Are you looking to upgrade to the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series? Then you’re in the right place!
Here at Overclockers UK, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about these processors, detailing the key details, individual specs, and all the hardware you need to upgrade.
The AMD Ryzen 9000 Series
The AMD Ryzen 9000 Series has been designed with gamers, content creators, and creative professionals in mind. Built upon Zen 5 architecture, featuring a blend of premium cores and threads, these CPUs will handle any single- and multi-threaded task you throw their way. High clock speeds and integrated cache delivers maximum efficiency across your demanding workloads, facilitating quick processing with minimal interruptions.
Plus, thanks to support for DDR5 RAM, AMD EXPO, PCIe 5.0, and the AM5 socket, the Ryzen 9000 Series is future-proofed for all your potential upgrades down the line.
If you want a closer look at the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, be sure to check out our dedicated blog post for more details.
The CPUs
There are currently five CPUs in the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series. This includes:
- Ryzen 5 9600X
- Ryzen 7 9700X
- Ryzen 9 9900X
- Ryzen 9 9950X
- Ryzen 7 9800X3D
We’ve broken all the key differences between these CPUs below.
| Cores/Threads | Base Clock Speed | Boost Clock Speed | Cache | TDP | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 5 9600X | 6 cores 12 threads | 3.9GHz | 5.4GHz | 38MB | 65W |
| Ryzen 7 9700X | 8 cores 16 threads | 3.8GHz | 5.5GHz | 32MB | 65W |
| Ryzen 7 9800X3D | 8 cores 16 threads | 4.7GHz | 5.5GHz | 96MB | 120W |
| Ryzen 9 9900X | 12 cores 24 threads | 4.4GHz | 5.6GHz | 64MB | 120W |
| Ryzen 9 9950X | 16 cores 32 threads | 4.3GHz | 5.7GHz | 64MB | 120W |
Ryzen 5 9600X
Harness the Ryzen 5 9600X processor with its blend of 6 cores and 12 threads to power your gaming adventures like never before, capable of facilitating speeds up to 5.4GHz. Equipped with 38MB cache, this processor boasts superior efficiency, even under heavy-duty loads or multitasking. Plus, the light 65W TDP keeps your PC’s power consumption to a minimum.
- Zen 5 architecture
- 6 cores & 12 threads
- AM5 socket
- Up to 5.40GHz boosted clock speed
- 65W TDP
Ryzen 7 9700X
Perfect for mid-tier gaming and streaming, the Ryzen 7 9700X processor sports 8 cores and 16 threads to effortlessly handle all your single- and multi-threaded workloads. The 5.5GHz boosted clock speeds means you can enjoy rapid processing, while 32MB of L3 cache ensures peak efficiency.
- Zen 5 architecture
- 8 cores & 16 threads
- AM5 socket
- Up to 5.5GHz boosted clock speeds
- 65W TDP
Ryzen 7 9800X3D
Armed with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor, achieve next-level performance courtesy of the 8 cores, 16 threads, and 96MB of cutting-edge 3D V-Cache. All of which work in sync to deliver smooth, blisteringly fast performance and outstanding efficiency.
- Zen 5 architecture
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- AM5 socket
- Up to 5.20GHz boosted clock speeds
- Equipped with powerful 3D V-Cache
- 120W TDP
Ryzen 9 9900X
The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X processor features 12 cores and 24 threads, with boosted clock speeds of up to 5.60GHz. This facilitates ultra-fast performance, seamless multitasking, and quick in-game loading times. Especially with integrated support for DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0.
- Zen 5 architecture
- 12 cores & 24 threads
- AM5 socket
- Up to 5.60GHz boosted clock speeds
- 120W TDP
Ryzen 9 9950X
The Ryzen 9 9950X CPU is the flagship model of the Ryzen 9000 Series. Equipped with a hefty 16 cores and 32 threads, this processor can handle any demanding workflow with ease, especially with a maximum boosted clock speed of up to 5.70GHz!
- Zen 5 architecture
- 16 cores & 32 threads
- AM5 socket
- Up to 5.70GHz boosted clock speeds
- 170W TDP
8Pack and AMD Ryzen 9000 Series
8Pack sat down with Briony to talk all things Ryzen 9000 Series and overclocking. Check out our video below to hear his thoughts.
