AMD Ryzen 9 3900X: The Ultimate Gaming Processor

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a powerful processor that was launched in 2019. It is built on the 7nm process and has 12 cores and 24 threads. This processor is designed for high-end gaming and content creation. In this article, we will discuss the features, specifications, and benefits of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X. We will also provide an in-depth comparison of this processor with other processors in the market.

What is AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a high-performance desktop processor based on the Zen 2 architecture. It was released in 2019 and has 12 cores and 24 threads, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.

The processor has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and can boost up to 4.6 GHz, and it also comes with a large 70MB cache to help speed up processing.

It uses the AM4 socket and is compatible with motherboards that support the X570, X470, and B450 chipsets. The Ryzen 9 3900X is known for its strong performance and competitive pricing compared to Intel’s offerings.

Features of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Feature Details
Cores 12
Threads 24
Base Clock Speed 3.8 GHz
Boost Clock Speed Up to 4.6 GHz
Cache 70MB
TDP 105W
Architecture Zen 2
Manufacturing Process 7nm
Socket AM4
Memory Support DDR4
PCIe 4.0 Support Yes
  • Cores and Threads: The Ryzen 9 3900X has 12 cores and 24 threads, which is more than most consumer-level processors. This allows for better multitasking and performance in heavily threaded workloads such as video editing and rendering.
  • Clock Speeds: The base clock speed of the Ryzen 9 3900X is 3.8 GHz, but it can boost up to 4.6 GHz when needed. This allows for fast performance in single-threaded applications as well.
  • Cache: The Ryzen 9 3900X has a total of 70MB of cache, including 64MB of L3 cache and 6MB of L2 cache. This helps improve performance by allowing the processor to access frequently used data quickly.
  • TDP: The TDP (thermal design power) of the Ryzen 9 3900X is 105 watts, which is relatively high compared to other desktop processors. This means that the processor can consume a significant amount of power and may require adequate cooling to prevent overheating.
  • Architecture and Manufacturing Process: The Ryzen 9 3900X is based on the Zen 2 architecture and is manufactured using a 7nm process. This allows for improved efficiency and performance compared to older architectures.
  • Socket and Memory Support: The Ryzen 9 3900X uses the AM4 socket, which is compatible with most modern motherboards. It also supports DDR4 memory, which is the standard for most modern systems.
  • PCIe 4.0 Support: The Ryzen 9 3900X supports PCIe 4.0, which is the latest standard for PCIe interfaces. This allows for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance in certain applications, such as high-speed storage devices.
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AMD Ryzen 9 3900X Specs

Detailed specifications for the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X:

  • Cores: 12
  • Threads: 24
  • Base clock speed: 3.8 GHz
  • Boost clock speed: Up to 4.6 GHz
  • L3 Cache: 64 MB
  • L2 Cache: 6 MB
  • TDP: 105W
  • Manufacturing process: 7nm
  • Socket: AM4
  • Memory support: DDR4
  • Memory channels: 2
  • PCIe 4.0 lanes: 20
  • Thermal solution: Wraith Prism with RGB LED
  • Max Temperature: 95°C
  • Default TDP/TDP: 105W
  • Maximum Operating Temperature: 95°C
  • Bundled Cooler: Wraith Prism with RGB LED
  • PCI Express Version: PCIe 4.0 x16
  • PCI Express Lanes: 20
  • Unlocked: Yes

The Ryzen 9 3900X has 12 cores and 24 threads, which means it can handle multiple tasks simultaneously. It has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and can boost up to 4.6 GHz, which provides fast performance in single-threaded applications.

The processor has a large 64 MB L3 cache and 6 MB L2 cache, which helps improve performance by allowing the processor to access frequently used data quickly. It has a TDP of 105W, which means it can consume a significant amount of power and may require adequate cooling.

The Ryzen 9 3900X supports PCIe 4.0, which allows for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance in certain applications. It comes bundled with the Wraith Prism with RGB LED, a powerful air cooler that can handle the processor’s thermal requirements.

It is also unlocked, which means that it can be overclocked to achieve even better performance if desired.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X Gaming & Creativity Performance

The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a high-performance processor that can handle both gaming and creativity tasks with ease. Here are some of its key performance metrics in these areas:

Gaming Performance

The Ryzen 9 3900X performs well in gaming, especially at higher resolutions such as 1440p and 4K. Its high core count and multithreaded performance allow for smooth gameplay in CPU-intensive titles such as Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, Battlefield V, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider.

The processor also supports PCIe 4.0, which allows for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance in certain gaming applications such as high-speed storage devices.

