AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X socket: sTRX4
The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X uses sTRX4, the 4094-contact LGA socket for Threadripper HEDT processors. It is a 32-core Castle Peak chip at 280 W for TRX40 boards.
- Socket
- sTRX4
- Launched
- November 25, 2019
- Cores and threads
- 32 and 64
- Default TDP
- 280 W
- Codename
- Castle Peak
- Segment
- HEDT
- Family
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper
- Clocks
- 3.7 / 4.5 GHz
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X specifications
| Cores | 32 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 64 |
| Core architecture | Zen 2 on 7 nm |
| Clocks | 3.7 GHz base, up to 4.5 GHz boost |
| Cache | 16 MB L2 plus 128 MB L3 |
| Default TDP | 280 W |
| Manufacturing process | TSMC 7 nm FinFET |
| Memory support | DDR4-3200 ECC UDIMM, four channels, up to 256 GB |
| PCI Express | 64 PCIe Gen4 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | None (discrete GPU required) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| ECC memory | Supported, DDR4 ECC UDIMM |
| Package | sTRX4 FC-OLGA, 4094 contacts |
| Cooler in the box | None, TR4-SP3 mount heatsink required |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X needs a motherboard with a sTRX4 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| TRX40 HEDT | TRX40 | 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 sTRX4.
sTRX4 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 4,094 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 58.5 × 75.4 mm |
| Introduced | November 2019 |
| Memory | DDR4-3200 ECC UDIMM, 4 channels, up to 256 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Large TR4-SP3 mount (sTRX4, sWRX8, TR4 and SP3 compatible) |
What the Threadripper 3970X is
The Threadripper 3970X is a thirty two core, sixty four thread HEDT processor from Castle Peak. It launched in November 2019 at 1999 dollars with a 3.7 GHz base and up to 4.5 GHz boost at 280 W. Four Zen 2 chiplets feed 64 threads for the heaviest desktop work.
Sixteen megabytes of L2 and 128 MB of L3 keep simulation meshes and render buckets close. Quad channel DDR4-3200 moves datasets that stall dual channel desktops. The 280 W envelope demands a full tower case with strong airflow.
No integrated graphics means workstation cards from the start. The unlocked multiplier allows all core tuning for pipeline work. The 3970X suits studios that bill by the render hour and need Threadripper PRO scale without the PRO board price.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 3970X fits sTRX4 on TRX40 boards only. TR4 X399 boards from earlier generations do not accept Castle Peak chips. The 4094-contact package looks similar but wires differently.
Eight DIMM slots carry quad channel ECC up to 256 GB. Boards with robust VRM heatsinks sustain 280 W through overnight renders. The carrier frame mount sets cooler choice from vendor lists.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers why HEDT compatibility lives in socket plus firmware rather than chipset branding.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR4-3200 ECC UDIMM in four channels up to 256 GB is the studio standard. Populating all eight slots gives full bandwidth for fluid simulation. ECC corrects errors during unattended batch jobs.
Sixty four PCIe 4.0 CPU lanes wire multiple GPUs and NVMe arrays, with 88 total lanes beside the chipset. Three GPUs plus four NVMe SSDs fit a loaded 3970X tower. Lane bifurcation settings live in the board BIOS.
A 360 mm liquid unit or the largest TR4-SP3 air towers handle 280 W. Inlet temperature decides sustained boost more than cooler brand. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide details the mount.
Upgrade paths
Inside sTRX4 there is no core upgrade beyond this 32-core part except the 64-core 3990X on the same board. The 3970X to 3990X move doubles threads for CPU rendering farms.
Outside the socket, Threadripper PRO on sWRX8 adds memory channels and lanes. Most 3970X owners extend life with GPU and storage rather than new processors.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X use?
It uses sTRX4 on TRX40 motherboards.
How many cores does the 3970X have?
Thirty two cores with sixty four threads at 3.7 GHz base and up to 4.5 GHz boost.
Does the 3970X fit X399 boards?
No. Only TRX40 boards with sTRX4 accept Castle Peak Threadripper.
What memory does the 3970X support?
DDR4-3200 ECC UDIMM in four channels up to 256 GB.
When did the 3970X launch?
November 25, 2019 at 1999 dollars.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .