AMD FX-9590 vs Intel Core i7-950

The AMD FX-9590 is the faster chip for gaming by roughly 9%. Here is the full spec-by-spec breakdown.

AMD FX-9590 wins — about 9% faster for gaming
Specification AMD FX-9590 Intel Core i7-950
Gaming score 24/100 22/100
Tier F F
Manufacturer AMD Intel
Cores 8 4
Threads 8 8
Base clock 4.7 GHz 3.1 GHz
Boost clock 5 GHz 3.3 GHz
Power draw (TDP) 220 W 130 W
Release year 2013 2009

Which should you buy?

For gaming specifically, the AMD FX-9590 is the better buy — it holds a 9% lead in our index, which shows up most at 1080p and in CPU-bound titles like strategy and simulation games. The AMD FX-9590 has more cores (8 vs 4), which helps if you stream, compile or render alongside playing. The Intel Core i7-950 runs 90W cooler, meaning a cheaper cooler and less case heat. Either way, pair it with a graphics card of similar standing — check the bottleneck calculator before you buy.