Creativity Performance

The Ryzen 9 3900X excels in creative applications such as video editing, 3D rendering, and photo editing. Its high core count and multithreaded performance make it an ideal choice for these tasks, allowing for faster rendering times and smoother workflow.

In benchmarks such as Cinebench R20, the Ryzen 9 3900X performs better than many more expensive processors from Intel, making it a cost-effective choice for creative professionals.

The Ryzen 9 3900X is a strong performer in both gaming and creative tasks, making it a versatile processor that can handle a wide range of applications. Its high core count and multithreaded performance make it particularly well-suited to tasks that require intensive processing power.
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Benefits of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Some of the benefits of the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X:

  • High-performance: With 12 cores and 24 threads, the Ryzen 9 3900X is a high-performance processor that can handle a wide range of applications, from gaming to creative workloads.
  • Multithreaded performance: The Ryzen 9 3900X’s high core count and multithreaded performance make it an ideal choice for tasks that require intensive processing power, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and photo editing.
  • PCIe 4.0 support: The Ryzen 9 3900X supports PCIe 4.0, which allows for faster data transfer speeds and improved performance in certain applications such as high-speed storage devices.
  • Cost-effective: The Ryzen 9 3900X offers excellent performance at a reasonable price point, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking for a high-performance processor without breaking the bank.
  • Thermal efficiency: Despite its high performance, the Ryzen 9 3900X is relatively energy-efficient, with a TDP of 105W. It also comes bundled with a powerful air cooler, the Wraith Prism with RGB LED, which can handle the processor’s thermal requirements.
  • Unlocked: The Ryzen 9 3900X is unlocked, which means it can be overclocked to achieve even better performance if desired.

Ryzen 9 3900X offers a range of benefits, from high-performance and multithreaded processing power to cost-effectiveness and thermal efficiency. Its versatility and performance make it a popular choice for gamers, creative professionals, and enthusiasts alike.

Overclocking Potential of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is an unlocked processor, which means it can be overclocked to achieve even better performance than its stock settings. However, the overclocking potential of the Ryzen 9 3900X can vary depending on the individual processor and other factors such as cooling.

In general, the Ryzen 9 3900X has shown to have a moderate overclocking potential, with some users able to achieve a stable all-core overclock of around 4.2-4.3 GHz. However, achieving higher clock speeds requires significant cooling and voltage increases, which can lead to higher temperatures and potential stability issues.

It’s important to note that overclocking can also void the warranty of the processor, so it’s important to proceed with caution and only attempt overclocking if you have experience with it and are comfortable with the risks involved.

Ryzen 9 3900X has some overclocking potential, the results can vary depending on the individual processor and other factors such as cooling. As with any overclocking, it’s important to proceed with caution and be aware of the risks involved.

Thermal Performance of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

The thermal performance of the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is generally quite good, thanks in part to its efficient 7nm manufacturing process and relatively low TDP of 105W. However, thermal performance can also be affected by a variety of factors such as cooling, case airflow, and overclocking.

Under normal operating conditions with the stock Wraith Prism cooler, the Ryzen 9 3900X typically operates at around 70-80 degrees Celsius under full load, with idle temperatures in the low 40s. However, the actual temperature can vary depending on the specific workload and ambient temperature.

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For those looking for even better thermal performance, aftermarket coolers can offer improved cooling performance and lower temperatures. A good quality air cooler or liquid cooler can help keep temperatures down, especially when overclocking the processor.

It’s also important to ensure that the case has adequate airflow, with sufficient intake and exhaust fans to ensure proper circulation of cool air and hot air out of the case.

Thermal performance of the Ryzen 9 3900X is generally quite good, and can be further improved with proper cooling and case airflow.

Price of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

The price of the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X can vary depending on the retailer and the country where it’s being sold. At the time of my knowledge cutoff (September 2021), the MSRP of the Ryzen 9 3900X was around $499 USD. However, due to supply and demand, the actual price may vary and could be higher or lower than the MSRP.

It’s worth noting that prices of computer hardware components can fluctuate over time due to various factors such as availability, demand, and market conditions. Therefore, it’s important to check current pricing and availability from reputable retailers before making a purchase decision.

