The Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 is AMD’s new 16-core, 32-thread Zen 5 desktop processor for the AM5 platform. It boosts up to 5.6 GHz, has a 200 W TDP, first such CPU from AMD. It’s main feature is dual 3D V-Cache on both CCDs. That dual-stacked cache design is the main difference from earlier X3D parts,...

As for pricing, EK’s current AM5 lineup starts with the EK-Quantum Velocity³ at €112. Older EK-Quantum Velocity² AM5 blocks cost more, from €138 to €147 depending on finish. The older Magnitude AM5 series sits much higher, ranging from roughly €213 to €329, so even EK’s entry point for this...

The bigger issue for EK is not the cooling pitch itself, but the company’s image. EK spent the last two years dealing with reports about unpaid obligations, management problems, and restructuring, and that did lasting damage to buyer trust. Even if its AM5 block performs as expected, the company...