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AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£55
  • PassMark benchmark result: 13003
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.0 GHz

AMD Ryzen 5 1600X review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.0

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%

4.5

Technical Score

10.0%

9.6

User score

Good
4.5

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%

3.8

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.9

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

4.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.2

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.6

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%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(1538)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.4

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.2

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.6

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.0
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.7

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    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 1600X is a high-performance desktop processor featuring 6 physical cores and 12 threads based on the 14nm Zen architecture. It operates at a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz with a 4.0 GHz precision boost and can reach up to 4.1 GHz via Extended Frequency Range (XFR) technology. The chip includes a massive 16MB of L3 cache, supports dual-channel DDR4 memory, and has a 95W TDP. Main pros include exceptional multi-threaded performance that rivals more expensive Core i7 CPUs in productivity tasks like rendering and its fully unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking. However, notable cons include its lack of an included stock cooler and slightly lower single-core performance compared to same-generation Intel counterparts, which can result in lower frame rates during high-refresh 1080p gaming.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD Ryzen 5 1600X

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%

3.8

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.9

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

4.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.2

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

4.5
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a technical score of 4.49 points, which is lower than that of 65.9% 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%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(1538)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.6
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a user score of 9.58 points, which is higher than that of 96.7% 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 1600X 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%

5.0

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.5
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X 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 1600X 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

X570, B550, X470, B450, X370, B350, A320
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X supports X570, B550, X470, B450, X370, B350, A320 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 71.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.6% 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 1600X 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+

6
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has 6 CPU cores, which is more than 49.9% of processors and equal to 13.4% 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+

12
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% 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 1600X 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

4.0 GHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X reaches a boost clock of 4.0 GHz which is lower than that of 59.8% of processors and equal to that of 5% 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

6 x 3.6 GHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a base clock of 6x3.6 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
Show more
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 1600X 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 1600X 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 1600X 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

3 MB
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has an L2 cache of 3 MB which is larger than that of 50.2% of processors and equal to that of 4.4% 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

576 KB
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has an L1 cache of 576 KB which is larger than that of 73.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.7% of processors.
Show more
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 1600X 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 1600X supports memory speeds up to 2,667 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 1600X supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2,666 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

?
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

128 GB
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% of processors.
Show more
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 1600X does not include integrated graphics. 87.6% 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
Show more
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

95 W
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a TDP of 95 W which is higher than that of 88.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% 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

95 W
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a base power of 95 W which is higher than that of 88.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% 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 1600X does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
Show more

AMD Ryzen 5 1600X vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    16 usable 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 1600X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.24 vs 16
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X 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 1600X 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 1600X supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
    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

    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.128 GB vs 64 GB
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X 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
  • 4 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 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+

    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.12 vs 8
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM4 vs FP2).
  • Broader instruction support
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 50% larger L1 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (576 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal
  • 3 year/s older release date
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has an older release date than the average processor (2017 vs 2020).
    April 2,017
  • Older TPM support
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).
  • 22.3% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (376 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 22.8% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,136 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 7% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 11.8% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,191 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 16.7% larger process node
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X has a higher die size than the average processor (213 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • No integrated graphics
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
  • 2.11x higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 2.11x higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 5 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 22.3% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (376 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 1600X has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (376 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.376 vs 484
  • 22.8% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,136 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 1600X has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,136 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,136 vs 1,471
  • 2.11x higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 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 1600X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.95 W vs 45 W
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake).Summit Ridge vs Kaby Lake
  • 16.7% larger process node
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X 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 1600X 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
  • 7% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 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 1600X has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.4.0 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 11.8% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,191 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 1600X has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,191 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,191 vs 2,483
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    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

    AMD Ryzen 5 1600X does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and other processors

Attribute category
Attribute
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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
1538 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD Ryzen 5 1600X?

