Intel has just launched, after a long wait, its long-awaited Xeon workstation for workstations based on the Sapphire Rapids architecture. Among all the models launched, the one that attracts the most attention is the Xeon W3-2423, given that it is priced at $350, a low enough price to be considered an Intel Core alternative. Is it worth it or on the contrary is it better to miss it? Let’s see.
Although we talk about different chips when we talk about Intel Core and Intel Xeon, but Intel has used the same performance cores in both processors. Obviously, we refer to the golden cove, but with some differences. However, there is a model with 6 cores and 12 threads, a typical desktop processor configuration. Let’s not forget that the Xeon workstation They can go up to 56 cores. However, we believe that there are a series of elements that need to be clarified so that you, our readers, do not make the wrong choice.
It’s the Xeon W3-2423, is it worth it for the price?
The first and most important thing is to talk about the technical specifications of the model () of the Xeon Workstation, so we will list them:
- 6-core/12-wire Golden Cove type.
- Clock speeds:
- 2.1 GHz base,
- 4 GHz Boost for all cores.
- 4.2 GHz for one or two cores.
- DDR5 memory support
- 4 channels
- 4.4 Gbps transfer rate
- ETC support
- 64 PCI Express lanes
- 120W of TDP.
Once we have seen the specifications, we must talk about the rest of the elements that surround the Xeon W3-2423 and list them one by one to have a more concrete idea of their advantages and disadvantages.
Use a different Intel Core motherboard
Once we have our suspect we must clarify that from the outset we already see a series of elements that differentiate it from the conventional Intel Core, such as a greater number of PCIe lanes for and support for 4 memory channels. Which, apart from the socket used, LGA4677, already shows us that it cannot be installed on a classic motherboard, but for workstations and believe us that they are not exactly cheap. Let’s not forget that the processor cannot work without being connected to its corresponding motherboard, which in this case are those supplied with the W790 chipset, with high-end features, far superior even to the Z790 and with a price obviously much higher. .
That is, we cannot opt to use a cheaper motherboard with cutting specs. Why would a layman want 4 PCIe 5.0 slots for graphics cards, for example, if games can’t use more than one? And this port for U.2 drives? It is clear that we are facing hardware that far exceeds the needs of the average user and that these features cost money, just for that we would tell you to flee this processor if you are going to use it for play, but that’s not the only reason behind it.
There are Intel Core 12 and 13 models that offer better performance
Since we are really talking about 6 Golden Cove cores, if we remove all the accessories, we will find that, for example, an Intel Core i5-13400F is much cheaper, has the same configuration and much higher clock speeds. The performance is therefore much higher. Also, for the same price, you can opt for an i5-13600K, which includes 8 more E-Cores that you want or don’t give it an extra performance boost over the W3-2423 which lacks it.
In conclusion, this is not a good CPU for gaming and there are better alternatives within Intel itself.
