Is The Ryzen 7 5800X Good For Gaming?
With powerful 8-core processors, the Ryzen 7 5800X is one of AMD’s best CPUs for gaming. But how does it really stack up against the competition?
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: With strong single and multi-core performance plus efficiency-boosting features like SMT and Precision Boost Overdrive, the Ryzen 7 5800X delivers excellent 1080p and 1440p gaming frame rates on par with more expensive CPUs.
This article will dive into benchmarks, specs, and real-world performance to determine if the 5800X is a smart choice for gamers.
Ryzen 7 5800X Key Specs and Features
8 high-performance Zen 3 cores and 16 threads
The Ryzen 7 5800X is equipped with 8 high-performance Zen 3 cores and 16 threads, making it a powerhouse for gaming and multitasking.
With its advanced architecture, this processor delivers exceptional performance and responsiveness, allowing gamers to enjoy smooth gameplay and quick load times.
Up to 4.7GHz max boost clock
With a maximum boost clock of up to 4.7GHz, the Ryzen 7 5800X provides incredible speed and responsiveness. Whether you’re playing the latest AAA games or tackling demanding tasks, this processor can handle it with ease.
Its impressive clock speed ensures that you’ll experience minimal lag and stuttering, resulting in a seamless gaming experience.
36MB of L3 cache
The Ryzen 7 5800X comes with a generous 36MB of L3 cache, which helps to improve overall performance and reduce latency. This large cache size allows for faster data access and retrieval, resulting in quicker load times and smoother gameplay.
Gamers can expect shorter loading screens and snappy responsiveness in their favorite games.
105W TDP
With a thermal design power (TDP) of 105W, the Ryzen 7 5800X strikes a balance between performance and power efficiency. It delivers impressive gaming performance without consuming excessive amounts of power or generating excessive heat.
This makes it a viable option for gamers who prioritize both performance and energy efficiency.
PCIe 4.0 support
The Ryzen 7 5800X supports PCIe 4.0, the latest generation of the PCIe interface. This means that gamers can take advantage of faster data transfer speeds and improved overall system performance.
With PCIe 4.0, you can expect faster game loading times, quicker file transfers, and improved responsiveness in demanding applications.
Unlocked for overclocking
The Ryzen 7 5800X is unlocked, which means that enthusiasts and overclockers can push its performance even further. By increasing the clock speeds and adjusting voltage settings, you can extract even more power from this processor.
Overclocking can result in significant performance gains, allowing you to enjoy an even smoother gaming experience.
Ryzen 7 5800X 1080p Gaming Benchmarks
The Ryzen 7 5800X is a powerful processor that has gained a lot of attention in the gaming community. If you are wondering whether it is good for gaming, let’s take a look at some 1080p gaming benchmarks.
Matches top Intel gaming CPUs in average frame rates
When it comes to average frame rates, the Ryzen 7 5800X stands toe-to-toe with the top Intel gaming CPUs on the market. It delivers smooth and fluid gameplay, ensuring that you don’t miss a single detail in your favorite games.
Whether you’re playing action-packed shooters or exploring vast open-world environments, this processor won’t disappoint.
Excels at 1% lows for smooth gameplay
Smooth gameplay is not just about high average frame rates; it’s also about consistent performance during intense gaming moments. The Ryzen 7 5800X excels in this aspect, particularly when it comes to 1% lows.
It ensures that your gaming experience remains smooth and free from sudden drops in performance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the game without any frustrating interruptions.
High fps in esports titles at lower resolutions
Esports titles are known for their fast-paced action and competitive gameplay. The Ryzen 7 5800X shines in these games, providing high fps (frames per second) even at lower resolutions.
Whether you’re into games like CS:GO, League of Legends, or Overwatch, this processor will deliver the performance you need to stay ahead of the competition.
Keeps pace with the RTX 3080 and 6800 XT GPUs
If you’re a gaming enthusiast who pairs their processor with high-end graphics cards like the RTX 3080 or the Radeon RX 6800 XT, you’ll be pleased to know that the Ryzen 7 5800X can keep up.
It ensures that your CPU won’t be a bottleneck in your gaming setup, allowing you to fully utilize the power of these top-of-the-line GPUs.
Ryzen 7 5800X Performance at 1440p and 4K
When it comes to gaming performance, the Ryzen 7 5800X doesn’t disappoint, especially at higher resolutions like 1440p and 4K.
Despite the fierce competition from Intel, the 5800X remains very competitive in terms of gaming performance.
Still very competitive against Intel in higher resolutions
Even at higher resolutions, the Ryzen 7 5800X holds its ground against Intel processors. With its 8 cores and 16 threads, it delivers smooth and consistent gaming performance.
Whether you’re playing graphically demanding AAA titles or engaging in intense multiplayer battles, the 5800X can handle it all with ease.
