The AMD Ryzen 5 series is extremely renowned for its value for money, so engaging in an AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600 debate was inevitable. The jump from the Gen 3 to Gen 5 processor may seem small, but it is a significant upgrade that brings quite a few extra features. However, both processors have positives that may sway your decision.
Based on our comparison, we see that the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is the better processor. To justify our decision, we will delve into the specs, benchmarks, and gaming performance of the two processors.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600: What are their specifications?
To have a better understanding of the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600 comparison, we must look into their specifications. They feature relatively similar specs, housing 6-cores and 12-threads. The Zen 3 5600 runs at 3.5 GHz while the Zen 2 3600 operates at 3.6 GHz.
Apart from having a more advanced architecture, the Ryzen 5 5600 is also comparatively newer, thus offering a much faster performance in the benchmarks. The Ryzen 5 3600 has a boost clock speed of 4.2 GHz, while the 5600 boasts up to 4.4 GHz. Both processors feature a 35 MB L2+L3 cache along with an AM4 CPU socket.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600: How do they perform?
In the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600 discourse, it is quite obvious that the Ryzen 5 5600 will be better due to its greater speed and overall processing. However, the Ryzen 5 3600 still holds well and can show up surprisingly high framerates.
We see relatively good numbers on the benchmark, with the Ryzen 5 3600 delivering high scores on multicore tasks. However, the Ryzen 5 5600 is 15-20% faster and more efficient, thus being a better choice for gaming.
The bigger difference lies in architecture, as the 5600 utilizes the Zen 3 architecture, leading to efficiency improvements. While the Ryzen 5600 does show much higher framerates on most games, it features a slightly lower base clock speed of 3.5 GHz. Meanwhile, its opponent operates at 3.6 GHz. That said, the difference is minute.
Gaming performance
Looking at the benchmarks above, you might wonder how these processors perform in some of the latest AAA titles. Below, we'll list the framerates you can expect on a system with either the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 or Ryzen 5 3600, and an Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics processor.
Judging by the two tables above, you can spot the differences between the two processors in terms of performance. The Ryzen 5 5600 being newer is indefinitely much faster and more efficient for the price.
Thus, in terms of performance, the Ryzen 5 5600 would be a better buy. Several factors cement this processor as the better option, from minute details like increased quality and higher framerates to overall CPU performance.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600: Which has a greater value for money?
Both processors are relatively inexpensive and offer great value for money. The average price of the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 stands at $70, while the Ryzen 5 5600 goes for around $138. Comparing the prices of newer processors, these aren't too expensive and the more powerful Ryzen 5 5600 can still be considered a budget-friendly option.
There is indeed an almost $70 price difference, but the 5600 justifies the expense by offering superior performance in terms of gaming and processing. When paired with a good GPU, it delivers exceptional performance for the price category and is the better option.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600: Final Verdict
Based on the above comparison, we see that both processors offer decent performance when paired with a GPU. Both are capable of producing high framerates and great performance for multitasking while being affordable and future-proof.
However, comparatively, the Ryzen 5 5600 rises as the winner in the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs Ryzen 5 3600 battle. It's superior in almost all fields while still being relatively affordable. Moreover, it delivers a significantly higher multi-core performance in the benchmarks.
So if you don't mind the $70 price difference, the Ryzen 5 5600 would be the way to go. However, if you're on a tight budget and prioritize affordability, opt for the Ryzen 5 3600 as it is still a capable CPU for 1080p gaming.
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