Should I upgrade my AM4 gaming PC to AM5 or just get a 5800X3D?

The 5800X3D is still a solid choice for extending the life of an AM4 system, especially since you already have 32GB of DDR4. It avoids the cost and hassle of replacing three components, and it should be plenty for 1440p gaming when paired with that graphics card.

That said, it is effectively the end of the AM4 upgrade path. If you want the strongest CPU performance now and the option to upgrade again later, the 9800X3D with AM5 is the better long-term platform.

First figure out whether the 5600X is actually holding you back. Check your GPU usage at the frame rates you care about and think about whether your current performance is genuinely unsatisfying. If the GPU is already staying near full utilization, a CPU upgrade may not change much.

If you are CPU-limited, the 5800X3D is the simple drop-in option. It should perform around the level of lower-end AM5 gaming CPUs such as the 7500F, 7600, or 9600X, while letting you keep your board and memory. Compare the price of the 5800X3D against an AM5 CPU, motherboard, and at least 16GB of DDR5 before deciding.

I’d lean toward AM5 in your situation if you’re already considering the 9800X3D and can get a good bundle. DDR5 and newer CPU pricing may not improve dramatically soon, and AM5 should offer at least one more meaningful upgrade opportunity. If you would rather minimize spending and your current frame rates are good, just keep the 5600X for now—or choose the 5800X3D only once you confirm you’re CPU-limited.

If you’re close enough to a Micro Center, their CPU, motherboard, and memory bundles can make AM5 much more attractive than buying each part separately. A discounted AM5 bundle could narrow the price gap enough that the 9800X3D platform makes sense, especially since money isn’t a major concern.

For pure value, though, a 5800X3D upgrade remains hard to beat if your current motherboard supports it and you don’t need additional CPU performance right now.