AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 8-core AM5
Intel Core i9 11900K 8-core LGA1200
What Buyers Say
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 8-core AM5
The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is widely celebrated as the best gaming CPU on the market, delivering massive frame rate boosts, improved 1% lows, and excellent thermal efficiency. Users upgrading from older Intel or AMD chips report transformative gains in CPU-intensive games and smoother multitasking. The main caution is to avoid paying above MSRP due to scalper pricing, and to ensure a compatible AM5 motherboard with a BIOS update. Overall, it is a top-tier choice for gamers seeking peak performance.
Pros
- Best gaming performance on the market
- Massive frame rate boosts in CPU-heavy games
- Excellent thermal efficiency and cool operation
- Improved 1% lows for smoother gameplay
- Great upgrade from older Intel and AMD chips
Cons
- Scalper pricing above MSRP
- No included cooler in the box
- Requires BIOS update on older AM5 motherboards
- Limited availability and stock issues
- OEM version lacks original box and accessories
Intel Core i9 11900K 8-core LGA1200
The Intel Core i9-11900K is generally well-received, with users praising its strong performance, easy overclocking, and value compared to newer generations. However, a recurring concern is its high heat output, with several reviewers emphasizing the need for premium cooling solutions like a high-end AIO or excellent airflow. Despite some initial skepticism and mixed online opinions, most users found it reliable for gaming and multitasking after proper setup.
Pros
- Strong gaming performance
- Easy overclocking
- Good value vs newer CPUs
- Fast shipping
- Compatible with LGA 1200 boards
Cons
- Runs very hot
- Requires premium cooling
- High power consumption
- Not better than Ryzen 9 5900X
Scores
Specifications
| AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D | Intel Core i9 11900K | |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | ||
| Brand | AMD | Intel |
| Series | Ryzen 7 | Core i9 |
| Model | 9800X3D | 11900K |
| Codename | Granite Ridge | Rocket Lake |
| Class | desktop | desktop |
| Process | 4★ | 14 |
| Cores & Clocks | ||
| Cores | 8 | 8 |
| P-cores | 8 | 8 |
| Threads | 16 | 16 |
| Base Clock | ||
| Boost Clock | ||
| Cache | ||
| L2 Cache | 8★ | 4 |
| L3 Cache | 96★ | 16 |
| Performance | ||
| PassMark Multi | ||
| PassMark Single | ||
| Memory | ||
| Memory Type | DDR5★ | DDR4 |
| Max Speed | ||
| Channels | 2 | 2 |
| Max Memory | ||
| ECC | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Platform & Power | ||
| Socket | AM5 | LGA 1200 |
| PCIe | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| PCIe Lanes | 28★ | 20 |
| TDP | 120★ | 125 |
| Max Turbo Power | 200 | 95★ |
| Unlocked | ✓ | ✓ |
| Graphics & AI | ||
| Integrated Graphics | AMD Radeon Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 750 |
Pros & Cons
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 8-core AM5
- Strong feature (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong social proof (97th percentile)97th %ile
- Strong single thread (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong platform (95th percentile)95th %ile
Intel Core i9 11900K 8-core LGA1200
- Strong social proof (91st percentile)91st %ile
- Strong single thread (87th percentile)87th %ile
- Strong feature (83rd percentile)83rd %ile
- Strong multi thread (81st percentile)81st %ile
Pricing
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 8-core AM5 offers 1.4x better value for money
Verdict
Scores 100 overall, wins 6 of 6 usage categories and 12 of 27 specs.