If you're considering upgrading to an AMD processor, now is an opportune moment, especially with the recent release of the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D from the Zen 5 "X3D" series in March. Although it has been challenging to find this top-tier model in stock since its launch, Amazon has now restocked it without any price increase, though availability might be limited. This processor stands out as the leading gaming chip compared to both Intel and AMD offerings, and it's also an excellent choice for creators, surpassing its predecessor, the 9800X3D.
The Creator's Choice: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D CPU
Mostly out of stock since launch back in March

AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
$699.00 at Amazon
Creative professionals seeking the best gaming chip on the market need look no further. The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D offers a max boost clock of 5.7GHz, with 16 cores, 32 threads, and a massive 144MB of L2-L3 cache. While its gaming performance edges out the 9800X3D by just a few percentage points, it significantly outperforms other Zen 5 X3D chips and Intel's offerings in productivity tasks.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D might be the most powerful gaming processor available, but it's not universally superior. For many, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, which is significantly more affordable at $479, will suffice. The 9950X3D is best suited for gamers who also use creative applications like Photoshop and Premiere, where it offers a 15% performance boost over the 9800X3D."
The Gamer's Choice: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D AM5 Desktop Processor
$489.00 at Walmart
$489.00 at Amazon
AMD's X3D series processors are optimized for gaming, thanks to AMD's 3D V-Cache technology. Although all three CPUs in the series feature the 3D V-Cache on a single CCD, resulting in similar gaming performance, slight differences are due to varying clock speeds. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D achieves a max boost clock of 5.2GHz, with 8 cores, 16 threads, and 104MB of L2-L3 cache. While capable of multitasking, rendering, and creative work, its core count limits its ideal use for these tasks. However, for gaming, particularly at its price point, it's an exceptional choice.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review by Jacqueline Thomas
"The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D excels in gaming performance, making it a more appealing option than other recent releases like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K or Ryzen 9 9900X. If you're pairing it with a high-end graphics card, the 9800X3D will maximize your GPU's potential."