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AMD Ryzen 5 9600X
Incredible value
The Ryzen 5 9600X may be the cheapest Zen 5 processor, but it packs a punch: it has 6 cores that can clock up to 5.4 GHz. Designed for gaming and general computing, this CPU is the one that will save you the most.
Per- Cheapest Zen 5 CPU
- Provides sufficient performance for gaming
Disadvantages- Weaker multi-core performance
- Not ideal for more intensive workloads
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AMD Ryzen 9 9900X
King of the kernels
The Ryzen 9 9900X is one of AMD's flagship processors, with 12 cores, a top speed of 5.6 GHz, and support for the latest technologies. Thanks to better performance, you'll have no trouble with heavier workloads.
Per- Significantly better multi-core performance
- Great choice for gaming and creative use
Disadvantages- More expensive
- Higher TDP and power consumption
AMD launched the Ryzen 9000 series in 2024, running on the same AM5 platform as the Ryzen 7000 series chips. Compared to previous generation AMD processors, Zen 5 has brought notable efficiency and performance improvements. Just behind the flagship AMD Ryzen 9 9950X is the Ryzen 9 9900X, with 12 cores and 24 threads. It's an incredible chip, but so is the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X. Sure, it may have six fewer cores, but that's still six that can run at up to 5.4 GHz before overclocking.
Price, specifications and availability
Let's start the comparison with price and specs. These two processors are worlds apart, which is represented by the two very different SKU families. Ryzen 5 is designed as a low-budget and entry-level chip lineup, while Ryzen 9 is for enthusiasts and creatives. At MSRP, the Ryzen 9 9900X costs $649. The Ryzen 5 9600X costs just $279. The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is excellent and well suited for gaming and general computing.
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AMD Ryzen 5 9600X AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Socket AM5 AM5 Cores 6 12 Topics 12 24 Base clock frequency 3.9GHz 4.4GHz Increase clock frequency 5.4GHz 5.6GHz PCIe 5.0 5.0 Cache Datasheet Datasheet RAM support DDR5-6000 DDR5-5600 graphic AMD Radeon graphics (2 cores) AMD Radeon graphics (2 cores) architecture Zen5 Zen5 Proceedings TSMC 4nm, 6nm TSMC 4nm, 6nm TDP 65W 120 watts Power consumption ~88W ~162W
Both processors use the same AM5 socket and are based on AMD's Zen 5 architecture. I've already touched on the difference in core count, with the 9600X having 6 and the 9900X having double that. This results in better overall performance for the 9900X, allowing the operating system to distribute tasks across more cores and threads. However, when gaming, this isn't a huge advantage for the Ryzen 9, as most games use fewer cores.
PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 RAM support is available regardless of which chip you buy. AMD graphics are also good for displaying output on a connected screen, although you'll need to use a separate GPU for gaming. The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X requires less power and has a TDP of just 65W. Under full load, it only consumes about 88W. The 9900X has a TDP of 120W with a maximum power draw of 162W.
Related
Best CPUs for Gaming in 2024
Buying the best CPUs is crucial for overall PC performance when gaming. Here is our list of the best CPUs for gaming that you can buy right now.
Thermals and performance
The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is the clear winner in this comparison. It has more cores and a higher clock speed without overclocking. The 9600X isn't far behind in single-core applications, but as more intensive workloads require more cores, the Ryzen 5 hits its limits, while the Ryzen 9 can break through with twice the number of cores and threads. What's interesting is how well these processors compare to Intel counterparts while consuming significantly less power. Both CPUs are efficient, although the Ryzen 5 9600X wins with a maximum power consumption of just 88 watts.
Since most PC titles don't utilize all available CPU cores and the GPU remains the biggest bottleneck, it's a neck-and-neck race between the two chips when it comes to gaming. The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X does manage to get slightly better frame rates, but it doesn't add up to much. It's only when you're doing 4K gaming with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 that the 9900X makes more sense with its firepower to ensure you don't hinder the mighty Nvidia flagship in any way.
Which CPU is right for you?
The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is a deceptive processor. It's the entry-level processor in the AMD Ryzen 9000 series, and the weakest and cheapest of the bunch. But performance-wise, it's nowhere near as bad as you might imagine. Six cores are available with a default boost speed of 5.4GHz, just 200MHz behind the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X. For single-core applications where performance per core is more important, there's not much difference between them. For most people, the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is the chip to buy. It's great for gaming, general computing, and creative use.
Best value for money
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X
The 6-core AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is a powerful processor with an efficient TDP of 65W. This Zen 5 CPU features integrated graphics, DDR5 support, and a maximum boost of around 5.4GHz, making it ideal for systems that don't require the most processing power, such as gaming rigs and general PC builds.
If you have the cash to spend or need a processor with better multi-core performance, there's nothing better than the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X. Technically, the Ryzen 9 9950X is better, but it's still a solid powerhouse. 12 cores make it easy to handle even more demanding tasks like video rendering. And it's a pretty good choice for gaming, especially if you pair it with an AMD Radeon RX 7000 series GPU. This is the CPU that has become my daily driver for gaming gear, and it's excellent as long as you install the latest BIOS updates.
Best performance
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X
AMD's Ryzen 9 9900X is a strong contender for creative systems and gaming rigs. 12 physical cores make it a powerful processor, and the low 120W TDP ensures you don't need the most expensive CPU coolers to prevent meltdowns.