  • Excellent multi-threaded performance for the price, often outperforming more expensive Intel quad-core chips in productivity tasks
  • Great value for workstations, specifically for video rendering, encoding, and file compression
  • Unlocked multiplier and XFR (Extended Frequency Range) allow for easy automated and manual overclocking
  • Features 6 cores and 12 threads, providing better future-proofing and multitasking than contemporary 4-core competitors
  • Strong performance in modern games that are optimized to utilize more than four cores

What customers dislike about AMD Ryzen 5 1600X?

  • Does not include a stock cooler in the box, requiring an additional purchase of an aftermarket cooling solution
  • Single-threaded performance and clock speeds lag behind equivalent Intel 'K' series processors
  • 1080p gaming performance is generally lower compared to Intel's contemporary mid-range offerings
  • Limited overclocking headroom, often hitting a wall around 4.0 GHz to 4.1 GHz
  • Higher power consumption at idle compared to some competing platforms

Expert reviews

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popzara.com
05/05/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Desktop Processor Review Would you like me to find current pricing for the Ryzen 5 1600X or compare it to the standard 1600 model?

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a six-core, 12-thread desktop processor designed as a high-performance, cost-effective alternative to Intel’s mid-range, featuring a 3.6GHz base clock and 4.0GHz boost speed. It excels in productivity tasks like 4K video rendering and file compression, frequently surpassing more expensive competition in multithreaded workloads. While it performs strongly in...Read more

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servethehome.com
12/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Linux Benchmarks and Review

The ServeTheHome review characterizes the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X as a 6-core, 12-thread CPU that offers excellent multi-threaded Linux performance for tasks like c-ray, 7-zip, and OpenSSL, often surpassing older Intel Xeon chips. While the 3.6GHz base and 4.0GHz boost clocks provide solid workstation capability, the processor is ultimately hindered by a high 95W TDP and lack of an...Read more

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pcmag.com
28/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a six-core, 12-thread processor that offers high-value multithreaded performance for the mid-range market, featuring a 3.6GHz base clock and up to 4.1GHz boost. It excels in workstation tasks, outperforming costlier competition in rendering and video transcoding, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious creators. However, the processor lags behind...Read more

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gamespot.com
18/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X CPU Review - GameSpot

The GameSpot review of the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X highlights these processors as offering superior multi-threaded performance and exceptional value compared to Intel counterparts, specifically in productivity and encoding tasks. The 1600X ($250) outperformed the Intel i7-7700K by 20% in Cinebench R15, while the 1500X ($190) competed strongly against the i5-7600K, making them...Read more

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hardwarecanucks.com
10/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X & 1500X Performance Review

The Hardware Canucks review positions the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X as mid-range contenders challenging Intel's Kaby Lake i5 series. The 6-core 1600X is praised for high multi-threaded performance in rendering, while the 4-core 1500X offers a capable, budget-friendly alternative. Key advantages include competitive pricing, fully unlocked overclocking capability, and excellent...Read more

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techradar.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X review - TechRadar

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a 6-core, 12-thread processor that brought high-core computing to the mainstream market at a competitive price point, offering superior value and performance compared to its Intel rivals of the time. Performance benchmarks show it excels in multi-threaded tasks, nearly doubling the Cinebench R15 score of the Intel Core i5-7600K and outperforming the pricier...Read more

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kitguru.net
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C12T) CPU Review - KitGuru

The KitGuru review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X as a 6-core, 12-thread CPU designed to dominate the mid-range market, featuring 3.6GHz base and 4.0GHz boost clocks. It is characterized as a "multitasking productivity beast" that outperforms Intel i5 competitors in threaded tasks, though it lags slightly behind in high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming. Key advantages include high...Read more

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hardwarecanucks.com
10/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X & 1500X Performance Review Would you like a similar list for compatible motherboards or modern gaming benchmarks for this CPU?

