AMD’s upcoming Ryzen 9 9950X3D has appeared in a leaked CPU-Z screenshot, confirming its key specifications and—perhaps most notably—that it maintains the same boost clock speed as the non-X3D Ryzen 9 9950X. This breaks from earlier generations, where X3D models typically shipped with reduced frequencies to accommodate their stacked cache design.
No Boost Clock Reduction for the X3D Flagship #
The engineering sample shown in CPU-Z reports a maximum boost of 5.65 GHz, with the screenshot briefly showing 5.7 GHz, effectively matching the standard 9950X. This suggests the new 3D V-Cache thermal layout is more efficient, allowing AMD to retain high frequencies.
The CPU, codenamed Granite Ridge, features:
- 16 cores / 32 threads
- 170 W TDP
- 128 MB total L3 cache (96 MB + 32 MB as listed in CPU-Z)
- Architecture: Zen 5
![AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D]
Updated 3D V-Cache Layout #
Unlike previous generations where the stacked L3 cache sat on top of a CCD (raising thermal density), the Zen 5 X3D design places the 64 MB L3 die beneath one CCD. This allows the CPU cores to maintain direct contact with the IHS, improving heat transfer and helping preserve clock speeds.
The Ryzen 9 9950X3D uses:
- Two CCDs (8 cores each)
- One CCD with an additional 64 MB stacked cache
- 144 MB total cache (L2 + L3)
This should translate into improved gaming performance without sacrificing multi-core throughput.
Chipset Support and Software Updates #
AMD is preparing a new chipset driver 1.0.0.7, optimized specifically for Zen 4 and Zen 5 3D V-Cache processors. Early indications suggest better scheduling behavior and more consistent gaming performance across CCDs.
Expected Launch at CES 2025 #
AMD is expected to officially unveil the Ryzen 9 9950X3D alongside the Ryzen 9 9900X3D at CES 2025, potentially accompanied by graphics hardware supporting FSR 4 and the RDNA 4 architecture.
With no boost-clock compromises and a more thermally efficient 3D V-Cache design, the 9950X3D is shaping up to be one of AMD’s strongest high-end CPU releases to date—aimed squarely at global enthusiasts, gamers, and creators.