Intel Core i9-9940X
Intel Core i9-9940X: In-Depth Processor Expertise for Professionals (2025)
Current analysis for those who seek power and multitasking
Key Features: Architecture and Performance
The Intel Core i9-9940X processor, released in 2019, remains in demand in niche scenarios due to its unique characteristics.
Architecture and Technology Process
- Codename: Skylake-X (Skylake architecture adapted for HEDT platforms).
- Technology Process: 14 nm (Intel 14nm++), which is considered outdated by 2025 but ensures stability.
- Cores and Threads: 14 cores / 28 threads — ideal for parallel tasks.
- Frequencies: Base — 3.3 GHz, Turbo Boost Max 3.0 — up to 4.4 GHz.
Key Features:
- Support for AVX-512 for accelerated scientific calculations and rendering.
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking (requires powerful cooling).
- 20 MB L3 cache — minimizes latencies when working with large data sets.
Performance:
- Geekbench 6: 1328 (Single-Core) / 9787 (Multi-Core). For comparison, the Ryzen 9 7950X (2023) scores ~2200/22000, but the i9-9940X remains relevant for tasks where stability and AVX-512 support are critical.
Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets
The LGA 2066 platform and Intel X299 chipset form the foundation for building a system.
Recommended Models (2025):
- ASUS ROG Rampage VI Extreme (price: ~$350–$450) — the best choice for overclocking, 8 DDR4 slots, Wi-Fi 6.
- MSI X299 Gaming Pro Carbon AC (~$250–$300) — a balance of price and functionality, ARGB lighting.
- Gigabyte X299 AORUS Ultra Gaming (~$280) — reliable VRM and 3 M.2 slots.
Selection Features:
- PCIe 3.0: No support for PCIe 4.0/5.0 — limits speed for modern SSDs and graphics cards.
- Number of PCIe lanes: Up to 44 lanes (including chipset lanes), allowing for multiple GPUs or NVMe drives.
- VRM Cooling: Due to a TDP of 165 W, it is critically important to choose boards with MOSFET heatsinks.
Supported Memory: DDR4 and Tuning Details
- Memory type: Only DDR4 (up to 256 GB, 8 slots).
- Frequencies: Officially — up to 2666 MHz, but overclocking to 3600+ MHz is possible on compatible boards.
- Modes: Quad-channel (4 channels) — modules must be installed in the correct slots for maximum bandwidth.
Example Configuration:
- For workstations: 64 GB (4x16 GB) DDR4-3200 CL16 (Corsair Vengeance LPX, ~$180).
- For enthusiasts: 128 GB DDR4-3600 (G.Skill Trident Z RGB, ~$400).
Power Supplies: Power Calculation
- Recommended power: From 750 W (considering overclocking and a top-tier GPU).
- Certification: 80+ Gold or Platinum (Corsair RM850x — $150, Seasonic PRIME TX-750 — $200).
Example:
A system with RTX 4080 (320 W) + i9-9940X (overclocked to 4.8 GHz) consumes ~600 W. A buffer of 150–200 W is necessary for peak loads.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
1. Multithreading performance: 28 threads handle rendering in Blender or code compilation faster than many modern mid-range CPUs.
2. AVX-512: Accelerates machine learning tasks (e.g., TensorFlow optimized for Intel).
3. Repairability: The LGA 2066 platform is actively supported in the secondary market.
Cons:
1. Power consumption: 165 W TDP — high heat generation and cooling requirements.
2. Outdated technology process: 14 nm compared to 5–7 nm of Ryzen 7000/8000.
3. No PCIe 5.0/DDR5: Limitation for upgrading to modern components.
Use Cases
1. Work Tasks:
- 3D rendering: In Autodesk Maya or Cinema 4D, the processor shows results on par with Ryzen 9 7900X.
- Video encoding: HandBrake or Adobe Premiere Pro — 4K rendering in 25–30 minutes (compared to 15–20 for Ryzen 9 7950X).
2. Gaming:
- In Full HD with RTX 4070 Ti — 120–140 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 (high settings), but in CPU-bound scenarios, it lags behind Core i5-14600K.
3. Multimedia:
- Streaming in OBS + gaming — thanks to 28 threads, the load is distributed without lags.
Comparison with Competitors
1. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X ($550–$600):
- 16 cores / 32 threads, 5 nm, DDR5, PCIe 5.0.
- Geekbench 6 Multi-Core: ~22000 (2.2 times higher).
- Conclusion: Ryzen excels in energy efficiency, but i9-9940X is cheaper on the secondary market (~$300–$400).
2. Intel Core i9-13900K ($500–$550):
- 24 cores (8P+16E), DDR5, PCIe 5.0.
- Excels in single-threaded tasks (Geekbench 6 Single-Core: ~2700).
3. AMD Threadripper 3960X (24 cores, $700–$800 used):
- For those needing more PCIe lanes and memory, but at a higher price.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. Cooling:
- Liquid Cooling: NZXT Kraken X63 (280 mm) or Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360.
- Air Cooling: Noctua NH-D15 (maximum compatibility).
2. Case: Minimum 6 slots for fans (Lian Li Lancool III, Fractal Design Meshify 2).
3. Storage:
- System drive: Samsung 990 Pro 1 TB (PCIe 4.0, but works on PCIe 3.0).
- File storage: 2x4 TB HDD (RAID 1).
4. Network Solutions:
- Additional Wi-Fi 6E card (if not integrated into the motherboard).
Final Conclusion: Who Should Choose i9-9940X in 2025?
This processor is worth choosing if:
- You are a professional: Work with rendering, CAD, or scientific calculations, and AVX-512 is critically important.
- Budget is limited: Buying on the secondary market ($300–$400) is more advantageous than a new Ryzen 9.
- Stability is necessary: Proven X299 platform, supporting Windows 10/11 and Linux.
Don’t choose the i9-9940X if:
- You plan to upgrade to DDR5 or PCIe 5.0.
- You are looking for a CPU for gaming — modern Core i5/Ryzen 5 will be more efficient.
The Intel Core i9-9940X in 2025 is a tool for those who value a balance between price and multithreaded power, willing to compromise with an archaic technology process for specific tasks.