AMD has once again surprised enthusiasts by introducing four new processors spanning three different architecture generations: Zen 3, Zen 4, and Zen 5. Known for keeping older platforms alive while pushing forward with new technology, the company has already published dedicated product pages for these chips.
The newcomers are the Ryzen 7 9700F and Ryzen 5 9500F (Zen 5), Ryzen 5 7400 and Ryzen 5 7400F (Zen 4), and Ryzen 5 5600F (Zen 3). While most of these models lack integrated graphics, the differences don’t stop there—clock speeds and unusual cache configurations also set them apart.
Zen 5 Arrives for Dedicated GPU Users
The highlight of the launch is the arrival of Zen 5 in the Ryzen 7 9700F and Ryzen 5 9500F, designed for gamers and creators who already rely on a dedicated graphics card.
- Ryzen 7 9700F: 8 cores, 16 threads, base clock of 3.8 GHz, and boost up to 5.5 GHz—almost identical to the Ryzen 7 9700X, except for the lack of integrated graphics.
- Ryzen 5 9500F: 6 cores, 12 threads, clocked at 3.8 GHz base and 5.0 GHz boost, with global retail availability confirmed.
Both processors feature 32 MB of L3 cache and a 65W TDP, balancing performance with efficiency.
A Curious Case in the Ryzen 7000 Series
Perhaps the most intriguing part of the announcement lies in the Ryzen 5 7400 and Ryzen 5 7400F. Despite nearly identical naming, they are strikingly different under the hood.
- Ryzen 5 7400F: 6 cores, 12 threads, higher boost clock up to 4.7 GHz, and 32 MB of L3 cache—but no integrated GPU.
- Ryzen 5 7400: Also 6 cores and 12 threads, but with a lower boost clock up to 4.3 GHz and only 16 MB of L3 cache, though it does include integrated graphics.
The reduced cache size in the 7400 has sparked speculation that AMD may be using partially defective dies to salvage production, a common technique to minimize silicon waste. Both models are expected to be OEM-exclusive, targeting pre-built systems and large PC makers.
AM4 Platform Gets Another Extension
In a nod to longevity, AMD continues to breathe life into the legendary AM4 platform, now entering its ninth year. The Ryzen 5 5600F, based on Zen 3, offers 6 cores and 12 threads with slightly reduced clocks compared to the standard Ryzen 5 5600.
Interestingly, AMD has applied the “F” suffix here even though Ryzen 5000 desktop chips never included integrated graphics. Instead, the “F” appears to indicate a cut-down version aimed at cost-sensitive OEM markets.
Full Specifications at a Glance
| CPU | Architecture | Cores/Threads | Base/Boost Clocks | L3 Cache | TDP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryzen 7 9700F | Zen 5 | 8 / 16 | 3.8 / 5.5 GHz | 32 MB | 65W |
| Ryzen 5 9500F | Zen 5 | 6 / 12 | 3.8 / 5.0 GHz | 32 MB | 65W |
| Ryzen 5 7400F | Zen 4 | 6 / 12 | 3.7 / 4.7 GHz | 32 MB | 65W |
| Ryzen 5 7400 | Zen 4 | 6 / 12 | 3.3 / 4.3 GHz | 16 MB | 65W |
| Ryzen 5 5600F | Zen 3 | 6 / 12 | 3.0 / 4.0 GHz | 32 MB | 65W |
AMD’s new lineup is a mix of cutting-edge Zen 5 options for enthusiasts and practical refreshes for OEMs and cost-conscious buyers.
The curious differences in cache and naming may puzzle some users, but the strategy reflects AMD’s broader approach: offering chips for every segment while squeezing maximum value from each silicon generation.
