A special AMD processor for computer masters

German company Thermal Grizzly has been offering reconditioned AMD and Intel processors since 2025, removing the factory metal cover and replacing the thermal paste. Following models like the AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D and Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus, AMD's latest flagship model has now received the same treatment.

It is an AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 processor, based on the Zen 5 architecture and offering 16 cores and 32 threads. Thermal Grizzly removes the cover from the processor and applies liquid metal in place of the processor cores. This ensures the maximum possible thermal conductivity between the chip itself, the cover and the cooling solution used.

Since removing the cover voids the manufacturer's warranty, Thermal Grizzly offers its customers a customized warranty that lasts up to 24 months. Although customers receive the original metal cover in the package, it is not installed on the processor itself. Instead, the manufacturer recommends using its own special cooling solutions, such as Mycro Direct-Die, Mycro Direct-Die Pro or High Performance Heatspreaders, which are installed directly on the "bare" chip.

In addition to installing dedicated frames for direct cooling of the processor, considerable caution is required when using liquid metal. The manufacturer recommends that users protect surface-mounted components on the processor with insulating products such as TG Kapton Insulation Sheet or TG Shield. Liquid metal conducts electricity, so any contact with these electronic components could cause irreparable damage to the processor. Despite the promises of extreme temperatures, such work remains reserved for the most experienced enthusiasts, as even a small mistake can be fatal.

The Thermal Grizzly Decoded AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 processor has a suggested retail price of approximately €1,213. It is expected to sell out immediately. Thermal Grizzly is expected to offer more of these processors for sale soon.