CUSTOM PC COMPONENTS
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D: Still the Gaming King in 2024, Even After 9000 Series Launch
Written By: David Matthews
CUSTOM PC COMPONENTS
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D took the gaming world by storm upon its release in April 2023. It has proven to be a gaming benchmark assassin, outperforming expensive CPUs with more cores and faster clock speeds.
So why am I writing this article on the Ryzen 7800X3D so late? Because it still dominates the CPU market. With the release of the new AMD 9000 series processors, I had expected my beloved CPU, which I’ve spent countless hours with, the mighty 7800X3D, to be replaced with something more powerful, but that wasn’t the case.
This CPU still outperforms all the new 9000 series CPUs in gaming, including the flagship model Ryzen 9 9950X. I will cover all its specifications and details in this article, especially now that it’s discounted.
Affiliate Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself, and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that, at no additional cost to you, may earn me a small commission. Thanks for your support!
7800X3D Specs and Features
Although designed for gaming, this CPU still excels at multitasking and heavy-duty tasks. Let’s review some of the details:
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7800X3D Clock Speed
The processor has a base clock of 4.2 GHz and can boost up to 5.0 GHz, providing fast performance in gaming and daily computing tasks.
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Core and Thread Count
With 8 cores and 16 threads, it offers plenty of processing power.
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7800X3D Cache
What sets this CPU apart from the rest is its 96MB L3 cache. This large cache reduces game latency, enhances frame rates, and enables smoother gaming sessions.
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7800X3D TDP
Even with a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 120W, it stays cool under heavy load. However, I suggest using an AIO liquid cooler like the Corsair H150i series to keep temperatures in check.
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7800X3D PCIe Lanes
Supporting PCIe 5.0, the 7800X3D offers excellent bandwidth, compatibility with the latest GPUs, NVMe SSDs, and 2.5GB Ethernet support.
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Ryzen 7 7800X3D Socket
The CPU uses the AM5 socket, also called Raphael AM5, part of AMD’s 7000 series platform.
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Ryzen 7800X3D RAM Compatibility
The processor is compatible with DDR5 memory. Ensure the RAM speed is not lower than 6000MHz, as it can impact performance. I currently use the high-end Titanium series from Corsair, but you can also look into the Vengeance models. They are clocked at 6000MHz, support XMP profiles, and are more affordable.
Gaming Performance: Why It’s the Fastest Gaming CPU
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D quickly gained a reputation as one of the fastest gaming processors ever. Here’s why:
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7800X3D Benchmarks
The 7800X3D outperforms CPUs like the Intel Core i9-13900K in gaming, thanks to AMD’s 3D V-Cache technology, despite having fewer cores.
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Frame Rate Performance
In popular titles, the 7800X3D delivers higher frame rates than CPUs with higher core counts or clock speeds, especially at 1080p and 1440p resolutions, where CPU performance matters.
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Low Latency
The large 3D V-Cache helps reduce frame rate spikes, giving you smoother, more consistent gameplay.
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Power Efficiency
Besides its high performance, the 7800X3D maintains low power consumption.
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs Top Gaming CPUs: Performance Comparisons
The table below offers a detailed comparison of the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D with its main Intel competitors, specifically the Core i9-13900K and Core i7-13700K. This comparison demonstrates why the 7800X3D continues to be a top choice for gamers, even when compared to Intel’s high-end options.
| Feature | AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D | Intel Core i9-13900K | Intel Core i7-13700K | AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gaming Performance | Best | -12% vs 7800X3D | Lower than 7800X3D | -1% vs 7800X3D |
| Power Efficiency | High (≤90W gaming) | Lower | Lower | Similar |
| Productivity | Good | Better | Better | Best |
| L3 Cache | 96MB (3D V-Cache) | 36MB | 30MB | 128MB (3D V-Cache) |
| Boost Clock | 5.0 GHz | 5.8 GHz | 5.4 GHz | 5.7 GHz |
| Core/Thread Count | 8/16 | 24/32 | 16/24 | 16/32 |
| Price | $449 (with reductions) | Higher | Similar | Higher |
| Cooling Requirements | Moderate | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Future Upgrade Path | Good (AM5 socket) | Limited | Limited | Good (AM5 socket) |
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is known for its superior gaming performance, thanks to its 3D V-Cache technology. It outperforms even top-tier Intel processors like the Intel Core i9 13900K by up to 12% in 1080p gaming. Despite this powerful performance, the 7800X3D is power efficient, consuming no more than 90W during gaming. This means lower thermal output and less heat compared to Intel’s offerings.
