Category: Computers

  • New Beelink SER8 Pro Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM

    New Beelink SER8 Pro Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS, 32GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Beelink SER8 Pro features an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS chipset and an AMD Radeon 780M iGPU.
    2. It is equipped with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM running at 6,400MHz and supports two SSDs via PCIe 4 lanes.
    3. The mini PC includes a strong cooling system to prevent thermal throttling and offers connectivity options like a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4 for 4K displays.
    4. Expandability is supported through an external GPU via USB 4, along with multiple USB ports and integrated speakers and microphone.
    5. Beelink has not yet announced the official release date or price for the SER8 Pro, while the standard SER8 model is available for purchase.


    The SER8 Pro is a recently launched mini PC by Beelink, a recognized Chinese brand in the expanding market of compact computers. The “Pro” in its title suggests that this system is equipped with an impressive chipset, specifically the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS. Alongside this chipset, it features an AMD Radeon 780M iGPU, but it’s important to note that OCuLink support is absent. Additionally, the PC is outfitted with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM that runs at a speed of 6,400MHz.

    Storage and Connectivity

    This mini PC is capable of holding two SSDs, with each being able to connect through four PCIe 4 lanes. Beelink also promotes a strong cooling system designed to avert thermal throttling. For connectivity, it offers an Ethernet port capable of 2.5Gbps, as well as HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4. These two outputs can connect to high-resolution 4K displays or TVs, supporting high refresh rates like 120Hz.

    Expandability Features

    Moreover, the SER8 Pro allows for expansion with an external GPU via USB 4, although there may be some bandwidth limitations compared to OCuLink. It also includes USB Type-C and USB 3.2 Type-A ports, offering 10Gbps speeds, along with a 3.5mm headphone jack. The mini PC is equipped with two integrated speakers and a microphone, which can be handy for using digital voice assistants. However, Beelink has yet to announce an official release date or price, while the standard SER8 (without the Pro designation) is already on sale at various prominent US retailers, including Amazon.

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  • Sapphire Edge AI Mini PC Launches with AMD Ryzen 300 and USB 4.0

    Sapphire Edge AI Mini PC Launches with AMD Ryzen 300 and USB 4.0

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sapphire has launched the Edge AI mini PC, entering the market alongside brands like Minisforum and Beelink.
    2. The device is powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series processors, with options for Ryzen AI 9, 7, and 5 models.
    3. The mini PC supports up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM for the higher models and includes a 1 TB NVMe SSD with an extra slot for more storage.
    4. Connectivity options include two USB 4.0 Type-C ports, two HDMI 2.1 ports, and various USB and audio ports, though options are limited due to its compact size.
    5. The Sapphire Edge AI will be available for purchase in April, with pricing details to be announced closer to the launch date.


    Over the past few weeks, many mini PCs have been released from brands like Minisforum, Beelink, and Framework. Now, Sapphire, a company well-known for its AMD Radeon graphics cards, has joined the competition with its Sapphire Edge AI (source: Computerbase). This device measures 117 x 111 x 30 mm, but Sapphire hasn’t disclosed its weight. Still, it’s compact enough to be mounted on a standard VESA mount.

    Power and Performance

    The Sapphire Edge AI is equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 series processors, offering three different choices: the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, Ryzen AI 7 350, and Ryzen AI 5 340. The first two models can be paired with up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, while the Ryzen AI 5 340 is limited to 16 GB. You will find a 1 TB M.2 2280 NVMe SSD included, and there’s an extra M.2 2242 slot available for more storage.

    Connectivity Options

    Due to its compact size, the Sapphire Edge AI has limited I/O options. It features two USB 4.0 Type-C ports, two HDMI 2.1 ports, one USB 3.2 Type-A port, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, and a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet jack. On the front side, there are two USB 3.2 Type-A ports along with a 3.5 mm audio jack. The Sapphire Edge AI is set to be available for purchase in April, with the company promising to announce the price as the launch date approaches.

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  • Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 Radeon 880M Performance Issues

    Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 Radeon 880M Performance Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD released the RDNA 3.5 series, with the Radeon 890M as the new flagship and the Radeon 880M as a mid-range option.
    2. The Radeon 880M can outperform the Radeon 780M by up to 25% in certain laptops, but performance varies significantly by model.
    3. Some laptops, like the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, struggle to match the performance of the Radeon 780M due to design and processor limitations.
    4. The compact design of the ThinkPad T14s and its use of a slower Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 processor contribute to its lower performance.
    5. The ThinkPad T14s is not primarily a gaming laptop, so its performance level may still be acceptable for office and light editing tasks.


    AMD surprised everyone last year when they released the RDNA 3.5 series of integrated GPUs. Instead of positioning the Radeon 880M as the top-tier option, it has now been placed as the mid-range choice, while the newly launched Radeon 890M takes the lead as the flagship model. The 880M still provides a good performance boost compared to the RDNA 3-based Radeon 780M, though some models may not perform as well as expected.

    Performance Comparison

    In our comparison chart below, we look at different laptops that feature the Radeon 880M and compare their performance to the average Radeon 780M in our records. Some systems equipped with the 880M, such as the Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7+, can deliver graphics that are up to 25 percent faster than the typical 780M. However, other laptops with the same GPU, like the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6, can struggle and match the performance of an average 780M.

    Reasons for Underperformance

    There are several factors that could explain this lack of performance. To start, the ThinkPad T14s has a compact 14-inch design which likely affects the overall system performance. Additionally, this model is the first in our records to use the Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360, while all the other 880M systems we’ve tested utilize the Ryzen AI 9 365. The slower processor combined with the smaller size leads to reduced Turbo capabilities, putting the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 iGPU at a significant disadvantage across all tested scenarios.

    Target Audience

    It’s important to note that the ThinkPad T14s isn’t designed mainly for gaming, so its lower graphic performance shouldn’t turn away potential users, particularly those in office settings or light editing tasks. Still, it’s a bit disappointing to see it performing on par with an average Radeon 780M rather than surpassing it like most other Radeon 880M devices.

  • Aoostar G-Flip Mini PC: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 & eGPU Support

    Aoostar G-Flip Mini PC: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 & eGPU Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aoostar’s G-Flip mini PC features a 5-inch integrated display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and adjustable viewing angles.
    2. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 12-core processor and includes a Radeon 890M iGPU for gaming at lower settings.
    3. The device offers extensive connectivity options, including USB 4, USB 3.2, and dual Ethernet ports supporting up to 2.5Gbps.
    4. The G-Flip supports expandable storage with two M.2 SSD slots and features two RAM slots for easy memory upgrades.
    5. It includes a vapor chamber for effective cooling and has a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for quick logins.


    Aoostar has introduced a new mini PC called the G-Flip, featuring an integrated display. This 5-inch screen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and supports adjustable viewing angles thanks to its folding design. This display could come in handy for checking notifications or monitoring system status. Additionally, it includes a fingerprint sensor that enables users to log in swiftly, conveniently integrated into the power button.

    Powerful Performance

    The G-Flip is powered by an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, a robust 12-core processor. It features the Radeon 890M iGPU, which is capable of running some games at lower settings. Users can connect an external graphics card through OCuLink. The device offers multiple connectivity options, including USB 4, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and an audio jack. There are also two Ethernet ports supporting speeds of up to 2.5Gbps, along with two USB 2.0 ports. Moreover, it is fitted with a WiFi 7 module, promising high-speed wireless internet access.

    Expandable Storage and Cooling

    This compact PC allows for two M.2 SSDs, each connected through four PCIe 4.0 lanes. The Aoostar G-Flip is also designed with two RAM slots, making memory upgrades straightforward and easy. It features a vapor chamber that helps to keep the system cool efficiently. While the manufacturer hasn’t released an official price yet, the G-Flip is anticipated to hit the market around mid-March.

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  • Massive T1000 Mobile PC: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D & RTX 5090 Support

    Massive T1000 Mobile PC: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D & RTX 5090 Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The UHPILCL T1000 is a mobile system designed as a powerful desktop alternative, lacking a built-in battery for high processing power during travel.
    2. It is available in two configurations: the standard version and the T1000 Super, which supports high-end components with a more advanced cooling system.
    3. The T1000 features a 17.3-inch 3K display with a 120Hz refresh rate and full DCI-P3 color gamut coverage.
    4. It offers connectivity options including WiFi 7, 2.5GbE, and slots for two M.2 SSDs and two SATA connectors.
    5. The system will have different motherboards to ensure compatibility with both AMD and Intel chipsets, but pricing details are not yet available.


    The UHPILCL T1000 is a fresh mobile system that is about to launch its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. This is not your typical laptop; it serves more as a powerful desktop alternative. The computer includes a display and a keyboard, but lacks a built-in battery. This might be advantageous for extended travels where a high level of processing power is necessary, and where the weight is not a major issue.

    Configurations and Specs

    The UHPILCL comes in two different setups. The T1000 Super variant stands approximately 0.27 inches taller than the standard version, while the overall dimensions remain the same at about 16.5 x 13.4 inches. The weight falls between 10.6 and 11.5 lbs. The Super model is tailored to support high-end components such as an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 and AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D, thanks to a more advanced water-cooling system. Its power supply can provide a total of 735 watts to both the GPU and CPU. Users can install both desktop graphics cards and processors.

    Display and Connectivity

    Additionally, the T1000 features a 17.3-inch screen with a 3K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and full DCI-P3 color gamut coverage. It has slots for two M.2 SSDs, as well as what seem to be two SATA connectors. The keyboard that comes with it includes RGB backlighting, and for network connectivity, it offers WiFi 7 and 2.5GbE. While a specific price has not yet been revealed, this unique computer is likely to be on the expensive side. Furthermore, it will reportedly come with different motherboards to ensure compatibility with both AMD and Intel chipsets.

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  • Apple M3 Ultra Beats Ryzen 9 9950X & Core Ultra 9 by 30% in Cinebench 2024

    Apple M3 Ultra Beats Ryzen 9 9950X & Core Ultra 9 by 30% in Cinebench 2024

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Apple Mac Studio now features the M3 Ultra chip, boasting a 32-core CPU and an 80-core GPU for top-tier performance.
    2. The M3 Ultra outperforms high-end x86 processors like the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X and Intel Core Ultra 9 285K in Cinebench 2024 benchmarks.
    3. Apple’s M3 Ultra excels in CPU-intensive tasks and supports up to 512 GB of unified memory for demanding workloads.
    4. Future benchmarks will clarify the M3 Ultra’s potential, but it currently leads in efficiency and multi-core performance for consumer systems.
    5. Upcoming AMD Zen 6 CPUs may challenge the M3 Ultra, but currently, the M3 Ultra stands out in the market.


    The Apple Mac Studio has been updated and is an impressive machine, to put it lightly. At its peak configuration, it can come with the M3 Ultra chip, a powerful SoC. This chip features a 32-core CPU and a gigantic 80-core GPU, delivering performance that stands out as the best a Mac can provide and ranks among the top for systems under 500 watts. There’s hardly any x86 product that can compete with the M3 Ultra, as it occupies a unique space where it easily outshines high-end consumer processors, but unsurprisingly doesn’t reach the core counts of server-grade chips.

