Best Pick

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D 8-core AM5

98.5 Gaming Score
8C/16T5.2GHz96MB L3AM5120W
Why we recommend this

The 5.2 GHz boost clock and 96MB L3 cache, built on Zen 5 and 4nm, deliver top-tier gaming performance with a PassMark multi-core score of 39954. Its 120W TDP and unlocked multiplier allow overclocking on the AM5 platform, while the integrated Radeon Graphics and PCIe 5.0 support add flexibility. Best for gamers who prioritize frame rates and want a high-end CPU for demanding titles without needing a discrete GPU for basic tasks.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X3D 6-core AM5

92.7 Gaming Score
6C/12T4.7GHz96MB L3AM565W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 96MB of 3D V-Cache gives this 6-core, 12-thread chip a distinct advantage in gaming, delivering frame rates that rival higher-tier processors while maintaining a modest 65W TDP. Its positioning as a Micro Center exclusive creates a compelling value proposition for builders who can access it, effectively bringing high-end gaming cache to a mid-range price point. This processor is best for AM5 system builders who prioritize pure gaming performance and power efficiency over heavy multi-threaded workstation tasks.

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AMD Ryzen 9 7900X 12-core AM5

86.1 Gaming Score
12C/24T5.6GHz64MB L3AM5170W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 12-core, 24-thread Zen 4 architecture on TSMC 5nm delivers a 5.6 GHz boost clock and a massive 64MB L3 cache for dominant multi-threaded throughput. Its unlocked multiplier on the AM5 socket provides a clear upgrade path with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, though you must supply your own cooling solution for the 170W TDP. This processor is best for 3D rendering artists and software compilers who need high core counts without stepping up to the flagship 7950X’s price.

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AMD FD6200FRGUBOX

70.3 Gaming Score
6C/6T3.8GHzAM3125W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 3.8GHz base and boost clock on six unlocked cores delivers solid multi-threaded performance for its 125W TDP, backed by a 24MB L2 cache and a PassMark multi-core score of 24866. Its boxed cooler and Socket AM3 compatibility make it a straightforward drop-in upgrade for older AM3 boards, with a 3.5/5 customer rating reflecting reliable but dated performance. Best for budget-conscious builders upgrading an existing AM3 system for everyday productivity and light gaming, where its 72.8 productivity and 70.3 gaming scores offer decent value.

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AMD Ryzen 5 4600G

61.7 Gaming Score
6C/12T4.2GHz8MB L3AM465W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 7nm Zen 2 architecture delivers 6 cores and 12 threads with a 4.2 GHz boost, plus integrated Radeon graphics that eliminate the need for a separate GPU in basic builds. Its 65W TDP and unlocked multiplier make it a power-efficient choice for compact systems, while the bundled Wraith Stealth cooler keeps setup costs low. Best for budget-conscious builders assembling entry-level gaming or office PCs who want solid integrated graphics and upgrade headroom on the AM4 platform.

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AMD FX 9590 8-core AMD Socket AM3+

46.8 Gaming Score
8C/8T5.0GHz8MB L3AM3+220W
Why we recommend this ▼

The FX-9590 pushes an 8-core Vishera design to a 5.0GHz boost clock on the aging AM3+ socket, but its 220W TDP demands liquid cooling and a high-end motherboard. Its unlocked multiplier and 8MB of L3 cache offer overclocking headroom for legacy DDR3 systems, though efficiency scores just 29/100. This CPU suits budget builders reviving old AM3+ rigs for basic multithreaded tasks, not modern gaming or power-conscious users.

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AMD B960966

44.3 Gaming Score
8C/8T4.2GHz8MB L3Socket AM3+125W
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AMD EPYC 7413 24-core SP3

40.2 Gaming Score
24C/48T3.6GHz128MB L3SP3180W
Why we recommend this ▼

Built on the 7nm Zen 3 architecture, the 24-core, 48-thread processor delivers strong multi-threaded throughput with a massive 128MB L3 cache and a 3.6 GHz boost clock. Its 180W TDP balances dense compute capability with reduced energy consumption for the Socket SP3 platform, backed by PCIe 4.0 connectivity. This chip is best for data center operators running virtualized workloads and general-purpose server applications where core density per watt is the priority.

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