Components
Review: AMD Ryzen 7 2700 and 2700X Processors
AMD’s return to the CPU market with the Ryzen processors has proven to be a great success among gamers and professionals alike, thanks to the performance these chips offered for its price as opposed to its Intel counterparts. While we wouldn’t just say that they have overthrown the blue team, AMD is back for round two with the release of the second-generation Ryzen processors. Today, we take a look at what the new AMD Ryzen 7 2700 and the Ryzen 7 2700X has to offer.
While the original Zen CPUs are made upon the 14nm fab process, the 2nd generation Ryzen chips are based on a lower 12nm FinFET fabrication that offers up to 15% performance improvements for game titles, along with improvements for AMD’s special CPU features which are now branded as Precision Boost 2 and Extended Frequency Range 2 (XFR 2). For those who aren’t aware, the Precision Boost and the XFR kick in when there is the presence of a good cooling solution, allowing the processor for higher multi-core performance with higher frequencies at cooler temperatures, and all these are automated without the need for any user input.
The Net Neural Prediction is like an artificial intelligence that learns the way you use your most commonly used applications and sets more efficient paths for faster performance the next time you use the app or a game, along with the Smart Prefetch that anticipates the data needed for faster responsiveness. All these are a part of the AMD Sense MI technology that helps the CPU adapt to your working behaviour for better performance.
As far as improvements go, we are seeing quite a difference in clocks speeds for both the Ryzen 7 2700 and 2700X as compared to the previous models. To be specific, the base 8-core Ryzen 2700 has a clock speed of 3.2GHz and can max out to 4.1 GHz on turbo, and while that’s the case, the good old Ryzen 1700 runs at 3GHz as base speeds and can go up till 3.7 GHz.
This is a decent incremental jump for now. And when it comes to the faster 2700X, we are looking at a base speed of 3.7 GHz and is designed to raise higher to 4.3 GHz. If you haven’t noticed, those numbers are even faster than the Ryzen 1800X with a base clock of 3.6 GHz and max clock speeds of 4GHz. On the contrary, the 1700X is slightly slower with 3.4GHz base and has a max clock speed of 3.8 GHz. It’s interesting that AMD has still yet to announce the Ryzen 2800X and we can only imagine the speeds that it will come out of the box.
While the TDP of the 2700X has slightly risen to 105W as compared to the 95W of the 1800X/1700X chips, AMD managed to keep the TDP of the R2700 the same as the 65W Ryzen 1700. Last but not least, AMD has also improved the RAM speed compatibility from 2667 MHz to 2993 MHz DDR4. Of course, there are gamers who managed to use DDR4 RAM speeds higher than that for the first-generation Ryzen processors. The importance of faster RAM speeds has proven to offer better performance with Ryzen processors, thanks to the benefits of Infinity Fabric.
Speaking of which, we were able to easily tune the DDR4 RAM speed to 3400 MHz while testing the new Ryzen 2700 and the Ryzen 2700X. The RAM modules are a pair of 8GB GSkill Sniper X DDR4 RAM that’s certified for Ryzen processors, along with the MSI X470 Gaming M7 AC motherboard (both given to us by AMD). As for the cooler, the Ryzen 2700X came bundled with the new Wraith Prism RGB and the Ryzen 2700 with the Wraith Spire with RGB LED. To keep the testing fair, I used the Wraith Prism cooler for both the processors so the cooling efficiency remains the same. The GPU used here is the MSI Gaming X RX 570 4GB card.
And before you may ask as to why we couldn’t try a better GPU, it’s simply the fact that we couldn’t arrange a higher-end model at the time of testing. Other components used here is a Crucial 2TB MX300 SSD and the PSU used here is a 1000W Seasonic Prime Ultra Titanium. And since we are using a mid-range GPU, we resorted to testing the usual GPU benchmark tools such as FireStrike, TimeSpy, VR Mark, Superposition and Unigine Heaven/ Valley tests. Unigine and Superposition were tested at medium presets. The CPU tests include CineBench R15, Geekbench 4, x265, Sony Vegas render, Blender, and Luxmark. I also managed to do some overclocking to 4.2GHz on the 2700X and 4GHz on the Ryzen 2700. However, I was only able to test the OC performance for CineBench R15 benchmark.
As you can see from the scores above, the Ryzen 2700X benefits more from its auto-boosted clock speeds for non-OC tests for both single and multi-core tests. However, the gap between the 2700 and the 2700X gets closer when you overclock both the chips. That said, the single-core performance on Geekbench 4 is almost the same but the 2700X has an edge when it comes to multi-core performance.