    Comparisons with x86 Systems

    For example, a high-end x86 system priced similarly to the Mac Studio would probably have either a 16-core AMD Ryzen 9 9950X (currently listed at $544.74 on Amazon) or a 24-core Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor. Cinebench 2024 shows that the 32-core M3 Ultra dominates both of these x86 systems. With a score of 3,000, the M3 Ultra outperforms the Ryzen 9 9950X by 25% and the Core Ultra 9 285K by about 30%. This is expected, given the significantly higher core count of the M3 Ultra.

    Performance Insights

    Nevertheless, it’s clear that the Apple M3 Ultra will excel in most CPU-intensive tasks compared to any x86 consumer desktop available today. As previously mentioned, the M3 Ultra’s GPU performs somewhere in between the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 and RTX 5080, but actual performance can vary based on the specific tasks. Additionally, the ability to configure the M3 Ultra with up to 512 GB of unified memory lets it handle workloads that weren’t feasible on a consumer desktop before now.

    Future Testing and Developments

    As more benchmarks and tests come to light, the true potential of the M3 Ultra will likely become more defined. While it’s evident that it will lead in overall efficiency, actual performance will depend on how well software developers adapt their applications to leverage this impressive hardware. There are whispers that AMD’s upcoming Zen 6 CPUs will feature up to 24 performance cores, which could pose a real challenge to the M3 Ultra. But for the time being, it’s apparent that Apple’s top-tier model reigns supreme in multi-core performance for consumer systems.

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  • Another Ryzen 7 9800X3D Fails on MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi

    Another Ryzen 7 9800X3D Fails on MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi

    Key Takeaways

    1. A Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU reportedly exploded while paired with an MSI motherboard, marking a new case of malfunctioning hardware.
    2. The user shared images on Reddit showing a deformity in the CPU, while the motherboard appears undamaged.
    3. The specific motherboard involved was an MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi, suggesting potential issues with MSI boards alongside ASRock.
    4. Previous incidents with ASRock motherboards led to a BIOS update that resolved the issues, but MSI has not yet responded to the current concerns.
    5. Many Reddit users have noted that failures of the 9800X3D CPU are not limited to ASRock motherboards, highlighting potential problems with MSI Tomahawk boards.


    There’s been another report of a malfunctioning Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, but this time it doesn’t involve an ASRock motherboard. A user on Reddit posted photos of their “exploded” CPU, which was paired with an MSI motherboard. The specific cause of this incident remains uncertain, but multiple Redditors have noted that many of these failures seem to link back to MSI Tomahawk motherboards.

    Details Shared on Reddit

    The post by the user Realistic_Age_718 appeared around 15 hours ago in the r/pcmasterrace subreddit. The user did not provide extensive details, only sharing some images and indicating that their Ryzen 7 9800X3D had exploded. The pictures clearly highlight a bulging or some kind of deformity at the center of the CPU, which resulted in it ceasing to function. One photo reveals the socket, which appears to be undamaged and intact.

    Motherboard Information

    Another image displays the motherboard SKU that was allegedly used with the faulty 9800X3D. It was an MSI X870E Tomahawk WiFi motherboard, which, according to the picture, had a Ryzen 5 8500G APU installed at the time. The user likely captured this photo with another CPU placed on the motherboard to access the BIOS, indicating that the motherboard itself may still be operational. Although MSI has yet to make a statement, many users on Reddit have pointed out that it’s not solely ASRock motherboards that are causing issues with 9800X3D CPUs—MSI Tomahawk boards are also implicated.

    Previous Actions by ASRock

    When similar issues were reported with ASRock motherboards, the company looked into the matter and released a BIOS update that seemed to resolve the problem. They also created a dedicated megathread on Reddit for users to share their experiences and gather further information via a web form. As mentioned, MSI has not yet responded to these concerns.

