CPU Comparison
Intel Core i9-7940X vs Intel Core i9-9820X
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i9-7940X is a 14-core, 28-thread high-end desktop processor from the X-Series family, designed for extreme workloads, content creation, and enthusiast computing.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Gaming
Virtualization
Efficiency
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 helps with some vector calculations
- No dedicated AI acceleration hardware
- CPU-based inference is significantly slower than modern NPUs or GPUs
- No dedicated AI or matrix acceleration hardware.
- Can handle CPU‑based inference and small models, but not competitive with modern NPUs or GPUs for serious AI workloads.
Content Creation
Gaming
- High clock speeds help push frames in CPU-bound scenarios
- Mesh architecture adds slight latency compared to ring bus designs
- Lacks the cache size and IPC of modern gaming CPUs
- Solid 60+ FPS experience in most AAA games at 1440p with a modern GPU.
- High single‑core boost helps with CPU‑bound titles and high‑refresh gaming.
- Newer mainstream and HEDT CPUs often deliver better 1% lows and efficiency.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 14 cores and 28 threads
- 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes for expansive I/O
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory support
- AVX-512 instruction support
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
Cons
- Runs extremely hot under heavy loads
- High power consumption for the performance delivered
- Lacks integrated graphics
- Discontinued and outdated platform
- Outpaced by modern mainstream CPUs in efficiency and IPC
Pros
- 10 cores and 20 threads for multi‑threaded workloads.
- 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes for multi‑GPU and NVMe arrays.
- Quad‑channel DDR4‑2666 up to 128 GB.
- Unlocked multiplier with granular overclocking controls.
- Turbo Boost Max 3.0 favors best cores for lightly‑threaded tasks.
- Good used‑market value for I/O‑heavy builds.
Cons
- High 165 W TDP and relatively low efficiency versus modern CPUs.
- 14 nm process shows its age in power and clock scaling.
- No integrated graphics; discrete GPU required.
- Discontinued platform with no upgrade path beyond LGA2066/X299.
- Newer mainstream and HEDT CPUs often outperform it per dollar and per watt.
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i9-7940X
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950XRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920XRival
Workstation
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-7960XRival
High-End Desktop
- Intel Core i9-7900XRival
High-End Desktop
- Intel Core i7-7820XRival
High-End Desktop
Newer Cascade Lake-X alternative on the same platform with better value and refined behavior.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XAlt
Much more efficient, faster single-core, and relies on a modern AM4 platform.
- Intel Core i7-13700KAlt
Massively faster single-core and multi-core performance with modern features at a lower power draw.
Modern platform with DDR5 and PCIe 5.0, offering vastly superior efficiency.
Compare head-to-headTop-tier modern performance for any workload, leaving the 7940X far behind.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i9-9820X
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950XRival
HEDT
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920XRival
HEDT
- RivalCompare head-to-head
- RivalCompare head-to-head
- AMD Ryzen 9 3900XRival
High-End Desktop
Same LGA2066 platform with 12 cores and slightly better multi‑threaded performance if you’re already on X299.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950XAlt
Much higher core count and memory bandwidth for serious workstation use, though more expensive and power‑hungry.
Better gaming and single‑thread performance on a mainstream platform, but fewer PCIe lanes and memory channels.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-14700KAlt
Modern hybrid architecture with strong gaming and creator performance, but again with fewer I/O lanes than X299.
Our Verdict on Each
A potent HEDT processor for its time, the i9-7940X offers strong multi-core capabilities but suffers from high heat output and is outpaced by modern mainstream chips.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 2066 workstation on a tight budget.
Read the full reviewA capable 10‑core HEDT processor with strong I/O and multi‑threaded performance, but outclassed in efficiency and value by newer mainstream and HEDT platforms.
Best for: Used or clearance HEDT builds where 44 PCIe lanes and quad‑channel memory are critical and platform cost is very low.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i9-7940X or Intel Core i9-9820X?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i9-9820X comes out ahead with a score of 8/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i9-7940X or Intel Core i9-9820X?
For gaming, the Intel Core i9-9820X leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Intel Core i9-7940X and Intel Core i9-9820X.
Do Intel Core i9-7940X and Intel Core i9-9820X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i9-7940X: LGA 2066, Intel Core i9-9820X: FCLGA2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i9-7940X has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i9-7940X (14 cores), Intel Core i9-9820X (10 cores).