Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: AMD Ryzen Performance Insights

AMD’s flagship Ryzen 9 9950X3D, along with its sibling Ryzen 7 9800X3D, has been turning heads by offering a robust balance between gaming performance and productivity. Recent testing reveals a surprising twist: when running on Windows 10 with Microsoft’s recommended settings on Windows 11 (featuring Virtualization-Based Security or VBS), Windows 10 actually outperforms its successor in several gaming scenarios. Let’s dive into the details, explore the reasons behind these performance discrepancies, and discuss what this means for gamers and professionals alike.

AMD Ryzen Innovation and Chipset Driver Enhancements​

AMD’s announcement of the Ryzen 9 9950X3D positions it as the top all-rounder CPU, celebrated for its prowess in handling both modern games and productivity workloads. The chip was awarded a solid 9 out of 10 by reviewers who noted its impressive overall performance. Alongside this launch, AMD introduced a new chipset driver package that brings a couple of user-friendly features to the table:

• No-Reinstallation CPU Swap: A significant convenience for enthusiasts—changing CPUs no longer necessitates reinstalling Windows.
• VBS Fix for Windows 10: The new driver package addresses issues with Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) specifically on Windows 10.

These improvements are designed not only to enhance performance but also to streamline the upgrade process, reducing downtime for users who frequently upgrade their systems.

Understanding Virtualization-Based Security (VBS)​

Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), sometimes referred to as Core Isolation, leverages the Windows hypervisor and modern hardware virtualization capabilities to create a protected environment. This secure layer is designed to defend critical system processes against sophisticated attacks. Microsoft has been a staunch proponent of VBS, recommending that users—especially those on Windows 11—enable it for an added level of defense.
However, while VBS significantly bolsters security, it can come at a cost to system performance. In various benchmarks, including those focusing on gaming, VBS has been identified as a notable performance hog. This performance penalty is particularly evident when comparing the gaming experiences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 under Microsoft’s recommended settings.

Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: A Performance Showdown​

Recent tests executed by the YouTube channel Tech YES City have provided some eye-opening insights into how these operating systems handle demanding tasks like gaming when VBS is enabled. Although Microsoft’s guidance pushes for Windows 11 installations on systems running VBS (for a cleaner, more secure setup), the practical outcome of such configurations appears to favor Windows 10 in key performance metrics. Here’s a breakdown of the findings:

• Fortnite Benchmark:
• Windows 10 Advantage: In this popular battle royale game, Windows 10 exhibited an 18% performance edge over Windows 11 when VBS was enabled.
• Consistency Across Configurations: Even when VBS was disabled on Windows 11, making it closer in configuration to Windows 10, the latter still maintained roughly a 9.25% advantage.
• Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 and Others:
• Although the degree of difference varied, similar trends were observed in other titles. This suggests that the performance benefits seen in Windows 10 might extend across a range of games, not just isolated to one title.

These results challenge the assumption that Windows 11’s latest features and integrations always translate into superior gaming performance. It seems that, in certain configurations—particularly where VBS is in play—Windows 10 is currently better optimized for returning higher frame rates and a more responsive gaming experience.

Delving Deeper: The Impact of VBS on Gaming Performance​

The relationship between security features and system performance often involves tradeoffs. In the case of VBS, the overhead introduced by the hypervisor’s additional security layer appears to affect frame rates and overall responsiveness when running graphically intensive applications. Some key points to consider:

• Security vs. Speed:
• VBS is critical for defending the operating system’s kernel from malicious attacks, but this added layer of security requires computational resources that might otherwise be allocated to gaming or other performance-intensive tasks.
• OS Configuration Matters:
• For Windows 11, VBS is not activated by default. AMD’s testing directive, however, was to enable VBS as per Microsoft recommendations. In contrast, Windows 10 does not have VBS enabled by default, naturally offering a leaner environment for certain computing tasks.
• User Considerations:
• Gamers might find themselves at a crossroads: opt for the additional security of Windows 11 with VBS enabled, or choose the performance benefits of Windows 10. This decision could ultimately hinge on personal priorities—whether the need for top-notch performance outweighs the benefits of a fortified operating system.

