An unreleased X3D processor has made another appearance in Geekbench's public database, identified as the Ryzen 9 9950X3D2. Notably, this desktop CPU boasts the largest cache among known specifications. With consistent platform, core count, and nearly constant frequency settings, the relationship between these factors allows for straightforward comparisons and a clearer understanding of performance differences.

In the Geekbench 6.5.0 tests, the 9950X3D2 achieved 3,553 points in the single-core test and 24,340 in multi-core, marking an approximate 7% improvement in both categories compared to the previous 9950X3D results. The enhanced multi-core performance is particularly noticeable compared to prior testing rounds for the same model. Notably, these improvements occur without changes in frequency, as the maximum turbo frequency remains at 5.6GHz, slightly down from 5.7GHz seen in the standard 9950X and 9950X3D models.

The hardware enhancements focus on the cache architecture. The 9950X3D2 retains a 16-core, 32-thread setup, with both CCDs outfitted with 3D V-Cache, totaling 192MB of L3 cache with each CCD containing 96MB. This configuration makes it the first desktop processor to feature vertical caching on both CCDs simultaneously. This shift accounts for nearly all of the performance improvements observable in Geekbench when compared to the 9950X3D's single X3D CCD arrangement.

Geekbench, a test blending general-purpose instructions with memory access tasks, indicates that stable frequencies paired with increased scores often signify improved cache hit rates and data locality. The dual X3D CCD design minimizes cross-CCD L3 cache accesses and reduces the latency of certain threads at the memory tier, prominently enhancing multi-threaded test performance. These results show the 9950X3D2’s multi-core upgrade surpasses single-core improvements, supporting this understanding.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that Geekbench doesn’t typically represent gaming or cache-intensive loads perfectly, as it focuses on general-purpose scheduling and memory behavior. Consequently, the practical gaming benefits of an additional 64MB of L3 cache remain uncertain. Nonetheless, other tests emphasizing overall system performance, such as PassMark, have mirrored similar patterns, indicating that increased cache size positively impacts performance even if offset by slight frequency reductions.

The Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 presents a raised power ceiling of 200W, up from the 170W seen in the 9950X3D, addressing the thermal density variations introduced by the dual X3D CCD architecture. This adjustment implies AMD's readiness in packaging and cooling methodologies to accommodate dual stacking solutions. Maintaining frequency while increasing power consumption indicates a design intent focused not on maxing out peak performance, but ensuring reliable output with its advanced cache structure.

As for pricing, the 9950X3D2 is anticipated to top the Ryzen 9000 series. Its role isn’t to overshadow the existing 9950X3D, but to illustrate the upper potential of the X3D lineup, demonstrating the dual X3D CCD’s viability and performance range on desktop systems with equivalent core counts. This Geekbench update confirms that such an approach does not result in any discernible performance drawbacks under general loads.