The Powerful AMD Zen 5 9950X3D, 9900X3D, and 9800X3D Gaming CPUs Are Now Available

If you're considering upgrading to AMD, the timing couldn't be better. Earlier this year, AMD introduced the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, and now, they've released two higher-end Ryzen 9 models in the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the 9950X3D priced at $699 and the 9900X3D at $599. These processors are considered the top gaming chips available, surpassing even Intel's offerings. For pure gamers, the 9800X3D is the best choice to maximize performance while saving money for other components. However, creators who also enjoy gaming and have a higher budget will appreciate the significant performance boost from the new Ryzen 9 processors, thanks to their higher core counts and cache.

Note: Processors are frequently in and out of stock, predominantly 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 Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This processor offers a max boost clock of 5.7GHz with 16 cores, 32 threads, and 144MB of L2-L3 cache. While it provides only a slight gaming performance edge over the 9800X3D, it significantly outperforms both the 9800X3D and Intel's processors in productivity tasks.

AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is arguably the most powerful gaming processor available, but it doesn't necessarily outshine every other chip in every scenario. For most users, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at $479, offers excellent value. The 9950X3D is ideal for gamers who also use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it delivers a 15% performance increase over the 9800X3D. For a gaming-focused build, however, saving the $220 difference for a better graphics card might be more beneficial."

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 with their 3D V-Cache technology. Despite all three CPUs featuring the 3D V-Cache on a single CCD, their gaming performance is nearly identical, with minor variations due to clock speed differences. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D boasts a max boost clock of 5.2GHz with 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache. While capable of multitasking and creative work, its core count limits its efficiency in these areas. However, for gaming, especially at this price point, it's an exceptional choice.

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D delivers outstanding gaming performance, making it a more compelling choice than recent processors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. When paired with a powerful graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes your GPU's potential, offering the best gaming experience."

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 ideal for users engaged in creative work and gaming but who need to stick to a budget that the 9950X3D exceeds. It features a max boost clock of 5.5GHz with 12 cores, 24 threads, and 140MB of L2-L3 cache. Although we haven't reviewed this processor yet, its specs suggest it will offer performance between the 9950X3D and 9800X3D in productivity tasks and multi-core workloads. For gaming, it should perform similarly to the other two models.

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

If you've been holding 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 the new mid-range champions, offering exceptional performance at a lower price point than Nvidia's competition. The Radeon RX 9070 starts at $550, and the 9070 XT at $600, although some manufacturers are increasing prices. Check out our Radeon RX 9070 GPU review and Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU review for detailed benchmarks.

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