Two new 9,000-series X3D gaming CPUs featuring 3D V-cache technology are expected to arrive soon, according to a recent leak. If the rumour proves accurate, we’ll gain a two-month head start on the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D launches. Notwithstanding this seeming anomaly, there appears to be a significant caveat that could render the more affordable 9800X3D the superior choice for gaming, much like its predecessor, the 7800X3D.
The Ryzen 7 9800X3D’s specifications enable reliable gaming performance, as its eight cores can tap into the vast 64MB 3D V-cache for optimized results. In our assessment of the 9800X3D, we found that AMD’s technology enhances CPU efficiency in video games, with the added benefit of a 5.2GHz boost clock outpacing the 5GHz performance of its predecessor, the 7800X3D.
Notwithstanding the latest revelation, it appears that each new X3D processor will be equipped with a single 3D V-cache chip per chiplet, a notable constraint compared to previous designs. Given the eight-core design of AMD’s CPUs, some cores may not directly access the additional cache, potentially leading to latency issues when a game utilizes a core without cache access?
If the Ryzen 9 9900X3D shares the same architecture as its predecessor, the Ryzen 9 7900X3D, featuring 12 cores divided evenly across two chiplets with six cores each, it logically follows that only six cores can directly access the increased cache.
Tech leaker Joang Anh Phu has correctly predicted AMD X3D rumors, and his forecast of a $30 premium for the 9800X3D over the 7800X3D proved accurate just a week prior to its official unveiling. Joang Anh Phu has publicly confirmed that the market may soon see the release of new 12-core and 16-core X3D CPUs, potentially arriving in late January. If AMD follows a consistent naming convention, it’s plausible that the 12-core processor would be dubbed Ryzen 9 9940X3D, while the 16-core variant might be labelled Ryzen 9 9980X3D.
While another individual’s inquiry was crucial, someone else specifically asked: “What about a full 3D V-cache, or just half like last time?” This likely alluded to the fact that previous X3D chips only featured 3D V-cache on one chiplet.
“When asked about the similarities between the new X3D chips and their Zen 4 predecessors, Joang Anh Phu responded that they share many of the same characteristics.”
If it’s indeed confirmed that this rumor is accurate, then the magnitude of its implications would be staggering and a deeply disheartening revelation. AMD has successfully addressed the primary thermal concerns with its 9800X3D processor, which employs a novel approach by situating the 3D V-cache beneath the core chiplet die rather than atop it, as previously implemented. This strategic relocation enables the possibility of placing 3D V-cache below each core chiplet die within upcoming CPU designs. While a 16-core CPU with 128MB of 3D V-cache would undoubtedly excel in video game performance, its true potential lies in its capacity to handle complex, multi-threaded tasks, effectively positioning AMD at the forefront of processing power for both gaming and professional applications.
While rumors swirl around the impending release, it’s essential to temper enthusiasm with a healthy dose of skepticism, as there has been no formal confirmation from AMD, leaving room for uncertainty. Are you in the market for a brand-new processor? Check out our comprehensive guide to the top gaming CPUs, where we present our favorite options to suit a range of budgets and needs.
