Ryzen CPUs have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people opting for them over their Intel counterparts. These processors offer excellent performance for their price, making them an attractive option for those looking to build or upgrade their PC.
With so many Ryzen CPUs on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. The decision will depend on several factors, including what you plan to use your PC for, your budget, and your desired level of performance.
One critical factor to consider when choosing a Ryzen CPU is the number of cores and threads. More cores and threads generally mean better performance, but they also come with a higher price tag. Another consideration is the clock speed, which measures how quickly the CPU can perform calculations.
After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the best Ryzen CPUs on the market. Our recommendations take into account factors like price, performance, and power consumption, ensuring that you get the best value for your money.
Best Ryzen CPU: Which Ryzen processor should you buy?
We all know that choosing the right CPU can be a daunting task, especially when you’re looking for the best Ryzen processor. With so many options available, it can be hard to determine which one is the best fit for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best Ryzen CPUs on the market today. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or just looking for a powerful CPU, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best Ryzen CPU!
AMD Ryzen™ 5 5500 6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler
If you’re looking for a budget CPU that can handle general use and mid-range gaming, the AMD Ryzen™ 5 5500 may be a good option for you.
Pros
- The 6-core, 12-thread configuration provides solid performance for the price.
- The CPU speed of 4.2 GHz is fast enough for most tasks.
- The Socket AM4 is compatible with a wide range of motherboards.
Cons
- The lack of integrated graphics may be a downside for some users.
- The CPU may struggle with more demanding tasks or games.
- The included Wraith Stealth cooler may not be sufficient for heavy use or overclocking.
We recently tested the AMD Ryzen™ 5 5500 and found that it performed well for general use and mid-range gaming. We were able to run most games smoothly at medium to high settings, although we did experience some lag with more demanding games.
One downside to the CPU is the lack of integrated graphics, which means you’ll need a separate graphics card to use it. Additionally, the included Wraith Stealth cooler may not be sufficient for heavy use or overclocking, so you may need to invest in a better cooling solution.
Overall, we think the AMD Ryzen™ 5 5500 is a solid budget CPU that provides good performance for the price. If you’re looking for a CPU that can handle general use and mid-range gaming, this may be a good option for you.
AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core, 24-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor
If you’re looking for a high-performance processor that can handle any task, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is an excellent choice. It’s fast, efficient, and can deliver elite performance in the world’s most popular games.
Pros
- With 12 cores and 24 processing threads, it’s the world’s best gaming desktop processor.
- It can deliver elite 100-plus FPS performance in the world’s most popular games.
- It supports PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards.
Cons
- The cooler is not included, so a high-performance cooler is recommended.
- The max temperature is 90°C.
- DDR-3200 support is required.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, and we were impressed with its performance. It’s incredibly fast and can handle even the most demanding tasks with ease. Whether you’re gaming, designing, or crunching scientific data, this processor can keep up.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cooler is not included, so you’ll need to purchase a high-performance cooler separately. We recommend doing some research to find one that will work well with your specific setup.
Overall, we highly recommend the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X for anyone who needs a high-performance desktop processor. It’s fast, efficient, and can handle anything you throw at it. If you’re looking for the ultimate in performance, this is the processor for you.
AMD Ryzen™ 5 4500 6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly processor that can handle gaming and school work, the AMD Ryzen™ 5 4500 is a solid choice.
Pros
- The processor is fast and reliable, making it a great option for everyday use.
- The 6-core, 12-thread design allows for multitasking without lag or freezing.
- The Wraith Stealth Cooler keeps the processor running smoothly without overheating.
Cons
- The processor does not have a built-in GPU, so a separate graphics card is required.
- The processor is not compatible with PCIe 4.0.
- The fan that comes with the processor may be loud for some users.
We recently used the AMD Ryzen™ 5 4500 in a new build for a budget gaming PC. When paired with a quality graphics card, the processor handled games and web browsing with ease. The 65 watt design also kept our power bill lower than other processors we’ve used in the past.
One thing to keep in mind is that the processor does not have a built-in GPU, so you will need to purchase a separate graphics card. Additionally, the processor is not compatible with PCIe 4.0, so this may not be the best option for those who require the latest technology.
Overall, we were impressed with the performance of the AMD Ryzen™ 5 4500. It’s a great option for those on a budget who still want reliable performance for their everyday computing needs.
AMD Ryzen 7 5700G 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics Processor Only
If you’re a gamer, creator, or an all-around PC user seeking enthusiast-class performance without the need for a discrete graphics card, the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The fastest processor graphics in the world, no graphics card required, allowing you to play some of the most popular games at 1080p.
- 8 cores and 16 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler.
- 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 20 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support.
Cons
- The maximum operating temperature (Tjmax) is 95°C.
- The CPU model is only compatible with Socket AM4, which may not be suitable for all users.
- The CPU manufacturer is AMD, which may not be preferred by some users.
In our experience, the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G is an excellent choice for users who want high-end performance without the need for a separate graphics card. The processor’s built-in graphics are incredibly fast, allowing you to play the most popular games at 1080p without any issues.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5700G comes with 8 cores and 16 processing threads, making it ideal for multitasking and demanding applications. The processor also comes bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler, which provides excellent cooling performance.
Additionally, the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G is unlocked for overclocking, allowing you to push the processor to its limits and achieve even higher performance. The processor also features 20 MB cache and DDR4-3200 support, making it an excellent choice for demanding applications.
However, the maximum operating temperature (Tjmax) of the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G is 95°C, which may be a concern for some users. Additionally, the CPU model is only compatible with Socket AM4, which may not be suitable for all users. Finally, the CPU manufacturer is AMD, which may not be preferred by some users.
Overall, we highly recommend the AMD Ryzen 7 5700G for users seeking high-end performance without the need for a separate graphics card. With fast processor graphics, 8 cores, and 16 processing threads, this processor is an excellent choice for demanding applications and multitasking.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X Processor
If you’re looking for a high-performing desktop processor, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a great option.
Pros
- Can deliver elite 100+ FPS performance in the world’s most popular games
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Bundled with the quiet, capable AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
Cons
- Temperature can go up to around 85-90 C under heavy load
We recently upgraded to the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor and have been impressed with its performance. The processor is capable of delivering elite 100+ FPS performance in the world’s most popular games. It’s also unlocked for overclocking, which allows us to push the processor to its limits for even better performance.
Additionally, the processor comes bundled with the quiet, capable AMD Wraith Stealth cooler, which keeps the temperature down and ensures that the processor runs smoothly. However, we did notice that under heavy load, such as when playing Diablo 4, the temperature can go up to around 85-90 C. After doing some research, we found that this is normal for the processor.
Overall, we highly recommend the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor for anyone looking for a high-performing desktop processor. It’s a great choice for gaming, designing, or any other high-performance task.
AMD Ryzen™ 3 4100 4-Core, 8-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler
If you are looking for a budget-friendly Ryzen processor that delivers good gaming and productivity performance, the AMD Ryzen™ 3 4100 is worth considering.
Pros
- Can deliver smooth 100+ FPS performance in the world’s most popular games, discrete graphics card required
- Unlocked for overclocking, allowing you to push the processor beyond its stock performance
- Comes bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler, which provides adequate cooling for the processor
Cons
- Only has 4 cores and 8 processing threads, which limits its capabilities in multi-threaded workloads
- No integrated graphics, which means you will need a discrete graphics card to use this processor
- Lacks the higher clock speeds and cache sizes of more expensive Ryzen processors
We recently tested the AMD Ryzen™ 3 4100 processor on a budget gaming PC build and were impressed with its performance. With a discrete graphics card, the processor was able to deliver smooth 100+ FPS performance in popular games like Fortnite and Valorant. We also appreciated the fact that the processor is unlocked for overclocking, which allowed us to push its performance beyond its stock settings.
However, the Ryzen™ 3 4100’s 4 cores and 8 processing threads do limit its capabilities in multi-threaded workloads like video editing and 3D rendering. Additionally, the lack of integrated graphics means you will need a discrete graphics card to use this processor. Finally, while the processor’s clock speeds and cache sizes are adequate for most tasks, they are lower than more expensive Ryzen processors.
