EPYC 7303
AMD
PassMark
28,572
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The EPYC 7303 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 5 September 2023 (2 years ago). It is based on the Milan (2021−2023) architecture. It features 16 cores and 32 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 3.4 GHz. L3 cache: 64 MB (total). L2 cache: 512 kB (per core). Built on 7 nm process technology. Socket: SP3. Thermal design power (TDP): 130 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 28,572 points. Launch price was $604.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar EPYC 7303
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for EPYC 7303 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of EPYC 7303 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The EPYC 7303 is a 16-core / 32-thread processor based on the Milan (2021−2023) architecture, manufactured on a 7 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.4 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 64 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 512 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 28,572, placing it in the High-End performance tier as a Recent generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,960, while multi-core reaches 11,000. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 18,000.
| Specification | EPYC 7303 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 16C / 32T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Milan (2021−2023) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 7 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 64 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 2x 81 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 8,300 million |
| 64-bit Support | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 28,572 |
| Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance | 18,000 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,960 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 11,000 |
Memory & Platform
The EPYC 7303 fits into the SP3 socket and supports PCIe 4.0 with 128 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-3200 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 204 GB across 8 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.
| Specification | EPYC 7303 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | SP3 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 4.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 128 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-3200 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 204 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 8 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | SP3 platform |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 2 |
Advanced Features
The EPYC 7303 is primarily designed for High-frequency Server Workloads. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: AMD-V, SVM — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Xeon Gold 6334.
| Specification | EPYC 7303 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | High-frequency Server Workloads |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | AMD-V, SVM |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Xeon Gold 6334 |
Power & Cooling
The EPYC 7303 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 130 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: SP3 Active Cooling.
| Specification | EPYC 7303 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 130 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | SP3 Active Cooling |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #465 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | EPYC 7303 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $604 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #465 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 5 September 2023 (2 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2023 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | TSMC |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for EPYC 7303
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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