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AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£320
  • Avg. price in US: ~$390
  • PassMark benchmark result: 54439
  • N. of physical cores: 12
  • CPU boost clock speed: 5.6 GHz

AMD Ryzen 9 9900X review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

8.5

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%

8.4

Technical Score

10.0%

9.7

User score

Excellent
8.4

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%

8.4

Performance

18.0%

9.1

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

9.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

3.9

Power & Thermal

4.0%

9.3

Platform

1.0%

7.2

Integrated Graphics

Excellent
9.7

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%

9.5

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(1507)
amazon
4.6
(275)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 9.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.2

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    9.8

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    9.4

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    10

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    5.1

    N. of physical cores

  • 8.0
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    8.7

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    5.1

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    7.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    10

    L3 cache

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
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Verdict

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a high-performance desktop processor based on the Zen 5 architecture, featuring 12 cores, 24 threads, a 4.4 GHz base clock, and a boost clock of up to 5.6 GHz. Built on a 4nm process for the AM5 socket, it includes 76 MB of total cache (L2+L3) and supports DDR5-5600 memory and PCIe 5.0. Main pros include significantly improved energy efficiency with a lower 120W TDP, excellent single-core and multi-threaded performance for creative tasks like rendering, and lower operating temperatures compared to its predecessor. However, main cons include a high initial price-to-performance ratio versus older models, gaming gains that are often marginal or inconsistent compared to specialized X3D chips, and the lack of an included thermal solution.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD Ryzen 9 9900X

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%

8.4

Performance

18.0%

9.1

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

9.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

3.9

Power & Thermal

4.0%

9.3

Platform

1.0%

7.2

Integrated Graphics

8.4
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a technical score of 8.35 points, which is higher than that of 97.8% 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%

9.5

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(1507)
amazon
4.6
(275)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.7
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a user score of 9.68 points, which is higher than that of 98.5% 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 9 9900X 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%

8.5

Overall score

40.0%

8.8

Price

8.6
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.6 points, which is higher than 99.9% 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 9 9900X belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% and equal to 37.9%.
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

AM5
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses the AM5 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 95.7% and equal to that of 2.7%.
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

X870E, X870, B850, B840, X670E, X670, B650E, B650, A620
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports X870E, X870, B850, B840, X670E, X670, B650E, B650, A620 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 91.8% and equal to 3.4%.
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 9 9900X uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% and equal to that of 98.3%.
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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+

12
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has 12 CPU cores, which is more than 81.5% and equal to 5.5%.
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+

24
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X offers 24 CPU threads, which is more than 90.3% and equal to 4%.
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 9 9900X offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% and equal to 69.6%.
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

5.6 GHz
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X reaches a boost clock of 5.6 GHz which is higher than that of 98.3% and equal to that of 0.7%.
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

12 x 4.4 GHz
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a base clock of 12x4.4 GHz which is equal to that of 100%.
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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

4 nm
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses a 4 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 88.4% and equal to that of 7.5%.
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

TSMC 4 nm
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is built on the TSMC 4 nm foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 87% and equal to that of 7.5%.
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

64 MB
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has an L3 cache of 64 MB which is larger than that of 94.6% and equal to that of 2.8%.
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

12 MB
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has an L2 cache of 12 MB which is larger than that of 84.8% and equal to that of 2.7%.
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

960 KB
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has an L1 cache of 960 KB which is larger than that of 85.3% and equal to that of 0.8%.
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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

DDR5
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports DDR DDR5, which is newer than in 66.4% and equal to that of 12.6%.
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

5,600 MHz
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports memory speeds up to 5,600 MHz, which is higher than in 79.8% and equal to 4%.
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

DDR5-5600 MHz
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR5-5,600 MHz, which is higher than in 80.3% and equal to 5.1%.
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

8,000 MHz
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 8,000 MHz, which is higher than in 99.6% and equal to 0.4%.
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

192 GB
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports up to 192 GB of memory, which is more than 83.3% and equal to 6%.
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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

yes
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X includes 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

AMD Radeon Graphics
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses the AMD Radeon Graphics integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 87.8% and equal to that in 1.4%.
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

2
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has 2 GPU execution units, which is fewer than 95.6% and equal to 4.4%.
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

400 MHz
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has an integrated GPU clock of 400 MHz which is higher than that of 73.3% and equal to that of 8%.
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

AV1 (HW decode)
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports AV1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 63.1% and equal to 10.8%.
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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

120 W
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a TDP of 120 W which is higher than that of 92.3% and equal to that of 0.4%.
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

