If you're considering upgrading to an AMD processor, now's the perfect time to join the bandwagon. In March, AMD unveiled its top-tier model from the latest Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Although it's been challenging to find since its launch due to high demand, Amazon has restocked it today at the original price, though it's uncertain how long it will remain available. This processor not only leads as the best gaming chip across both AMD and Intel platforms but also surpasses the previous top model, the 9800X3D, making it a superior choice for creators.
The Creator's Choice: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D CPU
Mostly out of stock since launch back in March
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
$699.00 at Amazon
For creative professionals seeking the ultimate gaming chip, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the top pick. It features a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache. While it offers only a slight edge in gaming performance over the 9800X3D, its prowess in productivity tasks far exceeds that of other Zen 5 X3D chips and any current Intel offerings.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D stands out as the most powerful gaming processor available, but it's not universally superior. For many, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a much more affordable $479, will suffice. The 9950X3D is ideal for gamers who also engage in creative tasks with applications like Photoshop and Premiere, offering a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D in these areas."
The Gamer's Choice: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
$489.00 at Walmart
$489.00 at Amazon
AMD's X3D series processors are optimized for gaming, thanks to the innovative 3D V-Cache technology. All three CPUs in the lineup feature this technology on a single CCD, resulting in similar gaming performance, with minor differences attributed to varying clock speeds. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache, is highly capable in multitasking, rendering, and creative work. However, its core count makes it less ideal for heavy productivity tasks. At this price point, it remains an exceptional choice for gaming.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D excels in gaming performance, making it a standout choice compared to other recent releases like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. If you're pairing it with a high-end graphics card, the 9800X3D will maximize your GPU's potential, offering unparalleled gaming performance."
