AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX Review: 24 Cores on a Budget — Tom’s Hardware
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Tom’s Hardware Verdict
Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX comes equipped with 24 cores and 48 threads. But there are caveats to consider. For instance, some applications fail to exploit the CPU’s full complement of execution resources. As a result, the 2970X is only ideal for certain workloads. Be sure you need what it offers before sinking big bucks into the pricey X399 ecosystem.
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Pros
- +
Excellent multi-threaded performance in some apps
- +
Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- +
Relatively low price per core’ Indium solder between heat spreader and die
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The Value-Oriented WX-Series Option
AMD’s second-gen Ryzen Threadripper family was introduced to the world in the form of a 32-core, 64-thread 2990WX model priced at $1800. It set new performance records across workloads able to exploit the chip’s copious resources. However, the flagship Threadripper chip’s unique architecture also causes odd results in more common desktop applications. Consequently, we only recommend the 2990WX to professionals running certain workstation-class software.
The $1300 Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX includes 24 cores and 48 threads. It bears the same WX suffix meant to signal an affinity for heavy multitasking and professional workloads. Moreover, the 2970WX boasts more on-die resources than Intel’s $2000 Core i9-7980XE, which offers 18 Hyper-Threaded cores.
Similar to Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX, two of the 2970WX’s dies aren’t connected directly to main memory. So, the CPU delivers great performance in threaded workloads that aren’t sensitive to memory throughput, but less impressive results in bandwidth-hungry applications that don’t scale well with extra cores. AMD introduced Dynamic mode to its Ryzen Master software in an effort to minimize the architecture’s compromises, but it isn’t always effective.
Given its similarities to the 2990WX, it’s no surprise that Threadripper 2970WX demonstrates a lot of the same behaviors in our benchmark suite. You still need a particular type of workload to maximize its potential. Fortunately, if you have the right software, Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX offers a much less expensive route to 2990WX-like performance.
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Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX
Earlier this year, AMD retooled its mainstream Ryzen line-up with new Zen+ optimizations that included 12nm manufacturing, improved memory and cache latency, higher clock rates, and enhanced multi-core Precision Boost frequencies.
Those changes carry over to the company’s newest Threadripper models, too.
AMD also split its Threadripper portfolio into the WX and X families. The two WX models are geared toward intense multitasking workloads, 3D rendering, media encoding, and cinema mastering. That makes them attractive to software developers, video/audio engineers, and content creators.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Row 0 — Cell 0 | Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX | Ryzen Threadripper 2950X | Threadripper 2920X |
| Socket | TR4 | TR4 | TR4 | TR4 |
| Cores / Threads | 32 / 64 | 24 / 48 | 16 / 32 | 12 / 24 |
| Base Frequency | 3. 0 GHz |
3.0 GHz | 3.5 GHz | 3.5 GHz |
| Boost Frequency | 4.2 GHz | 4.2 GHz | 4.4 GHz | 4.3 GHz |
| Memory Speed | DDR4-2933 (Varies) | DDR4-2933 (Varies) | DDR4-2933 (Varies) | DDR4-2933 (Varies) |
| Memory Controller | Quad-Channel | Quad-Channel | Quad-Channel | Quad-Channel |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| PCIe Lanes | 64 (Four to the chipset) | 64 (Four to the chipset) | 64 (Four to the chipset) | 64 (Four to the chipset) |
| Integrated Graphics | No | No | No | No |
| Cache (L2 / L3) | 80MB | 64MB | 40MB | 32MB |
| Architecture | Zen+ | Zen+ | Zen+ | Zen+ |
| Process | 12nm LP GloFo | 12nm LP GloFo | 12nm LP GloFo | 12nm LP GloFo |
| TDP | 250W | 250W | 180W | 180W |
Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX is AMD’s second quad-die processor for high-end desktops.
Again, it sports 24 cores and 48 threads. A 3 GHz base frequency stretches as high as 4.2 GHz via AMD’s XFR (eXtended Frequency Range) algorithms. The processor also features an improved Precision Boost 2 technology for achieving more aggressive multi-core turbo clock rates compared to the first-gen models.
Each of the WX CPU’s four dies boast eight physical cores and 16MB of L3 cache. Thus, Threadripper 2990WX and 2970WX are both armed with 64MB of L3 cache. That’s generous on AMD’s part, since Intel typically disables cache as it turns off cores to create lower-end models. Of course, AMD does carve out two cores per die to create the 2970WX’s 24-core configuration, though. And like the 2990WX, Ryzen Threadripper 2970X is rated at 250W.
