If you're considering joining the AMD community for your next computer upgrade, the timing couldn't be better. AMD recently launched the Ryzen 7 9800X3D earlier this year, followed by two high-end Ryzen 9 models in the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the 9950X3D priced at $699 and the 9900X3D at $599. These processors are considered the top gaming chips available, outshining even their Intel counterparts. Dedicated gamers might prefer the 9800X3D to save money for other components, while content creators who also enjoy gaming will appreciate the enhanced performance of the Ryzen 9 processors due to their higher core counts and larger cache.
Please note: These processors are frequently in and out of stock, with more time spent out of stock unfortunately.
The Creator's Choice: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D CPU
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
- $699.00 at Amazon
- $699.00 at Best Buy
- $699.00 at Newegg
Creative professionals who also seek the best in gaming performance need look no further than the Ryzen 9 9950X3D. With a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache, this CPU is a powerhouse. While it offers only a slight edge over the 9800X3D in gaming, its real strength lies in productivity tasks, where it outperforms not only its Zen 5 X3D siblings but also any competing Intel offerings.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is arguably the most powerful gaming processor available today, yet it doesn't dominate across all metrics. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D at $479 offers excellent performance. However, the 9950X3D is perfect for those who both game and use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere, showing a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D. For a gaming-focused build, consider saving the $220 difference for a better graphics card."
The Gamer's Choice: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
- $479.00 at Amazon
- $479.00 at Best Buy
- $479.00 at Newegg
AMD's X3D series processors are optimized for gaming thanks to AMD's 3D V-Cache technology. Since all three CPUs feature the 3D V-Cache on a single CCD, gaming performance remains consistent across the lineup, with minor variations attributed to clock speed differences. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache, is an exceptional gaming processor. While it can handle multitasking, rendering, and creative work, its core count limits its prowess in these areas compared to higher-end models.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D delivers outstanding gaming performance, making it a top recommendation over competitors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. Paired with a powerful graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes your gaming setup's potential."
The Middleman: AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D CPU
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
- $599.00 at Amazon
- $599.00 at Best Buy
- $599.00 at Newegg
The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D strikes a balance for those involved in creative work and gaming but mindful of their budget. With a max boost clock of 5.5GHz, 12 cores, 24 threads, and 140MB of L2-L3 cache, it's positioned between the 9950X3D and 9800X3D in terms of productivity and multi-core workloads. Although we haven't reviewed it yet, its specifications suggest comparable gaming performance to its siblings.
AMD's Hot Streak with New CPUs and GPUs
If you held off on purchasing Nvidia's Blackwell GPUs to evaluate AMD's latest offerings, you've made a wise decision. The AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards have emerged as the mid-range champions of this generation, offering exceptional performance at a lower price point than their Nvidia counterparts. The Radeon RX 9070 starts at $550, while the 9070 XT is priced at $600 (though some manufacturers are increasing prices). For detailed insights, check out our Radeon RX 9070 GPU review and Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU review.
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