, 56 threads;
• support for 6-channel memory;
• support for up to 48 PCI Express lanes.

disadvantages

• prohibitive price.

Most expensive and powerful AMD processors

The second and final selection in the review of the most powerful and expensive processors in the world presents AMD's top three products. This, of course, is the Ryzen series processors, which literally shocked the market, breaking into almost every segment, forcing Intel to get very nervous and take an urgent response.

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X

Rating: 5.0

Let's start with a bright, powerful, and relatively inexpensive model. Comparatively – against the background of insane prices for top processors Intel, which we discussed above. AMD has always had an important competitive advantage ahead of Intel – more affordable prices, and even with the release of incredibly progressive Ryzen processors, this advantage remains and even becomes more pronounced.

So the 3950X is AMD's flagship Ryzen 9 series. This is actually the 'last line' in the range of processors from this company, which, with all their incredible power, can still be considered 'consumer'. And in practical terms, this is the 'ceiling' of the capabilities of the Zen2 architecture on the AM4 platform. Then there are only HEDT solutions of the Threadripper series, and we will consider an example of such a powerful and expensive processor further.

Ryzen 9 3950X is built using the most advanced technology with a lithographic resolution of 7nm, which is significantly ahead of Intel, at least in the 'ideological' sense. Includes 16 Matisse cores operating in 32 threads with a nominal frequency of 3.5 GHz and up to 4.7 GHz with acceptable overclocking.

The built-in OP controller supports no more than dual-channel DDR4 memory, but the 'fast' – 3.2GHz frequency. Cache arrangement: 1024KB of the first level, 8MB of the second and 64MB of the third.

In terms of heat dissipation, the AMD Ryzen 9 3950X is definitely happy – the TDP is estimated at 105W, but in boost mode there can be a significant increase, so the question must be approached reasonably. Such moderate heating was achieved not least due to the thinnest lithography at the time of the creation of the processor at 7 nm.

Another small drawback of the processor, which looks like a drawback only against the background of the above-described 'monsters' from Intel is support for a relatively small number of PCI Express lanes – only 16. But, again, for the vast majority of work and entertainment goals of even the highest level of complexity, its performance is more than enough. And, in addition, PCI Express channels are already supported here by the new generation, which is the opposite – it gives the model advantages.

Advantages

• technical process 7nm;
• high clock frequency;
• effective boost mode;
• supports 'fast' memory;
• support for new generation PCI Express channels;
• relatively low TDP.

disadvantages

• supports no more than dual channel memory.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX

Rating: 4.9

And this part of the review ends with a processor, which, in addition to objectively high technical characteristics, also manages to collect incredibly positive feedback from users and independent testers. This is Threadripper 2990WX. Some specialized publications do not hesitate to characterize him with epithets like 'fabulously good'.

First, I must say that this is a processor of a different class than the previous one, and it was created for a different socket – TR4. The dimensions are appropriate, that is, impressive – 58.5×75.4mm. 32 Colfax cores are evenly distributed across four Zeppelin dies. The creation of the processor is based on a technical process with a lithographic resolution of 12nm. A group of cores work in 64 threads. The nominal clock frequency is 3GHz, in overclocking mode – up to 4.2GHz.

The memory controller built into the processor supports already more efficient memory – up to 4 channels, such as DDR4 at a frequency of 2933 MHz. Cache distribution: 3072KB of the first level, 16MB of the second and 64MB of the third. Up to 64 PCI Express lanes are supported.

In terms of heating, we already see a striking upward difference from the previous model. It is not surprising, since the manufacturing process is still 12nm, not 7nm, and this is one of the serious factors affecting the TDP. Here this parameter is set to 250W. The maximum allowable operating temperature is quite low, which is not surprising for an AMD processor – only 68 degrees.

We should also praise the incredibly efficient and intelligent in all respects automatic frequency control and heat balancing in this processor. The technologies Precision Boost Overdrive, XFR2 and others work for this, allowing the processor to independently, quickly and accurately determine the presence and potential of a resource for safe overclocking.

With special simple manipulations, the processor can be switched from 'professional' to game mode. This is done by simply disabling the required number of cores, after which the processor essentially turns into a Ryzen 7 2700X. For this incredible flexibility, it gets additional particularly rave reviews from users.

Advantages

• 12nm technical process;
• supports 4-channel memory;
• 32 cores, 64 threads;
• support for up to 64 PCI Express lanes;
• smart and efficient technologies for safe automatic acceleration control;
• easy transfer to game mode.

disadvantages

• strong heating.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.