Introduction
AMD’s X3D processors have built a strong reputation among gamers and performance enthusiasts. With the introduction of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D, AMD set new standards in gaming CPU performance, utilizing innovative 3D V-cache technology to enhance frame rates and minimize latency.
Since the Ryzen 5000 series, AMD has continued to refine its 3D V-cache technology. The Ryzen 7000 series X3D processors introduced notable improvements in thermal efficiency and power management, leading to even greater gaming performance. Now, with the Ryzen 9000 series X3D processors, AMD is further advancing this technology with 2nd Gen AMD 3D V-cache, offering better thermal resistance, higher clock speeds, and improved multi-core performance.
On top of the previously launched Zen 5 Ryzen 7 9800X3D processors, two new X3D processors joins the family – the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 9 9900X3D. These chips promise even greater gaming and productivity performance, but how do they compare to their predecessors? In this review, we focus on the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and explore its advancements over previous generations.
Advancements in the Ryzen 9 9950X3D
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D brings several significant improvements over its predecessors:
- Higher Clock Speeds – A base clock of 4.2 GHz and a boost clock up to 5.7 GHz, making it faster than the 7950X3D’s 5.1 GHz boost.
- Expanded Cache – Featuring 144MB of total cache (L2+L3), an increase from 128MB in the 7950X3D, enhancing memory access speeds.
- Zen 5 Architecture – With improved Instructions Per Clock (IPC) and efficiency optimizations, Zen 5 brings better overall performance and power management.
2nd Gen AMD 3D V-Cache Technology: A Major Evolution
With the release of the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 9 9900X3D, AMD has refined its proprietary 3D V-cache technology for even greater performance. This latest iteration, 2nd Gen AMD 3D V-cache, introduces a fundamental change in how cache is implemented in Ryzen processors.
The key difference in this generation is the placement of the 3D V-cache. Previously, AMD stacked the 3D V-cache on top of the CPU cores, as seen in the Ryzen 9 7950X3D and the Ryzen 7000X3D series. However, with the Zen 5-based processors, the cache is now placed below the processor cores instead of on top. This architectural change offers several advantages:
- Improved Thermal Resistance: With up to 46% better thermal resistance, the new design ensures that heat dissipation is more effective, leading to lower temperatures for the processor cores.
- Higher Clock Speeds: Thanks to better thermal efficiency, processors using 2nd Gen AMD 3D V-cache can sustain higher single-threaded and multi-threaded frequencies.
- Better Multi-Core Performance: Unlike previous generations, the multi-core workload handling is significantly improved, allowing the processor to fully utilize its allocated power.
Dual CCX Optimization
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D follow the same core complex design as their predecessors. They feature 3D V-cache on only one of the two CCXs (Core Complexes). This means:
- One CCX is optimized for latency-sensitive workloads (such as gaming) by utilizing 3D V-cache.
- The other CCX prioritizes clock speed and throughput, ensuring that high-frequency workloads are not hindered by additional cache latency.
This hybrid approach delivers the best of both worlds, making these new X3D processors more versatile than ever before.
Test Setup
| Specs | Comparison System | Main System |
| CPU | AMD Ryzen 9 9950X / AMD Ryzen 7 7800X 3D | Ryzen 9 9950X3D |
| RAM | G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB 6400MHz | G.Skill Trident Z5 Neo RGB 6400MHz |
| Main Storage | MSI SPATIUM M480 PLAY 2TB | MSI SPATIUM M480 PLAY 2TB |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080Ti Founders Edition | Gigabyte Radeon RX 9700 XT Elite |
| Motherboard | ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WIFI | ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WIFI |
| CPU Cooler | Thermalright Peerless Assassin (Black) | Thermalright Peerless Assassin (Black) |
| PSU | Silverstone SST ST1200 1200W PSU | Silverstone SST ST1200 1200W PSU |
| OS | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 64-bit |
| PC Mark 10 Extended | Default | |
| 7-ZIP | Default | |
| HEVC h.265 Encoding/Decoding | Default | |
| Blender CPU BMW27 | Default | |
| Cinebench R20 | Default | |
| AIDA64 | Default | |
| Game Settings (1080p) | ||
| Far Cry New Dawn | High | DirectX11 |
| Deus Ex Mankind Divided | High | DirectX12 |
| Tom Clancy Division Ghost Recon Breakpoint | High | Vulkan |
| DOTA 2 | Default | DirectX11 |
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | High | DirectX12 |
| World War Z | Ultra | Vulkan |
Performance Benchmarks
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D demonstrates a clear lead in both single-core and multi-core performance, making it an excellent choice for gaming and content creation. This cements AMD’s X3D series as a go-to choice for gaming-focused high-end CPUs.
For competitive gamers and high-refresh-rate gaming, the 9950X3D is currently one of the best CPUs available.
Conclusion – Is the Ryzen 9 9950X3D Worth It?
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D is a significant leap forward in processor technology, bringing together: ✅ Faster clock speeds with Zen 5 architecture. ✅ Larger and more efficient 3D V-cache. ✅ Lower temperatures and improved power efficiency. ✅ Top-tier gaming performance that beats previous-gen X3D CPUs.
For gamers and creators looking for the absolute best performance, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is a compelling choice. AMD has once again proven that X3D technology is here to stay, and the 2nd Gen AMD 3D V-cache further solidifies its dominance in the market.
