Linus builds Linus’ new PC!

Summary

In this video, Linus Tech Tips humorously builds a high-performance computer inspired by Linus Torvalds' personal hardware preferences. The build features a 32-core AMD Threadripper CPU, a Gigabyte Aorus TRX40 Master motherboard, Noctua cooling, and solid-state storage, emphasizing quiet operation and developer-focused performance. The video explores Torvalds’ rationale for each component, including his approach to power delivery, noise reduction, and reliability. Alongside the build, viewers learn fun facts about Linux, Tux the penguin mascot, and Linus Torvalds himself. The machine is benchmarked by compiling the Linux kernel, showcasing an optimized, thoughtful, and efficient system tailored for serious development work.

Takeaways

• 💻 The video documents building a high-performance PC based on Linus Torvalds' preferred parts, highlighting both hardware choices and reasoning behind them.
• 🧠 Linus Torvalds prioritizes practical and reliable components over flashy or extreme specifications, focusing on efficiency and noise reduction.
• 🖥️ The chosen CPU is a 32-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X, selected for performance value and multithreading capabilities.
• 🛠️ The motherboard is a Gigabyte Aorus TRX40 Master, chosen for strong power delivery, onboard features, and expansion capabilities.
• ❄️ Cooling is handled with a Noctua NH-U14S air cooler in push-pull configuration due to Linus' preference for quiet operation and distrust of liquid coolers.
• 💾 RAM is generic DDR4 2666, with 64GB to populate all memory channels, prioritizing availability and practicality over ECC preference.
• 💿 Storage is a Samsung 970 EVO Plus 1TB SSD, reflecting Linus' long-term preference for reliable solid-state storage over spinning media.
• 🔌 Power supply considerations include selecting a unit rated at twice the system's peak power to ensure silent operation and reliability.
• 🎮 Graphics are minimal with a Sapphire RX 580, as Linus is not a gamer and prefers integrated CPU graphics where possible.
• 🧩 Careful fan management and BIOS tuning create a quiet, efficient system, emphasizing practical optimization for developer workloads.
• 🚀 Benchmarking was done via Linux kernel compilation to simulate real-world developer tasks, showcasing the system's speed and efficiency.
• 🐧 The video also shares fun facts about Linus Torvalds, Linux, and Tux, adding educational context beyond the hardware build.
• 📹 The video is sponsored by Storyblocks, highlighting time-saving and cost-effective access to royalty-free stock footage for creators.

Q & A

Who is the main subject of this video, and why is there a mention of two 'Linus'?

The main subject is Linus Torvalds, the creator of Linux. The video also references Linus Sebastian (Linus Tech Tips), who is building a PC inspired by Torvalds' hardware choices, which causes a humorous mix-up between the two Linuses.

Why did Linus Torvalds choose a Threadripper 3970X CPU for this build?

He initially planned to use a Ryzen 9 3950X but found it only offered a small upgrade over his previous 9900K. The 3970X provides better performance for development tasks while remaining reasonably cost-effective for an HEDT platform.

What type of motherboard did Linus Torvalds select, and what were his reasons?

He chose the Gigabyte Aorus TRX40 Master for its strong power delivery and reliable performance, ensuring stability and preventing issues from brownouts. The board also offers a good mix of features like multiple PCIe slots, M.2 support, and USB Type-C.

Why does Linus Torvalds prefer Noctua air coolers over liquid cooling solutions?

Torvalds prioritizes quiet operation and reliability. He finds Noctua fans produce a soothing noise without whining or rattling, unlike cheaper fans, and he dislikes the potential reliability issues and pump noises of AIO liquid coolers.

What are some of the RAM specifications chosen for this build and why?

Linus opted for 64GB of generic DDR4 2666 memory to populate all four memory channels, though he preferred ECC RAM. ECC was too expensive at the time, so he chose a practical alternative that meets his needs.

Which storage solution did Linus Torvalds pick and why?

He chose a 1TB Samsung 970 EVO Plus M.2 SSD due to its reliability and lack of cables, as he prefers solid-state storage and has avoided spinning drives for over a decade.

What considerations did Linus have when selecting a PC case?

He chose the be quiet! Dark Base 700 for its quiet optimization, ample space, and the ability to add an extra Silent Wings 3 fan to improve airflow in the restrictive front intake area.

How does Linus Torvalds configure power supply and fan settings for quiet operation?

He uses a GX-850 power supply (or GX-650 if unavailable) and selects a PSU rated at double the machine's maximum power draw for reliability and quiet performance. Fans are configured via BIOS for zero-RPM operation under light loads and gradual ramp-up based on CPU temperature.

Why did Linus Torvalds choose a Sapphire RX 580 graphics card?

He isn’t focused on gaming and prefers to have a basic modern GPU built into the CPU. The RX 580 provides sufficient performance for his needs without unnecessary expense or complexity.

How was the performance of the build tested, and what were the results?

The system was benchmarked by compiling the Linux kernel using 64 threads to fully utilize the 32-core CPU. The compilation completed in just over 3.5 minutes, demonstrating high performance and efficient cooling.

What insights about Linus Torvalds' approach to PC building can be inferred from this video?

Torvalds focuses on reliability, quiet operation, and practical performance rather than aesthetics or gaming. He carefully selects components for longevity and efficiency, prioritizes stability over overclocking, and values minimal fan noise.

What is the significance of Tux in relation to Linus Torvalds and Linux?

Tux is the Linux brand mascot, inspired by Torvalds’ love of a penguin image. Though Tux never won any logo competitions, it became the recognizable brand character, symbolizing Linux in a fun and approachable way.