If you're considering upgrading to an AMD processor, now is an excellent time to do so. In March, AMD launched its top-tier model in the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Although it has been largely out of stock since its release, Amazon has recently restocked it at the original price of $699.00, without any markup. However, it's uncertain how long this stock will last. This processor stands out as the best gaming chip available, surpassing both Intel and AMD's previous models, and it's particularly advantageous for creators compared to the former leader, the 9800X3D.
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 go-to choice. This new model 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 performance edge over the 9800X3D in gaming, it significantly outperforms the other Zen 5 X3D chips and Intel's offerings in productivity tasks.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is currently the most powerful gaming processor on the market, but it doesn't dominate every category. For many users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a more affordable $479, will suffice. The 9950X3D is best suited for gamers who also engage in creative work with applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it shows a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D."
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 AMD's 3D V-Cache technology. Since all three CPUs in this series utilize the 3D V-Cache on a single CCD, they offer comparable gaming performance, with minor variations primarily due to clock speed differences. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D has a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache. While it's capable of handling multitasking, rendering, and creation, its core count limits its effectiveness for these tasks. However, it's an exceptional choice for gaming, especially at its price point.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D excels in gaming, making it a stronger recommendation than recent competitors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. If you're building a rig with a high-performance graphics card, the 9800X3D is the best option to maximize your GPU's potential."