The dual-die X-series Threadrippers are better suited to enthusiasts and gamers. AMD launched its Ryzen Threadripper 2950X in September, but now there’s a 12C/24T Threadripper 2920X available as well. It includes six cores per die and the same 32MB of L3 cache as the 16C/32T 2950X.
Both X-series models are rated at 180W.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
| Row 0 — Cell 0 | Cores /Threads | Base / Boost (GHz) | L3 Cache (MB) | PCIe 3.0 | DRAM | TDP | MSRP | Price Per Core |
| TR 2990WX | 32 / 64 | 3.0 / 4.2 | 64 | 64 (4 to PCH) | Quad DDR4-2933 | 250W | $1799 | $56 |
| TR 2970WX | 24 / 48 | 3.0 / 4.2 | 64 | 64 (4 to PCH) | Quad DDR4-2933 | 250W | $1299 | $54 |
| Core i9-7980XE | 18 / 36 | 2. 6 / 4.4 |
24.75 | 44 | Quad DDR4-2666 | 140W | $1999 | $111 |
| TR 2950X | 16 / 32 | 3.5 / 4.4 | 32 | 64 (4 to PCH) | Quad DDR4-2933 | 180W | $899 | $56 |
| TR 1950X | 16 / 32 | 3.4 / 4.4 | 64 | 64 (4 to PCH) | Quad DDR4-2667 | 180W | $750 | $47 |
| Core i9-7960X | 16 / 32 | 2.8 / 4.4 | 22 | 44 | Quad DDR4-2666 | 140W | $1699 | $106 |
| TR 2920X | 12 / 24 | 3. 5 / 4.3 |
32 | 64 (4 to PCH) | Quad DDR4-2933 | 180W | $649 | $54 |
| TR 1920X | 12 / 24 | 3.5 / 4.2 | 64 | 64 (4 to PCH) | Quad DDR4-2667 | 180W | $399 | $33 |
| Core i9-7920X | 12 /24 | 2.9 / 4.4 | 16.50 | 44 | Quad DDR4-2666 | 140W | $1199 | $100 |
| Core i9-7900X | 10 / 20 | 3.3 / 4.3 | 13.75 | 44 | Quad DDR4-2666 | 140W | $999 | $99 |
| Core i7-8700K | 6 / 12 | 3. 7 / 4.7 |
12 | 16 | Dual DDR4-2666 | 95W | $359 | $60 |
| Ryzen 7 2700X | 8 / 16 | 3.7 / 4.3 | 16 | 16 | Dual DDR4-2933 | 105W | $329 | $41 |
AMD ships all Threadripper CPUs with an Asetek bracket that provides partial coverage of the expansive heat spreader using compatible closed-loop liquid coolers. According to AMD, this partial coverage is fine for stock operation. But we found that full-coverage coolers work better. AMD also collaborated with Cooler Master to develop the Wraith Ripper heat sink/fan combo for its Socket TR4 interface. It’s sold separately, though.
Of course, AMD uses Indium solder between its dies and heat spreader to improve thermal transfer. In contrast, Intel employs thermal grease and recommends liquid cooling for its Skylake-X processors.
AMD says that’s not necessary for Threadripper. Intel recently added Indium solder to its Core i9 series, so we may see this feature work its way up into the HEDT segment before long.
All of the second-gen Threadripper processors are backward-compatible with existing X399 motherboards. But older Socket TR4-equipped boards may struggle under the power requirements of AMD’s 250W Threadripper WX series chips, particularly if you try to overclock. Consider shopping for a new X399-based platform if tuning is on the menu.
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| DIMM Config | Memory Ranks | Official Supported Transfer Rate (MT/s) |
| 4 of 4 | Single | DDR4-2933 |
| 4 of 8 | DDR4-2667 | |
| 8 of 8 | DDR4-2133 | |
| 4 of 4 | Dual | DDR4-2933 |
| 4 of 8 | DDR4-2667 | |
| 8 of 8 | DDR4-1866 |
Familiar AMD value-adds abound on the 2970WX: you get an unlocked ratio multiplier for overclocking, the new Precision Boost Overdrive automated overclocking feature, Ryzen Master software, and 60 lanes of third-gen PCI Express (plus four lanes attached to the supporting chipset).
Copious connectivity could come in handy for multiple add-in graphics cards, but it’s also useful for high-performance storage and networking.
Threadripper CPUs feature independent dual-channel memory controllers located on two dies, which combine to provide quad-channel support with varying data transfer rates based upon your configuration. With the second-gen Threadripper processors, AMD bumps its maximum specification to DDR4-2933 (up from DDR4-2666). The platform supports ECC memory and up to 256GB of capacity, but it can accommodate up to 2TB as density increases.
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AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X vs AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
Summary
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X
112%
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
100%
Relative performance
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X
116%
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
100%
Relative performance
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X
107%
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
100%
Relative performance
Reasons to consider AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X |
16% higher single threaded performance. |
| 7% higher multi threaded performance. |
| 70 watts lower power draw. |
| Around 12% higher average synthetic performance. |
Reasons to consider AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX |
| None |
Gaming
HWBench recommends AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X
Based on game and synthetic benchmarks, and theoretical specifications.
Productivity
No clear winner declared
Features
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMX | ||||
| SSE | ||||
| SSE2 | ||||
| SSE3 | ||||
| SSSE3 | ||||
| SSE4A | ||||
| SSE4.1 | ||||
| SSE4.2 | ||||
| AES | ||||
| AVX | ||||
| AVX2 | ||||
| BMI1 | ||||
| BMI2 | ||||
| SHA | ||||
| F16C | ||||
| FMA3 | ||||
| AMD64 | ||||
| EVP | ||||
| AMD-V | ||||
| SMAP | ||||
| SMEP | ||||
| SMT | ||||
| Precision Boost 2 | ||||
| XFR 2 | ||||
| 3DNow! | ||||
| CnQ | ||||
| NX bit | ||||
| XFR | ||||
Architecture
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture | AMD Zen+ | vs | AMD Zen+ | |
| Market | Desktop | vs | Desktop | |
| Memory Support | DDR4 | vs | DDR4 | |
| Codename | Zen | vs | Zen | |
| Release Date | Aug 2018 | vs | Aug 2018 |
Cores
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cores | 24 | vs | 32 | |
| Threads | 48 | vs | 64 | |
| SMPs | 1 | vs | 1 | |
| Integrated Graphics | No | vs | No |
Cache
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L1 Cache | 96 KB (per core) | vs | 128 KB (per core) | |
| L2 Cache | 512 KB (per core) | vs | 512 KB (per core) | |
| L3 Cache | 32768 KB | vs | 32768 KB |
Physical
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Socket | AMD Socket SP3r2 | vs | AMD Socket SP3r2 | |
| Max Case Temp | unknown | vs | unknown | |
| Package | FCLGA-4094 | vs | uPGA | |
| Die Size | 213mm² | vs | 384mm² | |
| Process | 14 nm | vs | 12 nm |
Performance
| AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cpu Frequency | 3500 MHz | vs | 3400 MHz | |
| Turbo Clock | 4200 MHz | vs | 4000 MHz | |
| Base Clock | 100 MHz | vs | 100 MHz | |
| Voltage | variable | vs | variable | |
| TDP | 180 W | vs | 250 W |
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X
4620 points
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
4400 points
Points — higher is better
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X
112728 points
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
146009 points
Points — higher is better
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X (simulated)
198.
65 -
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
170
points — higher is better
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970X (simulated)
5436.29
-
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX
5036
points — higher is better
More performance: NUMA optimization for Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX and 2970WX with Coreprio and NUMA Dissociater
The two Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2970X processors offer a decent number of cores for work applications. However, the configuration with four crystals in one package does not work well everywhere. To solve this problem, AMD has developed Dynamic Local Mode. But this mode is not very flexible and can itself lead to problems. Fortunately, the Coreprio utility helps here.
Dynamic Local Mode is a software solution that automatically binds demanding applications to CPU cores on chips that are directly connected to RAM (two out of four). But this mode only works on Threadripper processors with four dies in one package, namely Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX (test) and Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX (test).
It is important to understand the difference between NUMA and UMA modes here. Non-Uniform Memory Access (NUMA) describes a memory architecture in which each processor has its own local memory, but other processors also have access to it through a common address space. In the case of Uniform Memory Access (UMA), uniform access to the memory array is provided by all processors. In the case of the Ryzen Threadripper, the UMA mode allows the dies to use all the memory channels, so the throughput is higher, but at the same time, latency is affected, which can be noticeably higher. In NUME mode, data can remain in memory that is connected locally through the on-chip memory controller. As a result, delays may be lower, but throughput is no longer as high.
In theory, NUMA mode will run faster if programs are optimized for it. Windows 10 recognizes NUMA mode and displays the two dies separately, with its own memory subsystem.
However, developers are slow to optimize applications for this NUMA mode, so UMA is usually faster.
Binding is done through Windows Scheduler, however it recognizes two NUMA nodes and Ryzen Threadripper processors have four active dies, i.e. four NUMA nodes, two with direct memory and two without. Windows Scheduler does not recognize them, which can lead to problems in some applications.
Actually, the Coreprio utility comes to the rescue here. It acts as a NUMA manager, keeps track of active threads and, in the case of Ryzen Threadripper processors, binds them to direct-memory NUMA nodes.
In the Coreprio utility, the user can enable/disable the NUMA Dissociater binding service. You can also set the interval at which streams will be checked. Dynamic Local Mode can also be started directly in Coreprio. But for NUMA Dissociater to work, Dynamic Local Mode must be turned off. Depending on applications, performance gains on Ryzen Threadripper 29 systems90WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2970X could double.
However, in some cases there is no tangible effect.
It is possible that the NUMA Dissociator extension will be added to Dynamic Local Mode or the Ryzen Master utility.
Review and test of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and 2920X processors — i2HARD
More than just processors. Full testing of AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920X in software and applications.
In this review we will cover 9 processors0023 Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X belonging to the second generation of AMD’s HEDT platform. Even within the same platform, these two solutions have different positioning. The focus, as is often the case with high-performance desktops, is shifted towards work tasks. At the same time, each of the processors considered today has its own level of performance and price. The 24-core Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX is $1299, while the 12-core Ryzen Threadripper 2920X are asking for $649. Like the first generation of Ryzen Threadripper processors, these models also support multi-threading technology, which allows them to process up to 48 and 24 threads simultaneously.
We will evaluate how the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X processors perform in practice, and also try to overclock them within the limits of our capabilities.
Specifications
| Model | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX | AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920X |
| microarchitecture | 12nm Zen+ | 12nm Zen+ |
| Platform | Socket TR4 | Socket TR4 |
| Frequency | 3000 MHz (4200 MHz maximum) | 3500 MHz (4300 MHz maximum) |
| L2 cache | 512 KB per core | 512 KB per core |
| L3 cache | 64 MB | 32 MB |
| Cores/Threads | 24/48 | 12/24 |
| PCIe lanes | 64 (4 for communication with X399 chipset) | 64 (4 for communication with X399 chipset) |
| Memory | 4*DDR4-2933 | 4*DDR4-2933 |
| TDP | 250 W | 180 W |
| Official price | $1299 | $649 |
About the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and 2920X
Processors The Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX processor belongs to a category that AMD is positioning as a content creation computing device.
This niche is represented by people who work in streaming, audio and video processing, design, complex computing, and even game development. All these processes require high processing power from the CPU, which the 24-core Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and must provide. Based on the Zen + 12nm architecture, this processor received a base frequency of 3000 MHz. The maximum CPU frequency can be 4200 MHz, but it all depends on the number of loaded cores and the algorithm of the Precision Boost 2 and XFR2 technologies. Therefore, it is not worth expecting that all 24 cores of the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX will operate at maximum frequency at full load. The processor has a 64 MB L3 cache and a quad-channel DDR4 memory controller with a frequency of up to 2933 MHz. Its 64 PCIe lanes should be enough to communicate with a host of graphics and disk devices over the PCI Express bus. Claimed TDP for Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX is 250W, which indicates serious requirements for the motherboard power system.
The Ryzen Threadripper 2920X is a more versatile processor that can be used equally well for content creation and high-performance gaming builds. This processor is not positioned as a purely gaming one, but it looks like an alternative for those for whom 8 cores of conventional Ryzen processors will no longer be enough. Ryzen Threadripper 29The 20X has 12 multi-threaded physical cores, allowing up to 24 threads to be processed. It is built on the same Zen+ 12nm architecture as the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX, but with higher clock speeds. So, the base frequency of the Ryzen Threadripper 2920X is 3500 MHz, while the maximum is 4300 MHz. The frequency also depends on the number of cores loaded, the algorithm of the Precision Boost 2 and XFR2 technologies, but for a simpler 12-core CPU, these values \u200b\u200bare noticeably higher. L3 memory cell on Ryzen Threadripper 2920X is 32 MB, so each core has 2.66 MB of compute space. The TDP value is declared at 180 W, which allows the Ryzen Threadripper 2920X to be used on motherboards with a basic power system, and, as a rule, more affordable.
At the same time, the processor received the same 64 PCIe lanes and a four-channel DDR4 memory controller with a frequency of up to 2933 MHz.
Talking about the second generation Ryzen Threadripper HEDT processors from AMD, one cannot help but touch on the issue of choosing a motherboard with the AMD X39 chipset.9. The first processors for this platform were solutions with a maximum number of cores of 16 pieces and a TDP of 180W. This acted as a kind of bar requirements for the CPU power subsystem for motherboard manufacturers. Therefore, all solutions based on the AMD X399 logic that have seen the light since the release of the first Ryzen Threadripper processors were in some way universal and sufficient for all CPUs existing at that time.
Significant changes in the design of motherboards came when AMD started talking about the release of the second wave of Ryzen Threadripper processors and the company’s plans to increase the number of cores to 24 and even 32 pieces in the new generation of CPUs.
Among the few motherboard manufacturers, the big three were the first to catch on, releasing redesigned solutions to the market in the face of GIGABYTE X399 Aorus Xtreme, MSI MEG X399 Creation and ASUS ROG Zenith Extreme Alpha. The key change in these models was a redesigned processor power subsystem, capable of «digesting» more than 300-400 watts of power consumption. Therefore, the above motherboard models are most preferred when using the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX processors.
With existing motherboard models, as with our test MSI X399 Gaming Pro Carbon AC, manufacturers have only added support for new processors with a BIOS update. This made it possible to install new CPUs in existing motherboards, but not all without exception. For example, ASRock has not yet released a new motherboard model optimized for the new 24-core and 32-core Ryzen Threadripper. Moreover, some products of this company, such as ASRosk X399 Phantom Gaming 6, even at the BIOS level, does not support Ryzen Threadripper processors with a TDP of more than 180W.
In light of this situation, I would like to note that considering the choice of a Ryzen Threadripper processor with the right number of cores, no less attention should be paid to choosing a motherboard based on AMD X399 logic. We were testing on the MSI X399 Gaming Pro Carbon AC model we had on hand, so when overclocking the 24-core Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX, we were invariably limited in our motherboard’s power subsystem.
Test bench
| Motherboard | MSI X399 Gaming Pro Carbon AC |
| Video card | MSI GeForce GTX 1070 Ti Gaming X |
| Cooling system | ID Cooling ZoomFlow 240 |
| Thermal interface | Arctic MX-2 |
| RAM | Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4-3600 8Gb*4 |
| Storage device | GIGABYTE NVMe M.2 PCIe SSD 256GB HDD WD 3TB |
| power unit | Corsair RM850x 850W |
| Frame | Corsair 540 Air |
| Monitor | ASUS PB298Q, 29″, 2560×1080, IPS |
| operating system | Windows 10 Pro 64-bit 1809 Eng |
| Drivers |
GeForce 425. 31
|
Before testing, we updated the MSI X399 Gaming Pro Carbon AC motherboard BIOS to the latest version 1.C0 to support 2nd generation Ryzen Threadripper processors. The Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro DDR4 RAM in all test modes ran at 3200 MHz with timings of 14-14-14-34-1T.
We used the ID-Cooling ZoomFlow 240 liquid cooling system, rated at 250 W, as cooling for the tested processors.
Features of the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and 2920X
It was not for nothing that we focused the readers’ attention on the fact that the value of the operating clock frequency of the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X processors depends on many factors. The reasons for this may be the algorithms of the Precision Boost 2 and XFR2 technologies, as well as how many physical cores are used at this point in time. In an attempt to answer this question, we looked at what operating frequencies Ryzen Threadripper 29 processors can operate in our conditions.
70WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X at maximum load. We used the latest version of the Prime95 stress test for this. For the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX processor, the operating frequency under load of all cores was 3375-3425 MHz. The 12-core Ryzen Threadripper 2920X ran at 3600-3625 MHz under the same conditions.
At full load, the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX ran at a TDP of 250W, reaching 65 degrees Celsius. In simple consumption of this CPU was a modest 60 watts.