Hardware Canucks characterizes the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) as high-value, mid-range processors, featuring 16MB of L3 cache and utilizing the same 8-core layout as Ryzen 7 with select cores disabled. The 1600X delivers high 3.6-4.0GHz clocks for versatile prosumer and gaming performance, while the 1500X offers an energy-efficient, budget-friendly alternative with...Read more

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techadvisor.com
14/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review - Tech Advisor

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a 6-core, 12-thread processor designed for the AM4 platform that challenges Intel's mid-range dominance, offering high clock speeds of 3.6GHz base and up to 4.1GHz boost with XFR. It excels in multi-threaded tasks, rendering, and content creation, frequently outperforming competitors in benchmarks like Cinebench. While it offers high value, notable...Read more

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uk.pcmag.com
28/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review - PCMag UK

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a high-value, six-core flagship aimed at the mid-range market, offering 12 processing threads that provide a significant advantage over quad-core Intel competitors. Operating at a 3.6GHz base clock with 4.0GHz boost, it excels in productivity and content creation, frequently outpacing the pricier Intel Core i7-7700K in multi-threaded tasks. Key advantages...Read more

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arstechnica.com
08/05/2017
Ryzen 5 review: AMD muscles in on Intel’s i5 sweet spot

The Ars Technica review highlights the $249 AMD Ryzen 5 1600X as a disruptive mid-range CPU, delivering six cores and twelve threads that outperform Intel’s contemporary i5-7600K in productivity and multitasking. While offering exceptional multi-threaded value, the 1600X lags behind Intel in 1080p gaming performance and requires a separate cooler, unlike lower-tier Ryzen models. Key...Read more

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cgmagonline.com
11/04/2017
Ryzen 5 1600X Hardware Review - The Sweet Spot for Gamers

The CGMagazine identifies the 6-core, 12-thread AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (3.6 GHz base/4.0 GHz boost) as a high-value "sweet spot" for mid-range gaming and content creation, offering 1800X-level performance at a lower price point. The CPU delivered strong gaming results, including 60 FPS in The Witcher 3 (Ultra) and 89 FPS in Grand Theft Auto 5, providing excellent multi-threaded...Read more

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techspot.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X & 1500X Review - TechSpot

The TechSpot review for the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6-core) and 1500X (4-core) positions these processors as superior, high-value alternatives to Intel's Core i5-7600K/7500, offering significantly more threads for productivity. The 1600X demonstrated 70% better multi-threaded performance in Cinebench, while both chips excelled in content creation, providing a major pro for...Read more

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chip.de
30/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (Desktop CPU) Review

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a high-performance 6-core/12-thread processor offering exceptional value for multi-threaded tasks like rendering and content creation. It outperforms competitors, such as the Intel Core i5-7600K, in heavy workloads. Key advantages include strong multi-core performance, an unlocked multiplier for overclocking up to 4.0/4.1 GHz, and solid 14nm efficiency....Read more

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pcgameshardware.de
12/04/2017
Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X Review: The Best CPUs Under 300 Euros

The PC Games Hardware review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) as formidable, cost-effective alternatives to Intel’s Core i5, utilizing SMT for superior multitasking capabilities. Key pros include exceptional multi-threaded performance in applications like Cinebench, competitive pricing, and high overclocking potential on budget B350 motherboards, along...Read more

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igorslab.de
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X – Light and Shadow in Tandem

Igor'sLAB analysis of the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X highlights a "light and shadow" performance profile, with the 1600X excelling in multi-threaded tasks while both processors face inconsistent gaming performance against competitors. The review notes significant issues with thermal reporting, where sensor (Tctl) data, particularly below 20–25 watts, produces inaccurate "nonsense"...Read more

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computerbild.de
11/04/2017
Ryzen 5 1600X, 1500X: AMD CPUs Review

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6 cores/12 threads) and 1500X (4 cores/8 threads) dominate the mid-range market with superior multi-threaded performance, significantly outperforming Intel Core i5 competitors in productivity tasks. Key advantages include strong performance-per-dollar, excellent rendering capabilities, and unlocked multipliers for easy overclocking. However, the review notes...Read more

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pcwelt.de
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is positioned as a high-value 6-core/12-thread processor, offering strong competition in the mid-range market with a 3.6 GHz base clock. It demonstrates superior multi-core performance in productivity tasks compared to Intel rivals. While gaming performance at 4K resolution is competitive, the 1600X slightly underperforms in 1080p scenarios and consumes...Read more

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gamestar.de
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review - The best Ryzen for gamers?