What Hardware Do You Need to Upgrade to the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series
Motherboard
To utilise an AMD Ryzen 9000 Series processor, you’ll first need to ensure you have a compatible motherboard that features an AM5 socket. This ensures you’ll have the perfect foundation to fully harness Zen 5 architecture and enjoy AAA performance.
- ATX form factor
- AM5 socket
- X870-F chipset
- Compatible with AMD Ryzen 9000 Series
- DDR5 RAM support
- PCIe 5.0
CPU Cooler
Similar to your motherboard, you’ll need a CPU cooler that utilises a compatible AM5 socket. Our top pick is the TRYX Panorama 360mm AiO which features a premium 360mm radiator and three ROTA Pro fans to effectively draw and dissipate any excess heat. The 6.5’’ AMOLED L-shaped screen adds that extra unique touch, allowing you to display your own custom 3D content.
- AiO CPU cooler
- 360mm radiator
- 3 x ROTA Pro fans
- 25.3 dB(A) maximum fan noise
- 6.5’’ AMOLED L-shaped screen
RAM
The AMD Ryzen 9000 Series is only compatible with DDR5 RAM, meaning you won’t be able to use a DDR4 RAM kit alongside this CPU.
However, with DDR5, you’ll be able to take advantage of high-speed memory to enjoy near-zero lag or latency, along with rapid in-game loading times. Plus, since Ryzen 9000 CPUs support AMD EXPO, you can also utilise easy-to-use overclocking to truly boost your performance even further.
- 32GB capacity
- 2 x 16GB RAM modules
- DDR5 standard
- AMD EXPO support
- 6000MHz RAM speed
Graphics Card
No gaming set-up is complete without a GPU to render your virtual adventures. The ASUS Radeon RX 7900 XT allows you to show off your love for Team Red and enjoy lifelike visuals, buttery-smooth gameplay, and fast frame rates.
- AMD RDNA 3 architecture
- 5376 Stream processors
- 2535MHz boosted clock speed
- DirectX 12 support
- 20GB GDDR6 video memory
Power Supply
To supply all this incredible hardware with enough power, a premium PSU is a must. We recommend the Kolink Regulator 850W PSU as its 850W capacity will deliver you plenty of wiggle room for any unexpected spikes, while the 80 Plus Gold rating facilitates outstanding efficiency, at half or full loads.
- Modular form factor
- ATX 3.0 compatible
- 850W capacity
- 80 Plus Gold rating
- PCIe 5.0
Storage
Your expanding gaming library and creative projects need a home! With the WD Black SN850X, you’ll never need to worry about running out of precious storage space. Plus, the 7300MB/s read, and 6600MB/s write times will unlock near-instant access to all your files.
- 2TB capacity
- 2280 form factor
- PCIe 4.0
- 7300MB/s read speed
- 660MB/s write speed
AMD Ryzen 9000 Series FAQ
What Socket Does the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series Use?
The AMD Ryzen 9000 Series utilises the AM5 socket, meaning you’ll need to ensure you have a motherboard with this socket and compatible CPU cooler.
Will I Need to Upgrade My Motherboard for the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series?
If you don’t have a motherboard that features an AM5 socket, you’ll need to upgrade your motherboard to harness the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series. However, if you’re already using a motherboard with an AM5 socket, you’re in the clear!
Does the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series Support DDR4 RAM?
The AMD Ryzen 9000 Series doesn’t support DDR4. This means you’ll need to ensure you are utilising DDR5 RAM.
Is the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series Good for Gaming?
The AMD Ryzen 9000 Series is a fantastic choice for gamers. Zen 5 architecture has been optimised to deliver next-level performance and rapid processing in heavy-duty workloads, including modern-day AAA titles. Onboard high-capacity cache ensures you can explore the latest virtual worlds with maximum efficiency.
Did You Upgrade to the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series?
Have you upgraded to the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series? What are your thoughts? How has this CPU levelled up your gaming or productivity? Let us know in the comments below.
- 7 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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