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  • Microsoft to Provide More Evidence for Quantum Technology Claims

    Microsoft to Provide More Evidence for Quantum Technology Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft introduced Majorana 1, claiming it to be the first topological quantum bit (qubit) using a new architecture.
    2. Researchers are skeptical of Microsoft’s claims due to the difficulty in capturing Majorana particles and concerns over a lack of supporting details in their publication.
    3. Critics highlight that previous issues, such as a retracted 2018 paper, have led to doubts about Microsoft’s current assertions.
    4. Some scientists suspect the announcement may be exaggerated or even fraudulent, as it lacks evidence from peer-reviewed research.
    5. Microsoft plans to present more definitive research on their findings at the Global Physics Summit in March 2024.


    Scientists appear skeptical of Microsoft’s ambitious statements regarding Quantum computing. The tech giant from Redmond recently introduced Majorana 1, a quantum processor designed with a “Topological Core architecture,” making the strong assertion that it represents the first topological quantum bit (qubit).

    Theoretical Potential

    Microsoft claims this technology could potentially support future advancements with as many as a million qubits. However, researchers are not so sure. Majorana particles have proven to be quite difficult to capture, with their existence first being proposed in 1937.

    Scientific Community’s Concerns

    The assertion that Microsoft has not only detected the particle but also integrated it into a chip has raised eyebrows in the scientific community. Critics argue that the company’s publication on the subject lacks crucial details and, due to a prior incident where a 2018 paper was retracted, doubts persist about their current claims.

    “This is a piece of alleged technology that is based on basic physics that has not been established. So this is a pretty big problem,” said Sergey Frolov, a physics and astronomy professor at the University of Pittsburgh, in a conversation with The Register.

    Doubts About the Announcement

    Frolov noted that the announcement was so “dramatic” that it led to suspicions of it possibly being “a fraudulent project.” Winfried Hensinger, a physicist from the University of Sussex, expressed in Physics Magazine that there is no evidence backing “topological qubits” in Microsoft’s recent paper.

    He pointed out that Microsoft’s press release suggests they have discovered the particle when, in fact, the paper does not provide any supporting evidence.

    “You shouldn’t make claims that are not supported by a peer-reviewed publication,” Hensinger remarked.

    Upcoming Presentations

    Chetan Nayak, who leads the Azure Quantum team at Microsoft, told Physics Magazine that the evidence for the qubit particle was gathered during the submission in March 2024. He mentioned that he plans to share more definitive research at the Global Physics Summit in California, set for March 16.

    In a statement to The Register, a representative from Microsoft said, “There is a lot of science to explain when it comes to quantum computing, and in the coming weeks and months, we look forward to sharing our results along with additional data behind the science that is turning our 20 plus year vision for quantum computing into a tangible reality.”

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  • Topton Launches Compact Mini PC with Affordable AMD Ryzen APU

    Topton Launches Compact Mini PC with Affordable AMD Ryzen APU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Size: The Topton M1 measures just 78x78x55 mm, making it a small and portable mini PC.

    2. AMD Processor: It features the Ryzen 3 5425U APU, offering decent performance, unlike many mini PCs that use Intel N-series processors.

    3. Innovative Cooling System: The device has a newly engineered airflow and cooling system, allowing for quiet operation even under heavy tasks.

    4. Enhanced Connectivity: The M1 includes four Ethernet ports and supports up to 20 PCIe 3.0 lanes, surpassing the capabilities of similar-sized Intel-based models.

    5. Memory and Storage: It comes with 8 GB of soldered RAM and an M.2 2242 slot for storage upgrades, with prices starting at $179.99 for the base model.


    Topton has launched a new compact PC that measures 78x78x55 mm. Unlike many other mini PCs that typically use Intel N-series processors, this model is equipped with an AMD APU. Specifically, it features the Ryzen 3 5425U, which might be an older choice, but it still provides a decent performance for its size.

    Innovative Cooling System

    The company asserts that it has included a newly engineered airflow system. Coupled with an integrated cooling mechanism, this small mini PC is claimed to operate quietly, even when managing heavier tasks. One notable feature of the Topton M1 is its impressive array of ports, which is surprising given its compact size.

    Impressive Connectivity

    It’s particularly interesting to note the presence of four Ethernet ports on such a tiny device. However, it’s essential to mention that when compared to Intel-based models of similar size, the Ryzen 3 5425U on the Topton M1 supports up to 20 PCIe 3.0 lanes, while systems with Intel Alder Lake-N CPUs are limited to a maximum of 9 PCIe 3.0 lanes. Thus, the M1 is a better choice for storage and networking needs.

    Memory and Storage Options

    On the downside, the soldered RAM on the Topton M1 is disappointing, especially since the AMD Ryzen 3 5425U can support up to 32 GB of RAM. The silver lining is that it includes an M.2 2242 slot, allowing users to upgrade the storage as needed (for example, a 2 TB Corsair MP600 Micro currently retails for $174.99 on Amazon).

    Other features of this palm-sized mini PC include 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, two available colors, and a modern aesthetic. The starting price for the Topton M1 is $179.99 for the version without storage, while the high-end model that includes a 2 TB SSD is priced at $319.99.

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  • AMD Ryzen 9950X3D and 9900X3D Now Available for Purchase

    AMD Ryzen 9950X3D and 9900X3D Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AMD Ryzen 9950X3D and Ryzen 9900X3D were launched as the latest gaming CPUs in the 9000 series lineup, available for purchase online.

    2. The Ryzen 9950X3D features 16 cores, 32 threads, a boost clock of up to 5.7 GHz, and a total cache of 144 MB with 3D V-Cache technology.

    3. The Ryzen 9900X3D has 12 cores, 24 threads, and a cache of 140 MB, with a maximum boost clock of 5.5 GHz, and operates within a 120 TDP envelope.

    4. Both processors demonstrate strong performance in productivity and gaming, comparable to high-end competitors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K.

    5. The new second-generation 3D V-Cache technology allows for lower temperatures and improved overclocking potential, enhancing overall performance.


    The AMD Ryzen 9950X3D and Ryzen 9900X3D, highly anticipated by gamers and tech enthusiasts, were officially launched today after being first revealed at CES 2025. These cutting-edge X3D processors, known as the “most advanced gaming CPUs,” are now available for purchase through online platforms such as Newegg and Amazon.

    Availability of New CPUs

    Currently, you can find the new CPUs for sale online. Following the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, the Ryzen 9950X3D and the Ryzen 9900X3D are the newest members in the 9000 series lineup. The Ryzen 9950X3D stands as the premium option, closely resembling the Ryzen 9950X (currently priced at $541.73 on Amazon). It boasts 16 cores and 32 threads, with a boost clock speed reaching up to 5.7 GHz and a thermal design power of 170W. The standout feature is the 3D V-Cache enhanced CCD, which provides an impressive total cache of 144 MB.

    Performance Insights

    In our evaluation of the AMD Ryzen 9950X3D, we discovered that its performance is comparable to that of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, the Core i9-14900K, and the Ryzen 9 9950X according to various CPU benchmarks. The processor excelled in both productivity tasks and gaming tests, with the new generation V-Cache positively impacting gaming performance.

    On the other hand, the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D shares many similarities with the Ryzen 9900X (currently $378.65 on Amazon). Both chips feature an identical configuration of 12 cores and 24 threads and provide 64 MB of L3 cache across two CCDs. One CCD integrates a 2nd Generation 3D V-Cache stack, boosting the cache capacity to 140 MB. The Ryzen 9900X3D can achieve a maximum boost clock of 5.5GHz, slightly less than the 9900X, although both processors operate within a 120 TDP envelope.

    Technical Features

    As previously mentioned, both of these processors incorporate the signature 3D V-Cache technology, now with enhancements. The second-generation 3D V-Cache allows both chips to run at lower temperatures and offers significant potential for overclocking. Additionally, both CPUs are compatible with standard CO and PBO utilities, making them versatile options for users looking to maximize performance.