Best CPU for B650 motherboard – Our top 3 picks for performance
Looking for the best CPU for B650 motherboard? We have you covered.
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Looking for the best CPU for the B650 motherboard? You’re not alone. The B650 seems to be an obscure choice of motherboard for most, but ideal if you’re looking to build a smaller, more budget-friendly PC. We here at WePC have tested hundreds of CPU and motherboard combinations, so we have the expertise to guide you through the best CPU for the B650 motherboard.
We keep this article constantly up to date, so we have considered the latest and greatest from AMD, however, there aren’t many AMD X3D CPUs that would suit the overall budget environment of the B650 motherboard. But we might throw one in for good measure. You technically shouldn’t see any performance differences between B650 and X670, it’s just a feature set. You can always upgrade your motherboard later down the line if needs be.
If you’re in a rush, we recommend either the Ryzen 5 7600X or the Ryzen 9 7900X. The astute amount you might be wondering why we aren’t recommending Intel CPUs, that’s because the B650 is an AM5 socket motherboard, LGA 1718.
Best CPU for B650 motherboard
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Cores
6
Threads
12
Base speed
4.7GHz
Boost speed
5.3GHz
Cache
L3 32MB
Socket
AM5
- Incredible single-core performance
- Interesting IHS
- Very power efficient
- surpasses other CPUs with more cores
- Hard to cool, runs very hot
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X claims its position as the best CPU for a B650 motherboard, delivering an unbeatable blend of performance and value. Its single-core performance competes head-to-head with the 7900X, a crucial factor for gamers seeking a responsive and immersive gaming experience.
While the multi-core performance doesn’t reach the heights of more expensive CPUs, it comfortably beats its predecessors and even surpasses lesser-generation eight-core processors. This makes the Ryzen 5 7600X an exceptional budget CPU, ensuring efficiency and leaving room in your budget for other important components.
If we were to sum up our thoughts on the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, it’s simply love at first sight. When we had the opportunity to review both the 7600X and the 7900X, the 7600X emerged as the clear winner. It boasts nearly identical single-core performance to the 7900X, making it a gamer’s dream come true. For pure gaming enthusiasts, the 7600X is the go-to choice.
The 7600X features 6 cores, 12 threads, a base clock speed of 4.7GHz, and a formidable boost clock speed of 5.3GHz. With a generous L2 cache of 6MB and an expansive L3 cache of 32MB, this CPU is more than ready to tackle a wide range of tasks. Despite its toasty temperature, reaching up to 91°C in our tests, it remains an excellent choice.
The Ryzen 7600X’s performance benefits from a 13% IPC (Instructions Per Cycle) improvement over the previous generation, thanks to AMD’s 5nm Zen 4 CPU cores. This propels it into the future, ensuring exceptional gaming experiences. The collaboration between AMD and TSMC in chip manufacturing technology has paved the way for this remarkable performance.
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X
Cores
12
Threads
24
Base speed
4.7GHz
Boost speed
5.6GHz
Cache
L3 64MB
Socket
AM5
- Incredible performance
- High performance pew Watt
- Interesting IHS
- Cooler than other 7000 series CPUs on average
- A little pricey
- Hard to keep cool
When considering the compatibility of the Ryzen 9 7900X with a B650 motherboard, it’s essential to take into account the motherboard’s budget-oriented nature. While the 7900X is undeniably an exceptional CPU, its value proposition may not align perfectly with the B650’s cost-effective profile, making it a less obvious choice for this particular scenario.
The 7900X, hailing from the cutting-edge Zen 4 architecture, represents a significant leap forward in AMD’s performance capabilities. The introduction of the AM5 socket, which supports DDR5 and PCIe Gen 5, brings the 7000 series up to speed, bringing a sense of delight to AMD enthusiasts.
With an impressive 5.6 GHz boost clock speed, the 8-core, 16-thread Ryzen 7900X combines both multi-core and single-core prowess. AMD’s commendable improvements in single-core performance place it on par with Intel’s prior-generation CPUs, such as Alder Lake.
One notable upgrade comes in the form of Zen 4 CPU cores, which can efficiently process more instructions, while the cache per core has doubled from 512 Kb to 1 MB. This means the CPU enjoys rapid access to cache, ensuring a snappy and responsive performance.
