AMD today launched the Ryzen 7 9850X3D desktop processor. This 8-core/16-thread processor is powered by the "Zen 5" microarchitecture supercharged with 3D V-Cache technology, and is essentially a speed-increase over the current 9800X3D. The chip comes with a base frequency of 4.70 GHz, and maximum boost frequency of 5.60 GHz, a significant increase over the 4.70 GHz base and 5.20 GHz maximum boost of the 9800X3D. This 400 MHz increase in maximum boost frequency should increase boost frequency residency across thread counts. The chip is configured with 120 W TDP. The 3rd Gen 3D V-Cache technology sees the 64 MB L3D located below the 8-core CCD, as opposed to being above it in the past two generations, which should let the CCD enjoy similar thermal characteristics to non-X3D Ryzen processors, letting them sustain higher boost frequencies and overclocking capabilities. AMD said retail availability of the 9850X3D should commence in Q1 2026, the company didn't reveal pricing.