Which is better for AMD or Intel games?


In this material, we will try to understand the key differences between all three lines in order to understand which generation of Ryzen is most profitable to buy right now.

What is the difference between chips based on Zen, Zen+ and Zen 2 architecture

Each generation of Ryzen is based on a different architecture. The Ryzen 1000 series is the first generation of Zen, created by the company's experienced engineers, including the legend Jim Keller. The Ryzen 2000 series received an improved Zen+ architecture, which is more of a bug fix, an update, rather than a step forward. In the case of the third generation Zen 2, AMD engineers made a revolution. Instead of a single die, they moved to the concept of a “chiplet,” essentially dividing the responsibilities across several different chips, thereby simplifying and cheaper the manufacturing process, and also adding a bunch of new improvements.

We will make comparisons based on three variations of the “popular” six-core Ryzen 5.

AMD Ryzen 5 Summit Ridge 1600X BOX is a junior six-core processor based on Zen architecture, which is a direct competitor to the popular Intel Core i5-7600K. It operates with 6 physical cores and 12 virtual cores, the base frequencies of which are set at 3.6 GHz. When operating in turbo mode, the clock frequency reaches 4.0 GHz. The L3 cache capacity is 16 MB.

AMD Ryzen 5 Pinnacle Ridge 2600X BOX Price from 5,682 to 7,662 UAH. became a refinement of what already exists, and in terms of numbers it is not too different from its ancestor. In fact, clock frequencies increased by 200 MHz during automatic overclocking, plus support for faster RAM was added. But the appearance of the Precision Boost 2, XFR 2 and Precision Boost Overdrive features changed the very algorithm of processor operation under various loads, allowing the processor to maintain a higher average frequency during automatic overclocking.

New AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse 3600X BOX Price from 7,339 to 8,599 UAH. belongs to the Matisse family. Under the hood it has two semiconductor chips (octa-core 7nm CCD chiplet + 12nm cIOD chip), which are interconnected by an Infinity Fabric bus. The total L3 cache has doubled (to 32 MB) and has reached the level of eight-core Ryzen 7. Clock frequencies have also increased: base by 200 MHz and dynamic by 300 MHz.

Otherwise, all three models are similar: they have support for SMT logical multithreading technology, a thermal package of 65 W and are equipped with a cooler. All three processors work with motherboards based on socket AM4. That is, when upgrading the processor it will not be necessary to change the motherboard.

AMD Zen Summit processors (1st generation) AMD Ryzen 5 Summit Ridge[1600 BOX 12 nm] from 3,558 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Summit Ridge[1600 BOX 14 nm] from 3,640 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Summit Ridge[1600 OEM 12 nm] from 3,576 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Summit Ridge[1600X BOX] from 8,564 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Summit Ridge[1700X BOX] from 8,287 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Summit Ridge[1500X BOX] from 11,496 UAH.

General Performance Tests

To compare overall performance, let's run all three stones in several popular synthetic tests in single-core and multi-core mode. Let's start with CPU Mark.

Premiere Pro

Encoding a 4K video in Premiere Pro shows similar results, which allows us to make a fairly general conclusion that the Ryzen 5 3600X is faster than the first generation by an average of 35% in most workloads. And the difference between 2600X and 1600X ranges within 10%.

If we compare it with competitors from Intel, the gap in power tends to increase. While the 1600X competed with the Core i5-9400F, the 3600X beats the Core i7-8700K in some cases. But this is a different level, and a completely different price.

AMD Zen Pinnacle Processors (2nd generation)

AMD Ryzen 5 Pinnacle Ridge[2600 BOX] from 5,404 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Pinnacle Ridge[2600 OEM] from 4,437 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Pinnacle Ridge[2700 OEM] from 6,886 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Pinnacle Ridge[2700X BOX] from 9,947 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Pinnacle Ridge[2600X BOX] from 5,682 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Pinnacle Ridge[2600X OEM] from 9,679 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Pinnacle Ridge[2700 BOX] from 7,504 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Pinnacle Ridge[2700 MAX BOX] from 5,667 UAH.

Game results

There is no point in dwelling on each game separately, so let’s summarize the results at once. When playing at Full HD resolution and Ultra settings, the FPS difference between 1600X and 3600X is between 20 and 35 frames per second in most games. And this is great, because AMD has always lagged behind Intel in terms of gaming capabilities, but now we see almost parity.

Another question is that in games the video card plays a much larger role, not the processor. Therefore, for a purely gaming computer, it would be more advisable not to overpay for a third-generation processor, but to focus on the video card. Moreover, both the 1600X and 2600X are suitable for a model of the caliber RTX 2060 Super or RTX 2070.

AMD Zen2 Matisse processors (3rd generation)

AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3600 OEM] from 5,460 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3600 BOX] from 5,900 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Matisse[3700X BOX] from 8,900 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3600X OEM] from 6,048 UAH. AMD Ryzen 3 Matisse[3100 BOX] from 4,199 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3500X OEM] from 4,380 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Matisse[3800X BOX] from 8,999 UAH. AMD Ryzen 9 Matisse[3900X BOX] from 13,625 UAH. AMD Ryzen 3 Matisse[3100 MPK] from 4,212 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3600X BOX] from 7,339 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Matisse[3800XT BOX] from 9,900 UAH. AMD Ryzen 3 Matisse[3100 OEM] from 3,569 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3500 MPK] from 3,976 UAH. AMD Ryzen 9 Matisse[3950X BOX] from 19,700 UAH. AMD Ryzen 7 Matisse[3700X OEM] from 10,039 UAH. AMD Ryzen 9 Matisse[3900XT BOX] from 15,399 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3600XT BOX] from 8,999 UAH. AMD Ryzen 5 Matisse[3600 MPK] from 5,496 UAH.

Turbo Boost and Overclocking

Many hoped that Ryzen 5 would overclock better than its older brothers. This would be logical: a reduced number of cores means less heat generation and more room for increasing voltage and frequency. As it turned out later, the limitations of the frequency potential are not determined by temperatures, but by the capabilities of the semiconductor crystal itself and the LPP technical process. Therefore, it is more correct to talk here not so much about overclocking, but about obtaining a stable operating frequency with turbo boost.

When replacing the stock cooler with a Zalman CNPS9X Optima, we were able to achieve the following figures:

  • The 1600X delivered a maximum of 4 GHz at 1.3 V.
  • The 2600X reached 4.2 GHz.
  • The 3600X, despite 7 nm and higher frequencies in the specifications, failed to rise above 4.3 GHz and reach the declared 4.4 GHz.

But here it is important to understand two nuances. First: AMD has done a very good job of automatic overclocking, so most often a conditional 4.3 GHz on all cores and for a short period of time will be better than 4.2 GHz on all cores permanently. Second: from the second generation, AMD began to equip Ryzen with fairly high-quality coolers produced by Cooler Master, so changing it to a more powerful one for the sake of an increase of 100 MHz does not make much sense.

Taking this into account, the purchase of Ryzen 5 can be recommended for beginners or inexperienced users who do not plan to overclock the processor, but act according to the scheme: buy, install, work. Enthusiasts can save a lot of money by taking the younger models of the first and second generations and overclocking them well. Matisse overclocking is more difficult, since AMD has squeezed almost the maximum out of these chips on the production line, so even junior models like the Ryzen Matisse 3500 will, at best, deliver an additional 5 - 9% of power.

Prospects

From a long-term perspective, AMD has no problems. Unlike Intel, the “red” ones do not change the socket every 2 years, but continue to use the good old AM4 for both old and new stones. Therefore, if something happens, you can easily install a profitable first-generation Ryzen into the system, and then “move” to a more modern Matisse. Fortunately, most AM4 motherboards are compatible with Ryzen 3 after a small BIOS update.

