The AMD Ryzen XT series omits the bundled cooler and clock speed

With its new Ryzen XT series CPUs, AMD could have stolen a page from Intel’s playbook by offering a moderate increase in clock speed while taking the included cooling walk.

Despite the accidental leak, the three official CPUs are:

• Ryzen 9 3900XT with 12 cores, 4.7 GHz boost clock and 105 watt TDP for $ 499
• Ryzen 7 3800XT with 8 cores, 3.9GHz boost clock and 105W TDP for $ 399
• Ryzen 5 3600XT with 6 cores, 4.5GHz boost clock and 95W TDP for $ 249

Theoretically, they give little change from the original Ryzen 3000-series launch. The only specification difference is that the clock speed of the Ryzen 9 3900XT is 100MHz higher than the original Ryzen 3900X, a 200MHz increase for the Ryzen 7 3800XT compared to the Ryzen 7 3800X and 100MHz for the Ryzen 5 3600XT vs. the Ryzen 5. 3600X.

Coming almost a year after the impressive initial Ryzen launch, the only 4% clock increase of the XT-series could be a huge disappointment for many hardware fans. Intel has faced a sluggish single-digit clock speed in many new CPU generations.

AMD

Break up with free coolers

That’s not the only move by hardware addicts like Intel capable of disparagingly. For years, Intel didn’t include any coolers with its K-series overclockable CPUs. The reason for Intel is that most enthusiasts want to choose after selling their own coolers to market.

AMD overturned that stance when it decided to provide decent coolers with most of its X-series performance CPUs. With XT, AMD is changing its position. The company will integrate the Wraith cooler with the Ryzen 5 3600XT, but the Ryzen 9 3900XT and the Ryzen 7 3800XT will no longer do so.

AMD’s explanation echoes Intel’s explanation. “AMD Ryzen 9 3900XT, AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT, and Ryzen 5 3600XT processors have specifications specifically designed for enthusiasts who regularly choose an aftermarket cooling system for the highest possible performance. “AMD officials said in a press release this morning. “Therefore, AMD recommends using the AIO solution with at least 280mm radiator or equivalent air cooler to experience these products at their best.” It’s more likely that AMD will get the same response as Intel for this move.

AMD

Why is AMD removing the cooler?

While the official word is “After all, you should buy aftermarket”, the most obvious reason AMD changed its mind is that the coolers aren’t really free – they’re bundled with the CPU, but AMD paid the price for them. By losing stock, the company can increase revenue. Unfortunately, the savings are not passed on to customers as the launch prices of the Ryzen 3000XT parts are essentially the same as their prices for the Ryzen 3000X chips including the cooler.