We tested the hotel complex scene on the Luxmark 3.1 benchmark with only CPU cores used here and the scores aren’t that far from each other. However, the x265 test at 1080p proved that the 2700X does a better performance. I do want to mention that we did run the Ryzen 2700 at 4GHz OC for all cores and got almost the same fps results of the 2700X at base speeds. We also tried to render a 1080p video on Sony Vegas and saw that the 2700X can finish the render almost a minute earlier than the Ryzen 7 2700. Regardless, both are an improvement over last year’s Ryzen processors.
And now comes the gaming benchmarks. From our scores for FireStrike and TimeSpy, we can say that both the Ryzen 7 2700 and the Ryzen 7 2700X performs almost the same with the latter having a slight edge. While the same goes for VR Mark test rounds, Unigine Heaven and Superposition tests, we did notice that the Ryzen 2700 did slightly better on the Unigine Valley benchmark.
It’s unfortunate that we didn’t have the Ryzen 7 1700 and the Ryzen 7 1700X to test the exact scores and compare to see which is better. Truth to be told, we had some scores of the previous generation and can confirm that Ryzen 2700/2700X can do slightly better. But, is it a major improvement for those who already own a Ryzen 1700/1700X? Unless you wanted to try out faster RAM speeds, we would say to stick to the current generation Ryzen chips that you already own. So, unless you are happy with a small percentage of improvement or haven’t already bought a Ryzen setup, then investing in one of these for your gaming and professional work is a good start.
Pricing: Ryzen 7 2700X ($329), Ryzen 7 2700 ($299)
Acer has unveiled its latest Predator BiFrost and Acer Nitro graphics cards, powered by the next-generation AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series GPUs. This cutting-edge line-up includes six models designed to elevate gaming and creative experiences with next-level performance and visual fidelity. The models include the Predator BiFrost Radeon RX 9070 XT OC 16GB, Predator BiFrost Radeon RX 9070 OC 16GB, and two Nitro graphics cards: Acer Nitro Radeon RX 9070 XT OC 16GB, Acer Nitro Radeon RX 9070 OC 16GB.
The new GPUs are engineered for ultra-fast gaming and demanding tasks, leveraging AMD RDNA 4 compute units and up to 16 GB of memory to deliver immersive 8K visuals. The advanced cooling technology, featuring three FrostBlade 4.0 fans, and reinforced designs ensures systems can be pushed to their limits while maintaining peak performance. DIY gamers will appreciate new software features such as Acer Intelligence Space, which offers intuitive AI system detection, and Acer Game Assistance’s adaptive aim system to give players a competitive edge.
The latest Predator BiFrost and Acer Nitro Radeon RX 9070 Series graphics cards are powered by up to the new AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT OC Graphics, featuring unified AMD RDNA 4 architecture with powerful raytracing capabilities, AI accelerators and up to 16 GB of memory. Gamers can enjoy the latest gaming displays and experience increased visual quality for video streaming and editing as these next-generation designs activate AMD HYPR-RX to instantly enable all supported performance-boosting and latency-reducing technologies across thousands of games. Expect deep immersion with higher quality and clarity thanks to AI-powered AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 4 image upscaling with advanced frame generation technologies, which boost framerates in supported games. Players can showcase their skills with enhanced multimedia and streaming experiences using the AMD Radiance Display Engine.
The Predator BiFrost Radeon RX 9070 XT OC 16GB graphics card boasts a boost clock of up to 3,100 MHz and game clock of up to 2,570 MHz, while the Predator BiFrost Radeon RX 9070 OC 16GB graphics card offers boost and game clock speeds of up to 2,700 MHz and up to 2,210 MHz respectively for ultra-smooth responsiveness.
The Acer Nitro Radeon Series provides gamers and creators the tools to enhance their digital experiences, featuring maximum boost clock speeds of up to 3,100 MHz and game clock speeds of up to 2,570 MHz for balanced performance and efficiency. All models come equipped with the latest advancements from AMD Radeon™ technology and 16 GB of GDDR6 RAM, pushing the graphics cards to their maximum processing prowess.
These GPUs are equipped with Acer’s advanced cooling systems, which provide added support in reaching peak performance. Featuring state-of-the-art cooling technology with triple FrostBlade 4.0 fans, counter-spin designs for smoother airflow, and oxygen-free thermal pipes, the Predator BiFrost and Acer Nitro Radeon™ graphics cards maintain optimal heat dispersion to keep temperatures in check. Supported by dual-ball bearing systems and lubricating oil, the fans are engineered to reduce noise, withstand elevated temperatures, and minimize friction on the fan bearings.
These graphics cards are also built for lasting durability and dominance, crafted with an aluminum backplate and a metal anti-bending design, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of continuous use. Heat-dissipating vents and a reinforced copper base efficiently absorb heat from the GPUs, which is expelled quickly through oxygen-free heat pipes.