Comparison with other Processors same price range

Processor Cores/Threads Base Clock Boost Clock TDP Price (MSRP)
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12/24 3.8 GHz 4.6 GHz 105W $499 USD
Intel Core i9-9900K 8/16 3.6 GHz 5.0 GHz 95W $488 USD
Intel Core i7-10700K 8/16 3.8 GHz 5.1 GHz 125W $374 USD
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 8/16 3.8 GHz 4.7 GHz 105W $449 USD

Here are some details about each processor:

  • AMD Ryzen 9 3900X: As discussed earlier, the Ryzen 9 3900X has 12 cores and 24 threads, a base clock of 3.8 GHz, a boost clock of 4.6 GHz, and a TDP of 105W. It offers excellent multi-threaded performance and is a popular choice for gaming and creative workloads.
  • Intel Core i9-9900K: The i9-9900K is an 8-core, 16-thread processor with a base clock of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock of 5.0 GHz. It has a TDP of 95W and is a popular choice for gaming and productivity tasks. However, it has lower core and thread count compared to the Ryzen 9 3900X, which can impact its multi-threaded performance.
  • Intel Core i7-10700K: The i7-10700K is an 8-core, 16-thread processor with a base clock of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock of 5.1 GHz. It has a higher TDP of 125W compared to the other processors on this list, but it offers excellent single-threaded performance and is a popular choice for gaming.
  • AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: The Ryzen 7 5800X is an 8-core, 16-thread processor with a base clock of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock of 4.7 GHz. It has a TDP of 105W and offers excellent single-threaded and multi-threaded performance. It’s a newer processor than the Ryzen 9 3900X and offers slightly better performance in some tasks, but it has fewer cores and threads.

Each of these processors offers excellent performance for their respective price points. The Ryzen 9 3900X offers higher core and thread count compared to the Intel processors on this list, which makes it a better choice for multi-threaded tasks such as video editing and rendering.

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However, the Intel processors on this list generally offer better single-threaded performance, which can be beneficial for gaming and other tasks that rely heavily on single-threaded performance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the specific use case and individual preferences.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X Benchmarks

Benchmark Score
Cinebench R20 Multi-Core 7107
Cinebench R20 Single-Core 510
Geekbench 5 Multi-Core 12644
Geekbench 5 Single-Core 1336
PassMark CPU Mark 35789
Blender BMW27 205s
Handbrake H.264 to H.265 4K encoding time 356s
Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p, Highest Settings) 158 FPS

 

  • Cinebench R20 Multi-Core: Cinebench is a popular benchmarking tool that measures the performance of a processor in a multi-threaded workload. In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X scored 7107 points, which is an excellent result and highlights the processor’s strong multi-threaded performance.
  • Cinebench R20 Single-Core: This benchmark measures the performance of a processor in a single-threaded workload. The Ryzen 9 3900X scored 510 points, which is a good result but lower than some other processors in the same price range.
  • Geekbench 5 Multi-Core: Geekbench is another popular benchmarking tool that measures both single-core and multi-core performance. In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X scored 12644 points in multi-core performance, which is an excellent result.
  • Geekbench 5 Single-Core: In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X scored 1336 points in single-core performance, which is a good result but again lower than some other processors in the same price range.
  • PassMark CPU Mark: PassMark CPU Mark is a benchmarking tool that measures overall CPU performance. In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X scored 35789 points, which is an excellent result and highlights the processor’s strong performance across a variety of workloads.
  • Blender BMW27: Blender is a popular 3D rendering software, and this benchmark measures the time it takes for the Ryzen 9 3900X to render a 3D scene. In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X completed the task in 205 seconds, which is an excellent result.
  • Handbrake H.264 to H.265 4K encoding time: Handbrake is a popular video encoding software, and this benchmark measures the time it takes for the Ryzen 9 3900X to encode a 4K video from H.264 to H.265 format. In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X completed the task in 356 seconds, which is a good result and highlights the processor’s strong multi-threaded performance.
  • Shadow of the Tomb Raider: This benchmark measures the gaming performance of the Ryzen 9 3900X in the popular game Shadow of the Tomb Raider. In this benchmark, the Ryzen 9 3900X achieved 158 FPS at 1080p resolution and the highest graphics settings, which is an excellent result and highlights the processor’s strong gaming performance.

Ryzen 9 3900X offers excellent performance across a variety of workloads, including multi-threaded tasks like rendering and encoding, as well as gaming.

The benchmark results demonstrate the processor’s strong performance in these areas and make it a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900x Motherboard Compatibled

The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is compatible with motherboards that feature the AM4 socket and the X570, B550, and A520 chipsets. However, some motherboards may require a BIOS update before they can support the Ryzen 9 3900X.

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Here are some popular motherboards that are compatible with the Ryzen 9 3900X:

  • ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero (Wi-Fi): This high-end motherboard features the X570 chipset and is compatible with the Ryzen 9 3900X out of the box. It offers advanced overclocking features, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and a premium design.
  • MSI MPG X570 Gaming Pro Carbon Wi-Fi: Another X570 motherboard that is compatible with the Ryzen 9 3900X, the MPG X570 Gaming Pro Carbon Wi-Fi offers robust overclocking features, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and a sleek design.
  • Gigabyte Aorus B550 Master: This mid-range motherboard features the B550 chipset and is compatible with the Ryzen 9 3900X out of the box. It offers a robust power delivery system, advanced overclocking features, and a premium design.
  • ASRock A520M Pro4: This budget-friendly motherboard features the A520 chipset and is compatible with the Ryzen 9 3900X with a BIOS update. It offers a basic set of features but is a good option for those on a tight budget.

It’s important to check the specifications of a motherboard to ensure compatibility with the Ryzen 9 3900X, as well as to consider the features and price point that best fit your needs.

Ryzen 9 3900X Vs Ryzen 7 5800X

The Ryzen 9 3900X and Ryzen 7 5800X are both powerful processors from AMD, but there are some key differences between the two. Here’s a comparison of the Ryzen 9 3900X vs. Ryzen 7 5800X:

  • Core count and threads: The Ryzen 9 3900X has 12 cores and 24 threads, while the Ryzen 7 5800X has 8 cores and 16 threads. This means that the Ryzen 9 3900X can handle more simultaneous tasks and has a clear advantage in multi-threaded applications like video editing and 3D rendering.
  • Clock speeds: The Ryzen 7 5800X has higher base and boost clock speeds than the Ryzen 9 3900X, which can result in better single-threaded performance. The Ryzen 7 5800X has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz, while the Ryzen 9 3900X has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz.
  • Cache size: The Ryzen 7 5800X has a larger cache than the Ryzen 9 3900X. The Ryzen 7 5800X has 32MB of L3 cache, while the Ryzen 9 3900X has 64MB of L3 cache.
  • Price: The Ryzen 7 5800X is more expensive than the Ryzen 9 3900X, with a suggested retail price of around $449, while the Ryzen 9 3900X can often be found for around $399.

In terms of performance, the Ryzen 9 3900X has an advantage in multi-threaded applications, while the Ryzen 7 5800X has an advantage in single-threaded applications.

Both processors are capable of handling demanding workloads, but the Ryzen 9 3900X is a better choice for those who need more cores and threads, while the Ryzen 7 5800X is a better choice for those who prioritize single-threaded performance.

Ryzen 9 3900X vs i9 9900K

The Ryzen 9 3900X and i9 9900K are both high-end processors from AMD and Intel, respectively. Here’s a comparison of the Ryzen 9 3900X vs i9 9900K:

  • Core count and threads: The Ryzen 9 3900X has 12 cores and 24 threads, while the i9 9900K has 8 cores and 16 threads. This means that the Ryzen 9 3900X can handle more simultaneous tasks and has a clear advantage in multi-threaded applications like video editing and 3D rendering.
  • Clock speeds: The i9 9900K has higher base and boost clock speeds than the Ryzen 9 3900X, which can result in better single-threaded performance. The i9 9900K has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.0 GHz, while the Ryzen 9 3900X has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz.
  • Cache size: The i9 9900K has a smaller cache than the Ryzen 9 3900X. The i9 9900K has 16MB of L3 cache, while the Ryzen 9 3900X has 64MB of L3 cache.
  • Price: The Ryzen 9 3900X is slightly more expensive than the i9 9900K, with a suggested retail price of around $399, while the i9 9900K can often be found for around $389.
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In terms of performance, the Ryzen 9 3900X has an advantage in multi-threaded applications, while the i9 9900K has an advantage in single-threaded applications. However, the Ryzen 9 3900X generally outperforms the i9 9900K in multi-threaded tasks due to its higher core count and threads.

The i9 9900K may be a better choice for gaming and single-threaded tasks, while the Ryzen 9 3900X is a better choice for those who need more cores and threads for demanding workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, and content creation.


In summary, we have discussed the features, performance, compatibility, price, and benchmarks of the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X processor. Here are the key points we covered:

  • The Ryzen 9 3900X has 12 cores and 24 threads, a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz.
  • It offers excellent gaming and creative performance and is compatible with the latest motherboards, including the X570 and B550.
  • The processor has a TDP of 105W and comes with a bundled cooler, but you may want to upgrade to a better cooling solution if you plan on overclocking it.
  • In terms of price, the Ryzen 9 3900X sits at around $399, making it an affordable option for those who need high-end performance.

After comparing the Ryzen 9 3900X to its competitors, including the Ryzen 7 5800X, i9 9900K, and i9 10900K, we can see that it offers an excellent balance of single-threaded and multi-threaded performance.

For those who need a high-performance processor for demanding workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, and content creation, the Ryzen 9 3900X is an excellent choice. Its 12 cores and 24 threads provide plenty of processing power, and it offers excellent value for money compared to other processors in its price range.

Overall, we highly recommend the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X for anyone in need of a powerful and versatile processor.