The Ryzen 7 9800X3D: Hot Commodity or Too Good to Be True?
AMD’s Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor is one of the most sought-after chips on the market today, with its extra V-cache boosting gaming performance and making it a top choice for gamers looking to upgrade their desktops. This 9000-series processor made an immediate splash upon its release, selling out quickly and leaving many eager buyers empty-handed. If you’re hoping to snag one this holiday season, be cautious—some deals may seem too good to be true, and they probably are.
The 9800X3D typically retails for $479, which is already a premium price for a high-performance processor. However, on platforms like eBay, some sellers are marking it up to over $600, with prices likely to stay elevated through the end of the year and into 2025. This price bump may feel like the new normal for this in-demand chip, but some shoppers have spotted the processor on Amazon at the jaw-dropping price of $199.99—an offer that’s too good to be true.
Amazon Listings: A Red Flag for Shoppers
While it’s tempting to jump on such an offer, experts are warning against it. Listings for the 9800X3D at such low prices on Amazon are likely fake, according to WePC. These listings often don’t list AMD as the official manufacturer, a requirement for legitimate Amazon sellers. Additionally, some of these listings appear to be botted, meaning they are created automatically to lure unsuspecting buyers. As of now, Amazon is actively removing these listings, but it’s clear that many of these deals are part of an ongoing effort to scam shoppers during the busy holiday season.
Is the 9800X3D Worth the Price?
At its standard retail price of $479, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is an excellent processor, offering outstanding gaming performance thanks to its V-cache design. However, paying $600+ or more is not justified, especially when more affordable options like the Ryzen 5 7600X can offer great performance for a fraction of the price. AMD’s AM5 motherboard platform also supports future upgrades, meaning you can wait and upgrade later without blowing your budget.
When shopping for high-demand items like the 9800X3D, it’s crucial to remember that deals that seem too good to be true often are. With scammers preying on holiday shoppers, it’s especially important to be vigilant and verify listings before making a purchase.
