Best Ryzen 5 CPUs of 2026

Tom Law Avatar
Tom Law
Last Updated: 4 Feb 2026

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Ryzen 5 CPUs are a line of high-performance central processing units (CPUs) designed by AMD. These processors are known for their powerful multi-core performance, making them ideal for demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. Ryzen 5 CPUs are available in a range of models, each with varying clock speeds, core counts, and TDP ratings. With their efficient power consumption, excellent thermal management, and competitive pricing, Ryzen 5 CPUs are an excellent option for those seeking a powerful and reliable CPU for their computing needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

AMD Ryzen 5 5500 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler Cover #TOP 1
AMD Ryzen 5 5500 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT Processor with Wraith Stealth Fan Cover #TOP 2
AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT Processor with Wraith Stealth Fan
ftb score rating icon 9.7
AMD Ryzen 5 3400G Processor with Radeon Graphics Cover #TOP 3
AMD Ryzen 5 3400G Processor with Radeon Graphics
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 6 Ryzen 5 CPUs

#TOP 1

AMD Ryzen 5 5500 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler

MW Gaming
AMD Ryzen 5 5500
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AMD Ryzen 5 5500 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler Cover
AMD Ryzen 5 5500 Processor (6 cores/12 threads, 65W DTP, AM4 socket, 19 MB cache, up to 4.2 GHz max boost, wraith stealth cooler)

The AMD Ryzen 5 5500 is a powerful processor featuring six cores and twelve threads, providing excellent multitasking capabilities. With a boost clock of up to 4.2 GHz, you can enjoy a smooth and responsive experience during demanding tasks, such as gaming or content creation. Its 65W TDP ensures efficient energy consumption, which means you can keep your system running cooler. Additionally, the processor is unlocked for overclocking, allowing you to maximise its performance according to your needs.

What We Like
High core and thread count
Up to 4.2 GHz boost clock
Efficient 65W TDP
Unlocked for overclocking
#TOP 2

AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT Processor with Wraith Stealth Fan

AMD
10861342
Black
Large
AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT Processor with Wraith Stealth Fan Cover
AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT Processor, 6 Cores/12 Unbridled Threads, Zen Architecture 4, 35MB Cache, 65W TDP, Up to 4.7GHz Frequency Boost, Socket AM4, with Wraith Stealth Fan

The AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT is a powerful processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads, making it ideal for multitasking and demanding applications. With its advanced Zen Architecture 4, you can expect improved performance and efficiency in your computing tasks. The generous 35MB cache enhances data retrieval speeds, ensuring smoother operation for both gaming and productivity. Additionally, the processor's ability to boost up to 4.7 GHz means you can enjoy faster processing speeds when needed, providing a noticeable difference during intensive workloads.

What We Like
High core and thread count
Advanced Zen Architecture 4
Large 35MB cache
Up to 4.7 GHz boost
Includes Wraith Stealth Fan
#TOP 3

AMD Ryzen 5 3400G Processor with Radeon Graphics

AMD
Ryzen 5 3400G
Black
Processor Only
AMD Ryzen 5 3400G Processor with Radeon Graphics Cover
AMD Ryzen 5 3400G Processor (4C/8T, 6 MB cache, 4.2 GHz Max Boost) with Radeon RX Vega 11 Graphics

The AMD Ryzen 5 3400G is a powerful processor designed for modern gaming. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to run multiple applications effortlessly. The impressive 4.2 GHz boost clock means you can enjoy high-performance gaming without lag. Additionally, the 65W TDP offers energy efficiency, making it a great choice for building a cost-effective gaming desktop. Lastly, its compatibility with 500 and 400 chipset Series AM4 motherboards gives you flexibility in choosing your system’s components.

