AMD Ryzen 5 1500X Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£180
  • PassMark benchmark result: 9072
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.7 GHz

AMD Ryzen 5 1500X review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.1

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.6

Technical Score

10.0%

9.4

User score

Good
4.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.9

Performance

18.0%

4.9

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.4

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.1

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.4

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(928)
amazon
1.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.2

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.1

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    3.7

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.4
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.3

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    2.8

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a first-generation Zen-based quad-core processor featuring 8 threads, a 3.5GHz base clock, and a 3.7GHz precision boost. Built on a 14nm FinFET process with a 65W TDP, it stands out with a substantial 16MB L3 cache and an Extended Frequency Range (XFR) that allows for single-core boosts up to 3.9GHz when paired with sufficient cooling. Main advantages include its unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, high multi-threaded performance relative to its original price point, and the inclusion of a capable Wraith Spire stock cooler. However, it lacks integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU, and its single-core gaming performance generally trails behind contemporary Intel Kaby Lake competitors.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD Ryzen 5 1500X

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.9

Performance

18.0%

4.9

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.4

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.1

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

4.6
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a technical score of 4.65 points, which is lower than that of 62.3% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(928)
amazon
1.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.4
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a user score of 9.43 points, which is higher than that of 93% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
10
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 88.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.1

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

6.5
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is higher than 53% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

AMD
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

AM4
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses the AM4 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 76.3% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

X470, B450, X370, B350, A320
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports X470, B450, X370, B350, A320 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 66.8% of processors and equal to that of 0.7% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

4
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

8
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X offers 8 CPU threads, which is more than 35.3% of processors and equal to 19% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

3.7 GHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X reaches a boost clock of 3.7 GHz which is lower than that of 72.7% of processors and equal to that of 3.9% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

4 x 3.5 GHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a base clock of 4x3.5 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

14 nm
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

GlobalFoundries 14 nm
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is built on the GlobalFoundries 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 4.4% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

16 MB
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an L3 cache of 16 MB which is larger than that of 64.2% of processors and equal to that of 12.7% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

2 MB
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an L2 cache of 2 MB which is smaller than that of 51.3% of processors and equal to that of 11.1% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

384 KB
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an L1 cache of 384 KB which is larger than that of 45% of processors and equal to that of 15.8% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

2,667 MHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports memory speeds up to 2667 MHz, which is lower than that of 53.7% of processors and equal to 1.2% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2666 MHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55.3% of processors and equal to 7.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

2,666 MHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 2666 MHz, which is higher than that of 88.6% of processors and equal to 1% of processors.
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

64 GB
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

no
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X does not include integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

N/A
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

N/A
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

N/A
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

65 W
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

65 W
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

?
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

N/A
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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AMD Ryzen 5 1500X vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    What it is: The number of PCIe lanes provided directly by the processor.
    When it matters: When you connect fast GPUs, SSDs, or expansion cards.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=20

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.24 vs 16
  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
    What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
    When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 2.33x more L3 per core
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (4 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (4 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.4 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
    What it is: The reported operating temperature of the processor.
    When it matters: When you monitor thermals, cooling, or system stability.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <100 °C

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.95 °C vs 100 °C
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Can work with ECC memory, which helps detect and correct certain memory errors on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When long-term stability, uptime, or data integrity matter more than a basic consumer-style setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
    What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
    When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=16 MB

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.16 MB vs 8 MB
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM4 vs FP2).
  • Broader instruction support
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports a broader instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 2.33x more L3 per core
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (4 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
  • 3 year/s older release date
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has an older release date than the average processor (2,017 vs 2,020).
    April 2017
  • 14% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 25.6% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (360 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 24.6% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,109 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 15.1% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,107 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 23.3% lower multi-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (3,674 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 13.9% lower PassMark score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (9,072 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 16.7% larger process node
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 19.7% larger die size
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher die size than the average processor (213 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 20% smaller L2 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (2 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • No integrated graphics
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 5 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 14% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
    When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4.7 GHz

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 25.6% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (360 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >600

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (360 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.360 vs 484
  • 24.6% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,109 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,109 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,109 vs 1,471
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
    What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
    When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.

    Importance: LOW

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake).Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake
  • 15.1% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,107 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,107 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,107 vs 2,483
  • 16.7% larger process node
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 44.4% higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    AMD Ryzen 5 1500X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W

Graphic comparison of AMD Ryzen 5 1500X and other processors

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD Ryzen 5 1500X?

  • Excellent value for money in the sub-$200 price bracket
  • Features 4 cores and 8 threads (SMT), offering twice the threads of competing Intel i5 chips of its era
  • Unlocked for overclocking, allowing for significant performance gains with proper cooling
  • Includes a capable stock cooler (Wraith Spire) that handles non-overclocked loads well
  • Strong multi-threaded performance for productivity tasks like video encoding and file compression
  • High L3 cache (16MB) compared to its competitors, aiding in certain gaming and professional workloads

What customers dislike about AMD Ryzen 5 1500X?

  • Single-core performance and 1080p gaming still lag behind comparable Intel 'Kaby Lake' chips
  • Requires manual tuning or overclocking to truly compete with Intel's stock performance
  • The Ryzen 5 1600 was often cited as a better value, offering 50% more cores for a small price increase
  • No integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU for any display output
  • Experienced early platform 'growing pains' such as memory compatibility and high memory latency
  • Noticeable performance variance or stuttering in some specific gaming titles

Expert reviews

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tomshardware.com
01/05/2017

According to Tom's Hardware, the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a 4-core, 8-thread processor offering strong multi-threaded performance, utilizing 16MB of L3 cache and XFR technology to compete with Intel’s Kaby Lake i5 series. Key advantages include its unlocked multiplier for overclocking and the included Wraith Spire cooler, which enhances overall value. While highly competitive in...Read more

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relaxedtech.com
23/04/2017

The RelaxedTech review highlights the 4-core Ryzen 5 1500X (3.5GHz/3.9GHz XFR) and the 6-core Ryzen 5 1600X (3.6GHz/4.1GHz XFR) as strong, efficient, and unlocked mid-range options, both featuring 16MB of L3 cache. Performance tests showed these chips delivering superior multi-threaded results in Cinebench and FryRender compared to Intel competitors, while maintaining exceptional...Read more

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bjorn3d.com
19/04/2017

The Bjorn3D review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X highlights the 14nm, 4-core/8-thread CPU as a competitive mid-range option with a 65W TDP. It excels in multi-threaded productivity tasks, such as content creation, offering a strong advantage over similar-priced competitors, while featuring an unlocked multiplier and the efficient Wraith Spire cooler. While showing strong performance in...Read more

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gamespot.com
18/04/2017

The GameSpot review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X as competitive, budget-friendly processors, with the 6-core 1600X excelling in multi-threaded productivity tasks over similarly priced Intel options. While both chips, particularly the 4-core 1500X, offer great value, they generally trail Intel in 1080p gaming, though the gap shrinks at higher resolutions, and both...Read more

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medium.com
12/04/2017

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X review on Medium identifies the processor as a strong, budget-friendly quad-core, eight-thread contender, featuring Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT) for improved multi-threaded performance in tasks like video encoding. Key advantages include the efficient, included Wraith Spire cooler and the long-term upgradability of the AM4 platform. Conversely, the review...Read more

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bit-tech.net
12/04/2017

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a competitive, budget-friendly 4-core/8-thread processor featuring a 3.5GHz base, 3.7GHz turbo, and 200MHz XFR boost, with a notable 16MB L3 cache. It excels in multi-threaded tasks compared to similarly priced, non-hyper-threaded Intel alternatives, though it lags slightly in 1080p gaming performance. While overclocking reliably reaches 4GHz, the 1500X...Read more

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hothardware.com
11/04/2017

HotHardware's review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6-core) and 1500X (4-core) positions these processors as high-value alternatives to Intel’s Core i5 lineup, leveraging superior multi-threading in applications like Cinebench and Handbrake. While offering robust performance, they trail Intel in single-threaded tasks and 1080p gaming, though the gap narrows significantly at higher...Read more

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overclockers.com
11/04/2017

The Overclockers.com review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X highlights a shift in the mid-range market, with the 6-core/12-thread 1600X and 4-core/8-thread 1500X offering exceptional multi-threaded performance and competitive pricing that challenged Intel's Core i5 dominance. The processors excel in productivity tasks, with the 1600X frequently surpassing the Intel i7-7700K,...Read more

