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AMD just unveiled their latest Ryzen processors, which look very promising. The new Ryzen 7000X3D will be a major leap forward for PC performance and, more importantly, gaming and will join AMD’s small but growing lineup of AM5 chipsets compatible with DDR5 memory.
Boasting impressive speeds, these new processors can breeze through nearly any task you throw at them. Fortunately, the prices don’t have to blow you away because AMD added a new processor to each line in their Ryzen family. The Ryzen 5, 7, and 9 models each receive at least one new entrant in the next two months.
Ryzen 7000X3D Processors Overview
The new 7000X3d processors utilize AMD’s new 3D V-cache technology to deliver extremely fast speeds. If you are unfamiliar, AMD uses the first digit to denote the generation, much like Intel does with their i-series processors. So, in this case, the Ryzen 7000 is its 7th generation of the Ryzen line.
The Ryzen 7000 series is Based on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture which offers some major improvements from the previous iterations. The most important capability for most people will be compatibility with DDR5 RAM. In addition, the Zen 4 architecture also supports PCIe 5.0, which is another major welcome for AMD users.
What is X3D?
X3D model processors are a little different than AMD’s other 7000 series processors. The X3D uses a 3D V-Cache, which allows the layering of dies in the processors. The technology first debuted in 2021 but hasn’t been utilized much. The X3D technology makes more connections between layers possible, increasing speed.
Computer processors are typically designed with certain dimensions to fit many different motherboards. The problem is that adding a 3D V-Cache adds height to the processor, which necessitates more advanced production processes. The 3D V-Cache increases speeds by loading up data from RAM before the processor requests it.
Models
AMD previously released four Ryzen 7000 processors in September 2022, the first of the generation. However, speculation was rife that the new processors would launch in 2023, and their recent announcement did not disappoint. Not only did they show off the new 7000X3D, but they also unveiled some standard 7000 series processors.
| Model | Cores | GHz Boost | Cache | Power | Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7950X3D | 16 | 5.7 | 32+96 MB | 120W | 02/2023 |
| 7900X3D | 12 | 5.6 | 32+96MB | 120W | 02/2023 |
| 7800X3D | 8 | 5.0 | 96MB | 120W | 02/2023 |
A few similarities exist among the above versions. One striking difference is that the Ryzen 9 X3D models use significantly less power than the model X counterparts. However, this is not the case on the less powerful Ryzen 7. Also, the X3D technology is only available on the Ryzen 7 and 9, but the Ryzen 5 is available in an X variation.
AMD announced at the beginning of January 2023 that the new X3D processors would come out the following month. There is no release date yet, and no word on how much the three processors will cost. This information will likely come out in the coming weeks as AMD launches several other Ryzen 7000 processors on January 10th.
What Makes it Better?
You are probably wondering whether 7000XD is worth it and if there are noticeable improvements. There is no definitive answer because the processors aren’t out yet. We can only speculate that there will be major performance improvements. However, we won’t know the exact details and metrics until independent testers get their hands on these processors next month.
As previously mentioned, a major benefit of the new Ryzen 7000 series, in general, is that it supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0. Additionally, the virtual cache will greatly improve speeds. Now keep in mind this won’t make a major difference for those surfing the web. However, those pushing their computer to the limits with gaming or video editing should notice much faster loading.
Gaming
Gamers should notice the biggest improvement from the X3D technology thanks to its virtual cache. A virtual cache isn’t a new concept, but the ability to place the virtual cache on top of the computer’s processor is truly groundbreaking. As a result, gamers can expect faster speeds and quicker reaction times.
Processors aren’t the most important component for most gamers. While necessary, even Ryzen 5 processors can handle most video games. When gaming, the processor takes your inputs and determines what needs to happen next by pulling data from the RAM. But V-RAM places your potential next move right next to the processor, so it doesn’t need to wait for the RAM to load the information.
Productivity
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Another area where you will likely find it beneficial is video editing and design. Editing apps require at least thousands of computations a second and a lot of RAM, which can cause long load times. Design software like CAD programs is power-intensive for extensive builds because so many details constantly need retrieving.
Even picture suites like Photoshop can greatly benefit from the new X3D processors. But producers should see the largest benefit as they jump between clips and special effects. For instance, when you are in a program like Premiere Pro and load video clips, they will stay loaded into the virtual cache to start playing and even jump around between segments quickly.
How Can You Get a Ryzen 7000X3D Processor?
Well, you can’t get a Ryzen 7000X3D just yet, but you will be able to next month. AMD doesn’t have a set release date yet, but one should be coming shortly. The bigger concern is how you will get one and what you will put it in. Your first consideration should be whether you plan on the processor in a new pre-built PC or want a standalone processor to upgrade your current PC.
When released, very few PC manufacturers will likely use the 7000X3D, and the ones that do will probably charge handsomely for it. Therefore your best bet will likely be building your computer. Alternatively, look for a company that builds custom gaming PCs. Manufacturers have been slow to adopt newer Intel processors utilizing DDR5 RAM, and the same will likely be true for AMD.
Should You Upgrade to a Ryzen 7000X3D Processor?
Whether or not you should upgrade will hinge on a few factors. However, your decision should be based on an actual need to upgrade. Although the chip shortage appears to be over, at least for computer components, prices may still go down slightly on this newer technology. Not to mention, you should really give the X3D technology some time to make sure it is worth the upgrade.
The main reason why you probably shouldn’t upgrade just yet is that you will need to replace quite a few components. The new Ryzen 7000 processors utilize an also new AM5 chipset, so you won’t be able to use an older AMD motherboard. Similarly, you will need to upgrade the RAM to DDR5 because these new processors cannot operate on the older DDR4.
Because AMD does not have a cross-compatible motherboard like Intel, you may have to fork out more money. It may be worth upgrading if you already have a high-performance processor, but it is sluggish. Otherwise, you are better off collecting components to build a new PC from scratch than deciding on a processor.
