AMD Ryzen Zen 6 “Medusa Ridge” CPUs: Upcoming 12, 24 & 32 Core Variants with Up to 128 MB L3 Cache

AMD is set to revolutionize its Ryzen CPU lineup with the next-generation Zen 6 architecture, codenamed “Medusa Ridge.”This upcoming series promises enhanced core and cache configurations, aiming to elevate the performance of desktop, laptop, and server platforms.

Unveiling the AMD Zen 6 “Medusa Ridge”Ryzen CPUs

Recent insights reveal exciting developments regarding the upcoming Zen 6 Ryzen CPUs. AMD has officially confirmed the introduction of both Zen 6 and Zen 6C cores, which will be compatible with existing AM5 sockets—making this a significant upgrade for enthusiasts who have already invested in the latest motherboards.

Early reports indicated that the new CPUs would feature CCD (Core Complex Die) configurations with core counts reaching up to 32. This marks a substantial increase, essentially doubling the maximum core counts compared to the previous Zen iterations. Credible industry insider Zhangzhonghao has shared further details on cache configurations that are worth noting.

AMD Zen 6 CPU Image — Image Source: Chiphell Forums

According to his latest findings, the Ryzen “Zen 6″CPUs, under the “Medusa Ridge”branding, will include models with 12, 24, and 32 cores. The cache specifications reveal that both the 12-core and 24-core variants will feature a 96 MB cache, while the top-of-the-line 32-core variant will be equipped with an impressive 128 MB. Additionally, a user contribution provided clarification, confirming that the 12-core chip holds a 48 MB L3 cache and that the 32-core variant will utilize Zen 6C cores.

For added clarity, here’s a breakdown of the cache structure for the various models:

Single Zen 6 CCD: 48 MB L3 Cache
Dual Zen 6 CCDs: 96 MB L3 Cache
Single Zen 6C CCD: 64 MB L3 Cache
Dual Zen 6C CCDs: 128 MB L3 Cache

The standard Zen 6 CCDs are projected to deliver a 50% increase in cache size relative to Zen 5, while the Zen 6C CCDs double that figure. Notably, these numbers pertain to non-X3D variants, suggesting that even higher cache configurations could be expected from X3D models. AMD previously demonstrated its ability to integrate innovative technologies like the 2nd Generation 3D V-Cache in the Ryzen 9000 series CPUs. This positions the next-gen Ryzen CPUs to potentially achieve unprecedented cache sizes, should market demand arise, as AMD has cited economic considerations for not yet adopting dual X3D caches.

The Ryzen 9000 and Ryzen 9000X3D CPUs already set a benchmark, offering exceptional performance for gaming and content creation with impressive efficiency compared to Intel offerings. As AMD is poised to launch its high-end Ryzen 9000X3D CPUs, the company is expected to propel its high-performance desktop gaming segments even further in the years ahead.

AMD Desktop Socket Families Overview

Socket	Architecture / Year	Socket	Architecture / Year
AM4	Zen 1 (2017)	AM5	Zen 4 (2022)
Ryzen 2000G	Zen 1 (2018)	Ryzen 8000G	Zen 4 (2024)
Ryzen 2000	Zen + (2018)	Ryzen 9000	Zen 5 (2024)
Ryzen 3000G	Zen + (2019)	Ryzen 9000X3D	What was 5? (2025)
Ryzen 3000	Zen 2 (2019)	Ryzen 10000?	What was 6? (2026)
Ryzen 5000	Zen 3 (2020)	–	–
Ryzen 5000G	Zen 3 (2021)	–	–
Ryzen 4000	Zen 2 (2022)	–	–