Used AMD Ryzen 5 3500X 3600 3600X 3600XT 3.6GHz Six-Core Six-Thread CPU Processor 65W 32M Socket AM4 CPU

1. AMD Ryzen 5 3500X

• 6 Cores / 6 Threads (No SMT)

• Base Clock: 3.6 GHz | Boost Clock: 4.1 GHz

• 32MB L3 Cache

• 65W TDP (Includes Wraith Stealth Cooler)

• Best for: Budget gamers who don’t need multi-threading.

The 3500X is a cut-down version of the 3600, lacking Simultaneous Multi-Threading (SMT). This makes it slightly weaker in multi-core workloads but still strong in gaming, especially when paired with a mid-range GPU. It was primarily sold in Asian markets but gained popularity due to its lower price.

2. AMD Ryzen 5 3600

• 6 Cores / 12 Threads (With SMT)

• Base Clock: 3.6 GHz | Boost Clock: 4.2 GHz

• 32MB L3 Cache

• 65W TDP (Includes Wraith Stealth Cooler)

• Best for: Best value for gaming & productivity.

The Ryzen 5 3600 was the most popular in the lineup, offering 12 threads at an affordable price. It delivered excellent gaming and multi-threaded performance, making it ideal for both gamers and content creators. Its 65W TDP ensured good efficiency, and the included cooler made it a great out-of-the-box option.

3. AMD Ryzen 5 3600X

• 6 Cores / 12 Threads (With SMT)

• Base Clock: 3.8 GHz | Boost Clock: 4.4 GHz

• 32MB L3 Cache

• 95W TDP (Includes Wraith Spire Cooler)

• Best for: Enthusiasts who want higher clocks without extreme cooling.

The 3600X is a higher-clocked version of the 3600, offering better single-core performance (useful for gaming). However, the performance difference wasn’t huge, and it consumed more power (95W TDP). It came with a better stock cooler (Wraith Spire), making it a good choice for users who didn’t want to buy an aftermarket cooler.

4. AMD Ryzen 5 3600XT

• 6 Cores / 12 Threads (With SMT)

• Base Clock: 3.8 GHz | Boost Clock: 4.5 GHz

• 32MB L3 Cache

• 95W TDP (No stock cooler included)

• Best for: Overclockers and high-performance users.

The 3600XT was the fastest in the Ryzen 5 3000 series, featuring higher boost clocks (4.5 GHz). However, it required better cooling (no stock cooler included) and had a 95W TDP. It was a minor upgrade over the 3600X, mainly appealing to users who wanted the best possible performance from Zen 2 before Ryzen 5000 launched.

Final Verdict:

• Best Budget Pick: Ryzen 5 3500X (if you don’t need multi-threading).

• Best Overall Value: Ryzen 5 3600 (great balance of price & performance).

• Best for Higher Clocks: Ryzen 5 3600X (better gaming performance with included cooler).

• Best Performance (OC): Ryzen 5 3600XT (highest boost clock, but needs aftermarket cooling).