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kitguru.net
11/04/2017

The KitGuru review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X (4C/8T) highlights a balanced 2 CCX design featuring 16MB of L3 cache, positioning it as a strong competitor to Intel’s i5-7400/7500 with 3.5GHz base and 3.9GHz XFR clocks. Key advantages include superior multi-threaded performance, with SMT allowing for up to a 60% lead in 7-Zip over the i5-7400, along with a high-quality bundled Wraith...Read more

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gamersnexus.net
11/04/2017

The 2017 GamersNexus review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X highlights these processors as superior, versatile alternatives to Intel's Core i5 series, offering higher core/thread counts at competitive price points. The 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) excel in multi-threaded production tasks, with the 1500X demonstrating 11% faster Blender rendering than the i5-7600K, though the...Read more

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pcmag.com
11/04/2017

The PCMag review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X as a strong, budget-friendly 4-core/8-thread CPU featuring high multi-threaded performance and an included Wraith Spire cooler, making it an efficient choice for workstations. Key advantages include superior performance in creative tasks and video transcoding compared to similarly priced Intel chips of the time. However, the chip...Read more

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techporn.ph
29/06/2017

The TechPorn review positions the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X as a 4-core, 8-thread "sub-$200 champ" featuring 3.5 GHz base/3.7 GHz boost clocks, capable of reaching 3.9 GHz via XFR. While offering strong multi-threaded performance against locked Intel competitors, it exhibits the slowest single-threaded performance in the initial Ryzen lineup. Key pros include the high-quality, non-RGB...Read more

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cgmagonline.com
12/04/2017

The CGMagazine review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X highlights the quad-core, eight-thread CPU as an affordable alternative to Intel's Core i5-7600K, though benchmarks show it trailing the higher-core Ryzen 5 1600X, particularly in 3D Mark Time Spy. Key pros include competitive gaming performance to the 1600X for $50 less and a capable, bundled Wraith Spire cooler, making it ideal for...Read more

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guru3d.com
11/04/2017

Guru3D's review identifies the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X and 1600X as market-shifting, mid-range processors offering high core counts and strong value, with the 1600X acting as a "sweet spot" for performance. While the 1600X matches higher-end CPUs in productivity and gaming, the 1500X is a capable quad-core, though it feels less future-proof as software transitions to six-core...Read more

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notebookcheck.com
30/07/2017

The NotebookCheck review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1400, 1500X, and 1600 highlights these CPUs as competitive, high-core-count, mid-range options that bring Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT) to a mainstream price point. The 6-core Ryzen 5 1600 is identified as the top performer, while the 4-core 1500X and 1400 offer significant productivity advantages over contemporary Intel i5s, though...Read more

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computerbild.de
11/04/2017

The Computer Bild review highlights that the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X processors redefine the mid-range market by offering high core/thread counts that outpace competitors in productivity, such as rendering. While the 1600X offers 6 cores/12 threads, and the 1500X provides 4 cores/8 threads, both leverage SenseMI technology for optimal performance. However, the processors,...Read more

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alza.at
11/04/2017

The Alza.at review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 series as a strong competitor to Intel's Core i5, offering superior multi-threaded performance in mainstream 4-core and 6-core configurations. Key advantages include fully unlocked multipliers for overclocking, exceptional value for money, and high energy efficiency with included capable stock coolers. However, the series falls slightly...Read more

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igorslab.de
11/04/2017

This igor’sLAB review provides a technical evaluation of the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X, highlighting a significant, consistent 4–6 Kelvin thermal sensor offset that artificially inflates reported temperatures compared to Ryzen 7 chips. While the hardware itself is thermally sound and manageable, the inaccurate software-reported "package temperature" for these mid-range processors...Read more

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chip.de
11/04/2017

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a 4-core/8-thread CPU designed for budget to mid-range systems, featuring a 3.5 GHz base clock, 16 MB L3 cache, and SMT support. It delivers strong multi-threaded performance in rendering and video encoding, making it highly efficient for productivity tasks. The platform supports future-proof AM4 motherboards. Key advantages include excellent energy...Read more