120 W
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a base power of 120 W which is higher than that of 92.4% and equal to that of 0.4%.
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

162 W
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a boost power of 162 W which is higher than that of 90.7% and equal to that of 0.5%.
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

yes
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
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AMD Ryzen 9 9900X vs the average processor

  • 2.27x higher single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (3,338 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 9 9900X has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (3,338 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.3,338 vs 1,471
  • 88.4% better single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,678 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 9 9900X has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,678 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.4,678 vs 2,483
  • 4.12x higher multi-core score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (19,756 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (19,756 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.19,756 vs 4,793
  • 5.17x higher PassMark score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (54,439 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (54,439 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.54,439 vs 10,532.5
  • 30.2% higher boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.6 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 9 9900X has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.5.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 8x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (64 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 9 9900X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (64 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.64 MB vs 8 MB
  • 16 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more CPU threads than the average processor (24 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 9 9900X has more CPU threads than the average processor (24 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.24 vs 8
  • 82.4% higher Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (883 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 9 9900X has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (883 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.883 vs 484
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM5 vs FP2).
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
  • 4 year/s newer release date
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a newer release date than the average processor (2024 vs 2020).
  • 2.27x higher single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (3,338 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 88.4% better single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,678 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 4.12x higher multi-core score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (19,756 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 5.17x higher PassMark score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (54,439 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 30.2% higher boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 16 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more CPU threads than the average processor (24 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 82.4% higher Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (883 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 6 more CPU cores
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 4 wider front-end design
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher front-end width than the average processor (8 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 6.08x better overclocked performance
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher overclocked performance than the average processor (54,989 vs 9,051). The average processor scores 9,051 in overclocked PassMark.
  • 16 higher clock multiplier
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (44 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 8x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (64 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Granite Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 4.8x larger L2 cache
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 3.11x more L3 per core
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (5.3 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 66.7% smaller process node
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a lower process node than the average processor (4 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • More advanced foundry
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (TSMC 4 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 2.5x larger L1 cache
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (960 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 2x more L2 per core
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 3.36x more transistors
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more transistors than the average processor (16.6 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • 12 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (28 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Newer PCIe version
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5 vs 3.0).
  • 3x more memory capacity
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (192 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • 95.6% higher memory bandwidth
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (89.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 90.9% higher memory speed
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (5,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Newer DDR support
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR5 vs DDR4).
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • Better integrated GPU
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X uses a better integrated GPU than the average processor (AMD Radeon Graphics vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 1 more supported displays
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X 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
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • Older TPM support
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).
  • Narrower media codec support
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 91.7% fewer GPU execution units
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has fewer GPU execution units than the average processor (2 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.
  • 2.53x higher boost power
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (162 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 2.67x higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (120 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 2.67x higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher TDP than the average processor (120 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 5 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 2.53x higher boost power
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (162 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    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

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (162 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.162 W vs 64 W
  • 2.67x higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (120 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 9 9900X has a higher base power draw than the average processor (120 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.120 W vs 45 W
  • 2.67x higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher TDP than the average processor (120 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    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

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a higher TDP than the average processor (120 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.120 W vs 45 W
  • 5 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    What it is: The highest safe operating junction temperature before the CPU starts throttling or protecting itself.
    When it matters: When you tune cooling or monitor thermals under load.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=100 °C

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.95 °C vs 100 °C
  • Narrower media codec support
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    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

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • 91.7% fewer GPU execution units
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has fewer GPU execution units than the average processor (2 vs 24). The average processor has 24 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

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X has fewer GPU execution units than the average processor (2 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.2 vs 24
  • Older TPM support
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).
    What it is: The kind of TPM security support associated with the processor or its platform.
    When it matters: When operating-system requirements, device encryption, enterprise security, or platform trust features matter.

    Importance: LOW

    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0
  • 28% more expensive
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is more expensive than the average processor (£320 vs £250).
    AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is more expensive than the average processor (£320 vs £250).£320 vs £250
Total
Overall
Platform
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
1507 Reviews
amazon
4.6
275 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD Ryzen 9 9900X?

  • Excellent energy efficiency with a reduced 120W TDP compared to its predecessor
  • Strong single-threaded performance improvements due to Zen 5 architecture
  • Lower operating temperatures that are manageable even with high-end air coolers
  • Impressive performance in creative and multithreaded workloads like 3D rendering and video editing
  • Compatibility with the existing AM5 socket and motherboards
  • Support for higher native memory speeds (DDR5-5600) and overclocking

What customers dislike about AMD Ryzen 9 9900X?

  • High launch price relative to the performance gains over the Ryzen 9 7900X
  • Marginal gaming performance improvements, trailing behind specialized gaming CPUs like the 7800X3D
  • Lacks a bundled cooler, adding to the total system cost
  • High idle power consumption compared to competing Intel processors
  • No integrated NPU for dedicated AI hardware acceleration
  • Requires specific software configurations (Xbox Game Bar/Game Mode) for optimal thread scheduling

Expert reviews

H
hwcooling.net
12/09/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X in a megatest of 40 CPUs - HWCooling.net GamersNexus

The HWCooling review of the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X highlights a significant shift toward power efficiency, with the 12-core Zen 5 processor operating at a lower 120W TDP compared to its predecessor. While retaining a 12-core/24-thread configuration, the 9900X delivers 10–16% higher multi-threaded performance and improved IPC in creative workloads, operating with superior thermal...Read more

G
gamersnexus.net
09/09/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X CPU Review & Benchmarks vs. 14700K, 7900X, 9950X, & More

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, a 12-core Zen 5 processor, is characterized by Gamers Nexus as a "strange" release due to high-efficiency gains but limited performance leaps over the 7900X. While it reduces rendering times in applications like Blender by roughly 14% with lower power consumption (176W vs. 199W), its productivity and gaming gains are often marginal, acting more as a...Read more

T
tweaktown.com
05/09/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X CPU Review - TweakTown

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, a 12-core Zen 5 processor, offers significant 120W TDP power efficiency over its predecessor while boosting performance, particularly in single-threaded tasks that rival Intel's top chips. It delivers exceptional productivity gains, with doubled AES performance in AIDA64, strong multi-threaded results, and supports DDR5-8000 on the AM5 platform. Despite these...Read more

W
windowscentral.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X review: Team Red built the world's most powerful desktop CPU

The Windows Central review labels the 16-core AMD Ryzen 9 9950X as the premier consumer CPU for productivity, outperforming Intel’s Core i9-14900K in multi-core tasks like 3D rendering and video editing. The 12-core Ryzen 9 9900X is presented as a more efficient, 120W alternative that delivers strong single-core speed. Key advantages include the 9950X's unmatched productivity...Read more

X
xda-developers.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X review: Cool, fast, and powerful

The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X, based on the Zen 5 architecture, provide substantial productivity improvements, averaging 10-15% better performance than previous generations while operating with superior power efficiency. The 16-core 9950X is noted for matching top-tier competitors like the Intel Core i9-14900K, while both chips offer "drop-in" compatibility with the existing AM5...Read more

I
ign.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - IGN

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, a 12-core Zen 5 processor, delivers superior productivity performance with significantly improved efficiency (120W TDP) compared to its predecessor. It offers substantial gains in creative workloads, making it a strong choice for content creation, yet requires high-end cooling for optimal performance. However, the processor shows minimal gaming improvements...Read more

P
pcmag.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - PCMag

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core, 24-thread "Zen 5" processor (4nm) that balances high-end performance with improved efficiency. It features 5.6GHz boost clocks and architectural refinements designed for improved single-threaded and creative workload performance. Performance-wise, it competes with the Intel Core i7-14700K, offering standout efficiency and cooler operating...Read more

P
pcguide.com
03/02/2025
Ryzen 9 9900X review - yet another CPU held back by power-efficiency focus Would you like a summary of the gaming benchmarks or power efficiency resul...

The PC Guide review describes the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X as a 4nm Zen 5 processor with 12 cores and 24 threads, highlighting a 16% IPC improvement and improved energy efficiency with a 120W TDP. Key pros include high single-core performance, achieving 2,205 in Cinebench, making it a capable, efficient chip for daily tasks. PC GuideHowever, the analysis finds the processor "handicapped"...Read more

C
cgmagonline.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X CPU Review - CGMagazine

The CGMagazine review of the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X highlights a 12-core, 24-thread CPU that utilizes the new Zen 5 architecture to deliver higher performance with improved efficiency over its predecessor. Synthetic tests, including Cinebench and CPU-Z, demonstrate notable single-core and multi-core improvements, proving the architecture's efficiency in doing more with less power. The...Read more

P
pk.ign.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - IGN Pakistan

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, based on the Zen 5 architecture, offers a significant, roughly 12% improvement in multi-threaded creative tasks like Blender and Cinebench R23 over its predecessor. Featuring 12 cores and 24 threads with a 120W TDP, it excels in professional workloads, content creation, and provides excellent headroom for streamers. A major advantage is the improved thermal...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X - Review 2024 - PCMag UK

