I'm considering my options for a new build and I'm torn between AMD and Intel. Right now, I can get an AMD Ryzen 7600X for around $210, or I could grab an Intel i5 14600K for about the same price. I'm looking to do some 3D work, and the multicore performance of the 14600K is definitely appealing. Future-proofing isn't a huge concern for me; I'm mainly focused on maximizing performance over the next 3-4 years. But I've heard mixed things—are Intel's issues with crashing still happening?
4 Answers
Yeah, there are still some concerns with Intel, but it's not as bad as it used to be. For 3D work, keep in mind that these programs don't typically utilize multiple cores as well, so having a few fast cores can be more beneficial than a ton of slower ones.
If your budget allows, consider the Intel i9 14900K. I’ve been using it for about a month, and after running stress tests, I haven’t encountered any issues at all. Just make sure to update the BIOS to the latest microcode before you install the CPU, to prevent any potential problems. You can even update it with a Flash button method to ensure it's ready to go from the start, though do your homework on that first. Undervolting is another option if you're curious, but it requires some research too!
I haven't noticed any issues after a month of using it either.
If you're open to it, I’d suggest looking into the Ryzen 7700. The lower-end models have had less trouble. You might want to adjust your budget a bit and go for the AMD 8-core now, and then consider upgrading to a 12-core like Zen 6 in a few years.
Intel's 14600K and higher, along with Ryzen 7000, had some issues where the motherboards delivered too much voltage, causing CPU damage. The good news is that updating your BIOS can fix these voltage issues, so that's a must. As for older models, like the 13600K, they had some coating problems that caused oxidation, but new inventory should be safe now—just watch out for Ryzen 9000 with ASRock boards.
Just to clarify, he's likely talking about software like Blender for 3D modeling.