An image of a new AMD retail box posted by Uniko’s Hardware suggests that the chip giant will soon begin selling CPU, cooler, and memory bundles.
This is likely due to the RAM shortage and subsequent price increases, but could also be a way to encourage sales of AMD’s upcoming flagship gaming CPU, the Ryzen 7 9850X3D. The chip is a mid-generation refresh for the Ryzen 9000-series that goes on sale on Jan. 29 for $499, and is likely to be the best gaming processor for raw performance, assuming the 9950X3D2 doesn’t steal its crown.
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But will anyone buy this new chip if they can’t get the memory to take full advantage of it? The Uniko’s Hardware image shows an official-looking AMD box filled with the new CPU, 32GB of DDR5 6000 memory from V-Color’s Manta XFinity range, and a Cooler Master Hyper 612 Apex Pro cooler. That’s a strong mix of hardware that would all-but guarantee low operating temperatures and strong memory performance.
It’s unlikely to be affordable, though, even as a bundle. The memory kit alone is worth over $500, as is the CPU. The cooler is around $100. If AMD priced this at $1,000, it would be a small, but notable savings that could encourage adoption of the new CPU. That’s assuming it even comes to the US; the box posted online is clearly designed for a Chinese market,
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Bundles are one way that retailers have gotten around the current memory crisis. It helps thwart scalpers, who don’t want to have to resell components with limited, or no resale value, making it more likely that legitimate consumers will secure the memory they need. If you were considering upgrading to the 9850X3D, would a bundle like this tempt you?
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Jon Martindale
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Jon Martindale is a tech journalist from the UK, with 20 years of experience covering all manner of PC components and associated gadgets. He’s written for a range of publications, including ExtremeTech, Digital Trends, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and Lifewire, among others. When not writing, he’s a big board gamer and reader, with a particular habit of speed-reading through long manga sagas.
Jon covers the latest PC components, as well as how-to guides on everything from how to take a screenshot to how to set up your cryptocurrency wallet. He particularly enjoys the battles between the top tech giants in CPUs and GPUs, and tries his best not to take sides.
Jon’s gaming PC is built around the iconic 7950X3D CPU, with a 7900XTX backing it up. That’s all the power he needs to play lightweight indie and casual games, as well as more demanding sim titles like Kerbal Space Program. He uses a pair of Jabra Active 8 earbuds and a SteelSeries Arctis Pro wireless headset, and types all day on a Logitech G915 mechanical keyboard.
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