Overall, we would recommend the AMD Ryzen™ 3 4100 for budget-conscious gamers and productivity users who don’t need the highest levels of performance. If you are willing to spend a bit more, however, there are higher-end Ryzen processors that offer better performance for multi-threaded workloads and higher clock speeds.
AMD Ryzen™ 7 5700X 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor
If you’re looking for a powerful processor that can deliver ultra-fast performance, the AMD Ryzen™ 7 5700X is definitely worth considering. With 8 cores and 16 processing threads, this processor is based on AMD’s “Zen 3” architecture and can support PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards.
Pros
- Can deliver ultra-fast 100 plus FPS performance in the world’s most popular games, discrete graphics card required
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads, based on AMD “Zen 3” architecture
- 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 36 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
Cons
- Cooler not included
- Max. Operating Temperature (Tjmax) 90°C
- Higher price point compared to other Ryzen processors
We recently upgraded our PC with the AMD Ryzen™ 7 5700X processor and were impressed with its performance. The processor can handle demanding applications with ease and delivers smooth gameplay even in the most graphics-intensive games. The 4.6 GHz Max Boost and 36 MB cache provide ample power for multitasking and running multiple applications simultaneously.
One downside is that the cooler is not included, which means you’ll need to purchase one separately. Additionally, the processor can run hot, so it’s important to keep an eye on the temperature and make sure your cooling system is adequate.
Overall, we highly recommend the AMD Ryzen™ 7 5700X for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable processor that can handle even the most demanding applications.
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 8-core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor
If you’re looking for a high-performance processor that can handle anything you throw at it, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a great choice.
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Can handle the most demanding games and applications
- Supports PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards
Cons
- Cooler not included, high-performance cooler recommended
- Runs hot and requires good cooling
- Expensive compared to other processors
We recently got our hands on the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X and were impressed with its performance. This processor has 8 cores and 16 threads, making it one of the fastest processors on the market. It also has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz, which means it can handle even the most demanding games and applications with ease.
One of the best things about the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is that it’s unlocked for overclocking. This means that you can push the processor beyond its default clock speed to get even better performance. However, it’s important to note that the processor runs hot and requires good cooling to prevent overheating.
Another great feature of the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is that it supports PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards. This means that you can take advantage of the latest and fastest storage devices and graphics cards.
The only downside to the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is that it doesn’t come with a cooler. While this is common for high-end processors, it’s important to note that you’ll need to purchase a high-performance cooler separately. Additionally, the processor is quite expensive compared to other processors on the market.
Overall, we highly recommend the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X for anyone looking for a high-performance processor that can handle anything you throw at it. Just make sure you have good cooling and are willing to invest in a high-performance cooler.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best Ryzen CPU, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important features to look at when making your decision:
Core Count and Thread Count
One of the most important features to consider is the number of cores and threads that a Ryzen CPU has. More cores and threads typically mean better performance, especially when it comes to tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and other demanding applications. However, more cores and threads also mean a higher price tag, so it’s important to balance performance with your budget.
Clock Speed
Clock speed is another important factor to consider. A higher clock speed means faster processing times, which can be especially important for tasks like gaming. However, clock speed isn’t the only factor to consider, as other features like cache size and memory bandwidth can also impact performance.
TDP
TDP, or thermal design power, is another important factor to consider when choosing a Ryzen CPU. TDP measures how much heat a processor generates, and a higher TDP means that a CPU will require more cooling to operate efficiently. This can impact the overall performance of your system, so it’s important to choose a Ryzen CPU with a TDP that matches your cooling capabilities.
Price
Finally, price is always an important factor to consider when choosing a Ryzen CPU. While more expensive CPUs typically offer better performance, it’s important to balance your budget with your performance needs. It may be worth investing in a more expensive CPU if you plan to use your system for demanding tasks, but for more casual users, a mid-range CPU may be a better choice.
Overall, choosing the best Ryzen CPU requires careful consideration of several key features. By weighing the importance of factors like core count, clock speed, TDP, and price, you can find a Ryzen CPU that meets your needs and fits your budget.
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