AMD has recently rolled out several updates to address performance issues plaguing its 9000-series desktop processors, namely the Ryzen 9000-series. The initial launch, though highly anticipated, left enthusiasts and reviewers underwhelmed due to the processors’ subpar performance. However, these latest updates promise to revitalize the CPU’s capabilities, breathing new life into the Ryzen 9000-series.
A major performance bottleneck for the Ryzen 9000 desktop CPUs was the absence of Windows 11 branch prediction optimizations. To alleviate this, AMD reported that the necessary fix is now integrated into Windows 11 version 23H2 build 22631.44112 and the latest 24H2 builds by default. This integration is projected to enhance performance by a notable 3-13 percent across multiple games, with the most significant improvements expected in Zen 5 processors and Ryzen 9000.
Furthermore, AMD announced the release of the AGESA PI 1.2.0.2 BIOS update, exclusively for Ryzen 5 9600X and Ryzen 9700X processors. This update extends the warranty of the aforementioned processors, allowing for a substantial increase in the maximum power level (TDP) to 105W - a significant jump from the initial 65W TDP at launch. The increased TDP is expected to boost speeds by up to 10 percent when used in conjunction with AM5 and X870 series motherboards.
Additionally, AMD introduced core-to-core latency optimization for multi-CCD (chiplet) models within the Ryzen 9000 series. Preliminary tests revealed that sharing data across different cores required two transactions for both reading and writing, resulting in inflated latency. While AMD classified this as a ‘corner case,’ the latest BIOS update reduces the number of transactions required by half, leading to improved latency in that particular scenario. Tests have shown that games like Metro, Starfield, and Borderlands 3 can exhibit performance gains thanks to this update, in addition to synthetic tests such as 3DMark Time Spy.
AMD also revealed that the X870 and X870E motherboards are now available with PCIe Gen 5 graphics, NVMe storage, and USB4 as standard features. Moreover, the company introduced support for DDR5-8000 EXPO memory, suitable for enthusiasts who strive for optimal performance. Although targeted towards a niche audience, this feature’s appeal lies in its capability to enhance system speed and overall responsiveness.
Overall, the updates and feature additions spearheaded by AMD are a testament to the company’s commitment to bolstering the performance of its Ryzen 9000-series desktop processors. As enthusiasts eagerly await further enhancements, these developments mark a significant stepping stone towards unleashing the full potential of these powerful CPUs.