Deciding on which AMD processor to power your next gaming PC can be a tough choice. That’s why having a good understanding of AMD’s Ryzen CPU naming conventions is key to making a more informed decision. The latest AMD processors, the Ryzen 9000 series, are known for their great performance and efficiency.
All processors have specific naming conventions that can tell you at a glance their generation, performance tier, and other key features.
We’re here to help break down these naming conventions to help you understand the meaning behind each part of a name to leave you with the knowledge of how to read AMD CPU names.
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AMD Ryzen Naming Conventions 101
All Ryzen processors follow a simple structured naming scheme that remains the same between each new generation (unless otherwise switched up by AMD) : Ryzen [Series] [Model Number] [Suffix]. Each section of this naming format provides essential information about the processor
- Series Number: Tells you the CPU’s generation and performance tier
- Model Number: Informs the series, SKU, and a model identifier.
- Suffix: Provides additional information about the processor
Let’s go through each section of the name, using examples from the latest AMD Ryzen 9000 and 7000 series processors.
Series Number: Generation and Performance Tier
The first digit of the longer number is what indicates the processor’s generation. Take the Ryzen 9 7950X, the “7” tells us it is a 7th generation processor. On the other hand, the Ryzen 9 9950X, the denotes that it is a 9th generation processor.
Each new generation of Ryzen processors brings new enhancements in architecture, performance, and power efficiency.
Your take-away here should be that the higher numbers generally mean newer tech and better performance.
The number in front of the sequence of numbers indicates which tier of processor the chip is. Here is what each of those mean:
- Ryzen 9: High-end, enthusiast-grade processors for top-tier performance in everything from gaming to complex 3D programs.
- Ryzen 7: Upper-midrange, providing excellent performance for gaming and multitasking.
- Ryzen 5: Midrange, balancing performance and cost for mainstream gamers.
- Ryzen 3: Entry-level, suitable for basic tasks and budget gaming.
For example, the Ryzen 9 7900 series represents a high-performance tier in the 7000 series generation, whereas Ryzen 7 7700 indicates an upper-midrange processor from the same generation. Pretty straightforward here!
The Model Number: SKU and Performance
The model number further differentiates the processor’s capabilities with it’s performance tier:
The last three numbers indicate the performance level within each market segment.
For example, the Ryzen 9 9950X is slightly faster than the Ryzen 9900X.
Suffix: Special Features and Use Cases
The suffix at the end of the processor name often provides insight into special features or intended use cases. Here is the suffixes you will see on our current offering of AMD CPU-based gaming desktops.
- X: Indicates higher performance – usually higher clock speeds and better overclocking, these are ideal for gaming.
- G: Includes integrated graphics, meaning a system with these would not need a discrete GPU. Currently we offer the 8000G Series processors.
- X3D: Same performance as the X series but adds AMD V-Cache technology – which has superior gaming performance compared to non 3D V-cache CPUs.
For example, in the Ryzen 7 7800X, the ‘X’ indicates a high-performance desktop processor optimized for gaming that can be overclocked. Meanwhile, a Ryzen 7 7700G would be aimed at users who want a gaming PC that can perform well without a discrete graphics card.
Now that you understand AMD CPU naming conventions you can make quicker, more informed decisions when it comes to picking what processor to power your next gaming rig.
When you know how to read the processors name, you get a snapshot look at the processors generation, performance tier, and special features.
Whether you are in search of the absolute best performing gaming PC or for a budget friendly options, this knowledge will help you choose the right AMD Ryzen processor for your specific needs.
When you’re ready to build or upgrade your gaming PC, CyberPowerPC offers a wide range of AMD gaming PCs, ensuring you get the performance and features you need for an exceptional gaming experience.