I'm currently using a Ryzen 5 3500X along with an RTX 3060 and 16GB DDR4 RAM. Lately, I've been experiencing some stuttering and high CPU usage during certain games, and I'm considering an upgrade. I'm torn between sticking with the AM4 platform or making the jump to AM5. For AM4, I'm looking at the Ryzen 7 5700X or 5800X. On the other hand, if I go with AM5, I'm considering the Ryzen 7 7800X3D along with a new B650 motherboard and DDR5 RAM. I've heard that the 7800X3D is really powerful for gaming because of its extra cache, but I'm trying to weigh if the price difference is justified compared to the 5700X or 5800X. I'm not a hardcore gamer—just someone who enjoys playing AAA titles and using my PC for school and work. I have a couple of questions: First, how big is the performance difference between the 5700X or 5800X and the 7800X3D? Second, would an upgrade to the 5700X or 5800X help solve my stuttering issues? I'm committed to upgrading; I just want your thoughts on the best path forward!
5 Answers
If I were in your shoes, I’d probably go for the 5700X or 5800X and then wait for future options. RAM prices might drop by the time you’re ready for a full rebuild. That’s my plan!
Honestly, I feel you! I was leaning toward going AM5 for the future, too. But with the price difference, the 5700X is looking like a better option unless you find a great deal on a 7800X3D.
If you're on a budget, just grab the 5700X. You’ll get better performance than your 3500X and can save some cash for a future upgrade later. The 5800X isn’t worth the extra bucks for gaming anyway.
Exactly! Keeping it cheap now and gradually upgrading later sounds like a smart plan.
I’d suggest the 5700X—it’s a solid upgrade that should help with your stuttering issues. Going with AM5 is great for future-proofing, but unless you're upgrading your GPU too, you might not fully benefit from a 7800X3D right now. Stick with the 5700X and maybe add more RAM later for even better performance!
I upgraded from a 3600X to a 5800X and I've been really happy with it. In my opinion, the X3D isn’t worth the hassle right now. Plus, you'll probably regret missing out on an awesome deal later!

Yeah, I was also eyeing the AM5 route but it’s just out of my budget right now.