If you're considering upgrading to an AMD processor, the timing couldn't be better. In March, AMD launched its top-tier model from the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Despite being sold out at most retailers since its debut, Amazon has now restocked it at the original price of $699.00, though it's unclear how long this will last. This processor not only leads the pack as the best gaming chip available but also surpasses 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 ultimate choice. With a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache, this CPU offers unparalleled performance. While it edges out the 9800X3D by just a few percentage points in gaming, it significantly outperforms it in productivity tasks. It also outshines any current offerings from Intel, making it the top pick for those who use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it delivers a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D stands out as the most powerful gaming processor on the market, yet it doesn't automatically outshine every other chip. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a much more affordable $479, is more than sufficient. The 9950X3D is specifically designed for gamers who also engage in creative work, where it provides a significant performance edge."
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, including the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, is optimized for gaming thanks to AMD's 3D V-Cache technology. All three CPUs in the series share the same 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 speeds. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D offers a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, with 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache. While it's capable of multitasking, rendering, and creative work, its core count makes it less ideal for those tasks compared to the 9950X3D. However, for gamers, especially at this price point, the 9800X3D is a powerhouse.
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. If you're building a system with a high-end graphics card, the 9800X3D is the best way to maximize your GPU's potential."
