AMD recently delayed the 9000 series processors to the second and third weeks of August, and people were expecting the same to happen with the two XT processors that the company announced previously. However, to everyone’s surprise, the Ryzen 9 5900XT and Ryzen 7 5800XT were launched on their scheduled July 31st release date.
The 5900XT is a high-end processor capable of handling demanding tasks with ease. On the other hand, the 5800XT is a mid-range option, offering half the cores and threads of the 5900XT but could still deliver great performance in multiple tasks. Both are the XT versions of the 5900X and 5800X, respectively. But how do the two stack up against each other? We’ll find out in our detailed comparison.
Also, if you’re interested in getting any of the two processors, you can check out our Where to Buy 5900XT and Where to Buy 5800XT pages.
AMD Ryzen 9 5900XT
Cores
16
Threads
32
Boost clock speed
4.8 GHz
Base clock speed
3.3 GHz
L3 Cache
64 MB
TDP
105W
Platform
AMD Socket AM4
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CHECK PRICEAMD Ryzen 7 5800XT
Cores
8
Threads
16
Boost clock speed
4.8 GHz
Base clock speed
3.8 GHz
L3 Cache
32 MB
TDP
105W
Platform
AMD Socket AM4
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CHECK PRICESpecifications
| Specifications | Ryzen 9 5900XT | Ryzen 7 5800XT |
| Architecture | Zen 3 | Zen 3 |
| Socket | AM4 | AM4 |
| Process | TSMC 7nm FinFET | TSMC 7nm FinFET |
| Cores | 16 | 8 |
| Threads | 32 | 16 |
| Base clock speed | 3.3 GHz | 3.8 GHz |
| Boost clock speed | 4.8 GHz | 4.8 GHz |
| L3 Cache | 64 MB | 32 MB |
| TDP | 105W | 105W |
Looking at the specifications, both CPUs feature the same architecture, socket, process technology, and even TDP. The differences we can spot are cores, threads, clock speeds, and cache size.
Foundation and core count
To begin with, both processors are based on the Zen 3 architecture that was first seen in November 2020. However, even though it’s been more than 3 years since it was launched and we currently have Zen 5, Zen 3 is still a very capable architecture. Sure, Zen 3 CPUs may not be able to keep up with the latest technologies, but they still great for budget-conscious PC builders.
As far as the cores and threads are concerned, the 5900XT packs 16 cores and 32 threads. It also utilizes SMT technology, also known has hyperthreading, which allows the processor to handle two threads with each core. What this means? Better overall performance in multitasking and demanding tasks.
On the other hand, the 5800XT offers half of what the 5900XT does. It comes with 8 cores and 16 threads. However, just like the high-end option, this one also utilizes hyperthreading to improve the overall performance.
Clock speeds
The Ryzen 9 5900XT has a base clock of 3.3 GHz, while the 5800XT runs at a speed of 3.8 GHz at the base level.
However, if you want to push the CPUs to their limits, then you can boost their clock speeds of up to 4.8 GHz. Both having the same boost clock is surprising, as the 5900XT should have had a higher boost clock considering it comes with almost double the cores and threads than the 5800XT.
Also, keep in mind that while running the CPUs at such high speeds can improve the performance, it can also lead to overheating issues. So, we won’t recommend constantly running them at their maximum speed.
TDP and cache size
Just like the max boost clock, both CPUs also have the same TDP: 105W. However, while these two aren’t some of the most power-hungry CPUs, you’ll still need a decent power supply for them. You can check out our top picks for the best PSUs for gaming in case you want to explore some options. Also, a CPU with a 105W TDP can generate a lot of heat under stress, so make sure you’re using one of the best AIO coolers with it.
When it comes to the cache size, the 5900XT takes the lead. It offers a 64 MB L3 Cache, while the 5800XT comes packed with 32 MB L3 Cache. What this means is that the 5900XT can store more data, which the CPU needs to access frequently. This reduces the burden on the processor and helps it operate smoothly.
Pricing
The Ryzen 9 5900XT can be purchased from Amazon for $349. However, if you don’t have use for a high-end processor, then you can pick up the Ryzen 7 5800XT for $249, which is $100 less. For convenience, here are the retail links:
Alternate options
If you think that the two processors are not suitable for your needs, then you can check out some other options. We’ve reviewed most of the CPUs that you can find below, and each one is solid in its own way.
-
AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
- Cores: 16
- Threads: 32
- Base clock speed: 3.4 GHz
- Boost clock speed: 4.9 GHz
- L3 Cache: 64 MB
- TDP: 105 W
-
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
- Cores: 6
- Threads : 12
- Boost speed : up to 4.6 GHz
- Base speed: 3.7 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65W
-
Intel Core i9-13900K
- Cores: 24 (8P-16E)
- Threads: 32
- Boost speed : P-Core 5.8GHz / E-Core 4.3GHz
- Base speed: P-Core 3.0GHz / E-Core 2.2GHz
- L3 Cache: 36 MB
- TDP: 253 W
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Intel Core i7-13700K
- Cores: 16
- Threads: 24
- Platform: Raptor Lake-S
- Base Clock Speed: 100 MHz
- Boost Clock Speed: 5.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 30 MB (shared)
Which one to go for?
Choosing between the Ryzen 9 5900XT and Ryzen 7 5800XT depends largely on your specific needs and budget. The 5900XT is equipped with 16 cores and 32 threads, making it a powerhouse for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or content creation. Its larger cache size also contributes to its overall performance advantage.
On the other hand, the 5800XT offers a more balanced approach with 8 cores and 16 threads, making it suitable for gaming, office work, and general-purpose computing. It is a solid choice for those who don’t have a use for a high-end processor like the 5900XT or are looking for something that offers a mixture of performance and affordability.
In the end, it all comes down to you. If you have a rig that is packed with powerful components, like one of the best GPUs for gaming, then you should opt for the 5900XT. But if you think its not worth spending the extra $100 for 2x cores and threads and double cache size, then the 5800XT is the way to go.
