Intel Core i7-980X socket: LGA 1366
The Intel Core i7-980X uses the LGA 1366 socket. It is a 130 W six core Gulftown Extreme desktop part at 3.333 GHz with Turbo Boost to 3.6 GHz, Hyper-Threading, 12 MB of L3 cache and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- LGA 1366
- Launched
- March 2010
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 12
- Base power
- 130 W
- Codename
- Gulftown
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.33 / 3.6 GHz
Intel Core i7-980X specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 12 |
| Core architecture | Gulftown cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.333 GHz base, 3.6 GHz Turbo Boost |
| Cache | 1.5 MB L2 (6 × 256 KB), 12 MB shared L3 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 130 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3 triple channel, up to 24 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 from the X58 chipset |
| Integrated graphics | None (discrete graphics) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked (Extreme Edition) |
| Package | LGA1366 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-980X needs a motherboard with a LGA 1366 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| X58 enthusiast | X58 | Works out of the box Early X58 boards may need a BIOS update with Gulftown microcode before a six core chip will start. |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1366.
LGA 1366 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,366 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | 2008 |
| Memory | DDR3 triple channel, up to 24 GB on desktop boards |
| Cooler mounting holes | 80 × 80 mm |
What the Core i7-980X is
The Intel Core i7-980X is a six core Gulftown Extreme desktop processor from March 2010. It runs six Westmere cores at 3.333 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.6 GHz, with Hyper-Threading for twelve threads. Each core carries 256 KB of L2 cache with 12 MB of shared L3 cache. Power is rated at 130 W on a 32 nm process.
The X suffix marks Extreme Edition with an unlocked multiplier for ratio overclocking on X58 boards. Against the 970 it adds clocks and tuning headroom. Against Lynnfield quads it doubles threads with triple channel memory for rendering.
There is no graphics on Gulftown. Display needs a discrete card.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-980X fits LGA 1366 with 1366 lands. X58 boards boot it directly with a 2010 BIOS. The 130 W rating wants solid delivery.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the Intel Core i7-990X page shows the faster Extreme successor.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3 in three channels up to 24 GB on desktop X58 boards.
PCIe 2.0 comes from the X58 chipset with dual x16 slots.
Cooling needs a tower rated for 130 W on the 80 × 80 mm pattern, with more for overclocking.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1366 the upgrade is the 990X Extreme on the same board. Beyond LGA 1366 a move to Sandy Bridge E needs a new board.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i7-980X use?
LGA 1366, the 1366-land package on X58 boards.
How many cores does the Core i7-980X have?
Six cores and twelve threads at 3.333 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.6 GHz, with 256 KB of L2 per core and 12 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Core i7-980X?
DDR3 in three channels up to 24 GB on desktop X58 boards.
Can the Core i7-980X be overclocked?
Yes. Extreme Edition means the multiplier is unlocked for ratio tuning on capable boards.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .