AMD addresses issue with 3rd Gen Ryzen processors failing to reach advertised boost clock speeds

To some, it could look like AMD is on a rapid damage control exercise. The chipmaker has posted a message online targeted at those users concerned about the boost performance of processors from the Zen 2-based Ryzen 3000 series. The statement (see below article for full text) starts on a positive note, with AMD noting the uptake of the latest generation of Ryzen products.

However, the company then swiftly moves on to making excuses for the subpar performance users have experienced in regard to boost clock rates. For example, the enthusiast-level Ryzen 9 3900X has an advertised maximum boost clock of 4.6 GHz. In an analysis of the vaunted chip, noted overclocker der8auer (Roman Hartung) discovered that only a handful of processors managed rates of 4.6 GHz. Many users (68% according to Guru3D) reported clocks of at least 4.5 GHz and over, but that still left a large minority who were not even achieving that lower level.

Unsurprisingly, AMD has pointed out that many variables can affect a processor’s clock rate, such as the implemented cooling solution, but the company has also realized it can’t afford to ignore such a considerable percentage of users reporting low boost clock rates in a product as important to AMD’s reputation as the Ryzen 9 3900X (and the Ryzen 3000 series as a whole). The chipmaker has revealed that an update on the problem will be posted on September 10, while work is carried out with AIB partners to create firmware that will hopefully help users achieve the clock rates they expect.