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The Intel Core i9-10980XE is an 18-core, 36-thread desktop processor for Intel’s Core X-Series platform. Its headline specifications are a 3.00 GHz base frequency, boost up to 4.80 GHz, 24.75 MB of cache and a 165 W TDP. It uses the LGA2066 socket, but socket match alone does not confirm motherboard compatibility.
Intel Core i9-10980XE specifications
| Specification | Intel Core i9-10980XE |
|---|---|
| Processor family / architecture | Intel Core X-Series / Cascade Lake-X |
| Cores / threads | 18 / 36 |
| Base frequency | 3.00 GHz |
| Maximum boost frequency | Up to 4.80 GHz |
| Cache | 24.75 MB |
| Thermal design power (TDP) | 165 W |
| Socket | LGA2066 |
| Memory specification | DDR4-2933; quad-channel support |
| PCI Express | 48 PCIe 3.0 lanes |
| Launch period | Q4 2019 |
| Lifecycle status | Discontinued, according to Intel’s product record |
Core, frequency, cache, power, memory and PCIe figures are listed by TechSpot’s i9-10980XE specifications, accessed in 2026; Intel also lists the cache figure. Intel’s support page identifies LGA2066 as the socket family for this processor: Overview of Intel Core X-Series Processors.
What to check before using it in a system
Motherboard and BIOS
The i9-10980XE is associated with the X299 platform, but that does not guarantee support in every board. Look up the exact motherboard model and revision in its manufacturer’s CPU support list, then check whether the installed BIOS version meets the listed requirement. Intel’s LGA2066 information confirms the socket family, not support for every individual board.
Memory configuration
The processor specification lists DDR4-2933 and quad-channel memory support. The motherboard determines supported module types, total capacity, slot population, and validated speeds. Consult the board manual for the recommended slots and supported configurations rather than assuming any four-module arrangement will run at the listed speed. Intel also advises checking with the motherboard vendor about ECC support when that feature matters.
#1 Best Overall
- Processor Base Frequency: 3.00 GHz, Max Turbo Frequency: 4.60 GHz, Cache: 24.75 MB Intel Smart Cache, Bus Speed: 8 GT/s DMI3, Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, Frequency 4.80 GHz, TDP: 165 W
- Sockets Supported: FCLGA2066
- Lithography: 14 nm
- Model number: BX8069510980XE
Cooling and power
With a specified TDP of 165 W, the processor needs a cooling solution suited to the actual build. The specification listing reports no boxed cooler. Verify that the cooler supports LGA2066 and that its mounting hardware, case clearance and cooling capacity fit the system; TDP alone does not guarantee a particular cooler’s performance.
What its discontinued status means for buyers
Intel’s surfaced product record marks the processor discontinued. That status does not establish what stock remains, what a seller currently charges, or whether a particular listing is new, used or refurbished. Intel’s surfaced recommended customer price range was $1,076–$1,086, but that is a reference figure, not a verified current selling price.
Rank #2
If considering a used processor, check the stated condition, seller reputation and return terms. Confirm that you already have access to a compatible motherboard and the required BIOS, or include those parts and any needed cooling in the total platform cost. No current price or availability is established here.
How to assess whether the i9-10980XE fits your needs
Its core count and platform features describe the hardware, not how fast it will be for a particular application today. A useful comparison with another CPU should use workload-matched performance and account for the full system, including motherboard availability and cost, memory support, PCIe generation and lane count, power and cooling requirements, and upgrade options. Tom’s Hardware’s review is a launch-era comparison, so it should be treated as historical context rather than a current ranking: Tom’s Hardware review of the Intel Core i9-10980XE.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Up to 4 8 GHz unlocked
- Discrete graphics required
- Compatible with Intel x299 Chipset based motherboards
- Supports Intel Optane Memory
- Cascade Lake CLX 10th Generation Desktop CPU Ci9 Core 165W i9-10980XE Enthusiast Creator Content Creation LGA 2066 200 Series X299 X299-Made to Create 18C 36T
Rank #3
- 939.70
- Discrete graphics required
- Compatible with Intel x299 Chipset based motherboards
- Supports Intel Optane Memory
- Cascade Lake, CLX, 10th, Generation, Desktop, CPU, Ci9, Core, 165W, i9-10980XE, enthusiast, creator, Content Creation, LGA, 2066, 200 series, X299, X299-Made To Create, 14C, 24T
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