It’s important to note that while these benchmarks favor Windows 10 in gaming performance, a comprehensive evaluation must weigh both security and performance. For everyday users and enterprises prioritizing robust security, the tradeoff may be entirely acceptable.

Real-World Implications for the Windows Community​

These findings resonate well with a broader audience. For gamers, who demand every ounce of performance from their hardware, the implications are straightforward: if maximizing gaming performance is your primary concern, Windows 10 might still hold the advantage—especially when the additional overhead of VBS is factored in. A couple of practical tips for such users include:

• Tweaking VBS Settings:
• Experiment with enabling or disabling VBS based on your current needs. For instance, if you are in the middle of a gaming marathon, consider temporarily disabling VBS (ensuring you follow safe practices).
• System Configuration and Optimization:
• For those planning an upgrade, understanding the default settings and recommended configurations can inform your OS choice. AMD’s recent chipset driver update, which resolves the need for a Windows reinstallation upon CPU change, is a step towards more versatile system management.
• Monitoring Future Updates:
• Neowin’s earlier tests revealed that Windows 10 and Windows 11 have exhibited mixed performance outcomes in different scenarios. Both operating systems might see adjustments in future updates, so keeping an eye on performance reviews following driver and OS updates is advisable.

These real-world considerations underscore the importance of aligning system configurations with user requirements. For professional content creators, productivity enthusiasts, or gamers, the optimal setup may vary, and slight differences in CPU performance can cascade into significant practical differences.

A Glimpse into the Future: What's Next for AMD and Windows​

The current performance scenario may only be a snapshot of an evolving landscape. Both AMD and Microsoft are continuously refining their technologies, and the interplay between hardware performance and software security measures is an area ripe for innovation. Here are a few thoughts on what to expect going forward:

• Enhanced Driver Updates:
• AMD’s commitment to rolling out driver updates that address specific issues—such as the VBS fix for Windows 10—indicates that further refinements are coming. Future drivers may better balance security and performance across both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
• OS-level Optimizations:
• Microsoft is likely to tweak Windows 11’s handling of VBS and other security settings based on user feedback and real-world benchmarks. Such adjustments could help close the existing performance gap.
• In-depth Benchmarking Across Configurations:
• With more enthusiasts dedicating time to comparing OS performance using various configurations (clean installs versus in-place upgrades, VBS enabled versus disabled), a clearer picture of the best practices for optimizing both security and performance will emerge.
• Community Insights and Expert Testing:
• Forums like ours at WindowsForum.com continue to be valuable hubs for sharing firsthand testing results and optimization tips. As more users experiment with these configurations on platforms like Windows 10 and Windows 11, the community will refine its recommendations.

In an industry where the competition is fierce and every percentage point counts, these ongoing updates will play a pivotal role in shaping user experiences across the globe.

Final Thoughts: Striking the Right Balance​

The current benchmarks underscore a key takeaway: while modern operating systems are packed with leading-edge features and security enhancements, performance tuning remains a crucial and user-specific challenge. The comparison between Windows 10 and Windows 11 on AMD’s Ryzen 9950X3D/9800X3D setups reveals that sometimes, the older platform might still provide a slight edge in raw gaming performance under particular configurations.
For Windows users and IT enthusiasts, the takeaway is clear:

• Security vs. Performance Tradeoffs:
• Advanced security features like VBS are essential for many users, but they do introduce overhead that might not appeal to every gamer. An informed decision, based on real-world benchmarks, is key.
• Stay Updated and Flexible:
• It is advisable to periodically review official updates from both AMD and Microsoft, as well as independent benchmarks. What might be a disadvantage today could be optimized away in tomorrow’s driver or OS update.
• Optimize for Your Use Case:
• Whether you prioritize a secure environment or maximized gaming performance, tailoring your system configuration to your specific needs is the best approach. The flexibility that AMD now offers—with its CPU swap feature and driver updates, for instance—empowers users to redefine their workflows without cumbersome setbacks.

