How to Build a PC With the AMD Threadripper Chip

AMD's fresh high-end Threadripper CPUs have finally arrived, and we've already got a completed build. In a joint effort between PCMag and sister site Computer Shopper, we assemble a desktop around the Threadripper 1950X on camera to show off the chip and installation process. Since it promises top-notch performance, we thought it best to surround the CPU with other premium components, making this a 4K gaming and media powerhouse.

We begin with nothing but an empty case and work our way up, starting with the CPU itself. It's our first time seeing or trying to install the new housing used for this chip, but rest assured the speedbumps are relatively minor. From then on it is a pretty normal job, securing the motherboard in the case, snapping in the graphics card and memory, installing storage, and getting the power supply in place. Assembling and attaching the water cooler takes some time as well, but is not overly complicated. No matter how sure you are you did the job right, though, there's always the moment of doubt as you attempt to power on the system for the first time.

Check out video below to see how we fare, along with the parts list with the best deals and where to find them if you'd like to recreate the build (or something similar). Read the full Threadripper 1950X review at our sister site, Computer Shopper.

Processor: AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X

Motherboard: Asus X399 Zenith Extreme

Case: Mean:IT 5pm

Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Founders Edition

Memory: G.Skill TridentZ RGB (two 16GB kits)

Liquid Cooler: Thermaltake Floe Riing 360

SSD: Samsung SSD 960 Pro (512GB/M.2 NVMe PCI Express)

HDD: (Two) Seagate 4TB Desktop HDD ST4000DM000

PSU: Thermaltake Toughpower Grand 1200W

About Our Expert

Matthew Buzzi

Principal Writer, Hardware

My Experience

I’ve been a consumer PC expert at PCMag for 10 years, and I love PC gaming. I've played games on my computer for as long as I can remember, which eventually (as it does for many) led me to build and upgrade my own desktops to this day. Through my years at PCMag, I've tested and reviewed many, many dozens of laptops and desktops, and I am always happy to recommend a PC for your needs and budget.

The Technology I Use

The single piece of technology I use the most (by far!) is my self-built desktop. I spend a lot of my time gaming (and now, working) on this system, and I’m likely to continue upgrading it in some form forever. As it relates to my work at PCMag, it’s a vital window into keeping up to date with components, performance, and the latest titles. On the smartphone front, I’m a full-time Android user.

I’m always eyeing my next GPU upgrade, but the consistent part of my gaming setup has been a 165Hz 1440p monitor; I think this remains the sweet spot for the time being. A dual-monitor setup has been essential for work and play; my second screen is either a productivity monitor, playing videos for entertainment, or being used for console gaming, depending on the time of day.

Speaking of which, I may be primarily a PC gamer, but (like any good gaming enthusiast without enough discipline) I also own a PlayStation 5, an Xbox Series S, a Steam Deck, and a Nintendo Switch 2. The PS5 and Xbox are hooked up to a living-room television for a more laid-back couch experience; I've found Gamepass to be especially handy for cooperative play and for taking my saved-game files from my desk to my couch through the cloud.

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