However, it’s important to address the Thermal Design Power (TDP), which stands notably higher than the previous generation. The 7900X exhibits a TDP of 170 W at its base speed and 230 W at boost speed. This does present a challenge in terms of heat management, somewhat akin to the 13900K. It appears that CPU cooler technology is grappling with the increased power demands of these new-generation CPUs.
AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D
Ryzen 9 7950X3D
Cores:
16
Thread:
32
Boost speed:
5.7 GHz
Cache:
144 MB
TDP:
120W
- 3D V-cache makes for fantastic gaming performance
- Less limited thanks to dual CCD config
- Relatively efficient
- Expensive
- Locked to auto overclocking, no manual
Whilst it is an odd choice, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D emerges as a formidable CPU for a B650 motherboard, offering an exceptional level of gaming performance. With its impressive 16 CPU cores and 32 threads, all clocked at a blazing 5.7GHz, the 7950X3D represents the pinnacle of CPU gaming capabilities.
One of the standout features of the 7950X3D is its substantially larger cache compared to other CPUs in the market. While it’s undeniably more expensive than a CPU like the 7600X, it’s crucial to note that the 7950X3D’s sheer power has the potential to overshadow the capabilities of the B650 motherboard. However, it’s worth mentioning that you can always opt for a motherboard upgrade in the future to fully harness this CPU’s potential.
The introduction of V-cache is indeed a valuable addition, but it does come with certain limitations. V-cache is sensitive to high voltages and temperatures, which means that some aspects of the CPU’s performance must be slightly restricted to ensure proper operation. It’s important to note that B650 motherboards may not provide the most robust support for overclocking, making this restriction a minor concern.
X3D advantages in the 7950X3D
One notable advantage of the Zen 4 version of the X3D CPUs is that the 3D V-cache is integrated into only one of the two CCDs (Core Complex Dies). As a result, only half of the CPU is subject to the limitations imposed by the 3D V-cache. This approach represents an improvement over the previous generation, where the entire CPU was limited by such constraints.
In terms of gaming performance, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D excels, offering up to a 40% increase in certain gaming scenarios, outperforming its predecessors. While it may come at a higher cost, the substantial gains in gaming and computing performance make it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance.
Things to consider when looking for the best CPU for the B650 motherboard
When searching for the best CPU for a B650 motherboard, several factors should be considered to ensure compatibility, performance, and value. Here are some key considerations:
- Socket Compatibility: The first and most crucial factor is to ensure that the CPU you choose is compatible with the LGA 1718 socket, AM5, which is typical for B650 chipset motherboards. Ensure that the CPU and motherboard socket match.
- Generation and Series: B650 motherboards belong to Socket AM5, so they only support the Ryzen 7000 series. They may be compatible with the next generation, but we have no information on that just yet. Ensure that the CPU you choose belongs to the correct generation and series.
- Budget: Determine your budget for the CPU. B650 motherboards are often associated with mid-range and budget builds, so choose a CPU that aligns with your budget while providing the performance you need.
- Usage Requirements: Consider your specific needs. Are you building a gaming PC, a workstation, or a general-use computer? The CPU should be tailored to your specific usage scenario.
- Cores and Threads: The number of cores and threads is important. For tasks that require multitasking or productivity, consider a CPU with more cores and threads. Gamers may benefit from a CPU with high single-core performance.
- Clock Speed: Look at the CPU’s clock speed, especially the base and boost clock frequencies. Higher clock speeds are generally better for gaming and single-threaded applications.
- Overclocking: Consider whether you plan to overclock your CPU. If so, look for a CPU with an unlocked multiplier and a motherboard that supports overclocking. The B650 does support overclocking, but it won’t have the best features or support for it, being a mid-range board.
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Best CPU for B650 motherboard – Final word
In the quest for the best CPU for a B650 motherboard, we have three compelling options to consider.
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X strikes a perfect balance between performance and affordability. Its competitive single-core performance makes it an excellent choice for gamers seeking responsiveness. The Ryzen 9 7900X offers high-end performance with its impressive 5.6 GHz boost clock, making it a well-rounded choice for those who value both single-core and multi-core tasks. Finally, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D, with its 16 cores and 32 threads, is a gaming powerhouse with a larger cache but comes at a higher cost.
Ultimately, your CPU choice depends on your specific requirements, budget, and plans. Whether you prioritize value, well-rounded performance, or top-tier gaming capabilities, these CPUs cater to a range of preferences and use cases. Careful consideration ensures a successful and satisfying PC build.
