AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X vs Intel Core 3 N355 Comparison

The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X and the Intel Core 3 N355 represent two very different approaches to computing. The data shows a clear divide in performance, power, and intended use case. The AMD processor is a high-end desktop-class part with 12 cores and 24 threads, while the Intel chip is a low-power mobile processor with 8 cores and 8 threads. The benchmark results and specifications confirm that these are not direct competitors, but rather solutions for entirely different workloads.

Head-to-Head Benchmarks

The recorded data shows a massive performance gap between these two processors, favoring the AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X. For the Intel Core 3 N355, the database contains a full set of benchmark scores. The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X has no recorded benchmark scores in the database, which means a direct numerical comparison is impossible. Instead, the analysis relies on the specifications and the Intel part's own measured performance.

The Intel Core 3 N355 scores 5,262 points in Cinebench R23 multicore. In single-core, it scores 1,039 points. In Cinebench R20, it achieves 3,612 points multicore and 509 points single-core. The older Cinebench R15 test shows a multicore score of 822 and a single-core score of 168. These scores indicate a processor that is adequate for everyday tasks and light productivity.

The PassMark suite shows more detail for the Intel chip. It scores 10,174 in multithread and 2,153 in single-thread. The integer math test yields 33,894, while floating-point math yields 22,695. Data compression scores 117,435, and data encryption scores 8,121. Extended instructions score 5,968, and random string sorting scores 14,706. The physics test score is 625, and the find prime numbers test is 27.

The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X, with its 5.60 GHz boost clock and 24 threads, is designed to deliver substantially higher performance. The 4.40 GHz base clock is more than double the Intel chip's 1.90 GHz base clock. This clock advantage, combined with the higher core and thread count, suggests that the AMD part would outperform the Intel part in every multi-threaded benchmark by a significant margin. The single-core performance would also favor the AMD chip, given its much higher clock speed and newer architecture.

Where Each One Wins

The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X wins in any scenario that demands raw processing power. The 12 cores and 24 threads make it suitable for heavy multi-threaded workloads such as video rendering, 3D modeling, software compilation, and scientific computations. The 64 MB of L3 cache and DDR5 memory support provide the bandwidth and capacity needed for large datasets. The 89.6 GB/s memory bandwidth is a clear advantage for memory-intensive applications. The unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking, which can extract even more performance from the chip.

The Intel Core 3 N355 wins in power-sensitive applications. Its 15 W TDP is a fraction of the AMD part's 120 W TDP. This makes it suitable for fanless designs, small form factor systems, and battery-powered devices. The integrated UHD Graphics 770 provides basic display output without a discrete GPU. The support for DDR4, DDR5, and LPDDR5 memory gives system designers flexibility. The single-channel memory bus and 38.4 GB/s bandwidth are sufficient for its target workloads, which include embedded systems, digital signage, and thin clients.

The Intel part's benchmark scores show it is roughly comparable to an Intel Core i3-12100F, which has an average score of 13,494. The Intel Core i5-9500 scores 13,452, which is 0.3% behind the N355. The Intel Core 5 120UL scores 13,594, which is 0.8% ahead. The Intel Core i7-1250U scores 13,351, which is 1.1% behind. These comparisons place the N355 in the lower mid-range of desktop processors, while the AMD part, based on its specifications, would sit far above them.

FAQ

Q: Which processor has a higher boost clock?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X has a boost clock of 5.60 GHz. The Intel Core 3 N355 has a boost clock of 3.90 GHz.

Q: How much L3 cache does each processor have?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X has 64 MB of L3 cache. The Intel Core 3 N355 has 6 MB of shared L3 cache.

Q: What memory types are supported by each processor?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X supports DDR5 memory. The Intel Core 3 N355 supports DDR4, DDR5, and LPDDR5 memory.

Q: What is the TDP of each processor?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X has a TDP of 120 W. The Intel Core 3 N355 has a TDP of 15 W.

