Colorful has introduced the “X3D Gaming Mode”, a BIOS function that is supposed to improve the gaming performance of Ryzen X3D processors. What’s behind it? In short: SMT is deactivated and, depending on the processor architecture, one of the Core Complex Die (CCD) units is also deactivated. This is supposed to reduce latencies and make better use of the 3D V-Cache. Whether this is a clever optimization or a crutch remains to be seen.

What exactly does the X3D Gaming Mode do?
According to Colorful, it works as follows:
- CPUs with two CCDs: one CCD is switched off so that the load is concentrated on the one with 3D V-Cache. The idea: less latency, more FPS. In theory this sounds good, but in practice success depends on the game and software optimization.
- CPUs with a CCD: SMT is simply deactivated here, which can lead to better or worse results depending on the application.
Effects on Ryzen 9000X3D
This mode is particularly explosive with the new Ryzen 9000X3D CPUs. With the Ryzen 9 9950X3D, the method could make sense, as it then passes as a Ryzen 7 9800X3D – a CPU that often performs well in gaming benchmarks. The Ryzen 9 9900X3D is a different story: It only has six cores per CCD, and when one is switched off, there’s not much left. If you need multi-core performance, you should think carefully about whether this “optimization mode” really brings an advantage.
Comparison with Gigabyte’s X3D Turbo Mode
Colorful is not the first manufacturer to tinker with AMD’s X3D processors. Gigabyte has a similar function with its “X3D Turbo Mode”, but with a different approach: instead of switching off CCDs or SMT, CPU parameters are simply adjusted. Benchmarks will probably show which is better in the end – or simply personal preference for aggressive BIOS gimmicks.
Does this really result in more FPS?
According to Colorful, the X3D Gaming Mode in PUBG is said to increase performance by up to 17%. Sounds nice, but be careful: manufacturers’ claims are often optimistic. If you’re not a PUBG pro, you’ll probably have to test for yourself whether disabling SMT and CCDs is really worth it or whether it will ultimately do more harm than good.
Sensible optimization or technical mallet?
Colorful’s “X3D Gaming Mode” could be an interesting gimmick for certain scenarios. Whether it turns out to be a real innovation or a marketing gimmick remains to be seen. Those who use Ryzen X3D processors and want to experiment with the BIOS can test it – the rest are probably better advised to simply leave the default settings and hope that AMD and the game developers do their homework.
Source: Weibo
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