Best AM4 CPUs: Top Choices for Gamers and PC Enthusiasts
Best AM4 CPUs
The AM4 socket, which was introduced by AMD in 2017, has been one of the most successful CPU socket platforms, offering a wide range of processors that cater to different use cases. Whether you’re building a budget system, a mid-tier rig, or a high-end powerhouse, there’s an AM4 CPU for you. Over the years, AMD has consistently improved the performance of its AM4 processors, making them ideal choices for both gaming and productivity.
In this article, we’ll dive into the best AM4 CPUs available today, exploring their features, performance, and value for money.
1. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
Price: Around $700
Cores/Threads: 16/32
Base Clock: 4.5 GHz
Boost Clock: Up to 5.7 GHz
TDP: 170W
Architecture: Zen 4
The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is currently the best AM4 processor for enthusiasts and those who demand the highest levels of performance. As part of the Ryzen 7000 series, this chip is built on the 5nm Zen 4 architecture and offers impressive improvements in both single-threaded and multi-threaded performance compared to previous generations. With 16 cores and 32 threads, it excels at demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking, making it an excellent choice for content creators and professionals.
For gaming, the Ryzen 9 7950X shines with its high base and boost clocks, ensuring smooth performance even in CPU-intensive titles. It’s also backward compatible with AM4 motherboards, though some older boards may require a BIOS update.
One of the standout features of the 7950X is its energy efficiency and the ability to handle both heavy workloads and power-saving tasks with ease. However, its high TDP of 170W means it requires a good cooling solution, which may increase the overall build cost.
2. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
Price: Around $450
Cores/Threads: 8/16
Base Clock: 3.4 GHz
Boost Clock: Up to 4.5 GHz
TDP: 105W
Architecture: Zen 3
The Ryzen 7 5800X3D is a unique processor that sets itself apart from other Ryzen chips by incorporating AMD’s 3D V-Cache technology. This innovation adds an additional layer of L3 cache, improving performance in certain applications, particularly gaming. It has 8 cores and 16 threads, making it a solid choice for gamers who want top-tier performance at a more affordable price compared to the Ryzen 9 series.
In terms of gaming, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D outperforms many competitors due to its vast cache, which boosts frame rates and reduces latency in modern titles. Its performance in gaming is unparalleled at this price point, and it easily handles most AAA games at high settings.
For productivity tasks, the 5800X3D is a strong performer, but it may not be the best option for heavily multi-threaded workloads, as it only has 8 cores. However, if gaming is your priority, this chip provides fantastic value.
3. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Price: Around $300
Cores/Threads: 6/12
Base Clock: 4.7 GHz
Boost Clock: Up to 5.3 GHz
TDP: 105W
Architecture: Zen 4
The Ryzen 5 7600X is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers who still want great performance. With 6 cores and 12 threads, this CPU is perfect for gaming and general productivity. Its high base and boost clocks ensure fast performance in both single-threaded and multi-threaded applications. Whether you’re playing the latest AAA games or multitasking with several apps open, the 7600X will not disappoint.
In terms of gaming, this processor is ideal for 1080p and 1440p gaming, handling even the most demanding titles with ease. It’s one of the best CPUs in its price range and offers solid performance across the board, making it an attractive option for those looking to build a mid-tier gaming PC.
The Ryzen 5 7600X is built on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture, ensuring solid improvements in performance and power efficiency compared to previous Ryzen 5000 series chips. It’s a great option for gamers who want a high-performance CPU without breaking the bank.
4. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
Price: Around $250
Cores/Threads: 6/12
Base Clock: 3.7 GHz
Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz
TDP: 65W
Architecture: Zen 3
The Ryzen 5 5600X is one of the most popular processors in AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series and is a favorite choice for gamers on a budget. With 6 cores and 12 threads, it delivers fantastic performance for both gaming and productivity tasks. This chip has become a go-to processor for gaming PCs due to its excellent price-to-performance ratio.
The 5600X provides solid gaming performance at 1080p and 1440p, easily handling modern titles at high settings. It also excels in single-threaded performance, making it ideal for games that rely on CPU clock speed.
For users who don’t need the extreme performance of high-end chips like the Ryzen 9 5950X or 7950X, the 5600X is an excellent choice that offers great value. It has a lower TDP of 65W, meaning it requires less cooling than some of the higher-end processors, making it a more cost-effective option.
5. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X
Price: Around $120
Cores/Threads: 4/4
Base Clock: 3.8 GHz
Boost Clock: Up to 4.3 GHz
TDP: 95W
Architecture: Zen+
For gamers on a tight budget or those who want a basic CPU for light gaming and everyday tasks, the Ryzen 3 3300X is a solid option. Though it’s a lower-tier processor, it offers decent performance for its price point, with 4 cores and 4 threads. It’s perfect for gaming at lower settings or playing less demanding titles.
While it may not be the best choice for high-end gaming or productivity tasks, the 3300X is a good value for entry-level users who want a smooth experience at 1080p with a relatively low cost. The TDP of 95W is also manageable, making it an easy chip to cool without requiring an expensive setup.
6. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
Price: Around $550
Cores/Threads: 12/24
Base Clock: 3.7 GHz
Boost Clock: Up to 4.8 GHz
TDP: 105W
Architecture: Zen 3
For users who want a powerful CPU that can handle both gaming and productivity tasks, the Ryzen 9 5900X is an excellent choice. With 12 cores and 24 threads, it excels in multi-threaded workloads, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and heavy multitasking. This processor is a fantastic option for users who need both gaming performance and high-end computing power.
In gaming, the 5900X provides superb performance, easily handling modern titles at high settings. It’s a great choice for gamers who want to play at higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K, where the CPU demands are higher.
The Ryzen 9 5900X also provides excellent performance in content creation tasks, making it a popular choice for streamers and creators who need a CPU that can handle both high-performance gaming and demanding applications.
Conclusion
The AM4 platform remains a strong contender in the CPU market, with AMD continuing to deliver excellent processors across all price points. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or professional, there’s an AM4 CPU that fits your needs.
For those looking for the best overall performance, the Ryzen 9 7950X offers outstanding power, but if gaming is your primary focus, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D provides incredible gaming performance with its innovative 3D V-Cache technology. Budget-conscious gamers can still enjoy solid performance with the Ryzen 5 5600X or Ryzen 3 3300X, both of which offer great value.
Ultimately, the best AM4 CPU depends on your specific needs, but with the options available, you’re sure to find one that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank.