Conclusions taking into account prices

Summing up, it’s easy to come to the conclusion that each generation of Ryzen is in many ways better than the previous one. And the gap between the first and third is even more impressive - here you get a serious increase in FPS in games, and simply an impressive jump in performance when working in Cubase, Premiere Pro and other software. And this is not to mention a bunch of promising features like the same PCI-E 4.0 bus, which appeared in new motherboards based on the X570 chipset. However, everything always comes down to price. And here it is difficult to draw clear conclusions.

The first-born Ryzen Summit Ridge, although not too impressive compared to the new Matisse, is also much more tempting in price. The new 1600X can be found in stores for $140. When buying second hand, you can spend $90 – $100. This is an excellent option for budget-conscious users who are not ready to invest in a powerful build right now, but plan to do so in the future.

The second generation of Ryzen Pinnacle Ridge costs exactly in the middle both in terms of price and performance - for the new 2600X in stores they ask for $155. That is, 10% more than its predecessor. Although, the average increase in power is greater. The only problem is that the “stone” turned out to be so successful that it is almost impossible to find it on the secondary market. Considering all this, the 2600X seems like a happy medium for those who don't want to pay extra for the increased power of the 3600X right now.

If saving is not a question, then it’s easier to immediately take a brand new Matisse and not forget about problems with an upgrade in the future, possibly with flashing the motherboard, etc. The price tag of $235 is not entirely justified by the increased power and for now it is rather an overpayment for the future. But it doesn't turn out to be too big. Or, as an option, take the simpler Ryzen 5 3600 without the “X” prefix, which is quite a bit slower in speed, but will cost $25–35 less.

Rating of the TOP 10 best Ryzen processors

Having carefully analyzed the market for products of this type, we have compiled the corresponding most objective rating:

  • AMD Ryzen 5 3600.
  • AMD Ryzen Threadripper Colfax.
  • AMD Ryzen 5 2600.
  • AMD Ryzen 9 3900X.
  • AMD Ryzen 9 3950X.
  • AMD Ryzen Threadripper.
  • AMD Ryzen 7 2700X.
  • AMD Ryzen 5 3400G.
  • AMD Ryzen 5 2400G.
  • AMD Ryzen 7 3700X.

Let us consider each of the presented models in more detail, paying attention to individual technical parameters.

AMD Ryzen 5 3600

The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor is a powerful solution from one of the two world leaders in the production of technological solutions. The model, produced on the basis of Zen 2 architecture and 7 nm process technology, has 6 cores. The L3 cache capacity is an incredible 32 MB. The processor frequency, the base value of which is 3600 MHz, can be increased to 4200 MHz in turbo mode.

The device does not have a built-in graphics core. This is justified, because such a powerful processor clearly needs a video adapter of the appropriate level. The maximum amount of memory compatible with the device is 128 GB. The memory can operate at frequencies that vary widely - from 1600 to 3200 MHz. The processor supports Pure Power energy-saving technology and has low power consumption. The model is characterized by a TDP of 65 W.

Technical process7 nm
Frequency3600 MHz
Number of threads12
Number of Cores6

Price: from 15,065 to 18,812 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Advantages

  • highly efficient Pure Power energy saving technology;
  • a standardized set of instructions and commands;
  • unique technology for increasing frequency Precision Boost 2.

Flaws

  • not found.

The Ryzen 3600 processor was purchased a year ago in the DNS store and, based on those realities, its parameters completely satisfied me; in fact, now I don’t notice any problems with performance either - the processor in conjunction with the GTX 1660 easily copes with any (even the most “heavy”) games and programs. I don’t want to tell you anything about the architecture, component base and other scientific things, so I’ll say it briefly and clearly - for its money, AMD’s product really performs well and “butts heads” with its competitors with dignity.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Colfax

The incredibly powerful Threadripper Colfax processor has sixteen cores on board with a base clock speed of 3500 MHz, which increases to 4400 MHz when operating in turbo mode. Modern Precision Boost 2 technology is responsible for increasing these numerical parameters.

Such a CPU will be a good solution for the productive home station you are building or a computer with gaming capabilities. It supports operation with DDR4 RAM, which has a clock frequency in the range of 1600-2933 MHz, and the largest supported amount of RAM is 256 GB.

Technical process12 nm
Frequency3500 MHz
Number of cores16
Number of threads32

Price: from 59,103 to 66,664 rubles.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Colfax

Advantages

  • high maximum frequencies (up to 4.4 GHz);
  • a lot of cache memory (32 MB at all levels);
  • unlocked multiplier.

Flaws

  • large TDP of 180 W.

After the release of the stable Ryzen line, all people began to suddenly switch to them, because they know about the high service life of the product. Indeed, this model is equipped with a reliable metal case, excellent crystal and nanochip protection, a stylish packaging box design and incredibly high performance. Finding something significantly better and more stable nowadays is quite difficult and you will probably have to look at competitors.

AMD Ryzen 5 2600

The Ryzen 5 2600 processor (standard OEM version) delivers best-in-class performance that will meet the needs of most gamers and developers. It is equipped with six cores that process requests at a frequency of 3400 MHz in base mode and 3900 MHz in turbo mode. The maximum possible number of threads is 12 pieces.

The third level cache is 16 MB, which is absolutely enough for almost any task. The product is designed to work with the latest DDR4 memory standard, and the maximum frequency of the dies can be up to 2933 MHz. Thanks to the advanced energy-saving technology Pure Power, the developers managed to reduce heat dissipation to 65 W. AMD StoreMI technology is a powerful tool designed to speed up computer and program startup times, improve file management, and improve system responsiveness.

Technical process12 nm
Number of cores6
Clock frequency3400 MHz
Number of threads12

Price: from 9,884 to 11,054 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 5 2600

Advantages

  • low power consumption (65 W);
  • instant data caching;
  • exclusion of invalid component signals.

Flaws

  • not found.

One of the reasons why AMD Ryzen processors always attract so much attention from consumers lies in the pricing policy, which is formed in such a way that offers from Intel are not the best in terms of price-quality ratio. Strictly speaking, this processor is a stable budget processor with incredibly high overclocking potential and good factory specifications. At the same time, the product “eats” a little and does not require massive cooling.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Blur the line between elite gaming performance and content creation workstation with the world's most advanced desktop processors. AMD's high-performance x86 Zen 2 core architecture enables Ryzen 9 3900X processors to deliver higher single- and multi-threaded performance than any other processor. Essential to the success of gamers and content creators, this performance helps them win everywhere, every time. The model is designed with a focus on premium users and offers a new innovative design of twelve cores based on Matisse core development technology.

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Number of cores12
Frequency3800 MHz
Technical process7 nm
Number of threads24

Price: from 35,906 to 39,224 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Advantages

  • there is cooling included;
  • support for 64-bit command set;
  • virtualization technology emulates the operation of several computers on one system unit.

Flaws

  • not found.

A really good processor, you definitely can’t call it a budget processor, but it’s more than worth the investment. Heat dissipation has been increased compared to the previous model, and against this background, the Wraith Prism with RGB LED overheating protection system has appeared, which reduces the risk of overheating to a minimum threshold. In general, the product feels like it works one hundred percent and copes well with any task at all, turning the work process into real pleasure and some kind of relaxation.

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X

The flagship processor, created on the basis of the Matisse architecture, has increased the number of cores to 16, the device is capable of solving any task. It blurs the lines between high-performance gaming and productivity for confident PC users. Manufacturers have managed to achieve high energy efficiency of the device. As a result, this processor performs well in the entire range of existing tasks and under maximum loads.

Compared to multi-core competitors of the previous generation, it has a completely monolithic design, in which acceptable delays in working with memory, as well as in data exchange, are evenly distributed. Many gamers are now broadcasting game mode, as a result of which they choose a suitable processor for this, for example, the Ryzen 9 3950X.

Technical process7 nm
Frequency3500 MHz
Number of cores16
Number of threads32

Price: from 58,967 to 66,943 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X

Advantages

  • low heat losses;
  • large third level cache (64 MB);
  • free 35x multiplier.

Flaws

  • not detected.

In terms of topology, the new 16-core Ryzen 9 3950X is very similar to the Ryzen 9 3900X I previously reviewed. Before us is the second mass-produced AMD processor, based not on two, but on three semiconductor crystals, called chiplets in modern terminology. In order not to burden you with theory, I will say briefly and as clearly as possible - the processor is expensive, but it is really powerful and efficient in terms of peak performance, I recommend it.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper

The Threadripper BOX version is one of the most powerful CPUs for desktop computers, with 32 cores and support for 64 threads. It supports a base clock speed of 3000 MHz and can be increased with Precision Boost 2 technology, which allows you to raise the clock speed to an incredible 4200 MHz. The device is characterized by compatibility with the latest DDR4 RAM, its clock frequency is in the range of 1600-2933 MHz. It also supports up to 256 GB of RAM.

Technical process12 nm
Frequency3000 MHz
Number of cores32
Number of threads64

Price: from 120,430 to 137,076 rubles.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper

Advantages

  • 32 cores and 64 threads;
  • 64 MB last level cache;
  • multi-functional working chip.

Flaws

  • will require massive water cooling (TDP = 250 W).

Not a bad choice, it will definitely not go unnoticed by gamers and professional programmers, as well as YouTubers. And in general, people who need the most powerful computer at the moment will clearly choose this option when choosing a processor. It is stable, high-quality, reliable and generally the best Ryzen processor on the market nowadays. Having bought it for myself and used it thoroughly, I could not find any shortcomings - an ideal processor, created for true computer gourmets.

AMD Ryzen 7 2700X

The Ryzen 7 2700X processor is equipped with an AM4 connection connector and is designed for use in a high-performance gaming system unit. The eight-core model with support for sixteen threads has a base clock speed of 3700 MHz and supports Precision Boost 2 overclocking technology, so the frequency can be increased to 4300 MHz.

The CPU is designed to work with DDR4 memory, the frequency of which is in the range of 1600-2933 MHz. The largest amount of RAM supported by this model is 128 GB. The thermal power generated by the processor reaches 105 W, and its highest temperature during operation is 85°C. The device comes with an efficient cooler, so you don't have to choose the appropriate heat dissipation system yourself.

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Technical process12 nm
Frequency3700 MHz
Cores8
Number of threads16

Price: from 13,023 to 15,054 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 7 2700X

Advantages

  • 24 PCI Express lanes;
  • efficient energy saving;
  • thick metal semiconductor body.

Flaws

  • not found.

I would like to start by saying that I don’t particularly understand computers, so I “created” my first computer assembly, one might say, on the advice of friends. I can’t say that it turned out bad (I only made a mistake in the video card, I took one that was too weak). I am very pleased with my new PC, it not only works quickly in any 3D programs and video editing, but you can also play various dynamic games like shooters with it.

AMD Ryzen 5 3400G

Based on the Zen+ architecture, the Ryzen 5 3400G processor is a powerful solution suitable for gaming systems and other personal computers that provide high levels of performance. The model, which has as many as four cores, has a total cache memory of the second and third levels equal to 6 MB. In turbo mode, the processor frequency increases to 4200 MHz, while the device is equipped with a free multiplier.

It is also equipped with an integrated Radeon Vega 11 graphics core, the maximum frequency is 1400 MHz. The processor package includes a cooler; its parameters are calculated down to the smallest detail by AMD specialists. The box, which acts as packaging for the processor, has an attractive appearance.

Technical process12 nm
Frequency3700 MHz
Cores4
Streams8

Price: from 9,965 to 11,054 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 5 3400G

Advantages

  • integrated graphics core (Vega 11);
  • support for a full set of 64-bit instructions;
  • technology of internal and external virtualization.

Flaws

  • not found.

Architecturally, Picasso desktop processors (including the Ryzen 5 3400G and Ryzen 3 3200G processor) are based on the same ideas and principles as the Raven Ridge processors. If you don’t go into details, you can put an equal sign between the first and second generations of APUs in the Ryzen lineup. In other words, the differences brought to the Ryzen 5 3400G and the AMD Ryzen 3 3200G Zen+ microarchitecture are quite minor. The difference in specific performance and IPC is about 3%, so many users don’t see much of a difference, but I’m leaning towards this model due to its cost-effectiveness and innovation.

AMD Ryzen 5 2400G

The quad-core Ryzen 5 2400G BOX is an excellent budget option. The model, manufactured using a 14-nanometer process technology, is characterized by a base frequency of 3600 MHz. A free multiplier will allow you to realize the full overclocking potential of the product. One of its advantages is the presence of integrated Radeon Vega 11 graphics.

The maximum frequency of this GPU is impressive: it is 1250 MHz. The device is compatible with DDR4 RAM, which can operate at frequencies from 1600 to 2933 MHz. The cooler parameters are chosen ideally: the temperature of the processor will meet all standards, and the heat dissipation of the device will not exceed 65 Watts.

Number of cores4
Frequency3600 MHz
Technical process14 nm
Number of threads8

Price: from 10,129 to 11,965 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 5 2400G

Advantages

  • Raven Ridge innovative cores;
  • technology for increasing the standard frequency Boost Precision;
  • integrated graphics (Vega 11).

Flaws

  • low chip overclocking potential (only 300 MHz).

Recently there was a need to replace the processor with another one, since the old one failed due to improper installation. The choice immediately fell on AMD products, because the main criteria were budget and quality. This product fully meets all my requirements and provides great performance potential. I will also note the presence, although not the most powerful, of a fairly good cooling element (included in the kit).

AMD Ryzen 7 3700X

The Ryzen 7 3700X processor has as many as eight cores built into it. They provide high system performance, allowing you to run several resource-intensive applications at once and not worry about them freezing or closing at the most inopportune moment. The device can be installed in a gaming computer or created from it into an office assembly that works with a large amount of data.

The product supports Turbo mode, when launched, the operating frequency of the processor increases to 4.4 GHz. Due to this, the power of the entire system increases. The model is compatible with dual-channel DDR4 RAM (maximum 128 GB).

Technical process7 nm
Number of cores8
Frequency3600 MHz
Number of threads16

Price: from 22,043 to 24,951 rubles.

AMD Ryzen 7 3700X

Advantages

  • The set includes a branded cooler of the brand;
  • multi-profile video memory chips;
  • high performance in various benchmarks.

Flaws

  • not found.

I purchased this processor in January 2021. I was choosing between Intel and AMD for a long time, but after a deeper comparison and advice from friends, the choice was obvious. The price of AMD is significantly lower, while the third level cache is twice as large, and the technical process is the same amount of times smaller. I was impressed by the number of threads and cores working in a single computer “organism”. In general, I’m very pleased with the choice, and I confidently recommend that you buy it in order to enjoy the innovative technologies of the well-known company AMD.

Processor comparison table

To more clearly compare the models presented above, we use a comparative table of characteristics.

ModelProcess technology (nm)Frequency (MHz)CoresStreamsPrice, rub)
Ryzen 5 360073600612from 15,065 to 18,812
Ryzen Threadripper Colfax1235001632from 59,103 to 66,664
Ryzen 5 2600123400612from 9,884 to 11,054
Ryzen 9 3900X738001224from 35,906 to 39,224
Ryzen 9 3950X735001632from 58,967 to 66,943
Ryzen Threadripper1230003264from 120 430 to 137 076
Ryzen 7 2700X123700816from 13,023 to 15,054
Ryzen 5 3400G12370048from 9,965 to 11,054
Ryzen 5 2400G14360048from 10,129 to 11,965
Ryzen 7 3700X73600816from 22,043 to 24,951

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