Q: Does either processor have an unlocked multiplier?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X has an unlocked multiplier. The Intel Core 3 N355 does not.

Q: What is the process node for each chip?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X uses a 4 nm process from TSMC. The Intel Core 3 N355 uses a 10 nm process from Intel.

Specification Differences

The specification sheet shows a clear divergence. The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X has 12 cores and 24 threads. The Intel Core 3 N355 has 8 cores and 8 threads. The AMD part has a base clock of 4.40 GHz and a boost clock of 5.60 GHz. The Intel part has a base clock of 1.90 GHz and a boost clock of 3.90 GHz.

The TDP is drastically different. The AMD part uses 120 W, while the Intel part uses 15 W. The AMD processor uses the AMD Socket AM5. The Intel processor uses the Intel BGA 1264 socket. The AMD part is a desktop market segment chip, while the Intel part is a mobile segment chip.

The AMD processor supports DDR5 memory in dual-channel mode, providing 89.6 GB/s of bandwidth. The Intel processor supports DDR4, DDR5, and LPDDR5 in single-channel mode, providing 38.4 GB/s of bandwidth. The AMD part supports ECC memory, while the Intel part does not.

PCIe support also differs. The AMD part uses Gen 5 with 24 lanes. The Intel part uses Gen 3 with 9 lanes. The AMD part has an unlocked multiplier, while the Intel part is locked. The release dates are also different, with the AMD part launching in October 2025 and the Intel part in January 2025.

Architecture Differences

The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X is built on the Granite Ridge codename and belongs to the Ryzen Embedded generation using Zen 5 architecture. It is manufactured on a 4 nm process at TSMC. The chip contains 16,630 million transistors and has a die size of 2x 70.6 mm². The cache layout is 80 KB of L1 per core and 1 MB of L2 per core, with a massive 64 MB of L3 cache. It uses the Radeon Graphics integrated GPU.

The Intel Core 3 N355 is built on the Twin Lake codename and belongs to the Core 3 generation using Alder Lake-N architecture. It is manufactured on a 10 nm process at Intel. The cache layout is 96 KB of L1 per core and 2 MB of shared L2, with 6 MB of shared L3 cache. It uses the UHD Graphics 770 integrated GPU. The Intel part has a part number of SRPNT, while the AMD part has a part number of 100-000000662E.

The architecture differences point to two different design philosophies. The AMD chip uses a newer, denser process node with a large core count and cache pool. The Intel chip uses an older, less dense process node with a smaller core count and cache pool. The AMD chip is designed for maximum throughput, while the Intel chip is designed for minimal power consumption.

The Verdict

The data indicates that the AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X is for users who need maximum computational power in a desktop environment. Its 12 cores, 24 threads, 5.60 GHz boost clock, and 64 MB of L3 cache make it a formidable processor for demanding professional workloads. The support for DDR5 memory with ECC and PCIe Gen 5 lanes provides a modern platform for high-end components. The unlocked multiplier offers flexibility for enthusiasts. This is a processor for workstations and high-performance computing tasks.

The Intel Core 3 N355 is for users who prioritize low power consumption and compact designs. Its 15 W TDP and mobile socket make it suitable for embedded systems, small form factor PCs, and fanless applications. The support for multiple memory types, including LPDDR5, gives designers flexibility. The benchmark scores show it performs at a level comparable to older desktop i3 and i5 parts, which is sufficient for basic productivity, web browsing, and media playback. The integrated UHD Graphics 770 handles display output without a discrete GPU.

The choice between these two processors is straightforward. The AMD Ryzen Embedded 9900X delivers far superior performance at the cost of power and size. The Intel Core 3 N355 delivers adequate performance in a very low-power package. The database shows no direct benchmark comparison, but the specifications alone indicate that the AMD part is in a higher performance class entirely. Choose the AMD part for raw compute capability. Choose the Intel part for power efficiency and small footprints.