The launch of AMD’s latest gaming processor is just around the corner. Recent benchmark leaks hint that it may not live up to expectations, and the latest information only reinforces this notion. Reports suggest that while the Ryzen 7 9800X3D will deliver a slight enhancement in gaming performance, it will still outperform most of the existing Zen 5 offerings.
According to VideoCardz, they have obtained what appears to be an authentic marketing description for the Ryzen 7 9800X3D. This document outlines expected improvements in instructions per cycle (IPC), gaming performance, and multi-threaded tasks. Although it seems credible, we will not have the complete picture until we can evaluate the CPU firsthand.
As per the leaked information, AMD anticipates a performance boost of up to 8% for the 9800X3D in gaming applications. Although the company describes this as a “strong generational boost,” many had hoped for a more substantial advancement, akin to the improvements seen from the 5800X3D to the 7800X3D.
In testing of the previous model, the 7800X3D demonstrated up to a 26% increase in some gaming scenarios; most reviews indicated an enhancement of between 13% to 25%, based on different testing methodologies. Given AMD’s projection of only an 8% advantage for the 9800X3D, I remain skeptical about whether reviewers will find much additional performance from the new chip.
![AMD marketing blurb for the Ryzen 7 9800X3D.](https://www.digitalphablet.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/RYZEN-9800X3D-DESCRIPTION-1200x808-1.jpg)
On a more positive note, the multi-threaded performance is projected to improve by 15% compared to the 7800X3D. Additionally, AMD has confirmed that the new CPU will support DDR5 memory up to 6000 MHz, with overclocking capabilities extending beyond that, potentially up to 8000 MHz or higher.
The Ryzen 7 9800X3D will be compatible with most AM5 coolers and all AM5 motherboards, including the newer X870E and X870 models. The specifications are in line with expectations, featuring eight cores and 16 threads, although the maximum boost clock is capped at 5.2 GHz, which may be lower than some anticipated. Despite leaked benchmarks showing the CPU reaching up to 5.7 GHz, I tend to believe those may not be entirely accurate.
Although AMD has not officially confirmed the release of the 9800X3D on November 7, each leak points to it being the first chip to launch. While it may not meet some high expectations, the scarcity of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D could drive sales for the new model.