Ryzen CPU owners can now enjoy enhanced gaming performance, thanks to a new Windows 11 update. Microsoft's latest update, KB5041587, introduces AMD-specific optimizations that significantly boost performance on modern Ryzen desktop CPUs. While you can't physically download more RAM, this update effectively provides better gaming capabilities by optimizing the software.
Last week, AMD announced that it was collaborating with Microsoft on an optimization patch for Ryzen CPUs, initially slated for release with the upcoming Windows 11 24H2 update. However, Microsoft has decided to backport these optimizations to the current 23H2 version, making the improvements available sooner.
The update brings notable gaming performance enhancements across various Zen 4 and Zen 5 desktop Ryzen CPUs, including the popular Ryzen 7800X3D chip. According to AMD's statement to Wccftech, users can find the KB5041587 update under Windows Update > Advanced Options > Optional Updates. AMD expects the performance improvements to be similar between the 24H2 and 23H2 versions once KB5041587 is installed.
Reviewers have already begun testing the Windows 11 24H2 update, which is expected to roll out in late September. Early results show an average 10% performance boost across multiple games at 1080p on older Ryzen 7700X CPUs. Additionally, tests by Hardware Unboxed revealed an 11% performance improvement on the latest Ryzen 9700X in the same gaming scenarios.
Initial benchmarks for AMD's latest Zen 5 desktop CPUs were underwhelming, prompting AMD and Microsoft to work together on optimizing AMD-specific branch prediction code in Windows 11. With these optimizations now backported to existing Windows 11 23H2 installations, Ryzen CPU owners can benefit from improved gaming performance without waiting for the full 24H2 update or enrolling in the Release Preview testing phase.
This update marks a significant step forward for gamers and professionals using AMD's latest Ryzen processors, providing an immediate boost to gaming performance on Windows 11.
