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

Considering an AMD upgrade? Now's the perfect time. Following the Ryzen 7 9800X3D's earlier release, AMD has launched its top-tier Ryzen 9 siblings—the 9950X3D ($699) and 9900X3D ($599)—both boasting Zen 5 "X3D" architecture. These processors collectively represent the pinnacle of gaming performance across both AMD and Intel. While the 9800X3D remains the ideal choice for pure gamers seeking optimal value, creators with larger budgets and a passion for gaming will find the Ryzen 9 processors' increased core count and cache incredibly beneficial.

**Note: Processor availability fluctuates; stock is often limited.**

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 9950X3D boasts a 5.7GHz max boost clock, 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache. While only marginally outperforming the 9800X3D in gaming, its productivity capabilities significantly surpass both the 9800X3D and 9900X3D, and any Intel competitor.

AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D may be the most powerful gaming processor currently available, but it's not a universal winner. The more affordable Ryzen 7 9800X3D ($479) suffices for most users. The 9950X3D shines for gamers who also use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere Pro, offering a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D in those scenarios. For pure gaming, however, investing the extra $220 might be better spent on a higher-end 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 leverages 3D V-Cache technology for gaming optimization. All three CPUs share this technology on a single CCD, resulting in comparable gaming performance, with minor variations stemming from clock speed differences. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D features a 5.2GHz max boost clock, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache. While capable of multitasking, rendering, and creative work, its core count limits its suitability for demanding professional tasks. However, it's a gaming powerhouse, especially considering its price.

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D delivers exceptional gaming performance, making it a more compelling choice than recent processors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. Paired with a powerful graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes GPU performance."

The Middle Ground: 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 Ryzen 9 9900X3D bridges the gap for users needing a balance of creative work and gaming within a specific budget. It offers a 5.5GHz max boost clock, 12 cores, 24 threads, and 140MB of L2-L3 cache. Based on its specifications, its performance should fall between the 9950X3D and 9800X3D for productivity, while offering comparable gaming performance to its siblings.

AMD's Winning Streak Continues

Those who waited to see AMD's response to Nvidia's Blackwell GPUs made the right call. The AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are the new mid-range champions, offering exceptional performance at lower prices than their Nvidia counterparts. The Radeon RX 9070 starts at $550, and the 9070 XT at $600 (though price increases from manufacturers have been reported). Check out our Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT GPU reviews for benchmarks.

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