Intel Core i7-990X

Intel Core i7-990X

About processor

The Intel Core i7-990X processor is a powerhouse for desktop computing. With its Gulftown code name and 32 nm technology, it offers exceptional performance for demanding tasks. With a total of 6 cores and 12 threads, this processor is capable of handling multitasking with ease. The generous 12 MB of L3 cache ensures quick access to frequently used data, further enhancing overall performance. With a TDP of 130W, the i7-990X may require a robust cooling solution, but the trade-off is well worth it for the level of performance it provides. In Geekbench 6 tests, the single-core score of 569 and multi-core score of 2554 demonstrate its capability to handle both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads effectively. Whether you're a creative professional working with resource-intensive applications, a gamer looking for smooth performance in the latest titles, or simply a power user who demands the best, the Intel Core i7-990X is a compelling choice. While it may not be the latest offering from Intel, it still holds up admirably in today's computing landscape and can be a cost-effective option for those in need of high-performance computing.

Basic

Label Name
Intel
Platform
Desktop
Launch Date
February 2011
Model Name
?
The Intel processor number is just one of several factors - along with processor brand, system configurations, and system-level benchmarks - to be considered when choosing the right processor for your computing needs.
Core i7-990X
Code Name
Gulftown
Generation
Core i7 Extreme (Gulftown)

CPU Specifications

Total Cores
?
Cores is a hardware term that describes the number of independent central processing units in a single computing component (die or chip).
6
Total Threads
?
Where applicable, Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology is only available on Performance-cores.
12
Basic Frequency
3.466 GHz
Max Turbo Frequency
?
Max Turbo Frequency is the maximum single-core frequency at which the processor is capable of operating using Intel® Turbo Boost Technology and, if present, Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 and Intel® Thermal Velocity Boost. Frequency is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz), or billion cycles per second.
up to 3.733 GHz
L1 Cache
64 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
256 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
12 MB (shared)
Bus Frequency
133 MHz
Multiplier
26.0x
CPU Socket
?
The socket is the component that provides the mechanical and electrical connections between the processor and motherboard.
Intel Socket 1366
Multiplier Unlocked
Yes
Technology
?
Lithography refers to the semiconductor technology used to manufacture an integrated circuit, and is reported in nanometer (nm), indicative of the size of features built on the semiconductor.
32 nm
TDP
130 W
PCI Express Version
?
PCI Express Revision is the supported version of the PCI Express standard. Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (or PCIe) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for attaching hardware devices to a computer. The different PCI Express versions support different data rates.
Gen 2
Transistors
1,170 million

Memory Specifications

Memory Type
?
Intel® processors come in four different types: Single Channel, Dual Channel, Triple Channel, and Flex Mode. Maximum supported memory speed may be lower when populating multiple DIMMs per channel on products that support multiple memory channels.
DDR3
Memory Channels
?
The number of memory channels refers to the bandwidth operation for real world application.
Triple-channel
ECC Memory
No

GPU Specifications

Integrated Graphics Model
?
An integrated GPU refers to the graphics core that is integrated into the CPU processor. Leveraging the processor's powerful computational capabilities and intelligent power efficiency management, it delivers outstanding graphics performance and a smooth application experience at a lower power consumption.
N/A

Benchmarks

Geekbench 6
Single Core Score
569
Geekbench 6
Multi Core Score
2554
Geekbench 5
Single Core Score
757
Geekbench 5
Multi Core Score
4410
Passmark CPU
Single Core Score
1576
Passmark CPU
Multi Core Score
7096

Compared to Other CPU

Geekbench 6 Single Core
646 +13.5%
607 +6.7%
534 -6.2%
495 -13%
Geekbench 6 Multi Core
3038 +19%
2841 +11.2%
2327 -8.9%
2097 -17.9%
Geekbench 5 Single Core
797 +5.3%
778 +2.8%
740 -2.2%
724 -4.4%
Geekbench 5 Multi Core
4862 +10.2%
4657 +5.6%
4184 -5.1%
3960 -10.2%
Passmark CPU Single Core
1636 +3.8%
1609 +2.1%
1552 -1.5%
1506 -4.4%
Passmark CPU Multi Core
7586 +6.9%
7385 +4.1%
6910 -2.6%
6620 -6.7%