If you're considering upgrading to an AMD processor, the timing couldn't be better. In March, AMD launched the top-tier model of its Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Despite being sold out at most retailers since its release, it's now available again on Amazon at the original price of $699.00, though stock may not last long. This processor is not only the best gaming chip on the market but also outperforms its predecessor, the 9800X3D, making it an excellent 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 who demand the best in both gaming and productivity, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the processor to choose. With a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache, it offers only a slight edge over the 9800X3D in gaming performance. However, it significantly outpaces not only the other Zen 5 X3D chips but also any Intel offerings in productivity tasks.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is currently the most powerful gaming processor available, though it doesn't lead in every aspect. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a more affordable $479, is sufficient. The 9950X3D is best suited for gamers who also use creative 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 AMD's 3D V-Cache technology. All three CPUs in this series feature the 3D V-Cache on a single CCD, resulting in similar gaming performance across the board. The slight variations in performance are mainly due to differences in clock speed. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache, is ideal for gaming but less so for multitasking and heavy creative work due to its fewer cores.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D excels in gaming, making it a top recommendation over other recent processors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. When paired with a powerful graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes GPU performance, offering exceptional value at its price point."