Forget Ryzen AI! AMD launches its SLOWEST processor in years, because 'not all customers can afford a new PC' — 2019 Zen+ CPU will at least be compatible with Windows 11

An AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D processor seated into a black motherboard.

• AMD has 'relaunched' three processors that use legacy cores to address demand at the lowest end of its mobile and desktop CPU offerings
• The CPUs range from 2 to 8 cores and leverage its older Zen+ and Zen 2 core technology as the chip designer grapples with memory and storage shortages to serve an increasingly cash-strapped budget segment
• All three processors support Microsoft Windows 11 and leverage cheaper DDR4 memory as manufacturers aims to 'hold the fort' in the face of rising AI demand creating challenges for entry-level PC buyers

AMD's latest Ryzen CPU offering might not be one that most of its performance-centric consumers would appreciate in 2026.