Ryzen 7 9700X Vs Ryzen 5 7600X – Can the entry-level CPU keep up?

AMD fans were looking forward to the launch of the Ryzen 9000 series processors, which were scheduled for the end of July. However, the company later decided to delay them to the second and third weeks of August. This means that everyone had to wait a few more weeks to enjoy the latest Zen 5 architecture. That said, the two Ryzen 9000 processors were launched on time as per the new schedule, and the Ryzen 7 9700X is up for grabs on Amazon.

While we have to wait a bit more for the top performers to release, we can now start building our mid-range rigs. On top of that, to showcase the performance difference between Zen 5 and Zen 4 processors, we’re going to compare the Ryzen 7 9700X, a mid-range CPU from the Ryzen 9000 series, to the entry-level CPU that we reviewed, the Ryzen 5 7600X.

In case you’re planning to get the 9700X, you may want to check out our Where to Buy 9700X page. We’ve listed different retailers on the page to help you grab the processor as soon as it launches. We have also got our 9700X review up in case you want to see its capabilities and what we think of it.

AMD Ryzen 7 9700X

Cores

8

Threads

16

Boost clock speed

5.5 GHz

Base clock speed

3.8 GHz

L3 Cache

32 MB

TDP

65 W

Platform

AMD Socket AM5

Shop on Amazon

CHECK PRICE

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Cores

6

Threads

12

Boost clock speed

5.3 GHz

Base clock speed

4.7 GHz

L3 Cache

32 MB

TDP

105W

Platform

AMD Socket AM5

Shop on Amazon

CHECK PRICE

Specifications

There’s a big difference between the two processors when it comes to specs, which you can see below.

As you can see for yourself, the 7 9700X has a few more cores and threads than the 5 7600X. On top of that, it also offers a better boost clock speed and is based on the Zen 5 architecture. 

Cores and threads

To begin with, the Ryzen 7 9700X has eight cores, two more than the 7600X. It also has four more threads. This means that the 9700X should be able to perform better in multitasking and individual tasks. 

On top of that, the cores in the 9700X are based on the Zen 5 architecture, which uses the 4nm technology. Thanks to it, the transistors are much smaller than before and are hence more in quantity. On the other hand, the 7600X has Zen 4 cores, offering the 5nm technology.

What this means? Well, Zen 5 offers a 16% IPC increase because of the increased transistor count, so it can handle more instructions compared to the previous generation. The programs will open and run quicker, rendering will be smoother, and you’ll even get better framerates in games. 

Clock speeds 

As far as the base clock speed is concerned, the 5 7600X takes the lead with a 0.9 GHz better speed. However, as the Zen 5 architecture offers a 16% average IPC uplift, the 9700X may be able to perform better with a slower speed.

If you want better performance, you can always overclock the processors and increase their speeds. For instance, the clock speed of the 9700X can be boosted up to 5.5 GHz, while the 7600X can also go all the way up to 5.3 GHz. However, it is important to keep in mind that while more speed will result in better performance, the CPUs will also generate too much heat, which can damage them in the long run. So, we won’t recommend constantly running them at such high speeds.

But even without overlocking, the 7600X was able to hit 766 points during our tests in CPU Z single-core tests and 6,192 points in CPU Z multi-core tests. We also recorded an average speed of 61.49 in the Handbrake TOS 4K Fast 1080p encode test. This means that even at the base level, the 9700X should be able to deliver significantly better performance than the 7600X.

If you’re concerned about gaming, then you should have no problems in CPU-intensive games with the 9700X. This is because even with a lower core and thread count and an old architecture, the 7600X was able to hit 295 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p during our tests, and we were using an RTX 4070 Ti super in the rig. So, with the 9700X, which has more cores and the latest Zen 5 architecture, you can expect better gaming performance.

As far as the cache is concerned, both CPUs offer a 32MB L3 cache. In other words, both can store the same amount of data. 

TDP

The biggest difference that we can spot between the two processors is the TDP.

Even with fewer cores and threads, the Ryzen 5 7600X has a TDP of 105W. While this isn’t as much as some of the high-end processors, it is significantly more than the Ryzen 7 9700X, which has a total power draw of only 65W.

A lower TDP means that the CPU will generate less heat, even during intense sessions. This makes the 9700X a better choice for those who are looking for an energy-efficient processor and something that will remain within the safe temperature level with the right cooler.

9700X and 7600X price

The Ryzen 5 7600X was launched with an MSRP of $299. However, the price of the processor occasionally gets slashed on Amazon and other retailers. As per CamelCamelCamel, the lowest the processor has been available for is $171.50. And even right now, you can grab it for $197.91 on Amazon, thanks to a big discount.

The Ryzen 7 9700X will cost $359, which is a decent price bracket for its mid-range status. However, only time will tell whether this is justified, as the initial reviews for the 9700X are underwhelming.

How do the two CPUs compare to their predecessors? 

Let’s take a look at how the two CPUs compare to the previous generation of processors. 

Looking at the specifications, the core count, threads, and cache of both processors are the same as their predecessors. The only difference that we can spot is their architecture, TDP, and clock speed. 

It is pretty impressive to see that the 9700X, which is built on the latest Zen 5 architecture and offers strong performance, has exactly the same TDP as the Zen 3 5600X. This further proves that processors are not only getting stronger but are also becoming more energy efficient. 

Alternatives to the 9700X and the 7600X

If you’re looking for other processors to choose from instead of the 9700X and 7600X, check out the list below. We’ve reviewed most of them and have found each one to be a great processor. Just make sure to read about them first before hitting the buy button to make sure they’re right for your needs.

Which one is right for you?

The Ryzen 7 9700X comes out on top in most performance. It has more cores and threads, a higher boost clock speed, and the advantage of the Zen 5 architecture, which offers a 16% IPC increase. This translates to better multitasking performance, smoother rendering, and higher frame rates in games.

The Ryzen 7 9700X also has a lower TDP (thermal design power) of 65W compared to the 7600X’s 105W. This means it generates less heat and consumes less power. This can be a significant advantage if you’re looking for a CPU that won’t drive up your energy bills or require a powerful cooling system.

However, it is also important to keep in mind that the Ryzen 5 7600X is currently available for $197.81, while the 7 9700X is expected to launch with a $449 price tag. So, if you’re on a tight budget, then the 7600X may be a better option for you. We found it to be a great processor for multiple tasks in our review, and this is why it got a 4.5/5 rating from us. But if budget is not an issue, then we’d definitely recommend opting for the latest processor.