This insane 80-Core ARM CPU easily beat a 64 Core Threadripper In a fascinating deep dive into server performance, a recent YouTube video titled "This insane 80-Core ARM CPU easily beat a 64 Core Threadripper" showcases a hands-on review of the Ampere Ultra Q8030, an impressive ARM-based CPU. This video provides insights crucial for Windows users and tech enthusiasts alike, especially those interested in server capabilities and benchmarking.
Overview of the Ampere Ultra Q8030 CPU
The centerpiece of the video is the Ampere Ultra Q8030, boasting
80 cores and a frequency of
3.0 GHz. What sets it apart is its architecture; utilizing the ARM V8 instruction set, it differs fundamentally from typical x86-based CPUs like AMD's Threadripper. This distinction leads to compatibility challenges, particularly with software, as many programs, including gaming and high-performance applications, are built for the x86 architecture.
Performance Comparison
The video draws comparisons between the Q8030 and AMD's 64 Core Threadripper. The key takeaway? The Ampere Ultra not only outperforms the Threadripper in benchmark tests, achieving a multi-core score of
44,425 in Geekbench 5, but it also uses significantly less power. While the Threadripper can consume upwards of 310 watts, the Q8030 achieves higher performance with a lower energy consumption profile. Its efficiency is noted to be potentially
double that of comparable x86 processors.
Cooling and Architecture
During the exploration, the video showcases the cooling mechanisms required for the Q8030. Unlike traditional systems, the mounting and cooling setup requires custom solutions due to the unique socket design, which resembles but does not directly serve as a replacement for AMD’s EPYC or Threadripper coolers. The CPU's thermal design power (TDP) is noted at
210 watts, with the 3.3 GHz variant at
250 watts. These figures place the Q8030 firmly in the realm of high-performance, cost-efficient servers.
Practical Implications for Windows Users
For Windows environment users, especially those engaging with server technology, the implications of ARM-based CPUs are significant. Many applications that rely heavily on x86 might not perform optimally on ARM, limiting the usability of such processors in traditional contexts. However, the efficiency, power savings, and potential cost benefits for specific server tasks could make ARM architectures tempting for new deployments—especially in cloud computing scenarios or large data centers.
Conclusion
The insight provided by the video not only highlights the breakthroughs in ARM technology but also challenges the widely-held perceptions regarding ARM's place in high-performance computing. Windows users who are considering server upgrades or new deployments should carefully weigh the performance benchmarks and software compatibility before making transitions. As the landscape of server technology continues to evolve, keeping an eye on these developments is essential for making informed decisions on future-proofing IT infrastructures. For those interested in exploring this server option, the Q8030 will be featured in Hetzner's offerings, with different configurations available for various needs and budgets . You can watch the full video here:
YouTube Link.
