AMD is set to expand its Zen 5 desktop CPU lineup with the release of the Ryzen 5 9600, a non-X variant expected to launch in late January 2025. According to reputable leaker @AnhPhuH, this processor will offer a more budget-friendly option while maintaining competitive performance.

The Ryzen 5 9600 is anticipated to feature the same 105W TDP as its sibling, the Ryzen 9600X. However, the non-X version will include a stock Wraith Stealth cooler in the box, a significant value addition for budget-conscious PC builders. By bundling the cooler, AMD aims to save users the cost of an aftermarket cooling solution, allowing them to allocate funds to other components.

Although specific pricing details are not yet available, industry experts expect the Ryzen 5 9600 to retail between $230 and $250. For comparison, the 9600X debuted at $269. The inclusion of the Wraith Stealth cooler could make the non-X model even more appealing, especially if existing Ryzen 9000 series prices continue to decline.

In terms of specifications, the Ryzen 5 9600 is likely to have slightly lower clock speeds than the 9600X while maintaining other core features. This balance of performance and cost positions the CPU as an attractive option for gamers and budget builders seeking the latest Zen 5 architecture.

The launch of the Ryzen 5 9600 marks AMD's ongoing effort to broaden its Zen 5 portfolio, which currently includes only four SKUs. Expectations are high for additional models in the Ryzen 9000 series, including more non-X editions and higher-end X3D chips. Notably, AMD has already introduced the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, with the Ryzen 9 9900X3D and 9950X3D expected to follow soon.

This announcement highlights AMD's strategy to compete in various price segments, catering to both high-performance users and those on a budget. With the inclusion of the Wraith Stealth cooler and its competitive pricing, the Ryzen 5 9600 could become a popular choice in the mainstream market.

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