Unleash the Power: AMD Ryzen 9 3900 XT - Perfect for Streamers!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Initial Expectations
3. Specifications of the 3900 XT
4. Comparison with the 3900 X
5. Price and Value Proposition
6. testing Methodology and Rig
7. Synthetic Benchmarks Results
8. Gaming Performance without Streaming
9. Gaming Performance while Streaming
10. Temperature Analysis
11. Conclusion

Article:

Introduction

👉 Testing the AMD 3900 XT: Is It Worth the Hype?

Welcome, internet! This is Matt, also known as Matlock, and today we have an exciting topic to discuss – the long-awaited launch of the AMD 3900 XT chip. As an avid tech enthusiast, I couldn't resist the temptation to rush to my favorite place, Micro Center, and grab this new chip for a whopping $500. You may wonder, "But Matt, why did you spend so much on a chip you didn't even need?" Well, my dear reader, I did it all for you. Yes, you heard that right. I wanted to test this chip thoroughly to see if it lives up to the hype. Sit tight as we delve into the world of the AMD 3900 XT!

Initial Expectations

👉 Full Disclosure: I Had Low Expectations

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, I must confess my initial skepticism about the 3900 XT. I had a strong feeling that this chip would turn out to be a total disappointment. However, let me spoil the surprise for you – it's not a dud! Stick around until the end to find out the truth about this chip. Now, let's start by discussing some key information about the 3900 XT.

Specifications of the 3900 XT

👉 Unveiling the 3900 XT: What You Need to Know

The much-anticipated release of the AMD 3900 XT finally happened on July 7th. To be honest, it didn't come as a shock, as the announcement was made about a month prior. Everyone expected the release to Align with the 7nm technology – a clever move by AMD. But before we go any further, let's clarify one thing: the 3900 XT is not just a better-binned version of the 3900 X. Recent information suggests that it features an entirely different silicon. Keep in mind that the 3100 X will still be available, and the 3100 XT does not affect the stock of 3900 X chips.

Comparison with the 3900 X

👉 3900 XT vs. 3900 X: Spot the Difference

At first glance, the 3900 XT may look identical to its predecessor, the 3900 X. However, a closer look at the side of the box reveals a crucial difference – the XT does not come with a cooler. This may be a deal-breaker for some, but let's face it, this chip is not meant for those who rely on stock coolers. If you prefer a bundled cooler, I highly recommend sticking with the 3900 X. It's an outstanding chip that delivers exceptional performance, and you'd hardly Notice a significant difference compared to the 3100 XT.

Price and Value Proposition

👉 The 3900 XT: A Premium Chip at a Premium Price

Now, let's talk numbers. The 3900 XT comes with a hefty price tag of $499, the same as the 3900 X. At first glance, you might wonder if the slight boost in performance justifies the price. It all boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you don't mind spending an extra $100 for a premium chip, the 3900 XT offers a slightly better performance. However, if you're satisfied with the value offered by the 3900 X, which is $100 cheaper, there's no pressing reason to switch.

Testing Methodology and Rig

👉 The Setup: Unveiling the Testing Rig

Before we discuss the benchmark results, it's essential to shed some light on the testing methodology and my personal rig. I conducted the tests using my own rig, equipped with an ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero Wi-Fi motherboard and the latest BIOS version 2103. The system boasted 32GB (2x16GB) of Corsair Vengeance Pro RAM running at stock timings of 3600MHz. Additionally, I set the Infinity Fabric clock to 1800MHz for a perfect one-to-one ratio. An AMD Radeon VII GPU powered the system with the 20.5.1 drivers, while a Corsair H115i cooler with four fans maintained optimal temperatures.

Synthetic Benchmarks Results

👉 Unveiling the Numbers: Synthetic Benchmarks

To get a comprehensive understanding of the 3900 XT's performance, I ran several synthetic benchmarks, including Cinebench R20, Geekbench, 3D Mark Fire Strike Ultra, and 3D Mark Time Spy. The results, although not mind-blowing, showed a slight improvement in performance compared to the 3900 X. The boost of only 100MHz may seem insignificant, but it proved to have a larger impact than anticipated. In the world of synthetic benchmarks, the 3900 XT showcased a marginal increase in scores, albeit nothing revolutionary.

Gaming Performance without Streaming

👉 Gaming Delight: Unleashing the True Power

Now, let's venture into the domain that truly matters – gaming performance. Without a doubt, the 3900 XT didn't disappoint. In various games such as Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Civilization 6, and Heroes of the Storm, the chip delivered anywhere from a 1.7% to a 3% improvement in FPS rates. While these numbers may not seem staggering, it's crucial to point out that these tests were conducted without any streaming involved. The raw power displayed by the 3900 XT makes it a compelling choice for gamers seeking an extra edge in performance.

Gaming Performance while Streaming

👉 Dual Capabilities: Gaming and Streaming Harmony

To truly push the limits of the 3900 XT, I simulated a real-life situation by streaming games. The results were eye-opening! In Shadow of the Tomb Raider, a 5% improvement in FPS was observed, and Civilization 6 remained consistent. However, the real game-changer was Heroes of the Storm, with an average FPS increase of 15% and a minimum difference of 23%. These numbers highlight the 3900 XT's prowess in multitasking scenarios. Streamers looking for a high-performance chip would find the 3100 XT a pleasant surprise, providing remarkable value for the price.

Temperature Analysis

👉 Keeping It Cool: The Thermals Unveiled

Temperature management is crucial for any processor, and the 3900 XT excelled in this aspect. To ensure accurate measurements, I maintained a steady room temperature of 72°F (22.2°C). Surprisingly, the XT variant showcased lower temperatures compared to the X. The 3900 XT reached a maximum of 70°C, while the 3900 X climbed to 73°C. This unexpected temperature advantage further adds to the overall appeal of the 3900 XT, as it maintains efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Conclusion

👉 The Verdict: A Chip for the Performance Seekers

In conclusion, the AMD 3900 XT is undeniably a chip that caters to the performance seekers in the market. If you already own a 3900 X, the upgrade may not be necessary unless you're willing to sell your current chip to fund the switch. However, for those with a $500 budget and a desire to squeeze out every last drop of performance, the 3900 XT is a compelling choice. Furthermore, the 3900 X still stands as an excellent value proposition, priced $100 lower. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Is it time for Intel to step up their Game and match AMD's multi-core dominance? Only time will tell. For now, consumers can enjoy the competition between these giants, as it fuels innovation and benefits us all. So, whether you're a hardcore gamer or a multitasking streamer, the AMD 3900 XT presents a fantastic option that delivers unparalleled performance at a premium price.

Resources:

• Micro Center
• AMD
• ASUS
• Corsair
• Geekbench
• Cinebench
• 3DMark