AMD Ryzen 2 2700X: The Ultimate Review!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. First-Generation Ryzen Processors 2.1 Performance in Multi-Threaded Applications 2.2 Cost-Effectiveness Compared to Intel
3. Second-Generation Ryzen CPUs 3.1 Codenamed Pinnacle Ridge 3.2 Key Improvements in Zen+ 3.3 Die Shrink and Clock Speed Boost 3.4 Precision Boost 2
4. Compatibility and Socket 4.1 BIOS Update 4.2 X470 Chipset 4.3 StoreMI Caching Technology
5. Launch and Tech Specs 5.1 Differences in Clock Speeds 5.2 Similar Specifications
6. Performance Comparison 6.1 Real Bench Image Editing Test 6.2 Handbrake Video Encoding 6.3 Multitasking with Real Bench 6.4 Cinebench Rendering Test 6.5 Gaming Performance 6.5.1 Far Cry 5 Benchmark 6.5.2 Heaven Gaming Benchmark
7. Overclocking Capabilities
8. Conclusion
9. Value for Money
10. Resources

AMD's Second-Generation Ryzen Processors: A Game Changer?

With the introduction of AMD's first-generation Ryzen processors in March 2017, the market witnessed a significant shift in performance and cost-effectiveness compared to Intel's offerings. Now, AMD is back with their second-generation Ryzen CPUs, codenamed Pinnacle Ridge. In this article, we will delve into the details of what has changed under the hood and benchmark these new processors to determine how much of an improvement has been made and how they stack up against Intel's competition.

1. Introduction

The first-generation Ryzen processors took the market by storm, offering excellent performance in heavily multi-threaded applications such as video encoding and 3D rendering, thanks to their superior core count compared to similarly priced Intel processors. However, they fell short in gaming performance due to the limitations of Precision Boost 1.

2. First-Generation Ryzen Processors

2.1 Performance in Multi-Threaded Applications

The first-generation Ryzen processors proved to be exceptional in multi-threaded workloads, outperforming Intel's offerings in many scenarios. Their higher core count and thread count allowed for better utilization of resources, resulting in faster encoding and rendering times.

2.2 Cost-Effectiveness Compared to Intel

Another major advantage of the first-gen Ryzen processors was their cost-effectiveness. AMD managed to offer similar performance to Intel's processors at a lower price point, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

3. Second-Generation Ryzen CPUs

3.1 Codenamed Pinnacle Ridge

The second-generation Ryzen CPUs, codenamed Pinnacle Ridge, bring several key improvements over their predecessors. These improvements aim to enhance the overall performance and efficiency of the processors.

3.2 Key Improvements in Zen+

The underlying architecture of the second-generation Ryzen processors is based on Zen+. This enhanced version introduces several improvements, including a reduction in cache latency and system memory latency. These enhancements contribute to an estimated 3% increase in instructions per clock (IPC) performance.

3.3 Die Shrink and Clock Speed Boost

One of the most noticeable changes in the second-generation Ryzen CPUs is the die shrink. These new processors are manufactured using a 12 nanometer process, which allows for higher clock speeds and lower power consumption compared to the first-generation Ryzen processors built on a 14 nanometer process.

3.4 Precision Boost 2

Precision Boost 2 is a significant improvement over the first version used in the first-gen Ryzen processors. The new Precision Boost profile in the second-gen Ryzen CPUs allows for more granular boosting, resulting in higher frequencies even when a moderate number of cores are in demand. This improvement has a significant impact on gaming performance.

4. Compatibility and Socket

4.1 BIOS Update

The second-generation Ryzen CPUs use the same AM4 socket and are compatible with existing AM4 motherboards. Users may need to update their motherboard BIOS to ensure compatibility. This approach by AMD ensures a seamless upgrade for existing Ryzen users.

4.2 X470 Chipset

While existing motherboards are compatible, AMD has introduced the X470 chipset to accompany the second-generation Ryzen CPUs. The X470 chipset offers improved power management and includes a new feature called StoreMI. This caching technology intelligently combines two storage devices into a single volume, enhancing data movement and improving overall system performance.

4.3 StoreMI Caching Technology

StoreMI caching technology is a welcome addition to the X470 chipset. By fusing together two storage devices, it intelligently moves frequently accessed data to the faster drive, providing users with an optimized storage solution.

5. Launch and Tech Specs

AMD has taken a different approach with the launch of the second-generation Ryzen CPUs, releasing all the Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 5 processors at once. These CPUs offer higher clock speeds compared to their first-generation counterparts, resulting in improved performance.

5.1 Differences in Clock Speeds

The second-generation Ryzen 7 processors offer up to a 300 MHz boost in clock speed compared to their first-generation counterparts. Similarly, the Ryzen 5 processors see clock speeds boosted by up to 200 MHz.

5.2 Similar Specifications

Apart from the differences in clock speeds, the specifications of the second-gen Ryzen CPUs remain largely similar to their first-gen counterparts. However, the performance improvements brought about by architectural changes make a significant difference in real-world usage.

