AMD Zen 5 Gaming CPUs Restocked: 9950X3D, 9900X3D, 9800X3D Available Now

If you're considering joining the AMD bandwagon for your next upgrade, the timing couldn't be better. Earlier this year, AMD launched the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, and now they've introduced two higher-end Ryzen 9 models in the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the 9950X3D at $699 and the 9900X3D at $599. These processors are currently the top gaming chips available from both AMD and Intel. For pure gamers, the 9800X3D is the best choice, freeing up budget for other components. However, creators who also enjoy gaming and have a bit more to spend will find the new Ryzen 9 processors highly beneficial, thanks to their enhanced core count and cache.

Note: Processors are frequently in and out of stock, often leaning towards being out of stock.

The Creator's Choice: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D CPU

AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D AM5 Desktop Processor

$699.00 at Amazon | $699.00 at Best Buy | $699.00 at Newegg

Creative professionals seeking the best gaming chip need look no further; the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the ideal choice. This powerhouse boasts a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache. While its gaming performance edges out the 9800X3D by just a few percentage points, it significantly outperforms both 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 stands as one of the most powerful gaming processors available, yet it doesn't automatically outperform every other chip. For most users, the more affordable Ryzen 7 9800X3D at $479 will suffice. The 9950X3D is tailored for gamers who also use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere, offering a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D. However, for a pure gaming setup, consider saving the extra $220 to invest in a better graphics card."

The Gamer's Choice: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D AM5 Desktop Processor

$479.00 at Amazon | $479.00 at Best Buy | $479.00 at Newegg

AMD's X3D series processors, optimized for gaming with 3D V-Cache technology, provide similar gaming performance across the lineup due to the technology being applied to a single CCD. The differences in gaming performance are minimal, primarily influenced by clock speed variations. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache, is a top choice for gamers. While it's capable of handling multitasking and creative work, its core count limits its effectiveness in those areas. At this price point, however, it's an unbeatable option for gaming.

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D delivers exceptional gaming performance, making it a standout choice compared to recent processors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. Especially when paired with a high-end graphics card, the 9800X3D ensures you're getting the most out of your GPU."

The Middleman: AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D CPU

AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D AM5 Desktop Processor

$599.00 at Amazon | $599.00 at Best Buy | $599.00 at Newegg

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D is the perfect middle ground for those who do creative work and enjoy gaming but need to stay within a budget. With a max boost clock of 5.5GHz, 12 cores, 24 threads, and 140MB of L2-L3 cache, it's expected to offer performance between the 9950X3D and 9800X3D in productivity tasks. For gaming, it should perform similarly to its siblings.

AMD is on a Hot Streak with its New CPUs and GPUs

If you held off on Nvidia's Blackwell GPUs to assess AMD's new offerings, you've made a wise decision. The AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards are setting new standards in the mid-range segment, offering superior performance at a lower price than their Nvidia counterparts. The Radeon RX 9070 starts at $550, while the 9070 XT begins at $600, though prices may fluctuate due to manufacturer adjustments. For detailed performance insights, check out our Radeon RX 9070 GPU review and Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU review.

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