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core "Zen 5" processor lauded for its high efficiency, offering performance comparable to the Intel Core i7-14700K while consuming significantly less power and operating cooler at 120W TDP. It excels in productivity tasks and single-threaded performance, though it offers only modest, roughly 4% gains in gaming over previous generations. Despite its...Read more

H
hothardware.com
14/08/2024
Ryzen 9 9950X And 9900X Review: AMD's Flagship Zen 5 Chips Tested - HotHardware

HotHardware's review of the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X (16-core) and 9900X (12-core) highlights these Zen 5 processors as powerful, efficient chips with superior multi-threaded performance in applications like Cinebench and Blender. The 9900X is particularly noted for its improved efficiency, operating at a lower 120W TDP, while both CPUs provide excellent AM5 platform compatibility. Key...Read more

K
kitguru.net
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - KitGuru

According to KitGuru, the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core Zen 5 processor offering significant improvements in power efficiency, running cooler with a 120W TDP, and bringing a more competitive price point to the Ryzen 9 lineup. The CPU excels in multi-threaded productivity with a 16% IPC improvement over Zen 4, making it a strong, versatile choice that fits existing AM5 motherboards....Read more

D
digitalfoundry.net
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and Ryzen 9 9950X review - Digital Foundry

Digital Foundry's review describes the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X launch as underwhelming, particularly for gaming, with performance often falling behind predecessors despite setup optimizations. While multi-core productivity sees an 11% boost and efficiency is significantly improved via lower TDPs, the dual-CCD configuration causes inconsistent gaming results, allowing the Ryzen 7...Read more

P
pcgamer.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X review - PC Gamer

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core, 24-thread Zen 5 processor that excels as a highly efficient workstation chip, boasting significant power efficiency over competitors by drawing roughly 100W less than the Intel Core i7 14700K under full load. It shines in productivity tasks like video encoding and rendering, offering strong multi-threaded performance, but fails to justify its...Read more

C
computerbase.de
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X Review - ComputerBase

The ComputerBase review of the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X highlights a shift toward refined efficiency over massive performance gains, with the 9950X establishing itself as a top-tier productivity processor, while the 9900X struggles to justify its position against previous-generation alternatives. Despite significant improvements in energy efficiency and reduced operating...Read more

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C
chip.de
08/05/2025
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - CHIP", "AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Test - CHIP

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, based on the 4nm Zen 5 architecture, offers 12 cores, 24 threads, and strong productivity performance for office and creative applications. Operating between 4.4 GHz and 5.6 GHz on the AM5 socket, it features improved efficiency with a 120-watt TDP, resulting in better thermals than its predecessor. While it excels in multi-threaded tasks, drawbacks include a...Read more

(Translated)Show original
E
en.overclocking.com
15/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X acts as an efficient 12-core Zen 5 successor, offering better performance than the 7900X with a reduced 120W TDP while delivering significant single-core gains. While automatic PBO overclocking yields minor gains with high power consumption, manual overclocking to 5.5 GHz provides up to 10.6% better performance with improved thermals (71°C). Key pros include...Read more

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H
hardwarecooking.fr
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - HardwareCooking

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core, 24-thread Zen 5 processor designed for productivity, balancing high performance with improved 120W TDP efficiency. Offering up to 5.6 GHz boost clocks, it serves as a versatile, cooler-running alternative to previous high-power enthusiast chips. Key advantages include superior multi-threaded performance (10-12% better than the 7900X) and excellent...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
clubic.com
20/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and Ryzen 9 9900X Review: Zen 5 improves efficiency... but performance less so

According to Clubic, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X (Zen 5) focus heavily on improved power efficiency and reduced thermals, offering only incremental performance gains over the Ryzen 7000 series. The 9950X operates cooler at 170W TDP, while performance increases average 11–13% in standard benchmarks. Key pros include exceptional energy efficiency and high productivity performance,...Read more

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H
hardwarecooking.fr
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review - HardwareCooking

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, based on the Zen 5 architecture, represents a significant efficiency shift with a reduced 120W TDP, resulting in much lower operating temperatures compared to the 7900X. It delivers superior single-core performance and strong results in professional workloads like 3D rendering and video editing, while offering improved responsiveness due to a 16% IPC gain....Read more

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L
lesnumeriques.com
01/11/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review: An ultra-versatile processor capable of the best

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, based on the Zen 5 architecture, is described as a highly versatile 12-core, 24-thread processor that offers significant performance gains over the 7900X, particularly in productivity and 3D rendering. It bridges the gap between high-end gaming and professional needs, offering competitive performance against rivals at a more conservative 120W TDP. Key...Read more

