Introduction
In the ever-evolving landscape of CPU technology, AMD continues to push the boundaries with its latest offerings: the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 7 9800X3D. These processors are not just upgrades but are benchmarks in computing innovation, designed to cater to the most demanding users, from professional creators to hardcore gamers. This comprehensive review compares these two formidable CPUs in various scenarios to help you understand their capabilities and determine which might be the best fit for your needs.
Processor Overview
- AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D: This flagship model will cost $699 and boasts 16 cores and 32 threads, making it a powerhouse for gaming and professional applications. With a base clock of 4.3 GHz and a boost up to 5.7 GHz, coupled with 128MB of L3 cache, the 9950X3D is designed for maximum performance across various activities, including intensive multitasking and heavy-duty content creation.
- AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D: As a slightly less robust option with an MSRP of $480, the 9800X3D features 8 cores and 16 threads. It sports a base clock of 4.7 GHz and can boost up to 5.2 GHz. With 96MB of L3 cache, it is tailored more towards gaming, where single-core performance often takes precedence, but it also holds its own in lighter content creation tasks.
Content Creation and Professional Use
For professionals in digital content creation, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D demonstrates a significant advantage. The additional cores and enhanced thermal management allow for quicker rendering times and more stable performance under load, which is crucial for software like Adobe Premiere, Blender, and Autodesk Maya. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D, while capable, is best suited for lighter workloads but can be a cost-effective option for budding creators.
Technical Enhancements and Innovations
With significant advancements over its predecessor, the formidable Ryzen 7 9800X3D, the new Ryzen 9 9950X3D incorporates AMD’s second-generation 3D V-Cache technology. This proprietary innovation is engineered to reduce latency and enhance frame rates, with improvements that include better thermal resistance and higher clock speeds for optimal performance.
| AMD Ryzen 9950X3D | AMD Ryzen 7950X3D | AMD Ryzen 9900X3D | AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D | AMD Ryzen 9 9800X3D | |
| Cores/Threads | 16/32 | 16/32 | 12/24 | 12/24 | 8/16 |
| Max Boost | Up to 5.7 GHz | Up to 5.7 GHz | Up to 5.5 GHz | Up to 5.6 GHz | Up to 5.2 GHz |
| Base Clock | 4.3 GHZ | 4.2 GHZ | 4.4 GHz | 4.4 GHz | 4.7 GHZ |
| L2 Cache | 16MB | 16MB | 12MB | 12MB | 8MB |
| L3 Cache | 128MB | 128MB | 128MB | 96MB | |
| TDP / cTDP (configurable) Thermal Design Power | 170 W | 120 W | 120 W | 120 W | 120 W |
| Default Socket Power (PPT) | 200 W | 162 W | 162 W | 162 W | 162 W |
| Max Current (EDC) | 225 A | 180 A | 180 A | 180 A | 180 A |
| Max Current, Thermally Limited (TDC) | 160 A | 120 A | 120 A | 120 A | 120 A |
| Tjmax | 95-C | 89-C | 95-C | 89-C | 95-C |
| Boost Algorithm | Precis n Boost 2 [KM1] No change from the previous generation | ||||
| Recommended Cooler | 240-280 mm liquid (or equivalent) | ||||
| Max Memory Speed (Non-OC) | DDR5-5600 (2x 16GB) | DDR5-5200 (2x 16GB) | DDR5-5600 (2x 16GB) | DDR5-5200 (2x 16GB) | DDR5-5600 (2x 16GB) |
| ECC Support | Enabled in-silicon, support varies by motherboard | ||||
However, we didn’t just take AMD’s assertions at face value. We would like to thank Mark Poppin for thoroughly testing this new CPU. We tested these claims by setting up identical rigs, one equipped with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D and the other with the Ryzen 9 9950X3D. Both setups utilized the same motherboards and other components, but for a real assessment of CPU performance impacts on gaming and creative tasks, we integrated an RTX 5090 AIB into both. The performance outcomes were astonishingly good, leading Mark to remark, “It’s a beast of a CPU; Best damn gaming CPU I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen a few.” We would like to think Intel has an answer – and soon – otherwise, this is wild, and there is no competition.
Not only does the Ryzen 9 9950X3D surpass the performance of AMD’s previous generation, including the 9800X3D—which was once hailed as the world’s fastest gaming CPU—but it also marks a resolution to the earlier “core parking” issues encountered in the 7000 series.
