AMD Addresses Ryzen 9000 Benchmark Discrepancies Ahead of Windows 11 Update

Recently, AMD has come forward to address the discrepancies in benchmark results for its Ryzen 9000 processors, a topic that has stirred considerable discussion among gamers and tech reviewers alike. The chip manufacturer has acknowledged that the performance of these new CPUs did not live up to earlier expectations, which suggested that the Ryzen 9000 would outperform comparable Intel processors by a notable margin. Instead, AMD now indicates that these chips are performing at parity with Intel's offerings.

Key Takeaways​

• Performance Discrepancies: AMD's initial benchmarks indicated that the Ryzen 9000 processors were up to 6% faster than equivalent Intel processors. However, more recent discussions suggest that they are largely equal in gaming performance using popular titles.
• Root of the Issue: The variations in performance reports arise from several factors. Primarily, AMD conducted its tests using an Admin account, potentially skewing results in favor of its new CPUs by leveraging specific optimizations not available to standard user accounts.
• Upcoming Fixes: AMD is working alongside Microsoft to implement optimizations that will bring these advantages to standard accounts in the forthcoming major Windows 11 update, currently being tested with Windows Insiders.

  The Context of Performance Issues​

  When AMD launched its Ryzen 9000 series, expectations were sky-high, bolstered by claims of superior gaming performance. However, reviewers quickly noted that this was not reflected in their benchmarks. The difference became a point of contention, drawing attention not only from the enthusiast community but also from the broader tech press. In addressing these concerns, AMD has outlined several key reasons behind the inconsistencies in performance data.
  1. Benchmarking Methodology: AMD confirmed that their internal benchmarks differed from those of many reviewers due to the environment in which tests were conducted. Reviews performed under normal user conditions—particularly for gaming—may not capture the full performance potential that AMD observed in its controlled testing environments.
  2. Virtualization-Based Security (VBS): Another significant factor is the Windows feature known as Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), which is enabled by default in Windows 11. While VBS enhances system security, it can inadvertently hinder gaming performance. AMD has noted that when testing with VBS enabled, CPU performance was affected negatively, impacting how Ryzen 9000 CPUs were perceived during reviews.

     AMD’s Optimization Strategies​

     Looking ahead, AMD plans to release new performance optimizations designed to leverage their latest Zen 5 architecture more effectively. These updates are expected to enhance game performance significantly when using a standard Windows user account.
  []Branch Prediction Enhancements: Administratively, tests were able to utilize advanced branch prediction optimizations that aren't accessible from a standard account setup. AMD is working with Microsoft to make specific optimization code available to all users, which would equalize performance outcomes between different account types. []

  Game Performance Metrics: Early tests from AMD show expected improvements of approximately 2-3% in gaming benchmarks, depending on the title being tested. For example, the following frame rates (FPS) were reported in early benchmarks during AMD’s trials:	Game Title	FPS (Admin Account)	FPS (Standard Account)	Difference
  Far Cry 6	183	162	+13%
  Cyberpunk 2077	200	188	+7%
  Hitman 3	358	347	+3%
  Watch Dogs: Legion	165	165	No Change
  Cinebench 2024 (Single Thread)	140	140	No Change
  Procyon Office	10,288	9,829	+6%

  These improvements are set to benefit not just the Ryzen 9000 series but also older processors from the Zen 4 and Zen 3 families, promoting a broader enhancement of AMD's lineup.

  Broader Impact of AMD’s Insights​

  The unfolding situation signifies crucial implications for both AMD and its competitors in the CPU market. With Intel also facing challenges, particularly regarding stability with its 13th and 14th generation CPUs, AMD has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position. []Testing with Performance-Optimized Memory: Critics have pointed out that AMD’s original tests utilized DDR5-6000 memory, which may not have capitalized on memory optimizations available to Intel processors, which handle faster memory better. Subsequent tests saw AMD using DDR5-7200 memory for its Intel tests, potentially leveling the playing field. []Updating Comparative Figures: AMD has also adjusted its comparative claims, revising the supposed 9% performance lead of the Ryzen 9000 over the Ryzen 7000 series down to a more conservative 5-8%. This level of transparency is pivotal in rebuilding trust among users who expect not just power but reliable performance when transferring from one product generation to another.

  Conclusion​

  As AMD prepares to release a critical update to Windows 11, the company aims to align the performance of its Ryzen 9000 CPUs with user expectations. This collaboration with Microsoft indicates a proactive approach to resolving discrepancies that have emerged between AMD's internal testing and external benchmarks. The upcoming Windows update may not just rectify past misunderstandings but also enhance current user experiences, paving the way for AMD to reclaim its narrative in the competitive CPU market. With these changes on the horizon, the community eagerly awaits the trend of performance that AMD's Ryzen 9000 series will display once these modifications are in place. For those keen on ongoing updates, engaging in forums and keeping an eye on the latest releases from both AMD and Microsoft will provide crucial insights into how this situation evolves. Source: Windows Central - AMD promises to fix (some) Ryzen 9000 gaming woes with the next major Windows 11 update