The AMD Threadripper 9980X and 9970X are perfect choices for high-performance computing, especially for professionals heavily involved in graphics work, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and software development, including AI. Their architecture is built to handle multitasking and demanding workloads smoothly, boosting both efficiency and speed. For a quick spec check, the table below outlines what the 9980X and 9970X are all about.
| 9980X | 9970X | |
| Architecture | Zen 5 AVX 512 | Zen 5 AVX 512 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 5.0 (80 lanes) | PCIe 5.0 (80 lanes) |
| Core / Thread Count | 64 / 128 | 32 / 64 |
| Clock Speed (base / boosted) | 3.22 GHz / 5.4 GHz | 4.0 GHz / 5.4 GHz |
| L2 Cache | 64 MB | 32 MB |
| L3 Cache | 256 MB | 128 MB |
| Memory | 4-ch. / DDR5-6500 | 4-ch. / DDR5-6500 |
| Default TDP | 350 W | 350 W |
| CPU Socket | STR5 | STR5 |
| Supported Chipset(s) | TRX50 | TRX50 |
These CPUs aren’t your average processors for gaming. While they can definitely handle gaming without any issues, AMD designed these processors with something else in mind - they’re built more for advanced tasks that rely on multi-core power rather than just focusing on single-core speed, which gaming PC relies on.
These high-powered CPUs work best when all cores are active, which means they produce more heat than your typical gaming CPU - especially when they’re tackling heavy-duty tasks like video editing, 3D work, or even AI and machine learning. To keep everything running smoothly and avoid overheating, a super-efficient cooling solution is a must. Many users choose high-quality cooling options, such as liquid coolers or premium air coolers, to keep their thermal output in check, ensuring the CPU performs at its best and lasts longer.
As we have seen in the spec table, with a TDP (thermal design power) of 350 Watts, the Ryzen Threadripper 9980X and 9970X are far from typical everyday CPUs, as they generate substantial heat and require high-performance coolers to keep their temperatures under control, especially under heavy use. Luckily, CORSAIR provides a broad selection of All-In-One Liquid CPU coolers to help you find the perfect solution.
Best AIOs for AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9980X and 9970X.
If you have one of these CPUs in your PC build, and are looking for a cooling solution that will get the job done, the best route is to opt for an AIO (all-in-one) liquid coolers that have 360mm or larger radiators because they will have better heat dissipation compared to AIO coolers that have 240mm or smaller radiators.
The CORSAIR NAUTILUS 360 RS ARGB Liquid CPU Cooler is an excellent choice if you’re looking for great value. It provides effective, quiet cooling with RS120 ARGB fans, making it easy to set up with daisy-chained connections and PWM control. Whether you’re cooling a Ryzen Threadripper 9980X or 9970X, this cooler highlights your build beautifully with simple motherboard ARGB control. Plus, it’s available in Black and White colorways.
The NAUTILUS RS 360 LCD closely resembles the non-LCD version, but with a few exciting upgrades! Its fans are not RGB, but it features a handy LCD on the pump cap for monitoring system settings or showcasing your custom images and animations. Plus, it includes a single internal USB connector, giving you full control over what’s displayed through CORSAIR iCUE software. Available in Black and White options.
The CORSAIR iCUE H150i/H170i ELITE CAPELLIX XT Liquid CPU Cooler offers impressive, high-performance cooling paired with stunning aesthetics for AMD Ryzen 9980X or 9970X processors. Featuring AF RGB ELITE PWM fans out of the box, providing super-quiet airflow with AirGuide technology that focuses cooling along a 360mm or 420mm radiator to efficiently disperse heat. Please note, it’s available only in the Black colorway.
The CORSAIR iCUE H150i/H170i ELITE LCD XT Liquid CPU Cooler offers robust, customizable cooling for AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9980X or 9970X processors, featuring a personalized LCD screen that displays GIFs, images, and system data. It includes AF RGB ELITE PWM fans that deliver quiet yet effective airflow, with AirGuide technology to focus cooling across a 360mm or 420mm radiator. Available in Black and White colorways.
The CORSAIR iCUE H150i RGB ELITE liquid CPU coolers offer high-performance CPU cooling, integrated RGB lighting and refined aesthetics, with CORSAIR AF ELITE Series PWM fans that deliver powerful airflow and specialized low-noise cooling modes. With 16 individually addressable RGB LEDs on a modern pump head, the ELITE Series delivers great cooling with looks to match.
NOTE: All these coolers listed above include the AMD sTR5 mounting kit except for the NAUTILUS model. You can purchase the TR5/SP6 retention kit separately.