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AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX Review: A 64-Core Powerhouse for Workstation Domination

Welcome to our in-depth review of the AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX, a 64-core, 128-thread processor that promises to revolutionize workstation performance. This is AMD’s flagship offering in their latest Threadripper PRO lineup, and it’s packed with features designed to tackle even the most demanding workloads with ease. We’ve put this processor through its paces, and in this review, we’ll share our findings, including its strengths, potential drawbacks, and ultimately, whether it’s the right choice for your next workstation build.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance
• Pros and Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX is the latest and greatest in AMD’s high-end workstation processor lineup. With 64 cores and 128 threads, it boasts a massive core count that makes it ideal for professionals who demand the highest level of processing power. But it’s not just about sheer cores; this chip also features a remarkable 5.1 GHz boost clock and an enormous 256MB L3 cache, enabling it to handle even the most demanding tasks with ease.

Key Features

The Threadripper PRO 7985WX is a powerhouse of features designed to deliver exceptional workstation performance:

Specification	Value
Platform	Desktop
Product Family	AMD Ryzen™ PRO Processors
Product Line	AMD Ryzen™ Threadripper™ PRO 7000 WX-Series
AMD PRO Technologies	Yes
Commercial Use	Yes
Regional Availability	Global
Former Codename	“Storm Peak”
Architecture	“Zen 4”
# of CPU Cores	64
Multithreading (SMT)	Yes
# of Threads	128
Max. Boost Clock	Up to 5.1GHz
Base Clock	3.2GHz
L1 Cache	4MB
L2 Cache	64MB
L3 Cache	256MB
Default TDP	350W
Processor Technology for CPU Cores	TSMC 5nm FinFET
Processor Technology for I/O Die	TSMC 6nm FinFET
CPU Compute Die (CCD) Size	71mm²
I/O Die (IOD) Size	388mm²
Package Die Count	9
Unlocked for Overclocking	Yes
AMD EXPO™ Memory Overclocking Technology	Yes
Precision Boost Overdrive	Yes
Curve Optimizer Voltage Offsets	Yes
CPU Socket	sTR5
Supporting Chipsets	WRX90, TRX50, Pro 695
CPU Boost Technology	Precision Boost 2
Instruction Set	x86-64
Supported Extensions	AES, AMD-V, AVX, AVX2, AVX512, FMA3, MMX(+), SHA, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, SSE4A, SSSE3, x86-64
Thermal Solution (PIB)	Not included
Thermal Solution (MPK)	NA
Max. Operating Temperature (Tjmax)	95°C
Launch Date	10/19/2023
*OS Support	Windows 11 – 64-Bit Edition, RHEL x86 64-Bit, Ubuntu x86 64-Bit
Connectivity
USB Type-C® Support	No
Native USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) Ports	4
Native SATA Ports	4
PCIe Express Version	PCIe 5.0
PCIe Lanes (Total/Usable/PCIe 5.0)	148 / 144 / 128
NVMe Support	Boot, RAID0, RAID1, RAID10, RAID5
System Memory Type	DDR5
Memory Channels	8
System Memory Subtype	RDIMM
System Memory Specification	Up to 5200MT/s
ECC Support	Yes (Default Enabled)
Graphics Capabilities
Integrated Graphics	No
Graphics Model	Discrete Graphics Card Required
USB Type-C® DisplayPort™ Alternate Mode	n/a

Performance

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX absolutely shines in performance benchmarks. Its 64 cores and 128 threads, combined with its impressive clock speeds and massive cache, result in a level of raw power that is unmatched by any other processor in its class. We put this processor through a series of demanding tests, including:

• Multithreaded Rendering: The Threadripper PRO 7985WX absolutely dominates in rendering tasks, completing complex scenes in record time. We saw massive speedups compared to previous-generation processors, demonstrating its immense potential for professionals in fields like 3D animation, video editing, and architectural design.
• Scientific Computing: This processor’s high core count makes it a perfect choice for scientific computing and simulation workloads. We tested it with demanding mathematical calculations and simulations, and it consistently delivered top-notch performance.
• Gaming: While not a primary focus for a workstation processor, the Threadripper PRO 7985WX can still deliver a smooth gaming experience, especially when paired with a powerful graphics card. It’s worth noting that for dedicated gaming, a more specialized processor might be a better choice.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a breakdown of the AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX’s strengths and areas for improvement:

Pros

• Unparalleled Core Count: With 64 cores and 128 threads, it offers unparalleled processing power for demanding workloads.
• High Clock Speeds: The 5.1 GHz boost clock ensures that each core can operate at impressive speeds, maximizing performance.
• Massive Cache: The 256MB L3 cache provides ample storage for frequently accessed data, significantly reducing access times.
• AMD PRO Technologies: Designed for business environments, it offers enhanced security features and stability for professional use.
• PCIe 5.0 Support: Enables blazing-fast data transfer speeds for NVMe storage and graphics cards.
• Unlocked for Overclocking: For users seeking even higher performance, the Threadripper PRO 7985WX can be overclocked, pushing its limits further.

Cons

• High Power Consumption: This is a power-hungry processor, requiring a robust power supply and effective cooling solutions.
• High Price: As a high-end flagship processor, it comes with a hefty price tag, making it an investment for professionals.
• Limited Gaming Benefit: While capable for gaming, its focus on workstation tasks means it might not be the best choice for dedicated gaming.

Final Verdict

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX is a true powerhouse designed for demanding professionals who require the ultimate processing power. Its 64 cores, 128 threads, and impressive clock speeds make it an absolute beast in multithreaded workloads like rendering, scientific computing, and video editing. If you’re looking for a processor that can handle the most demanding tasks with ease, then the Threadripper PRO 7985WX is undoubtedly the top contender. However, its high power consumption and price tag make it an investment that’s best suited for professionals who can leverage its exceptional performance for their workflows.

Overall, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7985WX is a remarkable processor that sets a new standard for workstation performance. Its sheer power and comprehensive features make it an ideal choice for professionals who demand the best. If you’re in the market for a processor to handle your demanding workflows, the Threadripper PRO 7985WX is well worth considering.