AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G vs Intel Core i9 9900KS: Which CPU Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right CPU can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’ll be diving into a head-to-head comparison between two popular processors: the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G and the Intel Core i9 9900KS. This battle pits a powerful, integrated graphics powerhouse against a high-end, enthusiast-grade processor. Whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or simply looking for a reliable workhorse, this detailed analysis will help you make an informed decision.

The Contenders: AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G and Intel Core i9 9900KS

AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G: This processor is a true chameleon, boasting impressive performance for both everyday tasks and light gaming. Its integrated Radeon graphics make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious users who don’t want to compromise on visuals.
Intel Core i9 9900KS: This processor is a behemoth, designed for demanding tasks like gaming, content creation, and professional workloads. It’s known for its high clock speeds and exceptional multi-core performance, making it a top choice for power users.

Core Architecture and Clock Speeds

The AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G is based on the Zen 3 architecture, featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz and a boost clock of 4.4 GHz. The Intel Core i9 9900KS, on the other hand, uses the Coffee Lake architecture, offering 8 cores and 16 threads with a base clock speed of 4.0 GHz and a boost clock of 5.0 GHz. The 9900KS boasts a higher clock speed, but the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G’s Zen 3 architecture offers better per-core performance and power efficiency.

Integrated Graphics: A Game Changer for the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G

The AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G comes equipped with integrated Radeon graphics, making it a compelling choice for users who don’t want to invest in a dedicated graphics card. The Radeon Vega 7 graphics offer surprisingly good performance for casual gaming and everyday tasks like video editing and web browsing. This integrated graphics solution eliminates the need for a separate graphics card, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users.

Performance: Benchmarks and Real-World Usage

Gaming: In gaming, the Intel Core i9 9900KS reigns supreme. Its higher clock speeds and larger number of cores offer a significant advantage in demanding titles, especially at high resolutions and settings. However, the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G can still deliver a smooth gaming experience at lower settings, especially with its integrated graphics.
Content Creation: For tasks like video editing and rendering, the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G holds its own. Its Zen 3 architecture offers excellent single-core performance, which is crucial for demanding tasks. The Intel Core i9 9900KS, with its higher core count, may offer a slight edge in multi-threaded workloads, but the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G is still a viable option for content creators on a budget.
Everyday Tasks: Both processors excel in everyday tasks such as web browsing, productivity software, and general multitasking. The Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G’s integrated graphics make it a more versatile option, eliminating the need for a separate graphics card for basic tasks.

Power Consumption and Thermal Performance

The AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G boasts a lower TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65W compared to the Intel Core i9 9900KS’s 127W. This means that the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G consumes less power and generates less heat, making it a better choice for users who prioritize energy efficiency and silent operation.

Price and Value: Weighing the Options

The AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G is significantly more affordable than the Intel Core i9 9900KS. This makes it a compelling choice for users who are on a budget but still want a powerful processor. The Intel Core i9 9900KS, while significantly more expensive, offers top-of-the-line performance, justifying its price tag for power users and enthusiasts.

The Verdict: Which CPU is Right for You?

The choice between the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G and the Intel Core i9 9900KS ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Choose the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G if:

• You are on a budget and need a powerful processor for everyday tasks and light gaming.
• You prefer a processor with integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a separate graphics card.
• You prioritize energy efficiency and silent operation.

Choose the Intel Core i9 9900KS if:

• You need the absolute best performance for demanding tasks like gaming and content creation.
• You are willing to invest in a high-end processor.
• You prioritize raw power and performance over energy efficiency.

The Final Word: A Balanced Choice

Both the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G and the Intel Core i9 9900KS are excellent processors in their respective categories. The Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G offers a compelling balance of performance, affordability, and energy efficiency, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious users. The Intel Core i9 9900KS, on the other hand, reigns supreme in raw performance, catering to power users and enthusiasts who demand the absolute best.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I upgrade the integrated graphics on the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G?
A: No, the integrated Radeon Vega 7 graphics are built into the processor and cannot be upgraded.
Q: Is the Intel Core i9 9900KS still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the Intel Core i9 9900KS is still a powerful processor, newer generations of CPUs from both AMD and Intel offer better performance and efficiency. However, it can still be a good option for users who can find it at a discounted price.
Q: Which processor is better for video editing?
A: Both processors can handle video editing, but the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G’s Zen 3 architecture offers excellent single-core performance, making it a viable option for demanding video editing tasks. The Intel Core i9 9900KS, with its higher core count, may offer a slight edge in multi-threaded workloads, but the Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G is still a competitive choice.
Q: Can the AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G run AAA games?
A: The Ryzen 5 Pro 5650G can run AAA games, but at lower settings and resolutions. Its integrated graphics are not powerful enough for high-end gaming at maximum settings.
Q: Is the Intel Core i9 9900KS overclockable?
A: Yes, the Intel Core i9 9900KS is unlocked for overclocking, allowing users to push its performance beyond its stock settings.