The 12-core Ryzen Threadripper 2920X showed more modest power consumption appetites, not exceeding 170 watts. At the same time, the processor could heat up to 68 degrees Celsius, and its idle power consumption was 46 watts.
Overclocking AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and 2920X
Despite the fact that we had an MSI X399 Gaming Pro Carbon AC motherboard with a CPU power subsystem for the first generations of Ryzen Threadripper, we still made attempts to overclock the processors. Including an experiment with overclocking was carried out with a 24-core Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX.
Of course, with the 12-core Ryzen Threadripper 2920X, in the conditions we have, we managed to achieve a better frequency result. Under load, we got a confident 4000 MHz on all cores of the Ryzen Threadripper 2920X, while under the same conditions the 24-core Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX could only operate at 3800 MHz. In both cases, the load on the processors was performed using the latest Prime95 software.
With the overclocking of the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX to 3800 MHz, the appetites of the processor have also changed. The power consumption under load was 325 W, which for the MSI X39 motherboard9 Gaming Pro Carbon AC was the ultimate in its power subsystem. The 24-core processor also presented its requirements to the liquid cooling system, warming up under load up to 80 degrees Celsius.
The situation was somewhat simpler with the Ryzen Threadripper 2920X overclocked to 4000 MHz. This 12-core CPU boosted its power consumption appetite to 212W and peaked at 87 degrees Celsius.
Here the motherboard was not an obstacle to further overclocking Ryzen Threadripper 2920X, and the problem was the insufficiently efficient liquid cooling system ID-Cooling ZoomFlow 240.
Performance
After studying the performance of the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X under load, as well as attempting to overclock these CPUs, we evaluated the performance of these solutions in a number of synthetic and applied production applications. The main attention was paid to the work of processors in tasks of a profile nature, taking into account the positioning of these CPUs.
Analyzing the performance results of Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X, it is necessary to highlight the most important point. This point when using processors with a large number of cores and the ability to process many threads simultaneously is, first of all, software optimization. And as shown by some test packages, it is not present everywhere.
For this reason, the advantage of the 24-core Ryzen Threadripper 29 could not be observed in all cases.70WX over a 12-core Ryzen Threadripper 2920X. In a couple of tests, the junior processor was even more productive than the older Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX, where the software did not use all the computing cores. But where software packages could use all available processor cores, the advantage of the older Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX was more than noticeable. Most of them turned out to be packages for creating and processing content. And these are just the tasks that are emphasized in the positioning of the second generation Ryzen Threadripper processors with the number of cores from 24 to 32 pieces.
Conclusion
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX is an interesting and very specific processor that is more focused on workloads. In those conditions where the computational load can be well parallelized between 24 cores and 48 computational threads, this processor will show its best side.
Therefore, we can say with confidence that this is a niche solution for a certain circle of users. When choosing a Ryzen Threadripper 29 processor70WX as the basis for a workstation, there are other points to consider. Important, in our opinion, is the correct selection of a motherboard that supports new processors not only at the BIOS level, but is also technically designed to work with new 24-core and 32-core CPUs. This will allow you to operate the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX without fear of overloading the motherboard’s power system. Due attention should be paid to the selection of effective cooling for processors of this class, which in normal mode have a power consumption of 250 watts.
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920X is a more versatile processor within the HEDT platform. This 12-core CPU, as practice shows, runs the risk of losing less in performance where the application is not very well optimized for multi-core processors. With a more affordable price tag, the Ryzen Threadripper 2920X offers a still very high level of performance in demanding applications.
This allows us to consider it both as a basis for a workstation and as a Hi-End class gaming and multimedia processor. Relatively low power requirements make it possible to recommend pairing with Ryzen Threadripper 2920X any motherboard with AMD X399 chipset available for sale. The only thing you should also pay attention to in case of overclocking the Ryzen Threadripper 2920X is the choice of an efficient cooling system. In all other respects, this processor, like the Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX, will be most in demand by enthusiasts and content creators.
Pros Ryzen Threadripper 2970WX and Ryzen Threadripper 2920X:
- 12nm Zen+ architecture and 4-channel controller DDR4-29 memory33;
- >8 cores, which is not available on mainstream Intel LGA1151v2 and AMD AM4 platforms;
- Precision Boost 2 and XFR2 smart technologies for floating core clocks;
- high computing performance in parallelizable tasks;
- 64 PCIe lanes for handling graphics and disk devices over the PCI Express bus.
