Core i9-9960X
Intel
PassMark
29,927
MSRP
$1684
AVG Price
$200
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 Core i9-9960X is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 19 October 2018 (7 years ago). It is based on the Skylake (server) (2017−2018) architecture. It features 16 cores and 32 threads. Base frequency is 3.1 GHz, with boost up to 4.5 GHz. L3 cache: 22 MB (total). L2 cache: 1 MB (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2066. Thermal design power (TDP): 165 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-2666. Passmark benchmark score: 29,927 points. Launch price was $1,684.
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 Core i9-9960X
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i9-9960X across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i9-9960X specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i9-9960X is a 16-core / 32-thread processor based on the Skylake (server) (2017−2018) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.5 GHz from a base frequency of 3.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 22 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 1 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 29,927, 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 1,650, while multi-core reaches 10,700.
| Specification | Core i9-9960X |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 16C / 32T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.5 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.1 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Skylake (server) (2017−2018) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 22 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 484 mm2 |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 × 8 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 85 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 29,927 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,650 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 10,700 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i9-9960X fits into the LGA2066 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 44 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4-2666 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2666 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i9-9960X |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i9 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA2066 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 44 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4-2666 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2666 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 128 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 4 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | None |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | X299 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
The Core i9-9960X is primarily designed for HEDT. 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).
| Specification | Core i9-9960X |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | HEDT |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ✅ Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d |
Power & Cooling
The Core i9-9960X has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 165 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: Liquid Cooling.
| Specification | Core i9-9960X |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 165 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 85 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | None |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Liquid Cooling |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $200 (MSRP: $1684), the Core i9-9960X delivers 150 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #438 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i9-9960X |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $1684 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $200 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $1,684 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #438 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 19 October 2018 (7 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Core i9-9960X
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
Compare Core i9-9960X with other popular CPUs
Compare Core i9-9960X
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
Similar or Lower Performance (8)