For the first time, AMD introduces a processor with 3D V-Cache technology that supports precise and straightforward overclocking, maintaining consistent voltage limits across the 9000-series lineup. Unlike earlier models, such as the Ryzen 5800X3D and Ryzen 7000X3D, where the 3D V-Cache was positioned above the processor cores, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, Ryzen 9 9950X3D, and Ryzen 9 9900X3D feature a novel placement of the cache beneath the cores. This adjustment directly interfaces the Zen 5 cores with the cooling solution, enhancing thermal resistance by up to 46%. This advancement not only enables higher sustained clock speeds—adding 500 MHz to the base and 200 MHz to the boost clock of the Ryzen 7 9800X3D compared to the Ryzen 7 7800X3D—but also bolsters multi-threaded performance, allowing the processors to leverage their full power potential.
Overclocking and System Optimization
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D integrate AMD’s second-gen 3D V-Cache in one of their core complexes (CCXs), while the other CCX does not include 3D V-Cache, mirroring the configuration seen in the Ryzen 9 7950X3D and 7900X3D. This setup is designed to optimize latency with the 3D V-Cache-equipped CCX while enhancing clock speed and throughput in the other.
Mark Poppin noted its ability to stay cool under stress with moderate overclocking, maintaining temperatures below 85°C, a fantastic performing CPU that stays well within our expected range.
AMD encourages overclocking with the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D, offering the same voltage and clock limits as other processors in the 9000 series. Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) is recommended for optimal power efficiency and performance across both multi-threaded and single-threaded applications. Users can manually fine-tune performance through Curve Optimizer and Curve Shaper within the BIOS, which provides detailed control over performance variables at different temperature and frequency ranges.
For overclockers, AMD suggests starting with moderate adjustments using Ryzen Master’s Derive Function for automated tuning, then refining manually as needed. Additionally, AMD recommends using EXPO-rated DIMMs to maximize overclocking potential and performance enhancements in memory-dependent tasks.
Benchmarking Results and Analysis
In benchmarks, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D consistently outperforms its counterpart, particularly in multi-threaded applications due to its higher core and thread count. In gaming tests, both CPUs show excellent FPS rates, but the Ryzen 9 edges out with faster frame times and higher minimum FPS, ensuring smoother gameplay during high-action scenes. In content creation, the Ryzen 9’s prowess is unmistakable, slashing through rendering and encoding tasks significantly faster than the Ryzen 7.
The Ryzen 9800X3D and 9950X3D possess identical configurations, which initially suggested no substantial benefit from overclocking either unit. By simply reducing the voltage by -30mV using Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO), both CPUs are able to operate cooler, enhancing their efficiency and longevity.
For most users, employing low-latency DDR5 6000 MHz RAM, configured to a Command Rate of 1T via the EXPO settings, will unlock approximately 98-99% of the CPUs’ potential performance without the need for manual overclocking.
However, for enthusiasts who prefer to push their hardware to the limit, opting for DDR5 8000 MHz memory with a Command Rate of 2T can offer slight performance gains. It’s worth noting that unlike the previous 7000 series, overclocking on these models is feasible and can be effectively executed, although it remains unofficially recognized by AMD and may void the warranty, as indicated in the AMD BIOS overclocking disclaimer.
Armed with this knowledge, we proceeded with our comprehensive testing regimen. Detailed findings from these tests are meticulously compiled and summarized in the accompanying charts.
Gaming Performance
The gaming prowess of both CPUs was put to the test with “Sid Meier’s Civilization VII,” where lower times signify better performance. The Ryzen 9 9950X3D slightly outperformed the Ryzen 7 9800X3D with times of 17.9 seconds per turn versus 18.4 seconds, respectively. This benchmark illustrates the superior capacity of the Ryzen 9 to handle complex AI computations and multiple in-game events efficiently, enhancing overall gameplay smoothness and responsiveness. We ran 15 games through 19 benchmark scenarios on the new 9 9950X3d and the previous-generation 7 9800X3D processors and got the results shown.
