AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review: The Best Gaming CPU for 2025?
The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is AMD’s latest high-performance gaming processor, designed to dominate the market with cutting-edge Zen 5 architecture. As the successor to the hugely popular 7800X3D, this chip promises exceptional gaming performance. But is it the best all-around CPU, or are there better alternatives for those who need more than just gaming power? Let’s dive into the details.
Key Specifications
- Architecture: Zen 5
- Cores / Threads: 8 / 16
- Base Clock: 4.7 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 5.2 GHz
- Cache: 96MB L3, 8MB L2
- TDP: 120W
- Manufacturing Process: 4nm FinFET
- Socket Compatibility: AM5
- Integrated Graphics: Yes (2 Radeon cores, 2200 MHz)
- Overclocking Support: Yes
Gaming Performance: The Best Choice for High FPS
For gaming, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is unrivalled. Thanks to its massive 96MB L3 cache, it delivers industry-leading frame rates, minimises latency, and enhances performance in CPU-intensive titles. AMD continues to lead the gaming processor market, and this CPU is proof of that.
Compared to the 7800X3D, the 9800X3D offers notable improvements in gaming responsiveness. However, UK retailers have been selling both CPUs at nearly the same price, making the older model poor value right now. If you’re looking for the best gaming CPU available, the 9800X3D is the one to get.
For those still using AM4 motherboards, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D remains an excellent budget option, but for next-gen gaming, the 9800X3D is the superior choice.
Is the 9800X3D Good for Content Creation and Work?
While the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is the best gaming CPU on the market, it’s not necessarily the best choice for professionals, streamers, or content creators. If you run CPU-intensive workloads such as video editing, 3D rendering, or streaming, you may be better off with a Ryzen 9 processor.
Alternatives like the Ryzen 9 9950X, the upcoming 9950X3D, or even the 9900X and 9900X3D offer more cores and better multi-threaded performance. While they may not match the 9800X3D in gaming, the difference in frame rates is minimal for the average gamer. However, their additional processing power makes them far better for productivity tasks.
Availability & Pricing in the UK
- UK Price: £433.00 (Correct at the time of writing – Amazon, next-day delivery available)
- Stock Levels: Readily available in the UK, with some shortages reported globally
Cooling & Power Considerations
With a 120W TDP, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D runs hotter and consumes more power than its predecessors. AMD recommends liquid cooling for optimal temperatures. Those upgrading from a lower-power CPU should also check their PSU wattage, especially if using a high-end graphics card.
Looking Ahead: RTX 5090 Testing
We’re excited to test the Ryzen 7 9800X3D alongside our new Nvidia RTX 5090. Securing a 5090 has been challenging due to limited stock, scalpers and huge demand, but now we have one, we’ll provide a full performance analysis in the next few days.
Should You Buy the Ryzen 7 9800X3D?
If you want the fastest gaming processor available today, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is the best choice. It offers unmatched speed, smoothness, and performance, making it the top gaming CPU of 2025.
However, if your needs extend beyond gaming—such as video editing, 3D modelling, or heavy multitasking—you may want to consider a Ryzen 9 9950X, 9950X3D, 9900X, or 9900X3D. These CPUs provide more cores and better performance in professional applications, with only a small reduction in gaming frame rates.
For hardcore gamers, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is the ultimate processor. But for content creators and professionals, a Ryzen 9 CPU may be the better investment.
(Updated 14th February 2025)
home