For example, it found more Core i9-10900K chips passed its tests than Core i9-10850K chips, while the 64-core ThreadRipper 3990X had more success than the 32-core and 24-core versions. Interestingly, the third vendor also said there was no apparent rhyme or reason to CPUs that didn’t pass muster. The vendor also explained that its failed CPUs aren’t dead, as PowerGPU reported-they just don’t pass its requirements to run low-latency or high-frequency RAM fully loaded. The third vendor torture-tests systems with fully loaded memory slots-even if they’re not eventually sold that way. If a component surpasses a two-percent failure threshold, it’s immediately flagged. The company closely monitors its build line and RMAs (return merchandise authorizations).

The first vendor said it hasn’t seen any issues with its Ryzen-based systems. All three vendors appear to sell more Ryzen-based systems than, so their sample sizes could be more indicative of how real the problem is. To give the vendors freedom to speak candidly, PCWorld agreed not to name the companies.

PCWorld also contacted several system builders to see if they were having similar experiences. “We are unaware of any similar issues at this time.” “AMD is looking into a claim by a custom PC builder regarding higher-than-expected failure rates they are experiencing with Ryzen 5000 series desktop processors,” a spokesman said. PCWorld reached out to AMD, and officials told us this was an isolated incident. Ryzen customers were understandably worried after this news.

Ryzen control