When AMD initially launched the Ryzen 9000X series, the lackluster reviews and early discounts seemed to hint at a tepid reception. Many speculated that buyers might be holding out for the X3D variants, especially given AMD’s past success with V-cache models. Those suspicions have now been confirmed, as the Ryzen 7 9800X3D has quickly sold out across major U.S. retailers like Amazon, Newegg, Best Buy, and Micro Center just a day after its release. The demand mirrors what’s happening globally, with similar reports of shortages from Europe and other regions where the chip debuted.
The 9800X3D’s immediate success ties back to the appeal of AMD’s X3D line, which started with the Ryzen 5000 series. These chips, equipped with expanded V-cache for enhanced gaming and visual performance, have dominated gaming recommendations ever since. The 9800X3D is already at the top of many “best gaming CPU” lists, and it’s helping AMD regain a significant share of the desktop market. AMD’s senior vice president, Jack Huynh, celebrated the chip’s popularity on social media, sharing photos of lines outside retailers.
Several factors likely fueled this instant sellout. First, the 9000 series’ compatibility with the AM5 socket has made upgrading straightforward for users of the popular Ryzen 7000 series. Additionally, the standard 9000X series launched to mixed reviews, with AMD’s performance claims allegedly overstated by initial testing errors. As a result, many AMD enthusiasts likely waited for the X3D release before committing to a purchase. AMD may have anticipated this demand, releasing the 9800X3D much sooner than expected, possibly as a strategy to boost investor confidence ahead of the holidays. However, a limited release with just one SKU could indicate a constrained fabrication run, likely contributing to the shortage.
Naturally, with demand high and supply low, resellers have capitalized on the scarcity. The 9800X3D, priced at $479 at retail, is already appearing on eBay with “buy it now” prices as high as $999. Although that price might seem extreme, past listings show some buyers have been willing to pay between $650 and $750 for the chip. Despite the markups, initial tests validate the 9800X3D’s reputation: it currently stands as the best gaming CPU, edging out pricier AMD and Intel models in gaming and coming close in other tasks, too. It appears that, in terms of raw gaming prowess, the 9800X3D has met — and perhaps exceeded — the hype.
