Ryzen Threadripper 2950X
AMD
PassMark
29,462
MSRP
$899
AVG Price
$540
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 13 August 2018 (7 years ago). It is based on the ZEN+ (2018−2019) architecture. It features 16 cores and 32 threads. Base frequency is 3.5 GHz, with boost up to 4.4 GHz. L3 cache: 32 MB. L2 cache: 512K (per core). Built on 12 nm process technology. Socket: TR4. Thermal design power (TDP): 180 Watt. Memory support: DDR4 Quad-channel. Passmark benchmark score: 29,462 points. Launch price was $899.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Ryzen Threadripper 2950X
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Ryzen Threadripper 2950X across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Path of Exile 2
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Ryzen Threadripper 2950X specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X is a 16-core / 32-thread processor based on the ZEN+ (2018−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 12 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.4 GHz from a base frequency of 3.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 32 MB of L3 cache, plus 512K (per core) of L2 cache and 96K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 29,462, placing it in the High-End performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,255, while multi-core reaches 8,814. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 21,444.
| Specification | Ryzen Threadripper 2950X |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 16C / 32T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.5 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | ZEN+ (2018−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 12 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 32 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512K (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 96K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 213 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 19,200 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 × 8 GT/s |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 29,462 |
| Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance | 21,444 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,255 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 8,814 |
Memory & Platform
The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X fits into the TR4 socket and supports PCIe 4.0 with 64 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 Quad-channel memory at speeds up to DDR4-2933 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 256 GB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.
| Specification | Ryzen Threadripper 2950X |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | AMD Ryzen Threadripper |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | TR4 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 4.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 64 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4 Quad-channel |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2933 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 256 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 4 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Socket TR4 / X399 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Ryzen Threadripper 2950X |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | AMD-V |
Power & Cooling
The Ryzen Threadripper 2950X has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 180 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Wraith Ripper / AIO 280mm+.
| Specification | Ryzen Threadripper 2950X |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 180 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Wraith Ripper / AIO 280mm+ |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $540 (MSRP: $899), the Ryzen Threadripper 2950X delivers 55 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #448 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Ryzen Threadripper 2950X |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $899 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $540 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $899 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #448 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 13 August 2018 (7 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for Ryzen Threadripper 2950X
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Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
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