AMD Leaves Door Open for Ryzen 5 9600X3D: Six‑Core Zen 5 with 3D V‑Cache Could Arrive Later This Year
At Computex 2026, AMD unveiled the Ryzen 7 7700X3D, an eight‑core Zen 4 processor with 3D V‑Cache launching July 16 for $329. But for enthusiasts hoping for a Zen 5‑based six‑core X3D part, the company offered a glimmer of hope. David McAfee, AMD corporate vice president and general manager of Ryzen and Radeon, said that a Ryzen 5 9600X3D is something AMD “may look at later this year.”
The statement does not confirm a launch, but it keeps the possibility alive. The Ryzen 5 9600X3D would be a six‑core, 12‑thread Zen 5 processor with 3D V‑Cache, targeting budget‑conscious gamers who want the cache advantage without paying for eight cores.
Why No Six‑Core X3D Yet?
McAfee explained that six‑core X3D parts are less common in AMD’s product planning than eight‑core models. The Ryzen 5 7600X3D, for example, was a limited‑run product not available through all retail partners. He also noted that gamers still tend to prefer eight‑core CPUs, even though the gaming gap between six and eight cores is often limited – typically around 6% to 10% depending on the title and settings.
Still, the company has not ruled out a six‑core Zen 5 X3D chip. Leaked materials from last year already listed a Ryzen 5 9600X3D alongside other Ryzen 9000X3D processors on a support page, though that listing never translated into a retail launch.
What Would a 9600X3D Look Like?
If released, the Ryzen 5 9600X3D would likely feature six Zen 5 cores, 12 threads, 96MB of L3 cache (32MB + 64MB 3D V‑Cache), and a TDP around 120W. Clock speeds would probably be lower than the non‑X3D Ryzen 5 9600X, similar to how the 9800X3D trades frequency for cache. A likely price point could be around $279–$299, making it a compelling option for budget AM5 builds.
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Bottom Line
AMD’s Computex focus was on the Ryzen 7 7700X3D, a Zen 4 part that offers eight cores and 3D V‑Cache at a lower price than the 7800X3D. But for those holding out for a Zen 5 six‑core X3D chip, McAfee’s comments suggest it’s not off the table. If it materialises, the Ryzen 5 9600X3D could become the ultimate budget gaming CPU on AM5.
For now, AMD is “looking at it” – and that’s more than a flat denial.
Source: tomshardware