Unveiling the Power of AMD FX9590 CPU: Pros, Cons, and Performance

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Specifications of the AMD FX9590 CPU
3. Gaming Performance
   • 3.1 Pros of Gaming Performance
   • 3.2 Cons of Gaming Performance
4. Overclocking Potential
   • 4.1 Pros of Overclocking Potential
   • 4.2 Cons of Overclocking Potential
5. Power Consumption and Cooling
   • 5.1 Pros of Power Consumption and Cooling
   • 5.2 Cons of Power Consumption and Cooling
6. Multi-Core Performance
   • 6.1 Pros of Multi-Core Performance
   • 6.2 Cons of Multi-Core Performance
7. Conclusion
8. Fun Facts About the AMD FX9590 CPU
9. Updates and Future Developments

The AMD FX9590 CPU: Performance, Pros, and Cons

The AMD FX9590 CPU, released in 2013, was a highly anticipated processor due to its exceptional clock speed of 5 gigahertz. However, this CPU faced challenges in various aspects, including gaming performance, power consumption, and overclocking potential. In this article, we will delve into the specifications of the AMD FX9590 CPU and explore its pros and cons in different areas of performance.

1. Introduction

The AMD FX9590 CPU, with its impressive clock speed of 5 gigahertz, grabbed the attention of many PC enthusiasts. However, it soon became evident that this CPU had its shortcomings, particularly in gaming performance, power consumption, and overclocking potential. Despite these drawbacks, the FX9590 remains a fascinating piece of hardware. In this article, we will examine the specifications of the FX9590 and assess its performance in various categories, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses.

2. Specifications of the AMD FX9590 CPU

The AMD FX9590 CPU is built on AMD's Piledriver architecture. It features eight cores, or rather four modules of two cores each, which share a floating-point unit. This CPU has a base clock speed of 4.7 gigahertz, which can be boosted to 5 gigahertz using the Turbo feature. The FX9590 is known for its inefficient architecture, resulting in high power consumption and thermal output. With a TDP of 220 watts, cooling this processor can be quite challenging. Additionally, the FX9590 requires a high-end AM3+ motherboard with strong VRMs to operate optimally.

3. Gaming Performance

When it comes to gaming, the AMD FX9590 CPU falls short compared to its competitors, particularly Intel's Sandy Bridge architecture. Although it boasts a high clock speed, its gaming performance is often underwhelming. In titles such as GTA 5, it manages only 81 frames per Second (fps) on average, with the GPU utilization remaining low. This CPU struggles to keep up with overclocked Intel i7 processors and often lags behind even i5 models. However, it still performs decently in games like CS:GO and Far Cry 5, where it can attain 210fps and 75fps on average, respectively.

3.1 Pros of Gaming Performance

• Respectable performance in some games, such as CS:GO
• Playable frame rates in titles like Far Cry 5

3.2 Cons of Gaming Performance

• Underwhelming performance in comparison to Intel's offerings
• Subpar single-core performance

4. Overclocking Potential

The AMD FX9590 CPU was marketed as an overclocking-friendly processor. However, achieving stable overclocks with this CPU can be challenging due to its high power consumption and thermal output. While it is possible to overclock the FX9590 to 5 gigahertz, keeping the temperatures below 57 degrees Celsius becomes increasingly difficult. Furthermore, the voltage requirements for such overclocks, such as 1.65 volts, may not be safe for long-term use.

4.1 Pros of Overclocking Potential

• High overclocking Ceiling with the potential for impressive frequencies
• Overclocking DNA makes it a favorite among enthusiasts

4.2 Cons of Overclocking Potential

• High power consumption and thermal output
• Difficulty in managing temperatures and voltages

5. Power Consumption and Cooling

The AMD FX9590 CPU is notorious for its high power consumption, pulling up to 300 watts under load. This substantial power draw places significant strain on the VRMs of the motherboard. Cooling this CPU adequately is a major challenge, as it requires a robust cooling solution to prevent overheating. The FX9590 is known for its limited compatibility, working only with high-end AM3+ motherboards equipped with strong VRMs.

5.1 Pros of Power Consumption and Cooling

• Efficient cooling can help maintain stable performance
• The high power consumption is a testament to the CPU's capabilities

5.2 Cons of Power Consumption and Cooling

• Excessive power draw puts strain on the motherboard VRMs
• Cooling requirements are demanding and can be difficult to meet

6. Multi-Core Performance

Where the AMD FX9590 CPU shines is in multi-core performance. With eight cores, this processor exhibits decent multi-threaded performance, comparable to contemporary Intel i7 CPUs. In applications that can utilize multiple cores effectively, the FX9590 holds its ground. However, its single-core performance remains a significant weakness.

6.1 Pros of Multi-Core Performance

• Decent multi-threaded performance
• Suitable for applications that benefit from multiple cores

6.2 Cons of Multi-Core Performance

• Inferior single-core performance compared to Intel's offerings
• Limited performance gains in tasks that primarily rely on single-core performance

7. Conclusion

In conclusion, the AMD FX9590 CPU offers a mixed performance Package. While its high clock speed and multi-core performance are commendable, it falls short in gaming performance, power consumption, and overclocking potential. When compared to contemporary Intel processors, the FX9590 struggles to keep up, particularly with regards to single-core performance. Despite its drawbacks, the FX9590 remains an intriguing piece of history, appreciated for its overclocking potential and unique characteristics.

8. Fun Facts About the AMD FX9590 CPU

• The AMD FX9590 held the world Record for the highest frequency achieved with a staggering 8.7 gigahertz, achieved using liquid nitrogen cooling.
• The FX9590 lacks an integrated graphics unit and relies on a separate graphics card for display output.
• The CPU's external memory controller, located in the North bridge, consumes significant power and performs below average.

9. Updates and Future Developments

As of its release in 2013, the AMD FX9590 CPU remains a relic of the past. However, AMD has since made significant advancements with its Ryzen processors, offering improved performance and efficiency. To stay up to date with the latest developments in CPU technology, be sure to follow AMD's product roadmap and announcements.

FAQ

Q: Can the AMD FX9590 CPU be used for gaming?
A: While the FX9590 can handle gaming, its performance falls behind comparable Intel processors. It may struggle in demanding modern games that depend heavily on single-core performance.

Q: Is it safe to overclock the AMD FX9590 CPU?
A: Overclocking the FX9590 requires careful consideration due to its high power consumption and thermal output. Extreme overclocks may not be safe for long-term use and can lead to increased wear and tear on the CPU.

Q: Which motherboards are compatible with the AMD FX9590 CPU?
A: The FX9590 is compatible with high-end AM3+ motherboards that have robust VRMs capable of handling its power requirements. Examples include the Gigabyte 990FX-UD5R5 and similar models.

Q: Is the AMD FX9590 still Relevant in 2020?
A: Given its mediocre single-core performance and high power consumption, the FX9590 is not ideal for modern computing environments. However, for those seeking a piece of overclocking history or exploring older systems, the FX9590 can still be an interesting choice.

Q: What is the maximum stable overclock for the AMD FX9590 CPU?
A: The maximum stable overclock for the FX9590 varies based on the cooling solution and the specific chip. However, reaching a stable overclock of 5 gigahertz is widely considered to be an achievement for this processor.