While Intel’s CPUs have an advantage in productivity tasks because of their higher core counts, the 7800X3D offers the best value for gamers. It gives top-of-the-line performance at a competitive price point. This comparison highlights AMD’s focus on cache technology for gaming performance versus Intel’s focus on high core counts and clock speeds. The 7800X3D is a specialized gaming CPU that can outperform more expensive alternatives in its domain.
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs Ryzen 9000 Series: Gaming Performance Showdown
The tables below provide a comprehensive comparison of the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D with the newer Ryzen 9000 series. Despite being an older model, the 7800X3D remains competitive, especially in terms of gaming performance, thanks to its innovative 3D V-Cache technology.
| Feature | Ryzen 7 7800X3D | Ryzen 7 9700X | Ryzen 5 9600X | Ryzen 9 9900X | Ryzen 9 9950X |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L3 Cache | 96MB (3D V-Cache) | 32MB | 32MB | 64MB | 64MB |
| Gaming Performance | Excellent | Good | Good | Very Good | Very Good |
| 7800X3D Gaming Advantage | Baseline | ~10-15% faster | ~15-20% faster | Up to 18% faster | ~5-10% faster |
| Core/Thread Count | 8/16 | 8/16 | 6/12 | 12/24 | 16/32 |
| TDP | 120W (≈80W in practice) | 65W | 65W | 120W | 120W |
| Boost Clock | 5.0 GHz | 5.4 GHz | 5.4 GHz | 5.6 GHz | 5.7 GHz |
| Architecture | Zen 4 with 3D V-Cache | Zen 5 | Zen 5 | Zen 5 | Zen 5 |
| Key Advantage | Superior gaming performance due to 3D V-Cache | Power efficiency, newer architecture | Power efficiency, cost-effective | Balance of gaming and productivity | High multi-threaded performance |
While an older model, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D still outperforms the newer Ryzen 9000 series in gaming scenarios. Its 3D V-Cache technology delivers a large 96MB L3 cache, giving it a 5-20% gaming performance advantage over the 9000 series models.
While the 9000 series is built on the newer Zen 5 architecture, it offers improvements in single-core performance and supports AVX-512 instructions. Regardless, the 7800X3D’s cache advantage makes it more valuable for gaming. The 7800X3D operates efficiently, consuming around 80W despite its 120W TDP rating.
Newer models like the 9900X and 9950X dominate in multi-threaded productivity tasks because of their higher core counts, but the 7800X3D remains superior for gaming-focused builds.
All compared models use the AM5 socket, securing future upgrades. Choosing between the 7800X3D and a 9000 series CPU depends on gaming performance versus an all-around productivity experience. If you’re a gamer, the 7800X3D is a no-brainer.
Links to sourced information:
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D Review: New Gaming Champ Beats Pricier Competitors – Tom’s Hardware.
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs Intel Core i9-13900K vs Core i7-13700K – Tom’s Hardware
AMD’s last-gen CPU is still the king of gaming – Digital Trends
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs. Ryzen 9 7950X3D: there’s no contest – Digital Trends
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D – CPU Benchmarks – CPU Benchmark
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D Review – PCMag
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D Review: A Simpler Slice of V-Cache – AnandTech
AMD X3D Processors Explained
The “X3D” in AMD X3D processors refers to AMD’s 3D V-Cache technology. Here are some details about the 3D cache, along with some things to consider:
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3D V-Cache Technology
This involves stacking additional cache directly on top of the compute die, increasing the amount of L3 cache available to the CPU.
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Gaming Benefits
Games benefit enormously from larger cache sizes, as it reduces the need for the CPU to fetch data from slower system memory.
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7800X3D Clock Speed
The processor features a base clock of 4.2 GHz and can boost up to 5.0 GHz. These speeds are slightly lower than non-X3D models so that they can sufficiently address heat and power consumption.
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Workload Benefits
While gaming sees the most improvement, some cache-sensitive productivity tasks also benefit from the increased cache size.
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AMD Ryzen 7 7700X 8-Core vs. AMD Ryzen 7800X3D 8-Core
While both processors have 8 cores and 16 threads, the 7800X3D’s larger cache gives it an edge in gaming performance.
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Future-Proofing
As games become more complex, the additional cache of X3D processors may provide even greater benefits in future titles.
