If you're considering upgrading to an AMD processor, now's an opportune moment, especially with the recent release of the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D, the top-tier model in the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup. Launched in March, this processor has been scarce at retailers until now, but you can finally find it in stock at Amazon, without any price hike, though availability may be limited. This chip stands out as the premier gaming processor available from both AMD and Intel, and it also offers superior performance for creators compared to its predecessor, 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
For creative professionals who demand the best gaming performance, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the go-to choice. With a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache, it delivers unparalleled performance. While its gaming prowess only slightly edges out the 9800X3D, it significantly outperforms it and other Zen 5 X3D chips, as well as Intel's offerings, in productivity tasks.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is arguably the most powerful gaming processor on the market today, yet it doesn't automatically outshine every other chip. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at a much more affordable $479, is sufficient. However, the 9950X3D is perfect for gamers who also rely on 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 the 3D V-Cache technology. Since all three CPUs in this series have the 3D V-cache on a single CCD, gaming performance is similar across the board, 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 ideal for intensive multitasking, rendering, and creative work due to its core count.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is a powerhouse for gaming, 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-performance graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes your GPU's potential, offering unmatched gaming performance at its price point."


