The Intel Core i9-10980XE is an 18-core, 36-thread Core X-Series desktop processor for Intel’s LGA2066 platform. Its headline specifications are a 3.00 GHz base frequency, up to 4.80 GHz boost, 24.75 MB cache, 165 W TDP, DDR4-2933 memory support and 48 PCIe 3.0 lanes. Intel marks the model discontinued, so treat availability and price as listing-specific rather than assuming it is a current retail part.
Intel Core i9-10980XE specifications
The i9-10980XE is a Cascade Lake-X member of Intel’s Core X-Series desktop family. The figures below are the processor specifications reported by Intel and TechSpot; motherboard-specific memory support and system compatibility require separate checks.
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| Specification | Intel Core i9-10980XE |
|---|---|
| Architecture and family | Cascade Lake-X, Intel Core X-Series |
| Cores / threads | 18 / 36 |
| Base frequency | 3.00 GHz |
| Maximum boost frequency | Up to 4.80 GHz |
| Cache | 24.75 MB |
| TDP | 165 W |
| Memory specification | DDR4-2933; quad-channel support |
| PCIe | 48 PCIe 3.0 lanes |
| Socket | LGA2066 |
| Launch period | Q4 2019 |
Intel’s product record surfaced with a recommended customer price range of $1,076–$1,086. That is a reference price, not a current used-market or retail quote. TechSpot’s specification entry lists no box cooler, so include a separately compatible cooler in a build plan.
What the LGA2066 specification means for compatibility
Intel’s Overview of Intel Core X-Series Processors places the i9-10980XE in the LGA2066 socket family. LGA2066 is necessary for a compatible motherboard, but socket match alone does not establish that a particular board supports this exact processor.
#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
- Find the exact motherboard model and hardware revision, then open its manufacturer CPU-support list.
- Confirm that the list names the Intel Core i9-10980XE and check the stated minimum BIOS version.
- Check the board manual for memory type, capacity, module population rules and validated speeds.
- If ECC memory matters, confirm support with the motherboard vendor; Intel specifically advises checking with the board vendor on ECC support.
X299 is the platform category associated with this processor, but that broad association does not guarantee support on every board. Use the specific board’s CPU list and BIOS notes before buying or assembling parts.
Memory, PCIe and cooling considerations
Memory
The processor specification lists DDR4-2933 and quad-channel support. These figures describe the processor platform, not a promise that every motherboard will accept every kit at that speed. Follow the board manual for supported capacity, module type, slot population and memory settings.
Rank #2
PCIe
The listed 48 PCIe 3.0 lanes can be relevant when planning multiple expansion cards or storage devices. Check the motherboard manual to see how its slots and onboard devices use or share lanes; the processor lane count by itself does not describe a board’s slot layout.
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At 165 W TDP, cooling is a significant component choice. Select a cooler that is explicitly compatible with the LGA2066 mounting arrangement, and verify the mounting hardware, case clearance and cooler capability for the actual system. TDP is a processor specification, not a complete estimate of system power consumption.
Rank #3
- 939.70
- Discrete graphics required
- Compatible with Intel x299 Chipset based motherboards
- Supports Intel Optane Memory
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Is the i9-10980XE still available?
Intel’s surfaced product listing marks the processor discontinued. That status means buyers should not assume ordinary new-retail availability; stock, asking price, seller and component condition depend on the individual listing and can change. No current market price is established here.
For a used processor, assess the seller’s reputation, return terms and the condition description. It is also prudent to confirm that a supported LGA2066 motherboard and suitable BIOS are available before committing to the CPU, since the processor is useful only as part of a compatible platform.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to judge whether it fits a build
Core count and boost frequency alone do not establish how the i9-10980XE compares with a newer processor for a particular task. Tom’s Hardware’s review is a launch-era comparison, not a current ranking. For a present-day choice, compare workload-matched performance evidence alongside the full platform cost and requirements.
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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
- Workload: Use results for the applications and tasks that matter to you, rather than treating core count as a universal performance score.
- Platform cost: Include the LGA2066 motherboard, DDR4 memory, cooler and any replacement or upgrade costs.
- Expansion: Consider whether the 48 PCIe 3.0 lanes and the board’s actual slot arrangement serve your devices.
- Power and cooling: Account for the 165 W TDP specification and a correctly mounted, adequately capable cooler.
- Upgrade path: Consider the availability of compatible boards and parts, particularly because Intel lists this processor as discontinued.
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.
