Ryzen 9 3950X vs Ryzen 9 5900X
Full specification comparison between the AMD Ryzen 9 3950X (2019) and the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X (2020).
Ryzen 9 5900X
AMD Mid-range
- ✓ ~21% faster on average
- ✓ Higher boost clock (4.8 vs 4.7 GHz)
- ✓ Cheaper at launch ($549 vs $749)
- ✓ Newer (2020 vs 2019)
- ✓ Better performance per dollar
Verdict: The Ryzen 9 5900X is roughly 21% faster than the Ryzen 9 3950X on average — a clear, noticeable performance advantage.
For gaming the Ryzen 9 5900X leads, but the Ryzen 9 3950X pulls ahead in heavily multi-threaded work like rendering, compiling and video export thanks to its stronger multi-core throughput.
At launch pricing, the Ryzen 9 5900X offers more performance per dollar, and the Ryzen 9 5900X is the more power-efficient chip.
Estimated performance
Estimated average 1080p gaming performance compiled from publicly available benchmark data. Individual games vary.
Specs side by side
| Specification | Ryzen 9 3950X | Ryzen 9 5900X |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Zen 2 | Zen 3 |
| Socket | AM4 | AM4 |
| Release year | 2019 | 2020 |
| Est. gaming perf. | ||
| Est. multi-core perf. | ||
| Est. single-core perf. | ||
| Cores | ||
| Threads | ||
| Max boost clock | ||
| L3 cache | ||
| TDP (base) | ||
| Integrated graphics | None | None |
| Launch MSRP |
Green bars mark the better value in each row (for power and price, lower wins).
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ryzen 9 5900X better than the Ryzen 9 3950X?
Yes — based on aggregated benchmark data, the Ryzen 9 5900X is about 21% faster than the Ryzen 9 3950X on average.
How much faster is the Ryzen 9 5900X than the Ryzen 9 3950X?
Roughly 21% on average in gaming workloads. The gap varies by title, resolution and settings.
Which processor is better value?
Comparing launch prices, the Ryzen 9 5900X delivers more performance per dollar. Check current street prices, as market pricing often shifts the value equation.