Best Gaming CPUs 2025: AMD Dominates Again
Generally, AMD has been doing really well in the gaming CPU market. Obviously, they have released some new CPUs that are really fast and good for gaming. Normally, you would think that Intel would be competing with them, but this year AMD has been the one to beat.
Apparently, the past year has been pretty quiet for new gaming CPU releases, but AMD has still managed to make some exciting announcements. Usually, major launches from AMD and Intel happen at the same time, but this year AMD has had the stage to itself.
Seriously, one of the most surprising additions to the AMD lineup is the Ryzen 5 7500X3D, which is a scaled-down version of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Naturally, it has six Zen 4 cores and 12 threads, and the inclusion of 3D V-cache makes it a great option for gaming. Probably, the price of around $269 is also a big plus for budget-conscious gamers.
Obviously, another standout CPU from AMD is the Ryzen 9 9950X3D, which is the fastest gaming CPU of 2025. Normally, a boost clock of up to 5.7 GHz and 96 MB of L3 cache would be more than enough for any gamer, but it comes with a premium price tag of $699.
Eventually, the Ryzen AI Max/Max+ processors, also known as Strix Halo, are another highlight from AMD. Usually, these processors are designed with AI in mind, featuring a massive 40-compute-unit RDNA 3.5 GPU and up to 128 MB of LPDDR5x-8000 RAM.
Fortunately, these processors offer exciting possibilities for AI and machine-learning applications, even if they are not the best for traditional gaming.
A Quiet Year with Notable Releases
Basically, 2025 has not seen a flood of new gaming CPUs, but AMD has still managed to impress with its lineup. Generally, the few releases they have made have been really well received by gamers.
Normally, you would expect Intel to be competing with AMD, but this year they have been pretty quiet. Apparently, their latest processors won’t be available until after CES 2026.
Seriously, this means that AMD has had the stage to itself for most of 2025, and they have taken full advantage of it.
Intel’s Plans for the Future
Eventually, Intel will release new processors, and they are working on new architectures like Panther Lake. Probably, these processors will be available after CES 2026, and they will likely give AMD a run for their money.
Normally, Intel would be competing with AMD, but this year they have been quiet, and AMD has dominated the market.
The Best Gaming CPUs of 2025
Generally, the best gaming CPUs of 2025 are all from AMD, and they offer a range of options for different budgets and needs. Obviously, the top pick for the best overall gaming CPU is the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D.
Seriously, the best budget option is the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, which offers great performance at a lower price.
Apparently, the best mid-range option is the AMD Ryzen 7 9700X, which offers a good balance of price and performance.
Normally, the best high-end option is the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D, which is the fastest gaming CPU of 2025.
Fortunately, there are also options for those looking to upgrade their existing AM4 setup, such as the AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D.
Conclusion
Basically, 2025 has not been a groundbreaking year for new gaming CPUs, but AMD has still managed to impress with its lineup. Generally, there are options for every gamer, from budget-friendly to high-end powerhouses.
Normally, the winner of the PC Gamer Hardware Award for the best gaming CPU will be announced on New Year’s Eve, and it will be interesting to see which processor takes the crown.
Obviously, AMD is the favorite to win, but you never know what might happen.
Seriously, it has been a great year for AMD, and they have dominated the gaming CPU market.
Eventually, we will see what the future holds for Intel and AMD, and which company will come out on top.
