Intel Core i7-3960X socket: LGA 2011
The Intel Core i7-3960X uses the LGA 2011 socket. It is a 130 W six core Sandy Bridge-E Extreme part at 3.3 GHz with turbo to 3.9 GHz and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- LGA 2011
- Launched
- November 2011
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 130 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge-E
- Segment
- HEDT
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.3 / 3.9 GHz
Intel Core i7-3960X specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge-E cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.3 GHz base, 3.9 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 15 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 130 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1600, four channels, up to 64 GB |
| PCI Express | 40 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | None (Extreme part, discrete card required) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | FCLGA2011 (52.5 × 45 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-3960X needs a motherboard with a LGA 2011 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| X79 enthusiast | X79 | 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 LGA 2011.
LGA 2011 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 2,011 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 52.5 × 45 mm |
| Introduced | November 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 quad channel, up to 1866 MT/s, up to 64 GB on desktop boards |
| Cooler mounting holes | 80 × 80 mm |
What the Core i7-3960X is
Intel Core i7-3960X is a six core Sandy Bridge-E Extreme desktop processor that Intel released in November 2011 for flagship home towers. It runs at 3.3 GHz base with turbo to 3.9 GHz and includes Hyper-Threading, so 6 cores give 12 threads. Cache is 15 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 130 W on a 32 nm process.
The X suffix marks the Extreme line with an unlocked multiplier and the largest cache of the launch wave. It led the Sandy desktop range on threaded speed at launch. Like other Sandy-E dies it has no integrated graphics.
Memory runs in four DDR3 channels for high bandwidth. The chip launched on November 14, 2011 with X79 boards for single socket HEDT builds.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-3960X fits LGA 2011 in FCLGA2011 form. X79 boards boot Sandy Bridge-E directly. The socket uses a load plate with a lever, which differs from mainstream LGA 1155.
Tuning needs an X79 board with suitable power stages and cooling. A board that lists the exact 3960X string is the safe choice for used flagship builds.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1600, four channels, up to 64 GB on desktop X79 boards. Four matched modules give the rated bandwidth, with remaining slots filled in matched sets. ECC needs server boards instead.
PCI Express is 40 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0 certified speeds, plus chipset lanes for the rest. Several graphics cards fit for editing and gaming rigs.
Cooling uses the square ILM with an 80 by 80 mm pattern and no box cooler. Fit a large tower or liquid unit for sustained turbo. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socket.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 2011 the 3960X already tops the launch wave, so later steps are Ivy Bridge-E parts such as the 4960X on updated X79 BIOS. Memory and storage carry over. A same socket six core reference is Intel Core i7-3930K.
A platform move to LGA 2011-v3 needs a new board and DDR4 memory. Keep the X79 flagship for editing duty.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i7-3960X use?
It uses LGA 2011 on X79 boards.
Is the Core i7-3960X unlocked?
Yes. The X suffix marks an unlocked Extreme part.
What memory does the Core i7-3960X use?
DDR3-1600, four channels, up to 64 GB on desktop X79 boards.
How is the Core i7-3960X different from the 3930K?
The 3960X runs at 3.3 GHz base with 15 MB cache. The 3930K runs at 3.2 GHz base with 12 MB cache.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i7-3960X 3.3 GHz turbo 3.9 GHz 130 W LGA2011 (PassMark, Q4 2011, 15MB)
- Sandy Bridge (Wikipedia, 3960X 3.3 GHz turbo 3.9 15MB Nov 2011 LGA2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .