Nvidia's new Vera CPU performs on par with AMD EPYC and Intel Xeon processors in independent Linux benchmark tests [1].
The results signal a potential shift in the server market, as Nvidia attempts to challenge the long-standing x86 dominance of Intel and AMD with a custom Arm-based architecture.
The Vera CPU features 88 custom Armv9.2 cores [6] and utilizes advanced Spatial Multithreading to deliver up to 176 threads [6]. It also supports up to 1.5 TB of LPDDR5X memory [6]. According to benchmarks run on common Linux suites, the processor matches or narrowly trails its primary competitors in several tests [1].
"NVIDIA's new server CPU doesn't win outright in most tests, but it's running very close to AMD's EPYC, which is incredible for a first‑generation custom server core from NVIDIA," the Tom's Hardware editorial team said [1].
Other analysts suggest the results could be more disruptive. A staff writer for HotHardware said the first independent benchmarks for the processor look like "bad news for Intel and AMD" [2].
There is a discrepancy regarding the processor's top-end performance. While independent Linux tests show the chip competing closely with x86 offerings [1], some Nvidia-sanctioned benchmarks suggest the Vera CPU outperforms all competitors [3].
Despite the competitive landscape, the chip has seen significant early interest. Nvidia expects to generate $20 billion in CPU revenue this year [6].
“NVIDIA's new server CPU doesn't win outright in most tests, but it's running very close to AMD's EPYC”
Nvidia's entry into the server CPU market represents a strategic move to integrate its hardware ecosystem more tightly. By producing a custom Arm-based chip that competes with x86 architecture, Nvidia reduces reliance on third-party silicon for its data-center infrastructure. If the Vera CPU can maintain performance parity while offering better power efficiency or integration with Nvidia GPUs, it could accelerate the adoption of Arm in the enterprise server space.