Acer Intelligent Space serves as the central hub for the device’s AI features, identifying system hardware, suggesting compatible AI applications to optimize performance, and helping players identify more gaming tools. Acer Game Assistance provides a competitive edge by automatically adjusting colors and offering a sniper mode for precise targeting in shooting games. Additionally, Acer ProCam automatically detects and records gameplay highlights to capture key moments in the game.
The multi-display capabilities allow users to connect to four displays, with each graphics card equipped with three DisplayPorts, one HDMI 2.1 port, and up to a PCIe 5.0 bus, providing a seamless and immersive experience across gaming, streaming, and creative applications.
AMD today unveiled the highly-anticipated AMD RDNA 4 graphics architecture with the launch of the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 graphics cards as a part of the Radeon RX 9000 Series. The new graphics cards feature 16GB of memory and extensive improvements designed for high-quality gaming graphics, including re-vamped raytracing accelerators and powerful AI accelerators for ultra-fast, cutting-edge performance, and breakthrough gaming experiences.
In a YouTube livestream, David McAfee, CVP and GM, Ryzen CPU and Radeon Graphics, AMD, was joined by Andrej Zdravkovic, SVP of GPU Technologies and Engineering, AMD and Chief Software Officer, as well as Andy Pomianowski, CVP of Silicon Design Engineering, AMD, to discuss the outstanding performance and value proposition of the Radeon RX 9000 Series. In a related event in Zhuhai, China, Jack Huynh, SVP of the Client and Graphics Group, AMD, led a regional event for the new products. Huynh was joined by David Wang, SVP of GPU Technology and Engineering, AMD, and Lanzhi Wang, Senior Director of Product Management, AMD. The celebration was also marked by a customer celebration with Darren Grasby, EVP and AMD Chief Sales Officer, AMD; Spencer Pan, President of AMD China, and partners including Asrock, ASUS, Gigabyte, Sapphire, Tul, Vastamore, Veston, and XFX.
“Today, we’re thrilled to unveil the AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series, a significant leap forward in graphics performance powered by our next-generation AMD RDNA 4 architecture,” said McAfee. “These GPUs are designed to meet the demands of today’s games, delivering enthusiast-class gaming experiences to gamers everywhere, while ready to support tomorrow’s innovations. Through the power of advanced AI and Raytracing accelerators, we’re not just improving frame rates – we’re fundamentally enhancing the gaming experience. Offering incredible performance, AI-powered features, and next-gen display support at competitive price points, the Radeon RX 9000 Series delivers exceptional value for gamers looking to upgrade their systems.”
The RX 9000 Series, powered by the new AMD RDNA 4 architecture, offers gamers and creators a powerful blend of performance, visuals, and value. These advanced graphics cards redefine incredibly fast, high-resolution gaming with third-generation raytracing technology enabling realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections to deliver immersive gaming experiences while integrating a suite of AMD features to maximize hardware utilization. Beyond gaming, the RX 9000 Series GPUs leverage new second-generation AI accelerators with up to 8x INT8 throughput per AI accelerator (for sparse matrices) to enhance creative applications and effectively run generative AI applications (vs. RDNA 3). The RX 9000 Series GPUs also implement the newly redesigned AMD Radiance Display Engine & Enhanced Media Engine for broad display support and elevated quality in both recording and streaming.
The Radeon RX 9000 Series unlocks new levels of performance while delivering a suite of new and enhanced features that improve the gaming experience. The Radeon RX 9070 Series offers 16GB of GDDR6 memory, allowing gamers to render the most exciting games of today and tomorrow at max settings. Compared to the previous generation RX 7900 GRE, the latest AMD Radeon RX 9070 is able to deliver over 20% more performance on average when gaming at 1440, with the AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT extending that lead to over 40% on average.
Both graphics cards make smart upgrades for gamers looking to future-proof their systems with a suite of next-gen features that will keep their experiences feeling fresh for years to come. Key features include:
- Unified AMD RDNA 4 Compute Units – Features up to 64 advanced AMD RDNA 4 compute units delivering up to 40% higher gaming performance than the previous-generation AMD RDNA 3 architecture.
High-Performance Raytracing – With 3rd generation Raytracing Accelerators, AMD RDNA 4 is able to deliver over 2x the Raytracing throughput per compute unit when compared to our previous generation. Gamers with the latest AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series are ready for immersive gaming experiences with high-quality graphics, including realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections. - Supercharged AI Acceleration – 2nd Generation AI Accelerators received several enhancements, allowing AMD RDNA 4 to efficiently process advanced AI models much faster than what was possible with RDNA 3, through a combination of additional math pipelines for AI calculations, expanding the capabilities of the AI Accelerator to support new emerging data types such as FP8, and support for inference optimization techniques such as structured sparsity. These changes deliver up to 8x INT8 throughput per AI accelerator (for sparse matrices) per compute unit vs the previous generation.
- AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution Technology 4 (FSR 4) – AMD’s new cutting-edge ML-powered upscaling technology delivers high-quality boosted frames under even the most demanding workloads, such as 4K gaming with maximum raytracing settings and will be supported in over 30 games at launch.
- Innovative suite of features through HYPR-RX – Gamers can instantly improve their experience by activating AMD HYPR-RX and the suite of features within AMD Software, including AMD Radeon Super Resolution, AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1, AMD Radeon Anti-Lag, and AMD Radeon Boost. These features can all be tailored to gamers’ hardware and preferences within AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition to drive increased FPS, responsiveness and efficiency.
- AI-Enhanced AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition Application – A new suite of software and resources designed to deliver an industry-leading AI user experience with AMD Radeon RX 9070 Series graphics cards. Keep your drivers and AI software up to date with the new Software Manager. Find the answers to your questions about all things AMD or create free and private text and images with AMD Chat. Discover, download and install new and exciting AMD-partnered AI applications with the App Portal, and leverage AI to improve software quality with the AMD Image Inspector.
- Ready for Next-Generation Displays – AMD Radiance Display Engine supports the latest DisplayPort 2.1a and HDMI 2.1b connections, enabling ultra-high resolutions and refresh rates up to 8K 144Hz, with 12-bit HDR and full REC2020 Color Space for incredible color accuracy. Paired with AMD FreeSync technology, gamers can enjoy tear-free, stutter-free gaming experiences on over 4000 compatible displays, including upcoming 4K 240Hz and 8K 144Hz DisplayPort 2.1 monitors.
Available exclusively on AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series graphics cards, AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition adds a new easy-to-use AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 4 (AMD FSR 4) Upgrade feature that helps maximize performance at maximum quality in over 30 games at launch, with 75 coming later this year. AMD FSR 4 delivers a substantial image quality improvement over AMD FSR 3.1 upscaling, with the new ML-based algorithm helping to improve temporal stability, better preserve detail, and reduce ghosting.
Utilizing features already built into the AMD FidelityFX API added when game developers integrate AMD FSR 3.1 into their games, AMD FSR 4 enables an easy upgrade for supported FSR 3.1 games and can be combined with existing in-game AMD FSR 3.1 advanced frame-generation and AMD Radeon Anti-Lag 2 for ultra-smooth, ultra-responsive gaming at incredible frame rates on AMD Radeon RX 9070 Series graphics cards.
The new ML-accelerated AMD FSR 4 upscaling algorithm is trained using high-quality ground truth game data on AMD Instinct Accelerators and uses the hardware-accelerated FP8 Wave Matrix Multiply Accumulate (WMMA) feature of the AMD RDNA 4 architecture to ensure maximum upscaling quality while still providing a substantial game performance boost.
AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series graphics cards are expected to be available from leading board partners including Acer, ASRock, ASUS, Gigabyte, PowerColor, Sapphire, Vastarmor, XFX, and Yeston beginning March 6th, 2025. The AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT has an SEP of $599, while the AMD Radeon RX 9070 has an SEP of $549.
Early adopters of Nvidia’s new GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card are reporting issues with melting power cables, with at least one report on YouTube and another on Reddit. This situation mirrors an earlier problem with the RTX 4090, where power connectors melted or caught fire, damaging GPUs and power supplies.
Investigations revealed that the 4090’s connector issues were largely due to user error, with 12VHPWR connectors not being fully inserted or bent, creating stress and heat. The PCI-SIG, the standards body for the connector, stated the design was sound and blamed implementation issues. An updated connector, 12V-2×6, which ensures proper seating before delivering power, replaced the 12VHPWR connector in the RTX 50-series cards.
Both connectors aim to deliver significant power to high-end GPUs via a single cable, reducing the need for multiple 8-pin connectors and saving board space. While Nvidia, Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, Arm, and others are PCI-SIG members, Nvidia is the primary user of these connectors in its GPUs. AMD and Intel continue using 8-pin connectors, with some Nvidia partners doing the same for lower-end cards like the RTX 4060 and 4070 series.
The two reported RTX 5090 incidents involved third-party cables, one from MODDIY and another from an FSP power supply, rather than Nvidia’s provided 8-pin adapter. It’s too early to determine if the problem lies with the cables, Nvidia, the connector design, or user error, or if it’s simply a coincidence.
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