AMD's return to the High-End Desktop (HEDT) CPU arena with the Threadripper 7000 series has generated excitement among PC enthusiasts, offering formidable competition to its predecessor Threadripper chips in the workstation CPU segment. However, the high price tag associated with TRX50 motherboards is causing a stir in the market.
Uncovered by the vigilant PC hardware investigator @momomo_us, a retail listing for Asus's TRX50-Sage WiFi motherboard displays a staggering price of nearly $1,100, a figure more aligned with workstation-class hardware rather than HEDT components.
In contrast, AMD's previous HEDT CPU, the Threadripper 3000 series, didn't result in such steep motherboard costs. Even the top-tier models were typically priced around $700, with many reliable options available for just $500. Priced above $1,000, this TRX50 motherboard's cost approaches that of workstation-grade WRX80E boards designed for Threadripper Pro 5000 WX-series CPUs, despite lacking essential workstation features like octa-channel memory support. However, it's important to note that this listing may not necessarily reflect the pricing of all TRX50 motherboards or even Asus's TRX50-Sage WiFi model. @momomo_us presented a screenshot of the listing without a direct link, and the identity of the retailer responsible for the listing remains unknown. Notably, it does not appear to be a well-known retailer like Amazon, Newegg, or B&H Photo.
ASUS Pro WS TRX50-SAGE motherboard uses AMD SP6 socket to support up to 96-core CPU, suitable for AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7000 series processors and AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7000 series processors; supports up to 1TB ECC R-DIMM DDR5 memory module (1DPC ) ; 36-phase power supply, equipped with two 8-pin power connectors for CPU, and large VRM heat sink. The price itself is also peculiar, set precisely at $1,087.96. Most motherboards, whether for HEDT or workstation use, tend to have rounded, typical price points. For instance, Asus offers the Pro WS WRX80E-Sage SE motherboard at $999. Additionally, the motherboard in question is currently out of stock, further casting doubt on the accuracy of the listed price.
It's common for retailers to list upcoming PC components with speculative, often inflated prices. It would be unusual for AMD to introduce a $1,500 CPU paired with $1,000 motherboards, raising doubts about the validity of this particular listing. If this proves to be the case, the reception of the Threadripper 7000 series may face a challenging road ahead.