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X, a 6-core/12-thread processor with high base and boost clocks, is reviewed as a strong, versatile mid-range option for both gaming and content creation, notes GameStar. Key pros include exceptional multi-threaded performance, an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, and a long-lived AM4 platform. However, the review identifies that the 1600X requires an...Read more

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pcgameshardware.de
12/04/2017
Ryzen 5: Memory Scaling up to DDR4-3200 plus Conclusion ComputerBase

PC Games Hardware highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X as strong mid-range contenders against Intel Core i5s, with the 1600X's 6 cores/12 threads offering superior multi-threaded performance in rendering and encoding, while the 1500X provides efficient 4-core/8-thread performance. Gaming performance shows Ryzen trailing Intel at 1080p, though the gap narrows at higher...Read more

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computerbase.de
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X, 1600, 1500X & 1400 Review: Power Consumption, Temperature, and Overclocking

The ComputerBase review of the first-gen Ryzen 5 series highlights the 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) as high-value, multi-threaded competitors to Intel's Core i5/i7, with the 1600X often outpacing the i7-7700K in rendering tasks. Key advantages include exceptional price-to-performance, overclocking capabilities, and impressive energy efficiency for professionals, while the 1500X...Read more

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pcgameshardware.de
12/04/2017
Ryzen 5: Gaming and Productivity Benchmarks

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X represent a strong, value-focused shift in the mainstream CPU market, offering high thread counts and competitive, multi-core performance against Intel's mid-range options. Key pros include an excellent price-to-performance ratio in productivity tasks, large L3 cache, and overclocking potential, though the 1600X lacks a bundled cooler. While...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
11/07/2017
Test: Overclocking all Ryzen 5 and 7 CPUs under liquid nitrogen

Expert overclocker Wizerty, in collaboration with Tom’s Hardware France, pushed the entire first-generation AMD Ryzen 5 and 7 lineup to its limits using liquid nitrogen (LN2) at -196°C, aiming to break the typical 4 GHz barrier. The testing, which included motherboard modifications for direct voltage measurement, demonstrated significant frequency scaling under cryogenic...Read more

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ginjfo.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X: Full Review - GinjFo

The GinjFo review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X as a competitive mid-range processor, featuring six cores and 12 threads that significantly improve multi-threaded performance over Intel’s 7th-gen Core i5, particularly in content creation and rendering. While delivering strong all-core performance (3.6GHz base, 4.0GHz+ boost), the chip benefits from the long-term viability of the...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review: A solid mid-range solution

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a 6-core/12-thread processor that prioritizes multi-threaded efficiency, delivering workstation-level performance in rendering and compression that often surpasses Intel counterparts. It offers high value through competitive pricing, an unlocked multiplier, and features like Precision Boost and XFR that push speeds up to 4.1 GHz, assuming efficient cooling....Read more

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hardware.fr
11/04/2017
Reviewing the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X, 1600, 1500X, and 1400 - HardWare.fr", "AMD Ryzen 5 1600X, 1600, 1500X and 1400 Benchmark - HardWare.fr

The Hardware.fr review identifies the AMD Ryzen 5 series (1600X, 1600, 1500X, 1400) as a disruptive, high-value alternative to Intel in the mid-range market, particularly for multi-threaded productivity tasks, with the 6-core 1600X and 1600 models frequently outpacing the Core i7-7700K in rendering, while the 4-core 1500X/1400 provide superior 8-thread performance against competing...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
11/04/2017
Full Review of Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X - Tom's Hardware

Tom’s Hardware reviews the Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X, highlighting them as major disruptions to Intel's mid-range dominance due to superior multi-threaded performance and competitive pricing. The 6-core 1600X excels in productivity as a workstation-class chip, while the 4-core 1500X features a high L3 cache-per-core ratio. Key pros include exceptional value in threaded tasks, such as...Read more

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01net.com
18/05/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X and 1600X Review: Can they dethrone Intel?

