I'm planning a full upgrade for my PC with an AM5 architecture and I'm stuck deciding between the 9900X and the 9800X3D processors. Currently, I have a Ryzen 5 5600X and a 5070Ti. My primary game is Helldivers 2, and I want to know which CPU would pair best with my setup. I'm not worried about the price since I have the budget for either, but I'm unsure about the differences between the conventional X CPUs and those with the 3D vCache. Can someone help clarify?
5 Answers
If you're looking for a good deal, check places like Aaawave. I found the 7800X3D for $315 shipped, which is a killer price for that kind of performance. Just something to keep in mind!
Let me break this down a bit. The 9900X has a smaller cache (32MB) compared to the 9800X3D's 96MB, which means the X3D can load important game data faster. Extra cache allows it to handle performance dips better, reducing those annoying FPS drops. Plus, you won't need super fast RAM since the X3D is more efficient with standard speeds. So for gaming, it really makes sense to go with the 9800X3D.
Honestly, the 9800X3D wins for gaming every time. It has 8 really fast cores, which is fantastic for frame rates. The 9900X may be great for multitasking because of its 12 cores, but most games won't even use that many cores effectively. For gaming, the 8 cores of the X3D will get you the best performance.
If gaming is your main focus, go for the 9800X3D. Its 96MB L3 cache gives it a huge edge in gaming performance. The 9900X is better if you need it for tasks like editing or rendering, but for gaming, the X3D is definitely the way to go. Even if you're into some occasional editing while gaming, the 9800X3D will still perform better overall.
The 9900X is only suited if your gaming mainly involves strategy games. In strategy titles or certain simulators, extra cores make a difference. But for most other games, having high cache speeds is far more beneficial—and that’s where the X3D shines, making it the better choice for 99% of gamers.
Exactly! Plus, most modern games don't need more than 8 cores, especially shooters. So, the X3D is really the sweet spot for gamers.