100+ fps in AAA titles with maxed settings
The Ryzen 7 5800X is no slouch when it comes to gaming at maxed-out settings.
With its high clock speeds and efficient architecture, it can achieve 100+ frames per second in popular AAA titles. This means you can enjoy a smooth and immersive gaming experience without compromising on visual fidelity.
Great fit for high-end GPUs like RTX 3080 Ti
If you’re planning to pair your Ryzen 7 5800X with a high-end GPU like the RTX 3080 Ti, you’re in for a treat. The 5800X’s powerful performance and excellent multi-threading capabilities make it a perfect match for demanding games and graphics-intensive tasks.
You’ll be able to push your GPU to its limits and experience breathtaking visuals.
Not much difference from 5900X and 5950X
While the Ryzen 7 5800X may not have as many cores as its higher-end counterparts, the 5900X and 5950X, the difference in gaming performance is minimal.
In fact, in many cases, the 5800X performs on par with or even surpasses its more expensive siblings. This makes it a great choice for gamers who want top-notch performance without breaking the bank.
CPU Cooling and Power Requirements
When considering the Ryzen 7 5800X for gaming, it is important to take into account its CPU cooling and power requirements. The 5800X has a thermal design power (TDP) of 105W, which means it can generate a significant amount of heat under full load.
This is something to keep in mind if you plan on pushing the CPU to its limits during gaming sessions.
105W TDP, can run hot under full load
With a TDP of 105W, the Ryzen 7 5800X has the potential to run hot, especially when running demanding games or applications that utilize all of its cores. This is not necessarily a cause for concern, as the CPU is designed to handle high temperatures, but it does mean that proper cooling is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
It is recommended to use a good aftermarket cooler to keep the temperatures in check. The Noctua NH-D15, for example, is known for its excellent cooling performance and quiet operation.
With its dual tower design and two fans, it can effectively dissipate the heat generated by the 5800X, keeping it running at optimal temperatures even under heavy loads.
A good aftermarket cooler like the Noctua NH-D15 is recommended
- The Noctua NH-D15 has been praised by many reviewers and users for its exceptional cooling performance.
- Its dual tower design and six heat pipes ensure efficient heat dissipation.
- The two included fans, with their low noise levels, provide effective cooling while keeping noise to a minimum.
650W+ PSU for system power recommended
In addition to proper cooling, it is important to have a sufficient power supply to support the Ryzen 7 5800X and the rest of your gaming system. AMD recommends a power supply unit (PSU) with a capacity of 650W or higher for systems using the 5800X.
Having a PSU with ample power ensures stability and prevents any potential issues caused by insufficient power delivery. It also allows for future upgrades or additions to your system without the need for a PSU upgrade.
When selecting a PSU, it is important to choose from reputable brands known for their reliability and efficiency. It is also worth considering modular PSUs, which allow for easier cable management and better airflow within your system.
For more detailed information on CPU cooling and power requirements, you can visit the official AMD website.
Is the 5800X Worth It for Gaming?
The Ryzen 7 5800X is a powerful processor that is highly regarded among gamers. But is it really worth it for gaming?
Let’s take a closer look at its performance and compare it to other options.
Beats the 5600X for future-proofing and productivity
One of the main advantages of the 5800X is its higher core count compared to the Ryzen 5 5600X. With 8 cores and 16 threads, the 5800X offers better multitasking capabilities and is more future-proofed.
This means it can handle not only gaming but also demanding productivity tasks such as video editing or 3D rendering with ease. So, if you’re someone who needs a processor that can handle both gaming and productivity, the 5800X is definitely worth considering.
Cheaper than the 10900K but close in gaming
When it comes to gaming performance, the 5800X is comparable to Intel’s flagship processor, the i9-10900K, but at a lower price point. In benchmarks and real-world tests, the 5800X often comes very close to the 10900K in terms of gaming performance.
This means that you can enjoy smooth and immersive gaming experiences without breaking the bank. So, if you’re looking for a high-performance processor specifically for gaming, the 5800X offers great value for money.
A better value than the 5900X if primarily gaming
If gaming is your primary focus and you don’t need the extra cores and threads for productivity tasks, the 5800X is a better value option compared to the Ryzen 9 5900X.
While the 5900X does offer better performance in multi-threaded tasks, the difference in gaming performance between the two is minimal.
So, unless you have a specific need for the extra cores and threads, the 5800X is a more cost-effective choice for gamers.
Conclusion
With its impressive IPC gains from the Zen 3 architecture, great gaming optimization, and high boost clocks, the Ryzen 7 5800X is one of the best gaming CPUs available.
It goes toe-to-toe with Intel’s best chips, delivering excellent 1080p and 1440p frame rates. If you pair the 5800X with a high-end graphics card, you’ll have a monster of a gaming PC.
Just make sure to budget for a beefy cooler and power supply to keep this 8-core chip running smoothly.