6. Performance Comparison

To gauge the true performance of the second-generation Ryzen CPUs, we conducted several benchmark tests, comparing them against both the first-gen Ryzen processors and Intel's latest 8th generation Core i3, i5, and i7 processors.

6.1 Real Bench Image Editing Test

The first benchmark test we conducted was the image editing program, which is part of the Real Bench benchmark suite. This single-threaded test historically favored Intel CPUs due to their higher IPC and frequency. However, with the second-generation Ryzen processors, AMD has significantly closed the gap, coming in just 5% slower than Intel's offerings.

6.2 Handbrake Video Encoding

Next, we tested video encoding using Handbrake, a multi-threaded workload that utilizes all available cores. Unsurprisingly, the second-gen Ryzen processors, with their increased core count, outperformed Intel's CPUs in this test. The improvements in the second-gen Ryzen 7 processors resulted in even greater performance gains compared to the first-gen models.

6.3 Multitasking with Real Bench

Real Bench also includes a multitasking test that runs several applications in Parallel. This benchmark not only tests CPU performance but also heavily relies on fast memory. Intel's Core i5 and i7 processors showcased their superiority in this test, with the Core i7 8700K leading the pack. However, the AMD processors demonstrated their capabilities and showed promise for future optimization of memory usage.

6.4 Cinebench Rendering Test

Cinebench, a benchmark that measures the speed of rendering complex 3D scenes, proved to be an area where Ryzen processors excel. With their higher core and thread counts, the second-generation Ryzen CPUs showcased their prowess, delivering a remarkable 10% performance increase compared to their first-generation counterparts.

6.5 Gaming Performance

Gaming performance has been an area where Ryzen processors have struggled in the past. However, the second-generation rising processors demonstrate considerable improvements. While Intel's Core i7 processors remain the leaders in gaming benchmarks like 3DMark Fire Strike and Far Cry 5, the second-gen Ryzen processors have closed the gap significantly. The Heaven gaming benchmark, in particular, revealed that architectural differences can yield unexpected results, with Ryzen processors outperforming Intel CPUs.

7. Overclocking Capabilities

Overclocking is a method of manually increasing the clock frequency of a CPU to improve performance. The second-generation Ryzen processors provide greater overclocking headroom compared to their first-gen counterparts. However, the gains from overclocking are relatively smaller due to the already refined Precision Boost 2 technology. While overclocking can yield some performance improvements, it may not be as significant as one might expect.

8. Conclusion

The second-generation Ryzen processors from AMD have taken the already remarkable performance of their first-gen counterparts and refined it further. With improved IPC, higher clock speeds, and enhancements in manual and automatic overclocking capabilities, these processors offer a well-rounded performance Package. While gaming performance may still lag behind Intel's offerings, the second-generation Ryzen CPUs are highly competitive and offer excellent value for money.

9. Value for Money

In terms of value for money, the second-gen Ryzen processors fare much better than their predecessors. With similar pricing to Intel's Core i7 8700K, the Ryzen 7 2700X offers compelling performance. Additionally, AMD's decision to retain compatibility with existing motherboards ensures a seamless and cost-effective upgrade path for users.

10. Resources

For more information and to explore AMD Ryzen processors and compatible motherboards, you can visit the official website of Scan Computers. Our experts and engineers at 3XS Systems can also assist in building a high-performance Ryzen-based PC tailored to your needs.

FAQ Q: Can I use second-generation Ryzen CPUs with my existing AM4 motherboard? A: Yes, second-generation Ryzen CPUs are compatible with existing AM4 motherboards. However, you may need to update your motherboard's BIOS to ensure compatibility.

Q: How does the second-generation Ryzen CPU perform in gaming compared to Intel's CPUs? A: While Intel's CPUs still hold an advantage in gaming performance, the second-generation Ryzen CPUs have closed the gap significantly. Architectural differences can also yield unexpected results, with Ryzen processors outperforming Intel's offerings in specific gaming benchmarks.

Q: Can I overclock the second-generation Ryzen CPUs? A: Yes, the second-generation Ryzen CPUs have greater overclocking headroom compared to their predecessors. However, due to refined Precision Boost 2 technology, the gains from overclocking may be relatively smaller compared to previous generations.

Q: Are the second-generation Ryzen CPUs a good value for money? A: Yes, the second-generation Ryzen CPUs offer excellent value for money. With competitive pricing and comparable performance to Intel's offerings, they provide an attractive option for consumers looking for high-performance processors.

Q: Do I need to invest in a new motherboard to use the second-generation Ryzen CPUs? A: No, you can use the second-generation Ryzen CPUs with your existing AM4 motherboard. However, keep in mind that some new motherboards based on the X470 chipset offer additional features and optimizations that may enhance the overall performance and user experience.

Q: Where can I find more information and explore AMD Ryzen processors? A: For more information and to explore AMD Ryzen processors and compatible motherboards, you can visit the official website of Scan Computers at [insert website URL].

Q: Can you recommend a high-performance Ryzen-based PC? A: Yes, you can consult our experts and engineers at 3XS Systems who can assist you in building a high-performance Ryzen-based PC tailored to your specific needs and requirements.