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X challenge Intel's mid-range dominance by offering higher thread counts (6/12 and 4/8 respectively) at competitive prices, with the 1600X delivering superior multi-threaded performance for content creation and streaming. Key advantages include exceptional price-to-performance value, unlocked multipliers for overclocking, and superior multi-core...Read more

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hardwareviews.com
06/05/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X and 1600X Processors Review

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6-core/12-thread) and 1500X (4-core/8-thread) bring high-performance, multi-threaded computing to the mainstream market at competitive price points. Key advantages include exceptional productivity performance that outperforms comparable Intel Core i5 chips in rendering and encryption tasks, alongside efficient thermal management and full overclocking support....Read more

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madboxpc.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X and Ryzen 5 1600X CPU Review

The MadBoxPC review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) as high-value, competitive processors that disrupt the sub-$250 market by offering superior multi-threaded performance against Intel alternatives, coupled with unlocked multipliers for overclocking. Key advantages include impressive multi-tasking capabilities, with the 1500X benefiting from a low 65W TDP...Read more

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muycomputer.com
12/04/2017
Review of the Ryzen 5 1600X and Ryzen 5 1500X

The 2017 review of AMD's Ryzen 5 1600X (6C/12T) and 1500X (4C/8T) highlights them as strong, value-focused alternatives to Intel’s Core i5 lineup, leveraging the Zen architecture for superior multi-threaded performance. Key advantages include exceptional multi-core benchmarks, unlocked multipliers for overclocking, and good thermal efficiency, with the 1500X operating within a 65W...Read more

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hd-tecnologia.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X, a 6-core/12-thread 14nm "Zen" processor with 3.6GHz base/4.0GHz boost clocks (4.1GHz XFR), serves as a high-performance mid-range option designed for demanding productivity and gaming. According to HD Tecnología, the chip excels in multi-threaded tasks, offering superior performance in rendering and video editing compared to Intel competitors like the...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review (Full Analysis)

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is characterized as an "all-terrain" 6-core/12-thread processor offering excellent value, delivering high-fidelity performance in multitasking and gaming at a competitive price point. Key advantages include outstanding thermal efficiency, a capable 4.1 GHz overclocking ceiling, and an unlocked multiplier for optimized performance. However, the review highlights...Read more

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tomshw.it
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X and 1500X Test: 6 and 4 Cores on the Attack

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X is a six-core, twelve-thread processor utilizing the Zen architecture with a 3.6 GHz base clock, boosting to 4.0 GHz (4.1 GHz XFR), bridging mainstream gaming and workstation tasks. A key pro is its superior multi-threaded performance, often beating Intel's i7-7700K in rendering, though it lacks a stock cooler. While capable in modern 1080p gaming, the 1600X...Read more

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tech.everyeye.it
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X Review - Everyeye Tech

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600X, based on the 14nm "Summit Ridge" architecture, is a 6-core, 12-thread processor designed for productivity and gaming, featuring a 3.6 GHz base clock and 4.0 GHz boost. The 95W TDP processor requires an aftermarket cooler and utilizes the AM4 platform, which offers strong future-proofing. Key advantages include exceptional multi-threaded performance that often...Read more

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techtesters.eu
11/04/2017
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X & 1500X Review

The Techtesters review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 1600X (6-core/12-thread) and 1500X (4-core/8-thread) as strong mid-range contenders, utilizing SenseMI technology and supporting the AM4 platform for longevity. While offering exceptional multi-threaded performance in rendering and productivity that often beats Intel counterparts, the processors, particularly the 1600X with its 95W...Read more

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tweakers.net
11/04/2017
Ryzen 5: 1600X and 1500X Review - Six and four Zen cores put to the test

The Tweakers.net review positions the 6-core Ryzen 5 1600X and 4-core 1500X as aggressive mid-range contenders, specifically targeting Intel's Core i5 market share with superior multi-threaded performance in applications like Cinebench and Blender. The 1600X excels in productivity as a cost-effective alternative to higher-end chips, while the 1500X provides strong value, both...Read more

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