AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X socket: Socket TR4
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X uses the Socket TR4 socket on X399 boards. It is a 16 core Colfax HEDT chip for heavy creation.
- Socket
- Socket TR4
- Launched
- August 2018
- Cores and threads
- 16 and 32
- Default TDP
- 180 W
- Codename
- Colfax
- Segment
- HEDT
- Family
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper
- Clocks
- 3.5 / 4.4 GHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X specifications
| Cores | 16 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 32 |
| Core architecture | Zen+ (Colfax) cores on 12 nm |
| Clocks | 3.5 GHz base, up to 4.4 GHz |
| Cache | 32 MB L3, 8 MB L2 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 180 W |
| Manufacturing process | 12 nm |
| Memory support | DDR4-2933 ECC, four channels |
| PCI Express | 64 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 3.0 |
| Integrated graphics | None, discrete GPU required |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | Socket TR4 (LGA, 4094 contacts) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X needs a motherboard with a Socket TR4 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| X399 HEDT | X399 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for Socket TR4.
Socket TR4 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 4,094 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 58.5 × 75.4 mm |
| Introduced | August 2017 |
| Memory | DDR4-2933 ECC, four channels |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (TR4 heatsink) |
What the Threadripper 2950X is
The Threadripper 2950X scales Colfax to sixteen cores with multithreading. It launched in August 2018 with a 3.5 GHz base and up to 4.4 GHz boost at 180 W. AMD targets creators who need high thread counts without workstation prices.
Thirty two megabytes of L3 with 8 MB of L2 feed parallel exports across 32 threads. The steady base sustains all core renders. Boost to 4.4 GHz keeps interaction smooth during timeline scrubbing.
No integrated graphics is included. The process is 12 nm. DDR4-2933 ECC in four channels suits large scenes. Quad channel bandwidth feeds many threads without starving.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 2950X fits Socket TR4 on X399 boards only. Vendors shipped Colfax BIOS builds from August 2018. First generation boards may need an update for second generation IDs. Server SP3 and sTRX4 never accept it.
DDR4-2933 ECC in four channels carries large projects. Eight slot population gives full bandwidth for 32 threads. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide details HEDT matching.
Single socket towers hold this SKU well. Dual socket scaling needs EPYC on server sockets instead.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR4-2933 ECC in four channels up to large capacities covers creation and labs. Matched kits across channels sustain bandwidth for 32 threads. Plan 64 GB for heavy video work.
Sixty four Gen3 CPU lanes can hold quad GPUs plus NVMe RAID for editing. Most creator boards split lanes between two graphics slots and fast storage. Chipset links handle the remaining I/O.
TR4 cooling from the CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide needs full coverage cold plates for 180 W. Even torque through the carrier matters. Maintain airflow where GPUs add heat.
Upgrade paths
On the same socket, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920X trims to twelve cores at the same 180 W for lower cost. The 2970WX moves to 24 cores at 250 W for denser rendering where listed. Both share X399 after a BIOS check.
Mainstream Ryzen 7 2700X gives eight cores without HEDT lanes for gaming. It suits play rather than production threads.
Past TR4 third generation needs sTRX4. The 2950X covers balanced HEDT where sixteen cores must endure.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Ryzen Threadripper 2950X use?
It uses Socket TR4 on X399 boards.
How many cores does the 2950X have?
Sixteen cores with multithreading give 32 threads. Base is 3.5 GHz with boost to 4.4 GHz.
Does the 2950X include integrated graphics?
No. Discrete graphics are required.
What memory does the 2950X support?
DDR4-2933 ECC in four channels.
When did the 2950X launch?
August 2018 with Colfax.
Sources and verification
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X Benchmarks and Specs (CPU-Monkey)
- Ryzen Threadripper 2950X specs (Technical City)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .