Compare CPUs Head-to-Head. Make the Right Choice.

Breaking the Limits: Intel Core i9 9980XE vs Intel Core Ultra 7 165U – Which CPU is Right for You?

Highlights

  • On the other hand, the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U is a mobile processor designed for ultra-thin laptops and 2-in-1 devices.
  • The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, with its 18 MB of L3 cache, offers a decent amount of storage but falls short compared to the Intel Core i9 9980XE.
  • The choice between the Intel Core i9 9980XE and the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U boils down to your specific needs and priorities.

Choosing the right CPU can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Today, we’ll delve into a comparison between two distinct processors: the Intel Core i9 9980XE and the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U. This Intel Core i9 9980XE vs Intel Core Ultra 7 165U comparison will highlight their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately, help you determine which processor is best suited for your specific needs.

A Look at the Contenders

The Intel Core i9 9980XE is a behemoth of a processor, boasting 18 cores and 36 threads. It’s a desktop CPU designed for high-end workstations and gaming rigs demanding immense processing power. On the other hand, the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U is a mobile processor designed for ultra-thin laptops and 2-in-1 devices. It packs a punch with its 10 cores and 12 threads, but its focus is on efficiency and battery life.

Core Count and Threading: The Raw Power Advantage

The Intel Core i9 9980XE clearly wins this round, with its whopping 18 cores and 36 threads. This massive core count translates to exceptional performance in highly threaded applications like video editing, rendering, and scientific simulations. The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, while boasting a respectable 10 cores and 12 threads, falls short in this area. However, its efficient design ensures smooth multitasking and decent performance in everyday tasks.

Clock Speeds: The Pace of Performance

The Intel Core i9 9980XE, with a base clock speed of 3.0 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.5 GHz, delivers impressive raw performance. The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, on the other hand, operates at a lower base clock speed of 1.3 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz. While the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U’s lower base clock speed might seem like a disadvantage, its higher boost clock speed allows it to reach impressive speeds when needed.

Cache Size: The Memory Buffer

The Intel Core i9 9980XE boasts a massive 24.75 MB of L3 cache, providing ample space for storing frequently accessed data. This large cache size contributes to faster processing speeds, especially in applications that require frequent data access. The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, with its 18 MB of L3 cache, offers a decent amount of storage but falls short compared to the Intel Core i9 9980XE.

Power Consumption and Heat Dissipation: The Efficiency Factor

The Intel Core i9 9980XE, with its high core count and clock speeds, demands a significant amount of power and generates substantial heat. This necessitates a robust cooling solution to prevent thermal throttling. The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, designed for energy efficiency, consumes significantly less power and generates less heat. This makes it ideal for thin and light laptops where space for cooling solutions is limited.

Integrated Graphics: The Visual Advantage

The Intel Core i9 9980XE doesn’t include an integrated graphics processor. This means you’ll need a dedicated graphics card for visual output. The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, on the other hand, features Intel Iris Xe graphics, capable of handling basic tasks like web browsing and light gaming. While not a high-end graphics solution, it provides a convenient option for users who don’t require dedicated graphics.

Benchmarks: Putting Performance to the Test

While benchmarks can vary depending on the specific application and testing methodology, they provide a general idea of the relative performance of the two processors. In CPU-intensive tasks like rendering and video editing, the Intel Core i9 9980XE consistently outperforms the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U. However, in everyday tasks and light gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U holds its own, thanks to its efficiency and high boost clock speed.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor

The choice between the Intel Core i9 9980XE and the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U boils down to your specific needs and priorities.
If you require immense processing power for demanding applications like 3D rendering, video editing, or scientific simulations, the Intel Core i9 9980XE is the clear winner. Its high core count, clock speed, and large cache size make it a powerhouse for these tasks.
However, if you prioritize portability, battery life, and efficient performance for everyday tasks and light gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U is the better choice. Its efficient design, integrated graphics, and decent performance make it ideal for ultra-thin laptops and 2-in-1 devices.

Beyond the Specs: The Future of Intel Processors

While the Intel Core i9 9980XE is a powerful processor, it’s important to acknowledge that it represents an older generation of Intel technology. Intel has since introduced newer architectures and advancements, such as the Intel Core Ultra series, which offer significant improvements in performance, efficiency, and features.
The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U represents the future direction of Intel’s processor lineup, emphasizing efficiency and performance in a compact and power-saving design. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more powerful and efficient processors from Intel, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in computing.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Processors

The Intel Core i9 9980XE and the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U are two distinct processors catering to different needs. The Intel Core i9 9980XE is a powerhouse for demanding tasks, while the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U offers efficient performance and portability. Ultimately, the best processor for you depends on your specific requirements and priorities.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Is the Intel Core i9 9980XE still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the Intel Core i9 9980XE was a powerful processor in its time, newer processors from Intel and AMD offer better performance and efficiency. If you’re looking for a new CPU in 2023, consider exploring those newer options.
Q: Can the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U handle demanding games?
A: The Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, with its integrated graphics, can handle light games. However, for demanding games, you’ll need a dedicated graphics card.
Q: What are the main differences between the Intel Core i9 9980XE and the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U?
A: The Intel Core i9 9980XE is a desktop processor focused on raw power, while the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U is a mobile processor designed for efficiency and portability. The Intel Core i9 9980XE has a higher core count, clock speed, and cache size, while the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U boasts lower power consumption and integrated graphics.
Q: Which processor is better for video editing?
A: For professional video editing, the Intel Core i9 9980XE’s high core count and clock speed are ideal. However, the Intel Core Ultra 7 165U can handle basic video editing tasks, especially with the aid of software optimization.
Q: What are the potential drawbacks of the Intel Core i9 9980XE?
A: The Intel Core i9 9980XE consumes a significant amount of power and generates a lot of heat, requiring a robust cooling solution. Additionally, it’s an older processor, and newer options may offer better performance and efficiency.

Was this page helpful?No
About the Author
Ethan is a passionate tech enthusiast and writer at Processor Insight, where he dives into the intricacies of CPUs, providing comprehensive comparison guides, insightful knowledge, and practical tips to help readers make informed decisions.