If you're in the process of building a new gaming PC and seeking the top-tier gaming processor, look no further. The recently released AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D AM5 desktop processor is back in stock on Amazon at its retail price of $489 shipped. This processor stands out as the best gaming processor on the market, outshining even the pricier Intel Core Ultra 9 285K.

The Gamer's Choice: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D AM5 Desktop Processor

• $489.00 at Amazon

AMD's X3D series processors are tailored for gaming, delivering superior performance thanks to AMD's innovative 3D V-Cache technology. While they excel in gaming, their limited core count makes them less ideal for multitasking, rendering, and creative tasks. Priced at $489, the 9800X3D is not only $100 cheaper than the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K ($589) but also $160 less than the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X, yet it outperforms both in gaming scenarios. Unless you're loyal to Intel or still using the AM4 platform, the 9800X3D is the clear winner for your next gaming build.

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D delivers exceptional gaming performance, making it a top recommendation over other recent processors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. When paired with a high-end graphics card, the 9800X3D maximizes your GPU's potential, offering unmatched performance."

The other two Zen 5 "X3D" chips are out of stock

Alongside the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, AMD also launched two higher-end Ryzen 9 models in the Zen 5 "X3D" lineup: the 9950X3D, priced at $699, and the 9900X3D, priced at $599. These processors represent the pinnacle of gaming performance across both AMD and Intel platforms. Currently out of stock, the 9950X3D and 9900X3D cater to users with deeper pockets and a need for both gaming and creative workloads. For pure gamers, the 9800X3D remains the best value and performance option.

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

For creative professionals who also demand the best in gaming, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the ultimate choice. With a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, 16 cores, 32 threads, and 144MB of L2-L3 cache, it offers a slight edge in gaming over the 9800X3D. However, its true strength lies in productivity, where it significantly outperforms other Zen 5 X3D chips and Intel's offerings.

AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas

"While the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is the most powerful gaming processor available, it's not universally superior. For most gamers, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D at $479 is a more cost-effective option. The 9950X3D is ideal for those who both game and use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it provides a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D. For a purely gaming-focused build, consider investing the savings in a better graphics card."

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 perfect for users who balance creative work with gaming but need to stick to a budget. It features a max boost clock of 5.5GHz, 12 cores, 24 threads, and 140MB of L2-L3 cache. Although we haven't reviewed this model yet, its specifications suggest performance levels between the 9950X3D and 9800X3D for productivity tasks. In gaming, it's expected to be on par with the other two.

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