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If you want to upgrade your CPU but don't want to pay new release prices or just can't find a newer model, now is a great time to snag an older processor. Today, we're highlighting offers on both the AMD Ryzen 7 3800X ($334 at Newegg) and Intel Core i9-9900K ($319 at Amazon). But if you're holding out for the new hotness, check out our Ryzen 5950X / 5900X review and our coverage of Intel's upcoming Intel Rocket Lake processors.

We published reviews on both the AMD Ryzen 7 3800X and Intel Core i9-9900K last year, and we definitely recommend checking them out for an in-depth look at why these older processors are worth the investment when it comes to performance. But in the meantime, here's an overview.

When pushing the Ryzen 7 3800X to its limits, we determined it was all-around better than the Intel Core i7-9700K, but fell short in performance compared to the Intel Core i7-9900K, particularly when it comes to gaming.

The Core i9-9900K offers 8 cores and 16 threads with a base frequency of 3.6 GHz and a turbo mode of 5 GHz before overclocking. The Ryzen 7 3800X has the same number of cores and threads, but a 3.9 GHz base clock with a 4.5 GHz boost clock.

The Intel Core i9-9900K, being even more powerful than the i7, then absolutely stomped the Ryzen 7 2700X and Ryzen 7 3800X during DX12 and DX11 benchmark testing.

On our test suites of games, the Core i9-9900K averaged 145 fps while the Ryzen 7 3800X hit 127 fps when using its Precision Boost Overdrive mode. Both are strong choices.

Determining which one is best for you will ultimately depend on what you need out of CPU, which manufacturers you prefer, and how much you're willing to spend -- or of course if you already have a platform that's compatible with one of these chipset.

AMD Ryzen 7 3800X: was $399, now $334 @Newegg
This processor has 8 cores with a base operating speed of 3.9GHz. When boosted, it can reach speeds as high as 4.5GHz. You will need an AM4 processor to support this chip. You can get this deal with promo code 52BKFCYM3.

https://www.newegg.com/amd-ryzen-7-3...QKkPEVOVTv.smw

Intel Core i9-9900K: was $389, now $319 @Amazon
The Intel Core i9-9900K has 8 cores and a total of 16 threads. It has a base operating speed of 3.6GHz and can reach 5.0GHz when unlocked. This processor uses an LGA 1151 socket.

Intel Core i9-10900F on 10-Core Sale

If you're willing to spend a few dollars more and you don't want to overclock, Intel's Core i9-10900F is also an appealing option. The 10-core, 5.2-GHz processor has dropped to just $364, its lowest price ever by far. It even comes with a cooler in the package, potentially saving you the money you'd spend to buy a fan.

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