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pcwelt.de
11/04/2017

The PC-WELT review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X as a competitive, budget-friendly 4-core/8-thread processor featuring 3.5 GHz base/3.7 GHz boost clocks, a large 16MB L3 cache, and a 65W TDP. A key feature is XFR (Extended Frequency Range), allowing for automatic boosts up to 3.9 GHz with adequate cooling, while the included Wraith Spire cooler keeps it cool, with CPU...Read more

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computerbase.de
11/04/2017

The ComputerBase review of the first-generation AMD Ryzen 5 processors (1600X, 1600, 1500X, 1400) highlights their role in disrupting the mid-range market by offering 6-core/12-thread and 4-core/8-thread options, which outperformed Intel's competing Core i5 lineup in multi-threaded application performance. Key pros include an exceptional price-to-performance ratio, SMT across all...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
11/04/2017

The Tom’s Hardware review identifies the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6-core/12-thread) and 1500X (4-core/8-thread) as high-value, competitive processors that utilize a dual-CCX die design with substantial L3 cache. They outperform Intel’s equivalent Core i5 chips in heavily threaded applications, such as rendering and encoding, while offering unlocked multipliers for better...Read more

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hardware.fr
11/04/2017

The Hardware.fr review of Intel’s 7th Gen "Kaby Lake" processors (i7-7700K/i5-7600K) highlights a 14nm+ architectural refresh focused on higher clock speeds rather than significant IPC gains. While offering top-tier gaming performance and reaching 5.0 GHz+ overclocking, the i7-7700K suffers from high thermal output under load. Key benefits include improved media engines for 4K...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
17/01/2018

The Tom's Hardware France review of the Intel Core i3-8100 highlights a significant generational leap, as this entry-level chip introduced four physical cores for a ~$120 price point, outperforming the previous i3-7100. Tested against 14 CPUs, it excels in gaming and single-threaded tasks, often surpassing AMD's Ryzen 3 1200/1300X and even certain Ryzen 5 models in titles like...Read more

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01net.com
18/05/2017

The 01net review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) as formidable, higher-threaded alternatives to Intel's Core i5-7600K, dominating in multi-threaded tasks like 3D rendering and video encoding. While offering solid gaming performance, these chips slightly trail Intel in peak high-frame-rate gaming scenarios due to lower single-core IPC and clock speeds,...Read more

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ginjfo.com
25/04/2017

The GinjFo April 2017 review evaluates the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X as a 4-core, 8-thread, 14nm Zen-architecture processor designed to challenge Intel’s mid-range dominance, featuring a 3.5 GHz base clock, 16 MB L3 cache, and a 65W TDP. Performance tests highlight its strength in multi-threaded tasks and productivity, often outpacing competing Intel chips, while the included Wraith Spire...Read more

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hardware.fr
11/04/2017

The Hardware.fr review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 lineup, particularly the 6-core 1600/1600X models, as superior options for multi-threaded productivity compared to Intel Core i5 rivals, often approaching i7 performance. These processors offer a high value-to-performance ratio due to the inclusion of Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT) across the series. While providing strong...Read more

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madboxpc.com
11/04/2017

The MadBoxPC review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6-core/12-thread) and 1500X (4-core/8-thread) as high-value, multi-threaded processors utilizing XFR technology for automated, cooling-dependent frequency boosts. The 1600X excels in productivity tasks like video editing and rendering, while both chips are praised for their competitive pricing and the longevity of the AM4...Read more

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muycomputer.com
12/04/2017

The MuyComputer review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) as a strong productivity contender, offering superior multi-threaded performance in rendering and video encoding compared to Intel's offerings, although it lacks a stock cooler and trails slightly in raw gaming speed. Conversely, the 1500X (4C/8T) provides excellent value with an included Wraith Spire cooler and solid...Read more

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hardzone.es
17/04/2017

The 2017 HardZone review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) as high-value, mid-range processors based on the 14nm Zen architecture that disrupted Intel's market share. Pros include exceptional multi-threaded performance for content creation, with the 1500X praised for including a Wraith Spire cooler and the AM4 platform providing a solid upgrade path. Cons...Read more