What We Like
High performance for gaming
Efficient energy consumption
Supports multitasking smoothly
Compatible with various motherboards
#TOP 4

AMD Ryzen 5 1600 Hex Core CPU

AMD
YD1600BBAEBOX
Silver
Ryzen 5 1600
AMD Ryzen 5 1600 Hex Core CPU Cover
AMD YD1600BBAEBOX Ryzen 5 1600 Processor with Wraith Spire Cooler

The AMD Ryzen 5 1600 is a powerful desktop CPU, featuring a base clock of 3.2 GHz and a precision boost frequency of 3.6 GHz. With six cores and twelve threads, this processor allows you to multitask efficiently, making it ideal for gaming and content creation. The generous 19 MB of L3 cache ensures quick access to frequently used data, enhancing overall performance. Additionally, the AM4 socket compatibility means you can upgrade your system easily, allowing for future improvements as your needs grow.

What We Like
High performance for multitasking
Easy AM4 socket compatibility
Generous cache for quick access
Precision boost for speed
#TOP 5

AMD Ryzen 5 3600 AM4 CPU 6-Core 4.2GHz

AMD
Ryzen 5 3600
Black
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AMD Ryzen 5 3600 AM4 CPU 6-Core 4.2GHz Cover
AMD CPU AM4 RYZEN 5 3600 6X4.2GHZ/32MB Box

The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is a powerful CPU featuring six cores with a boost clock of up to 4.2GHz, ideal for multitasking and smooth performance in gaming or work. It comes in a boxed version, ensuring you receive a complete, high-quality product. This processor offers great value, making it a smart choice if you want strong performance without overspending. With its reliable build and excellent speed, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 will meet a variety of needs, giving you convenience and efficiency in your computing tasks.

What We Like
Six-core high-speed processor
Great value for money
High-quality boxed product
Versatile for many uses
#TOP 6

AMD Ryzen 5 2600X Processor with Cooler

AMD
YD260XBCAFBOX
Black
Ryzen 5 2600X
AMD Ryzen 5 2600X Processor with Cooler Cover
AMD YD260XBCAFBOX Ryzen 5 2600X Processor with Wraith Spire Cooler

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600X is designed for gamers, creators, and PC enthusiasts. With True Machine Intelligence, it optimises responsiveness, ensuring you have smooth gameplay and quick reactions during intense gaming sessions. It's perfect for eSports and AAA title gamers, providing the performance you need to dominate the competition. Additionally, content creators, artists, and streamers will benefit from its ability to create, edit, and stream with lightning-fast responsiveness, making your workflow more efficient and enjoyable.

What We Like
Exceptional gaming performance
Optimised for content creation
Fast responsiveness
Compatible with AM4 motherboards
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Ryzen 5 better than i5?

AMD Ryzen 5 processors are generally slightly less powerful than i5 processors. They have a clock speed of up to 4.4GHz, compared to the 4.6GHz of the i5. But they do have twice as many threads. The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 also stands out thanks to a very low power consumption of 65W.

2. What CPU is equivalent to Ryzen 5?

Ryzen 5 is the AMD equivalent to Intel Core i5. It is as simple as that. It denotes a line of processors that has been winning users to the “Team Red” since April of 2017 with the first generation, Ryzen 5 1600X.

3. Are Ryzen 5 CPUs good?

The Ryzen 5 5600X even beats the Intel Core i9-10900K at gaming, which is an incredible feat given its price point. Not to mention that it's among the most power-efficient desktop PC processors we've ever tested.

Editor's Notes

During our ryzen 5 cpu research, we found 62 ryzen 5 cpu products and shortlisted 6 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,741,624 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ryzen 5 cpus list. We found that most customers choose ryzen 5 cpus with an average price of £185.36.

The ryzen 5 cpus are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ryzen 5 cpus, including MW Gaming, AMD.

Written by
Tom Law Avatar

Tom Law is an adventurer who has captured his love for nature into all of his works. A native of Newcastle, Tom has always wanted to share beautiful stories alongside the lovely sights of nature. Fortunately, he took into photography on one of his many journeys and gradually grew a passion for it. Tom Law is now an expert photographer who tours the world while creating and keeping memories of his adventures. He frequently puts his thoughts and experiences into writing.