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hardwareand.co
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X & 9950X Review: Zen 5 is still too expensive

The Hardware & Co review highlights the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X (Zen 5) as high-performance, energy-efficient processors for productivity tasks like rendering, offering a 16% IPC improvement. While productivity is a major pro, cons include stagnant gaming performance compared to older Ryzen 7000 series chips, high thermal output requiring premium cooling for the 9950X, and steep...Read more

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elchapuzasinformatico.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and Ryzen 9 9900X Review: Expensive and Hot

The AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X are characterized in this review as underwhelming, high-priced updates that struggle to outperform previous-generation 3D V-Cache models in gaming, despite boasting a 16% IPC improvement. While the 9900X features improved efficiency with a reduced 120W TDP, the 9950X is noted for running extremely hot, hitting 95°C under heavy loads and requiring...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review (Full Analysis)

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, a 12-core Zen 5 processor, delivers significant IPC gains and improved efficiency with a 120W TDP, making it a cooler-running option than the 7900X. Performance-wise, it shows a 10-12% improvement in creative tasks over its predecessor, though gaming gains are minimal, often trailing X3D models. Pros include superior efficiency and thermal management alongside...Read more

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H
hardzone.es
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review: High-End Performance for Every Budget

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X, based on the Zen 5 architecture, represents a significant 10-14% performance boost in single-threaded and AVX-512 tasks over its predecessor, optimized for high-end productivity with a 120W TDP. Key advantages include exceptional multi-core performance for content creation, improved thermals that make it easier to cool, and AM5 socket longevity. However, the...Read more

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G
geeknetic.es
19/09/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review

The Geeknetic review highlights the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X as a highly efficient Zen 5 processor, featuring 12 cores/24 threads with a significantly reduced 120W TDP, resulting in lower power consumption and temperatures compared to its predecessor. It offers a 10-12% performance boost in multi-threaded productivity tasks, such as rendering in Blender, while providing strong single-core...Read more

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smartworld.it
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X Review: The Ideal Chip for Efficiency Seekers

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core, 24-thread Zen 5 processor designed for high-end productivity and gaming, offering significant improvements in energy efficiency over the 7900X with a lower 120W TDP. It boasts superior thermal performance and substantial performance gains in multithreaded tasks, often running cooler under load compared to its predecessor. While it provides...Read more

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tomshw.it
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X: Not Everything Goes Exactly to Plan", "AMD Ryzen 9 9900X: Not Quite a Perfect Run

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X introduces the Zen 5 architecture with a 12-core/24-thread config, featuring improved thermal efficiency with a 120W TDP but delivering only incremental performance gains over the 7900X. While multi-threaded rendering and productivity tasks see solid improvements, including a 9% lead over the previous generation in Blender, gaming performance often falls short...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hwlegend.tech
17/11/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X - A CPU that makes more sense today... Gaming & Benchmarks!

The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X is a 12-core, 24-thread processor based on the Zen 5 architecture, offering improved IPC and 4nm manufacturing for better efficiency. The CPU excels in productivity, with significant performance gains over the 7000 series in multi-core workloads like rendering. While suitable for gaming, it offers only marginal gains over its predecessor and is often outclassed...Read more

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H
hwupgrade.it
14/08/2024
Ryzen 9 9950X and Ryzen 9 9900X review: Zen 5 at full power

The Hardware Upgrade review of the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and 9900X highlights these Zen 5 processors as powerful, efficient tools for professional workloads, offering significant IPC gains. Pros include strong multi-threaded performance in rendering/encoding, improved power efficiency, and compatibility with the existing AM5 socket. While the 9900X improves efficiency with a lower 120W...Read more

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tweakers.net
06/05/2025
The Best Processor for Productivity - Best Buy Guide

The Tweakers Best Buy Guide for Productivity identifies the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D as the premier, high-performance CPU for heavy, multi-threaded workloads like rendering, boasting exceptional 16-core power, though at a premium price point. The Intel Core Ultra 9 285K emerges as a top-tier contender, offering competitive, high-end performance with superior energy efficiency compared to...Read more

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tweakers.net
14/08/2024
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X - How the fastest CPU can still disappoint

The Tweakers.net review of AMD's Ryzen 9 9900X and 9950X highlights a transition to the Zen 5 architecture, characterizing them as incremental, efficient improvements over the 7000-series rather than revolutionary leaps. While the 16-core 9950X excels as a top-tier productivity chip, offering high IPC and better power efficiency, the generational performance gains are modest,...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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