The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, priced at $479, is a second-generation 3D V-Cache CPU designed for gamers seeking top performance at 1080p with low settings and a high-end video card. This review delves into its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it's the right choice for you.
| Technetbook Rating | |
|---|---|
| Rating Score | 7,5 |
| Stars | ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ |
Key Takeaways
AMD's Ryzen 7 9800X3D is excellent for low-settings 1080p gaming but may not be the best value for most PC gamers.
Pros
- Superior gaming performance at 1080p with low settings
- 96MB of L3 cache
- Eight CPU cores
- Serviceable integrated graphics
Cons
- Expensive for non-esports users
- High power consumption
Second-Gen 3D V-Cache Explained
The Ryzen 7 9800X3D features a 64MB cache component beneath the "Zen 5" CCD, increasing total L3 cache to 96MB. This revised design addresses thermal limitations of the first-gen V-Cache by placing the cache below the CPU cores, allowing for better cooling and sustained performance.
The 9800X3D is also the first unlocked 3D V-Cache processor, allowing for overclocking.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Base Clock Frequency | 4.7 GHz |
| Bundled Cooler | None |
| Core Count | 8 |
| Integrated Graphics | AMD Radeon Graphics |
| Total Cache | 96MB |
| TDP | 120W |
Performance Testing
The 9800X3D was tested using a Gigabyte X870E Aorus Master motherboard, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Super Founders Edition.
CPU Performance
- In Cinebench 2024, the 9800X3D showed a 20% increase over the 9700X at stock settings, but only 7% at comparable TDP settings.
- Blender performance was 11% higher than the 9700X.
- Other CPU tests showed minimal gains compared to the 9700X.
3D V-Cache Gaming Performance
- Similar performance to other CPUs at 1440p and 4K due to GPU limitations.
- Small gains over the 9700X in Total War: Three Kingdoms and Shadow of the Tomb Raider at 1080p.
- At 1080p with low settings, the 9800X3D achieved significantly higher frame rates than competitors in F1 2024 and Cyberpunk 2077.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III* showed no advantage for the 9800X3D.
Radeon RDNA2 IGP Performance
The integrated graphics is adequate for basic tasks and older games at 720p with low settings. However, the IGP is not meant to be a selling point for a high-end CPU like this one.
Power and Thermal Performance
- The 9800X3D consumed more power than competitors, especially when compared to the 9700X at lower TDP settings.
- Reached a peak temperature of 82 degrees Celsius, higher than the 9900X.
Verdict
The Ryzen 7 9800X3D is a niche product tailored for esports players who prioritize maximum frame rates at 1080p with low settings. However, for general use, the Ryzen 7 9700X and Ryzen 9 9900X offer better value.
Recommendation: The 9800X3D is the best choice for esports gaming at low settings. If high resolutions or high graphics settings are your primary concern, consider other options like the Ryzen 7 9700X or Ryzen 9 9900X.
The 9800X3D is a "very particular set of skills" processor, but it remains a strong performer in its niche. Its value may increase if the price is eventually lowered.
