This is a 20-Core Xeon CPU, and guess what? It costs more than a 24-Core Threadripper. But wait—Threadripper also outperforms it? So why is Xeon more expensive?
We’ve all seen countless comparisons of Intel Core vs AMD Ryzen, but what about their high-end desktop (HEDT) counterparts? How do Intel Xeon and AMD Threadripper stack up against each other? And, more importantly, which one is the right choice for you? Let’s dive in and find out.
Pricing: Threadripper’s Initial Appeal
Let’s start with pricing and availability. On the surface, Threadripper seems like the clear winner. However, we can’t directly compare Xeon with Threadripper’s X series because Xeon CPUs have more in common with the Threadripper WX series. And in this case, Intel actually offers a cheaper solution.
For example, Intel has a 12-core Xeon variant that is more affordable than any Threadripper option available in India. This is great news if your use case isn’t particularly CPU-heavy but you still need a processor with server-grade features. A 12-core Xeon could save you a lot of money.
Server-Grade Features: Why Xeon Shines
What exactly are these server-grade features that justify Xeon’s price tag? One example is GPU support. The Threadripper 7960X comes with 48 PCIe 5.0 lanes, while the Xeon W3445 has 112, and the Threadripper 7965WX boasts 128.
In terms of PCIe lanes, you could add an extra GPU with the 7965WX, but with Xeon, you can max out at a whopping 4TB of RAM. Yes, you read that right—4TB. This makes Xeon ideal for tasks involving large datasets, giving it a serious edge in RAM capacity.
Performance: AMD’s Raw Power
When it comes to raw performance, AMD takes the lead. The Threadripper 7000 series supports up to 96 cores and reaches speeds of 5.3 GHz, whereas Intel Xeon tops out at 60 cores and 4.8 GHz.
That said, raw numbers don’t always tell the full story. For Intel-optimized applications, Xeon can outperform AMD, particularly in areas like legacy software support or specific workloads that favor Intel’s architecture.
But for most CPU-based tasks like 3D rendering and data processing, AMD’s higher core counts and clock speeds generally result in better performance.
Efficiency: AMD’s Power Advantage
High performance often comes at the cost of higher power consumption, and on paper, AMD Threadripper has a 25W higher TDP across the board compared to Intel. However, Threadripper benefits from its 5nm architecture, allowing it to power 96 cores with just 350W, while Intel requires more power for 60 cores.This efficiency is particularly advantageous for 24/7 workloads, like surveillance systems, where lower power consumption over time can lead to substantial savings.
Stability: Intel’s Legacy Strength
Despite all the performance and efficiency comparisons, stability is often the most important factor when choosing an HEDT platform. And this is where Intel Xeon shines. For the past 20 years, Intel has been the go-to choice for legacy applications like storage servers, email servers, and web hosting, mainly because so much infrastructure has been built around their hardware.
For tasks that require extreme stability and compatibility, particularly with older or legacy software, Intel remains the top choice for many enterprises.
Which One Should You Choose?
So, after all these comparisons, which one is the best choice for you?
If you’re after maximum performance, such as for AI training or render farms, AMD Threadripper is a fantastic option. Its higher core counts, better power efficiency, and superior performance in most workloads make it the go-to for those who need raw power.
However, if your focus is on stability or you’re working with legacy applications or massive datasets, Intel Xeon is the better choice. The 4TB RAM support, legacy infrastructure, and server-grade features make Xeon ideal for workloads that demand consistency and reliability over sheer power.
While we’d love to go even deeper into the technical details, the reality is that it’s nearly impossible to make a true apple-to-apple comparison between these two platforms. Each excels in different areas, and the best option for you will depend on your specific use case.
Need Help Deciding? We’ve Got You Covered!
Luckily, if you’re still unsure which HEDT platform is right for you, we’ve got a team of configuration specialists ready to help. Whether you’re in Hyderabad, Gurgaon, Bangalore, or Mumbai, you can visit our stores to get personalized advice. Not from one of these cities? No problem! You can also call us or visit our website—we’ve been shipping HEDTs across India since 2015.
Until next time, Cheers!
