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So, you're on the market for a new gaming desktop build. Naturally, you've decided to go for AMD, especially since you want to take advantage of their relatively more affordable prices.

Besides, you've heard many good things about the Ryzen chips and gaming. However, when you've finally looked at your options, you find four different models—Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and Ryzen 9.

Which should you pick? You might want to go all out and splurge on the 9, but is that a wise choice? Read on to figure out which AMD Ryzen chip is best for your build.

The Differences Between Each Ryzen Model

Like Intel's i-series, AMD's Ryzen line of processors is separated into four distinct models, with each model marked by a number. The higher the value indicated on it, the better performance that chip line will deliver. For example, Ryzen 3 chips only have four cores, while Ryzen 5 has six. On the other hand, Ryzen 7 has eight cores, and the Ryzen 9 can be had in 12 and 16-core versions.

You also have to note the series or generation of each Ryzen processor. The first generation Ryzen 1000 processor was launched in 2017, and the latest available generation at the time of writing is the Ryzen 5000. AMD also announced in 2022 that they'll release the Ryzen 6000 mobile processors and Ryzen 7000 desktop chips in the same year.

Ryzen 3: Entry-Level Gaming and General Work

If you're building a PC for general office work, like browsing the net, creating a spreadsheet or two, and answering emails, the Ryzen 3 is more than enough for your needs. It's also powerful enough for light gaming, especially if it's an APU. You can spot a Ryzen CPU with integrated graphics using its letter suffix, which for integrated graphics will come with a G or GE. For example, AMD's 5700G CPU comes with integrated graphics.

You can also pair this with entry-level GPUs so that you can play more graphically demanding games. And if you pair the Ryzen CPU with an AMD Radeon GPU, you can take advantage of the AMD Advantage, allowing you to squeeze more performance out of your equipment.

These chips aren't available as a standalone purchase for the 5000-series generation. But if you're on a budget but still want a decently-powered computer, you should pick a pre-built PC with an AMD Ryzen 3 processor.

Ryzen 5: Mainstream Productivity

If you're looking for more performance, you could pick the Ryzen 5. This model line is AMD's mainstream offering, delivering more cores for better multitasking. It offers more power without breaking the bank, and you can also find a Ryzen 5 APU that'll let you play AAA games without a GPU, although not at maximum quality.

So, if you're looking to build a decent gaming rig but can't afford the discrete GPU you want yet, the Ryzen 5 will let you enjoy your gaming sessions. You can also overclock these processors, allowing you to squeeze more power from your budget.

This is the best option for those looking for the best power at the lowest price in a custom-built PC. On the other hand, if you want to play many game titles but don't want to break the bank, go for the Ryzen 5.

Ryzen 7: Gaming Power

Ryzen 7 is the best processor for most serious gamers. It can deliver the processing power required to run most titles smoothly and lets you multitask efficiently with its eight cores. It also has a higher TDP, between 65 and 105 watts, depending on the variant.

You'll also find an AMD chip with a 3D V-Cache in the Ryzen 7 line, allowing gamers to have a massive bump in performance without the added cost. If you can spare $500, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is hands-down the best gaming CPU from AMD, at least until the Ryzen 7000 desktop CPU series launches.

The Ryzen 7 line is the sweet spot for most gamers. It gives you the power to deliver the performance most titles demand without leaving unutilized capability on the table.

Ryzen 9: Processors for Professionals

If you need a computer for heavy number crunching, like simulation, you should opt for the Ryzen 9. The 5000-series Ryzen 9 has up to 16 cores, making it perfect for demanding applications like Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD, or Blender. Should you choose the Ryzen 9, you definitely have to get a discrete GPU, as there are no offerings in this model line that sport integrated Radeon graphics.

By matching this processor with a top-end AMD Radeon GPU, like the 6800 or 6800 XT, you'll unlock the AMD Advantage, squeezing more power from the overall system. However, if you're just using your computer for basic tasks and gaming, the Ryzen 9 is an overkill chip. Get a Ryzen 7 processor instead and use the money you saved to buy more RAM, a better GPU, or a larger monitor.

What the Numbers and Letters in AMD's Ryzen Processor Models Mean

Aside from the numbered model codes (Ryzen 3, 5, 7, or 9), you'll also see the digits and letters in AMD's Ryzen chips (Ryzen 7 5800X3D). The first four digits signify the generation series and performance levels—so 5 means it's from the Ryzen 5000 generation, and 8 means it's an enthusiast-grade chip. The letters signify its power consumption and other features.

These codes can help you differentiate between the chips in a model line, allowing you to choose the best fit processor for your needs and budget.

What's the Best Ryzen CPU?

AMD's Ryzen processors offer excellent performance at every price point. Whether you're a price-conscious buyer or someone willing to pull out all the stops, there's a Ryzen CPU or APU for you. You can choose the Ryzen model appropriate for your build by looking at why you're buying a computer.

And once you've chosen between Ryzen 3, 5, 7, or 9, you can then pick which variant is best for you by checking the features you get against your budget. That way, you're sure your chosen processor fits your needs and budget exactly.

AMD's Ryzen chips are great alternatives to Intel's offerings. With this healthy competition, consumers are rewarded with powerful CPUs and APUs at an affordable price.

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