Ahead of the launch of its new gaming processor, AMD appears to be experimenting with a new retail strategy. Photos have surfaced of a special bundled kit that packages the upcoming Ryzen 7 9850X3D CPU together with DDR5 memory from V-Color and a Cooler Master Hyper 612 APEX PRO air cooler in a single box.
This multi-brand collaboration, first spotted in the Chinese market, represents a potential new approach to selling high-performance components, especially during a period of extreme volatility and shortage for critical parts like memory.
What’s in the Box?
The bundle is designed as a complete upgrade kit for the core of a high-end gaming PC. It includes:
- The Centerpiece: The Ryzen 7 9850X3D CPU, featuring 8 cores, 96MB of cache, and a 5.6 GHz boost clock, launching officially on January 29 for $499.
- The Critical Component: A 32GB (2x16GB) kit of V-Color DDR5 memory. The specific speed isn’t listed, but securing RAM in the bundle is a key value proposition given current market prices.
- The Necessary Cooler: A Cooler Master Hyper 612 APEX PRO air cooler, capable of handling the 120W thermal design power of the X3D chip.
By partnering with Cooler Master and V-Color, AMD can offer a verified, compatible core system foundation in one purchase.
The Pricing Paradox and Strategic Value
When priced separately at current retail rates, these components reveal the bundle’s context. The Cooler Master cooler retails for around $80, and a comparable V-Color DDR5-6000 32GB kit is listed for a staggering $510 on some retailers. Combined with the $499 CPU, the separate total nears $1,100.
This highlights the two key drivers for the bundle:
- Component Assurance: During a severe DDR5 memory shortage where prices have quadrupled, the bundle guarantees the buyer can get the necessary RAM and a capable cooler alongside the CPU.
- Perceived Value: While the total may be high, bundling can offer a slight discount or fixed price in an otherwise wildly fluctuating market, providing cost predictability for enthusiasts.
AMD Component Bundle – AMAZON
A Growing Trend for a Turbulent Market
This tactic mirrors practices from retailers like Micro Center in the U.S., which is known for offering popular CPU/motherboard/RAM combos at a discount. For AMD, creating an official bundle with partner brands helps ensure a smooth customer experience for their flagship gaming part.
It also serves as a potential buffer against the component shortages that are crippling the DIY market. If a gamer can buy a CPU but can’t find or afford the requisite fast DDR5 memory, the CPU’s value is negated. This bundle solves that problem in one box.
Also, Read
- AMD Claims Ryzen 7 9850X3D Makes Fast RAM Unnecessary for Gaming
- Intel’s Comeback Plan – Nova Lake CPUs Arrive Late 2026 with New Socket, Cores, and “BLLC” Cache Tech
- AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D Price Confirmed – $499, Launches January 29
Whether this specific bundle will be released globally or remain a China-focused product is unknown. However, its existence signals that component manufacturers are actively seeking new ways to deliver complete, functional solutions to customers navigating the most challenging PC hardware market in years.
Source: bilibili, unikoshardware