The AMD Ryzen 5 series is set to continue AMD’s launch of its new Zen architecture, debuting earlier this month with the Ryzen 7 (R7) CPUs. Thus far, we’ve seen the release of the 1800X flagship, 1700X, and 1700 CPUs (the last of which being our option of choice). AMD’s subsequent launches will be focused on the R5 line, announced today, and a later-specified R3 line. We’re looking at a retail release date of April 11 for the R5 1400, R5 1500X, R5 1600, and R5 1600X CPUs; the R3 CPUs, meanwhile, are expected for availability in 2H17.
AMD hasn’t fully revealed all the technical details of these SKUs at this time. We know enough of the basics, but will have to wait for more information on how the CCXs are configured in 6C/12T scenarios.
Here’s a listing of prices, to get started:
- $170 – Ryzen R5 1400
- $190 – Ryzen R5 1500X
- $220 – Ryzen R5 1600
- $250 – Ryzen R5 1600X
For base/boost clock and frequency specifics, defer to this table:
R5 1400 | R5 1500X | R5 1600 | R5 1600X | |
Cores/Threads | 4C/8T | 4C/8T | 6C/12T | 6C/12T |
Base/Boost | 3.2/3.4GHz | 3.5/3.7GHz | 3.2/3.6GHz | 3.6/4.0GHz |
Stock Cooler | Wraith Stealth | Wraith Spire | Wraith Spire | None |
TDP | 65W | 65W | 65W | 95W |
Release Date | April 11, 2017 | April 11, 2017 | April 11, 2017 | April 11, 2017 |
Price | $170 | $190 | $220 | $250 |
We think the R5 CPUs are the ones to watch for our core audience, particularly when considering the R5 1400 and R5 1500X price:performance potential. We’ll be benchmarking these CPUs as close to launch as possible.
As for platforms, AMD is mostly suggesting that these CPUs belong (in terms of price) on B350 motherboards. Unlike Intel’s Z/X SKUs, AMD’s chipset SKUs all allow for CPU overclocking. Limitations will apply with regard to VRM thermals, considering the weak design of some boards, but the higher-end B350 units will allow CPU OC functionality. Considering the relative ease of overclocking for the R7 1700, and its corresponding performance (outmatching a stock 1800X in gaming), this is a good thing. Overclocking may well be worth it with R5 CPUs. We’ll test that in the eventual review.
Stay tuned.
- Steve Burke