Here is our System Specs:
| Ryzen 7 9800X3D | |
| UEFI BIOS is X870E Taichi 3.17.TS03 | BIOS |
| ASRock Taichi X870e | Motherboard |
| 2x32GB G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo DDR5 6000 CL28-36-36-96 | Memory |
| Samsung 990 Pro 1TB Gen4x4 M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 (7450/6900 MB/s) | Storage |
| RTX 5090 Founders Edition | Video cards |
| Super Flower Leadex Platinum SE 1200W 80+ Platinum | Power supply |
| DeepCool Castle 360EX AIO | Cooler |
| Corsair 5000D | Case |
| Nvidia press driver 572.02 GRD for games / Studio for Apps- FrameView/All drivers, games & apps updated | Drivers |
| LG C1 48-in. 4K/120 Hz for apps / ROG SWIFT PG259QN 360 Hz/1080P for games | Display |
| SW | |
| Windows 11 Professional 64-bit 2024 24H2 | |
| UL 3DMark Professional | |
| UL Procyon Suite | |
| UL PCMark Office Extended |
The new Ryzen 9 9950X3D showed an average 6% improvement of game performance which is very nice.
We also ran seven traditional synthetic 3DMark benchmarks and saw an average of 2% improvement and as much as 47% in frames per second (fps) for Time Spy Extreme.
Once again, the results were impressive, averaging 36% and hitting a max of 93%. We also ran UL’s Procyon to test office productivity and AI image processing.
AIDA64 is diagnostic and benchmarking software used to test and analyze various aspects of computer hardware and performance. It provides detailed information about system components and includes tools to assess the performance and stability of a system.
We also ran the above CPUZ test for single and Multicore performance testing.
While CPU-Z may not offer the extensive synthetic benchmarks seen in tools like AIDA64 or Cinebench, it serves as a crucial utility for quickly identifying hardware specifications and conducting basic performance assessments. Additionally, for more in-depth digital content creation (DCC) evaluations, popular benchmarks like Blender, Cinebench, KeyShot, and V-Ray are widely used to measure the capabilities of CPUs under more strenuous tasks.
Handbrake, a well-regarded codec testing tool, effectively measures video streaming and decoding performance, utilizing common codec settings such as H.264 (x264), 60 fps, constant frame rate (CFR), AAC stereo audio, and decomb filtering. This makes it an excellent benchmark for evaluating how well a system handles video processing tasks.
Additionally, JetStream 2.2 serves as a comprehensive benchmark suite for JavaScript and WebAssembly, designed to test the performance of web browsers in handling advanced web applications. It assesses how quickly browsers can start up, execute code, and maintain smooth operations, providing a clear indication of browser efficiency.
Final Recommendations
- For Gamers: If top-tier gaming performance is your priority, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D offers the ultimate experience without compromise. Its ability to handle next-generation games and VR content with ease makes it a future-proof choice.
- For Content Creators: The Ryzen 9 9950X3D stands out as the superior choice for professionals. Its robust multi-threading capabilities will drastically reduce project times and enhance workflow efficiency, making it worth the investment.
- For General Users: The Ryzen 7 9800X3D offers excellent value, providing formidable gaming performance and adequate power for everyday content creation at a more accessible price point.
Conclusion
The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D establishes itself as the new benchmark in high-performance computing, delivering unparalleled excellence in both gaming and professional applications. This is the new king of CPUs – bar none. On the other hand, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D stands out as an attractive option for gamers and those seeking high performance on a budget, showcasing AMD’s continuous leadership in advancing CPU technology.
At $699 for the AMD Ryzen 9950X3d and the suggested MSRP for the 9800X3d of $480, there is an obvious price gap here. I can tell you from personal experience it was a nightmare trying to get my hands on a 9800X3D for benchmarking in December/January when preparing for the new GPUs and we only paid MSRP by having a friend purchase it in-store during restocks – so we hope this is not a repeat at launch for the new entry, but we have that fear. Pricing may skyrocket and take it out of reach for gamers, we hope not.
Building on significant enhancements over its predecessor, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D leverages AMD’s second-generation 3D V-Cache technology, which is meticulously engineered to reduce latency and boost frame rates while also providing improved thermal resistance and higher clock speeds. This technology marks a substantial leap forward in CPU performance and efficiency.
The Ryzen 7 9800X3D, introduced four months ago, represents this generation’s eight-core gaming powerhouse. In contrast, the previous generation’s Ryzen 7 7800X3D, while being the fastest gaming CPU globally until recently, was outpaced by the 9800X3D due to latency and core parking enhancements in the new model.
By relocating the cache and addressing software issues related to core parking, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D not only competes with but surpasses the previous world’s fastest gaming CPU, simultaneously offering significant advantages for workstation and creative tasks. This evolution underscores AMD’s relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with modern CPU technology.