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Thermal Considerations
The stacked cache affects the processor’s thermal performance. Although the 7800X3D operates efficiently, it’s recommended to have a good cooling solution. High-quality air coolers can be effective, but an AIO liquid cooler like the Corsair H150i series is ideal.
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Price Point
X3D processors can be more expensive due to their advanced design, yet they make up for it gaming performance. If you’re not into high-end gaming, you’re better off getting the newer Ryzen 9600X or 9700X processors.
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Future Potential
Because I game a lot, I plan to wait for the release of the 3D versions of AMD processors before purchasing the new 9000 series CPUs. Based on past patterns, AMD tends to release 3D models of their processors several months after the original series launches.
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Overclocking
3D model chips have never been good at overclocking. However, they still perform better than other chips that can be overclocked. As a repair technician and someone who has built thousands of computers, I’ve seen more performance from this chip than any other CPU I’ve ever owned and overclocked. This is a chip that I am okay with not overclocking, so don’t let that discourage you when choosing it.
Building Your PC: Compatibility and System Requirements
There are several compatibility issues to consider when building a system around the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D.
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AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D Motherboard Compatibility
The processor requires an AM5 socket. AM4 socket owners will have to upgrade their boards. Compatible chipsets include X670E, X670, B650E, and B650.
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Does 7800X3D Come with a Cooler
No, the 7800X3D does not come with a stock cooler, and you should only be using one if you’re building a budget PC. I recommend a powerful air cooler like the Noctua NH-D15 or a 240mm liquid cooler like the NZXT Kraken 240mm.
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7800X3D Max Temp
With a cooler like the ones mentioned above, you can keep the CPU temperature below 95°C. This will keep you from voiding the AMD processor warranty.
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Power Supply
A gold-rated power supply, nothing less. For entry-level cards like AMD RX 7600 vs NVIDIA RTX 4060 Ti, grab a power supply of 650 watts or greater. Mid-range cards: AMD RX 7700 XT vs NVIDIA RTX 4070 Super go for 750 watts and up. For the high-end cards, the AMD RX 7900 XT/XTX vs NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super 1000 watts and above.
| Component | Compatibility Details |
|---|---|
| Motherboard | – Socket: AM5 – Compatible chipsets: B650, B650E, X670, X670E – Recommended models: • ASRock X670E Taichi (premium) • GIGABYTE B650 AORUS Elite AX (value) • ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero (high-end) |
| Cooling Solutions | – TDP: 120W (operates around 90W under full load) – Compatible with both air and liquid coolers – Recommended coolers: • NZXT Kraken Elite 240mm AIO (Liquid Cooler) • Noctua NH-D15 (Air Cooler) |
| RAM | – Requires DDR5 RAM – Low-latency DDR5 6000MHz memory is recommended for best performance – Recommended RAM: – Corsair Dominator Titanium Series DDR 5 6000Mhz (high-end) – Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro Series DDR 5 6000Mhz (premium-value) |
Maximizing Performance
To get the most out of your AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, consider the following:
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Ryzen 7 7800X3D Best GPU
Pair this CPU with a high-quality graphics card for the best gaming performance. Since this is not a budget entry-level CPU, consider mid-tier to high-end cards. As mentioned in the previous power supply section, go with one of these models: For entry-level cards like AMD RX 7600 vs NVIDIA RTX 4060 Ti, grab a power supply of 650 watts or greater. Mid-range cards: AMD RX 7700 XT vs NVIDIA RTX 4070 Super go for 750 watts and up. For the high-end cards, the AMD RX 7900 XT/XTX vs NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super 1000 watts and above.
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GPU for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
While the 7800X3D can perform well with a wide range of GPUs, higher-end options will fully take advantage of this processor’s power, especially at higher resolutions.
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AMD Ryzen 7 7800x3D Drivers
Believe it or not, there are drivers for this CPU. You can find the latest drivers and information below this section.
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BIOS Settings
Make sure your motherboard BIOS is up to date and configured properly so you can take full advantage of the 7800X3D’s capabilities.
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Memory Optimization
Remember to only use high-speed DDR5 6000MHz memory with XMP/EXPO profiles (EXPO is preferred).
