I'm considering upgrading my R9 5900X processor since I've noticed it's struggling with some games, especially paired with my RTX 4080. However, switching to an AM5 platform isn't an option for me right now, and I'd like to keep using my 64GB of DDR4 RAM. I've looked into AM4 processors, but they seem to be either on par with my current CPU or worse in terms of gaming performance. I've also thought about Intel, as they support DDR4, but I haven't followed them since the 9000 series. Is it a better strategy to just stick with the R9 5900X until the DDR5 market stabilizes and then aim for an R9 9000 series, maybe with X3D technology? I also occasionally do rendering work, so I want something with more than 8 cores.
3 Answers
What kind of games are causing issues, and at what resolution are you playing? I play AAA titles at 1440p, and that setup should handle most things just fine. Have you considered tuning your settings? It might help resolve some performance bottlenecks without needing a new CPU.
Just a heads-up, the R9 5900X actually has 12 cores, not 8! So if you're looking for a replacement, make sure to check that out. You might want to consider the 5800X3D or 5700X3D if you stick with AM4, but that would mean fewer cores for your rendering tasks.
I think you've got a point about AM4 upgrades being limited. If you want performance without switching platforms, the 5800X3D is really the only viable upgrade, but it won't match your current core count for rendering. Maybe it's best just to ride out the R9 5900X for now until the market changes.

I play games like Escape from Tarkov and Battlefield 6 at 1440p, aiming for 144Hz. It's just that in some intense moments, my CPU seems to hit 90-100% usage while the GPU is around 80%.