Core i9-13980HX

The Core i9-13980HX is a 24-core / 32-thread processor based on the Raptor Lake-HX (2023) architecture, manufactured on a Intel 7 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 5.5 GHz from a base frequency of 2.2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 36 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 2 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 80K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 45,950, placing it in the Enthusiast performance tier as a Recent generation product.

The Core i9-13980HX fits into the FCBGA1964 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 20 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4, DDR5 memory at speeds up to 5600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 192 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. It supports AVX-512 instructions — specialized SIMD operations that significantly accelerate AI inference, scientific computing, and video encoding workloads. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 9 7945HX.

The Core i9-13980HX has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 55 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: Premium Laptop Cooling.

At an average price of $668, the Core i9-13980HX delivers 69 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #234 out of all indexed processors.