Drivers for the 7800X3D can be downloaded from AMD’s official website by selecting:
Chipsets -> Socket AM5 -> Your specific motherboard model
- The chipset driver package includes the AMD GPIO Driver
- AMD PSP Driver
- AMD SMBus Driver
- AMD PPM Provisioning File Driver
- AMD 3D V-Cache Performance Optimizer Driver
The current version is 6.07.22.037, released on July 29, 2024
Graphics Drivers
The 7800X3D has integrated graphics, so Adrenalin GPU drivers are also applicable. However, if using a dedicated GPU, which I highly recommend, the integrated graphics should be turned off by default in BIOS
GPU Pairing
For the best GPU for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, consider high-end options like the NVIDIA RTX 4080 Super, or AMD Radeon RX 7900XT or 7900XTX to take full advantage of this CPU.
Availability and Pricing: Where to Get Your Hands on One
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7800X3D Price
Prices range from $360 to $370, which can vary based on your market location and availability.
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Ryzen 7 7800X3D MSRP
The original MSRP was set at $449, but you can get one for under $360.
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7800X3D Where to Buy
The processor is available at all the major retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, New Egg, and Microcenter.
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Ryzen 7 7800X3d Amazon
Yes, I’m an affiliate with Amazon. Since I’m a small blogger, Best Buy, Walmart, and Newegg won’t let me into their affiliate programs. However, I’m affiliated with Amazon and get a tiny commission if you purchase through them. The best thing is that Amazon offers the best prices if you’re far from a Microcenter.
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7800x3D Combo Deals
Microcenter offers the best combo prices. I prefer not to bundle processors with other parts, as the components are usually cheaper when bought separately. Your best option is to get a good motherboard and memory separately.
Release and Series Information
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Ryzen 7800X3D release date
Released on April 6, 2023.
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Latest Ryzen CPU
With the release of the 9000 series processors, the 7800X3D now takes the crown of the 7000 series processors.
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Latest Ryzen
The 9000 series is AMD’s most recent line of Zen 5 consumer desktop CPUs which will soon retire the 7000 seires chips once the new X3D models launch.
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AMD Ryzen X3D
The X3D lineup, including the 7800X3D, continues to shine through its 3D V-Cache technology, although we may soon see some new 9000 series X3D models hit the market
Final Thoughts: Is the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D Worth It in 2024?
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is arguably the best gaming CPU out there. It’s efficient and uses the AM5 socket, which will be available for years to come. You can upgrade to a newer processor in the future without having to buy new components. It has an advantage in many gaming titles and is only surpassed by Intel’s 13700K and 14700K in some games. With its V-Cache technology, you get so much performance at such a good price that it’s hard to beat.
The strength of this processor lies in gaming, obviously, but it is also capable of multitasking as well. If you plan to both stream and create content while gaming and gaming is not your top priority, go with the new Ryzen 9 9950X. It offers similar gaming performance without the 3D cache and is currently smashing Cinebench scores.
When investing in PC components, it’s important to consider what matters most and to pay attention to your budget. If gaming is your top priority, then this CPU is your choice. If you prefer Intel over AMD, the Intel Core i7 14700K is the processor to get. However, it will not be upgradable once Intel moves away from the LGA1700 socket and begins using its new LGA 1851 socket, which is happening with its next release of CPUs.
I hope this article has helped you choose a great gaming CPU for your next custom gaming PC. If you’ve read this far, THANK YOU! And if you decide to purchase through one of the links in this article, I genuinely appreciate it.
FAQs
Does 7800X3D have integrated graphics?
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D has an integrated GPU (iGPU) based on AMD’s RDNA 2 graphics architecture. This iGPU has 2 compute units and 128 stream processors, with a base frequency of 400MHz that can boost up to 2.2GHz. An integrated GPU is nice, but it’s unsuitable for actual gaming. It’s mainly designed for basic display output and light tasks. If you’re serious about gaming, invest in a dedicated GPU.
Is AMD Ryzen 7 good?
Yes, the Ryzen 7 series, including the 7800X3D, offers incredible performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.
Is Ryzen 7 good for gaming?
Absolutely. The Ryzen 7 series, especially the 7800X3D, is considered one of the best options for gaming CPUs.
7800X3D cache size?
The 7800X3D features a massive 96MB L3 cache, thanks to AMD’s 3D V-Cache technology.
Is 7800X3D AM5?
Yes, the 7800X3D uses the AM5 socket, part of AMD’s current platform.
Ryzen 7800X3D release date?
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D was released on April 6, 2023.
7800X3D chipset?
Compatible chipsets are the X670E, X670, B650E, and B650 series.
David is the owner of OTSCR and has been building and fixing computers for over 20 years. Starting as a hobby, his expertise has evolved into a successful small business. He now shares his knowledge through blogging and continues to provide top-notch computer services.
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