AMD has officially announced its next-generation 3D V-Cache “X3D” processors, headlined by the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 9 9900X3D. These chips build on the strengths of their predecessors, delivering competitive single-thread and multi-thread performance while maintaining clock speeds comparable to their non-X3D counterparts. The result is a balance of raw computing power and exceptional gaming performance.
Ryzen 9 9950X3D: The New Flagship #
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D is AMD’s flagship 16-core, 32-thread processor, equipped with 64 MB of L3 cache (32 MB + 32 MB). Its base and boost frequencies mirror the Ryzen 9 9950X, ranging from 4.3 GHz to 5.7 GHz.
What sets it apart is AMD’s updated SRAM chip layout. Instead of stacking cache directly on top of the compute die (CCD), the new design places the cache beneath it. This improves thermal efficiency, avoids the frequency trade-offs seen in earlier X3D chips, and ensures higher stability under load.
According to leaker HXL (@9550pro), Cinebench R23 results show that the 9950X3D matches the non-X3D version in both single-thread and multi-thread workloads. In gaming, however, the extra 64 MB of L3 cache gives it a clear advantage, allowing smoother performance in large, data-intensive titles.
Ryzen 9 9900X3D: High-End with 12 Cores #
Alongside the flagship, AMD will also launch the Ryzen 9 9900X3D, a 12-core, 24-thread CPU. Like its bigger sibling, it integrates 3D V-Cache while maintaining the same clock speeds as the non-X3D version. This ensures strong multitasking and high-load performance, making it a powerful choice for both creators and gamers.
Both processors are expected to debut at CES 2025.
More Than CPUs: FSR 4 and Radeon RX 9070 XT #
AMD isn’t stopping with processors. At the same event, the company will unveil its FSR 4 upscaling technology and the Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU. Early benchmarks show the RX 9070 XT outperforming the RX 7900 GRE in 3DMark Time Spy tests, hinting at a strong generational leap in graphics.
Final Thoughts #
With the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D, AMD is doubling down on its winning formula: 3D V-Cache for gaming dominance, strong multi-thread performance for productivity, and no compromise on clock speeds.
Combined with the upcoming Radeon RX 9070 XT and FSR 4, AMD is clearly aiming to deliver a compelling ecosystem for both gamers and professionals heading into 2025.