By keeping a close watch on developments and remaining agile with upgrades and optimizations, users can ensure they are extracting the maximum value from their investments, whether in gaming rigs or productivity workstations.
As this performance saga unfolds with further testing—potentially including additional Ryzen CPU benchmarks and more granular OS comparisons—the community can look forward to a continual stream of insights that help navigate the nuanced world of modern computing. For now, the evidence clearly suggests that when it comes to balancing raw performance and security configurations, Windows 10 is holding its ground against the newer Windows 11 in certain scenarios, at least for now.
For those following the latest on Windows and hardware performance, these findings reinforce the need to weigh both the security benefits and the performance costs when deciding on an operating system. Stay tuned for more updates, as both AMD and Microsoft continue to push the boundaries of what modern computing can achieve.

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Source: Neowin AMD's Ryzen 9950X3D/9800X3D on Windows 10 beats Windows 11 on Microsoft recommended settings

 

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AMD’s latest flagship processors are creating a stir in the gaming community—not just for their raw power, but also for revealing some intriguing differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11 environments. In a series of recent benchmarks, AMD’s Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 7 9800X3D processors demonstrated notably stronger gaming performance on Windows 10 compared to Windows 11, particularly when Windows 11’s virtualization-based security (VBS) is enabled.

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Benchmark Breakdown: Windows 10 vs. Windows 11​

Recent tests carried out by a reputable benchmark source showcased some surprising performance differentials:

• CS2 at 1080p, CPU-bound scenarios:
• Windows 10: Ryzen 9 9950X3D hit an impressive 745 frames per second (fps).
• Windows 11: The same processor delivered 729 fps, and with VBS enabled the performance dropped further to 710 fps.
• Impact: The difference represents roughly a 2.1% drop when comparing Windows 10 to a standard Windows 11 setup, with VBS activation causing even more pronounced reductions.
• Fortnite at lowest settings in 1080p:
• Windows 10: The Ryzen 9 9950X3D comfortably achieved 591 fps.
• Windows 11: The average dropped to 541 fps; when VBS was enabled, the drop was even steeper—about 41 extra fps loss, amounting to a 9.2% performance decrease.

These numbers highlight a clear trend: gamers who seek to squeeze every drop of performance from AMD’s new high-end CPUs might find Windows 10 to be more favorable for CPU-intensive tasks.
Summary: For high-performance gaming, especially when benchmarks matter, Windows 10 seems to pull ahead in scenarios where every frame counts.

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The Trade-Off: Security Versus Performance​

While the numbers might be enough to sway opinions among hardcore gamers, it’s important to consider why Windows 11 might be underperforming in these specific tests. A key factor appears to be the virtualization-based security (VBS) feature.

• What is VBS?
• VBS is designed to create a more secure operating environment by isolating sensitive parts of the operating system. This can help protect against malware and certain types of attacks.
• Performance Impact:
• When VBS is enabled, parts of the system’s performance are essentially “re-routed” to safeguard critical operations. This extra overhead, while beneficial from a security standpoint, can impinge upon the performance in scenarios where every millisecond counts—like in CPU-bound gaming situations.
• The Dilemma for Gamers:
• Gamers, who often seek maximum raw performance, now face the decision: prioritize security with VBS enabled (a wise choice for everyday protection) or disable it on Windows 11 (or revert to Windows 10) to gain a performance edge.

Summary: The performance drop on Windows 11 with VBS highlights a classic trade-off in modern computing—choosing between rigorous security measures and maximizing performance.

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Deep Dive: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Its Impact on Gaming​

Key Features and Technical Prowess​

AMD has built a reputation for packing powerhouse performance into its CPUs, and the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is no exception:

• 16-Core Marvel: With 16 cores, this processor is designed to handle demanding gaming and creative workloads simultaneously.
• 3D V-Cache Technology: Leveraging AMD’s second-generation 3D V-Cache, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D not only provides increased gaming performance but also enhances efficiency during productivity tasks.
• Competitive Pricing: At a price point of $699, it competes fiercely with offerings from Intel, including the Core i9-14900K and other high-end models.
• Productivity Edge: In tasks beyond just gaming, early analyses suggest that the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is around 24% faster in productivity tasks compared to its predecessor, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D.

Benchmarks in Context​

The benchmark figures—while impressive on paper—illustrate the nuanced differences that come into play with different operating systems:

• Windows 10’s Performance Edge: In CPU-bound tests, the raw numbers on Windows 10 suggest that its architecture and handling of system resources might be more suited to high-frequency, low-latency tasks that gamers rely upon.
• Windows 11’s Enhanced Security Overhead: On the flip side, Windows 11’s advanced security features, particularly VBS, introduce an overhead that, while justified in security-centric environments, can slightly dampen the gaming experience.

Summary: The Ryzen 9 9950X3D is set to be a formidable contender in both gaming and productivity. However, the choice of operating system can tip the scales in scenarios where every frame becomes critical.

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Broader Implications for Windows Users​

Why This Matters to the Everyday Gamer​

While security is an unarguably paramount aspect of modern computing, gamers are a unique breed who often prioritize performance over other factors. This isn’t just an isolated performance anomaly—these findings shed light on how the subtle differences in OS architecture can have real-world impacts on gaming:

• System Configuration Choices: Users with high-end AMD CPUs might consider keeping Windows 11’s security features in check or switching to Windows 10 to squeeze out every last bit of performance during CPU-bound gaming.
• The Future of OS Optimization: These tests may prompt Microsoft to revisit how Windows 11 handles VBS in gaming scenarios. With pressures from both gamers and developers, future updates might seek to find a balance that doesn’t force users to choose strictly between security and performance.

Considerations for a Mixed Usage Environment​

For those who use their systems for both gaming and productivity or sensitive tasks, the win isn’t as clear-cut:

• Security vs. Performance Paradox: Windows 11 offers enhanced features including improved security, better multitasking capabilities, and modernized design elements. The trade-off in performance might be negligible in everyday tasks not dominated by intensive gaming benchmarks.
• Custom Configurations: Users are encouraged to experiment with their system settings—such as disabling VBS during gaming sessions—if they wish to achieve optimal performance without sacrificing overall system security during regular usage.

Summary: This isn’t just a win for Windows 10 in benchmark numbers; it’s a snapshot of a broader debate within the tech community. Balancing optimal performance with robust security is a challenge that affects every modern user, not just the gamers.

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Final Thoughts​

AMD’s latest flagship CPUs have once again set the bar high, demonstrating not just raw computational strength but also highlighting the complex interplay between hardware and software environments. The benchmarks indicating that Windows 10 delivers superior gaming performance compared to Windows 11—especially with VBS enabled—offer valuable insights for gamers tuning their performance mix.
Key takeaways for Windows users include:

• Evaluate your priorities: Gamers seeking every bit of performance may lean towards Windows 10, at least until future Windows 11 updates mitigate these differences.
• Understand the Trade-Offs: Enhanced security features in Windows 11 provide significant benefits for overall system protection, a factor that many users may not want to compromise.
• Keep an Eye on Updates: Both Microsoft and AMD are continuously pushing forward with innovations. Future driver updates, OS refinements, and newer CPUs could potentially reshape this dynamic.

Whether you are a competitive gamer or a creative professional, it’s essential to align your operating system environment with your workload priorities. As the landscape of technology evolves, so too should our approach to balancing performance and security, ensuring that every user finds their optimal setup.
This discussion invites a wider conversation on how system configurations can be tailored to meet the increasingly divergent needs of today’s power users—always a balancing act between performance enhancement and comprehensive security.

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Source: MSPoweruser AMD's latest flagship CPU is a beast on Windows 10, surpassing Windows 11 in tests