Modern computer components

And, conveniently, AMD offers X3D (3D V-Cache, aka an af*** ton of L3 cache) in several products, spanning two generations of CPUs and multiple motherboard platforms. If we limit ourselves to the latest AMD socket, and therefore the Ryzen 7000 series, we have the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, the Ryzen 9 7900X3D and the flagship Ryzen 9 7950X3D. And, as good as the ~$350 Ryzen 7 7800X3D is, what if we try to find the Ryzen 9 7950X3D for nearly twice the cost?

For one thing, you’re in for a bit of a headache when it comes to properly configuring your Windows system to properly use 3D V-Cache at the top end, due to the split personality of the R9 7950X3D. One CCD has that sweet, sweet 3D V-Cache and the other doesn’t. The internal turmoil is undoubtedly the crux of the compelling drama, but PC gamers could probably do without the added complexity involved in correctly programming CCDs for gaming versus computing workloads. I’ve whined about it before, and I’m whining about it again, here.