AMD Zen 5 9950X3D, 9900X3D, 9800X3D Gaming CPUs Launched

If you're considering upgrading to AMD for your next build, now is the perfect time. AMD recently introduced the Ryzen 7 9800X3D alongside its higher-end Ryzen 9 counterparts, the 9950X3D and 9900X3D, within the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup. The 9950X3D is priced at $699, while the 9900X3D comes in at $599. These processors are considered the top gaming chips available, surpassing even those from Intel. For pure gamers, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D at $479 offers exceptional value, allowing you to allocate more funds to other components. Meanwhile, creators who also enjoy gaming will find the Ryzen 9 processors' increased core count and cache invaluable for a significant performance boost.

Note: These processors are frequently 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 on the market should look no further than the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This powerhouse boasts a max boost clock of 5.7GHz with 16 cores, 32 threads, and 144MB of L2-L3 cache. While it offers only a slight edge over the 9800X3D in gaming, its performance in productivity tasks far surpasses not only the other Zen 5 X3D chips but also any competing Intel processors.

AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is undoubtedly one of the most powerful gaming processors available today, yet it doesn't necessarily outshine every other chip on the market. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a much more affordable $479, is more than sufficient. The 9950X3D is ideal for gamers who also engage in creative tasks using applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it delivers a 15% performance increase over the 9800X3D. However, for a gaming-focused build, it might be wiser to save the extra $220 for a superior 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 are optimized for gaming, thanks to the innovative 3D V-Cache technology. Since all three CPUs feature the 3D V-Cache on a single CCD, gaming performance remains consistent across the lineup, with minor variations due to clock speed differences. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with its max boost clock of 5.2GHz, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache, is a formidable choice for gaming. While it can handle multitasking and creative tasks, its core count limits its prowess in these areas. At this price point, it's an unbeatable option for gamers.

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 the best bang for your buck."

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 ideal choice for those who balance creative work with gaming but need to stick to a budget. With a max boost clock of 5.5GHz, 12 cores, 24 threads, and 140MB of L2-L3 cache, it offers a middle ground between the 9950X3D and 9800X3D. While we haven't reviewed this chip yet, its specs suggest it will perform well in productivity tasks and multi-core workloads, with gaming performance expected to be on par with its siblings.

AMD's Hot Streak with New CPUs and GPUs

If you've been holding off on Nvidia's Blackwell GPUs to see what AMD has to offer, you've made a wise decision. The AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT graphics cards are the new mid-range champions, delivering exceptional performance at a lower price than their Nvidia counterparts. The Radeon RX 9070 starts at $550, and the 9070 XT at $600, though prices may vary due to manufacturer adjustments. Check out our Radeon RX 9070 GPU review and Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU review for detailed benchmarks.

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