If you're considering joining the AMD community with your next upgrade, the timing couldn't be better. In March, AMD launched its flagship Zen 5 "X3D" processor, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Despite being out of stock at most retailers since its debut, Amazon has now restocked it at the original price, though it's uncertain how long this will last. This processor stands out as the top gaming chip on the market, surpassing both Intel and AMD's previous offerings, and is particularly advantageous for creators compared to the former top model, 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
Creative professionals seeking the ultimate gaming chip need look no further; the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the CPU to choose. With a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a whopping 144MB of L2-L3 cache, it's a powerhouse. While it edges out the 9800X3D in gaming by just a few percentage points, its productivity performance far exceeds that of other Zen 5 X3D chips and any Intel competitors.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is currently the most powerful gaming processor available, yet it doesn't automatically outshine every other chip. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a much more accessible $479, is more than sufficient. The 9950X3D, however, is tailored for gamers who also engage in creative work with applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it offers 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 the 3D V-Cache technology. Since all three CPUs feature the 3D V-cache on a single CCD, gaming performance remains consistent across the series, with minor variations due to clock speed differences. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache, excels in gaming but is less suited for intensive multitasking, rendering, and creative tasks due to its core count. Nonetheless, at this price, it's an outstanding choice for gamers.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D delivers exceptional gaming performance, making it a more compelling choice than recent competitors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. When paired with a high-end graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes your GPU's potential, offering the best gaming experience possible."
