Intel has just rolled out its latest lineup of high-performance processors aimed at workstation users. The new Xeon W-2500 and W-3600 series chips offer unprecedented core counts and processing power for demanding professional applications.
Pushing the Boundaries of Performance
The star of the show is the flagship Xeon W9-3595X, boasting a staggering 60 cores. This represents a significant bump up from the previous generation's 56 cores. For professionals working with heavily multi-threaded workflows in fields like 3D rendering, scientific simulation, or video production, this extra horsepower could translate to noticeable productivity gains.
More Cores Across the Board
It's not just the top-end model getting an upgrade. Intel has added cores throughout the lineup:
- The Xeon W-3500 series sees increases of 4-8 cores on various models
- The Xeon W-2500 series gains 2 cores across the board
Unlocked for Enthusiasts
Overclockers haven't been forgotten. Intel is offering eight processors with unlocked multipliers, allowing for custom tuning. These range from the monstrous 60-core W9-3595X down to the more modest (but still powerful) 14-core W5-2555X.
Compatibility and Availability
The good news for existing users is that these new chips are drop-in compatible with current Intel W790 motherboards. However, be aware that some of the higher-end models have increased power requirements compared to their predecessors.
All major workstation manufacturers, including Dell, HP, and Lenovo, are expected to offer systems featuring these new processors. Additionally, motherboard makers are preparing both new W790 models and BIOS updates to support the refreshed lineup.
Pricing Considerations
Despite the performance increases, Intel has managed to keep pricing relatively stable. The top-tier W9-3595X maintains its predecessor's price point of $5,889 (in 1,000-unit quantities). Some models, like the W7-2595X, even see slight price reductions compared to the previous generation.
For professionals pushing the limits of computational power in their daily work, Intel's latest Xeon offerings present an attractive upgrade path, combining increased core counts with competitive pricing.