We’ve been saying for a while now that we’d rather wait and see what 9000X3D brings before upgrading to a new Zen 5 processor, but now we might have to wait a little longer. The launch of AMD’s new Ryzen 9000 series hasn’t been completely smooth, especially with the flagship 9950X garnering mixed reviews with underperforming benchmarks – and Core Parking failing to amend it.

Either way, Zen 5 is the way forward and X3D will help win back some fans, especially though looking for the next best CPU for gaming. AMD’s massively successful X3D range has produced some real winners, such as the current go-to 7800X3D. A new rumor now suggests that 9000X3D will have to wait until CES 2025.

Ryzen 9000X3D might not arrive until CES 2025

According to a post from reputable leaker 9550pro on X, the next generation of X3D CPUs may be unveiled at CES 2025. It’s one of the biggest tech events of the year and will take place between January 7, 2025 and January 10, 2025 in Las Vegas. With a not-so-stellar response to the 9000 series so far, many of the SKUs scoring around the 3.5/5 star mark in our recent CPU reviews, it will be a good chance for Team Red to bolster the current-gen options, especially for gaming.

Last year, AMD launched the 8000G series alongside new 5000 series models – one of them including the budget-friendly 5700X3D. So, almost exactly a year later we could finally see the arrival of a new high-end X3D processor featuring 3D V-Cache technology. In response to 9550pro’s post, several other names we recognize from the ‘leaker community’, so to speak, are in agreement with the 2025 launch window.

Worth the wait?

While this is certainly a setback (especially since as early as September was previously suggested) we still think that waiting for 9000X3D is the best move if you’re most interested in gaming performance. The 3D V-Cache design of these chips allows for a high amount of L3 Cache, allowing for quick access to stored memory.

In terms of gaming, this can help reduce latency, loading times, or even combat stuttering. We’re most looking forward to the 9800X3D – if it’s anything close to the improvement between 5800X3D and 7800X3D, you’re in for a treat.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.