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geektopia.es
18/07/2017

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a 4-core, 8-thread processor based on 14nm "Zen" architecture, featuring a 3.5 GHz base clock (3.7 GHz boost) and 16MB of L3 cache. Positioned for the mid-range market, this 65W TDP CPU includes a Wraith Spire cooler, offering strong multitasking capabilities through SMT and excellent overclocking headroom, often reaching 3.9 GHz to 4.2 GHz. While it...Read more

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hd-tecnologia.com
22/05/2017

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a 4-core, 8-thread processor that serves as a high-value, budget-friendly alternative to Intel's mid-range, offering a 3.5 GHz base clock and 16MB of L3 cache, notes HD Tecnología. Its primary pros include exceptional multi-threaded performance that outperforms similarly priced Core i5s in productivity, alongside a 65W TDP and a capable included Wraith Spire...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
12/04/2017

The Profesional Review analysis of the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X highlights the 4-core/8-thread CPU as a strong, mid-range contender utilizing the 14nm "Zen" architecture, 3.5 GHz base/3.7 GHz boost clocks, and a 16MB L3 cache. Performance testing shows the 1500X excels in multi-threaded tasks, often surpassing Intel's i5-7500 and i5-7600K in rendering, though it trails in single-core...Read more

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multiplayer.it
11/04/2026

The Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) position AMD to dominate the mid-range CPU market by targeting superior value and productivity over Intel's Core i5 lineup. Utilizing 14nm FinFET, these processors excel in multithreaded tasks, outperforming counterparts like the i5-7600K in rendering and encoding. While they offer strong productivity, they face limitations in 1080p...Read more

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tech.everyeye.it
14/04/2026

The Everyeye.it review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1500X as a competitive mid-range 4-core/8-thread processor, featuring a 3.5GHz base clock (boost up to 3.9GHz via XFR) and a generous 16MB L3 cache. It excels in multi-threaded tasks, often surpassing similarly priced Intel i5 competitors in rendering and encoding, while remaining efficient with a 65W TDP and a capable included...Read more

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tomshw.it
29/04/2026

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a 4-core/8-thread, sub-$200 processor designed to challenge Intel's Core i5 "Kaby Lake" series, featuring a 3.5 GHz base clock, 3.7 GHz boost, and an aggressive XFR up to 3.9 GHz with a 16MB L3 cache. It excels in threaded productivity tasks like video encoding and rendering, surpassing locked Intel counterparts due to SMT, but often trails in raw 1080p...Read more

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hardware.info
11/04/2017

The Hardware Info review finds the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X are disruptive, budget-friendly processors that challenge Intel’s mid-range dominance with 6-core/12-thread and 4-core/8-thread options. They excel in multi-threaded tasks like rendering, offering high value, and feature unlocked multipliers for easy overclocking on affordable B350 motherboards. However, they fall behind...Read more

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tweakers.net
30/05/2019

The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X is a 4-core, 8-thread, mid-range processor known for disrupting the market with its SMT capability. Pros include strong multi-threaded performance, efficient power usage, and a capable, unlocked multiplier that allows for easy overclocking. Key cons include the lack of integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU, and intense, close-price competition from the...Read more

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techtesters.eu
11/04/2017

The TechTesters review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X as a 6-core, 12-thread "sweet spot" for mid-range, offering superior multi-threaded performance over Intel counterparts in productivity, though it requires a separate cooler and slightly lags in 1080p gaming due to lower IPC. The Ryzen 5 1500X provides excellent value as a 4-core, 8-thread option, featuring a competitive Wraith...Read more

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nl.hardware.info
11/04/2017

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X offer strong multi-threaded performance, positioning themselves as high-value, multi-core alternatives to Intel’s i5 lineup, particularly in productivity, video rendering, and multitasking tasks. While excelling in productivity, the processors show slightly lower gaming performance compared to Intel's Kaby Lake, and they exhibit higher memory latency....Read more

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tweakers.net
11/04/2017

The Tweakers review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X as disruptive mid-range processors, offering superior multi-threading capabilities (6-core/12-thread and 4-core/8-thread, respectively) that outperform Intel's i5-7600K/i5-7500 rivals in productivity tasks like rendering and compression. While the 1600X competes with the i7-7700K in multi-core workloads, both chips face...Read more

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