Production of earlier model items
Production of earlier model items
When a new CPU arrives, the older models don’t necessarily stop being made right away. Production can continue for some time, though they may become considered outdated once the latest generation is launched. For instance, after the Ryzen 5600X launch, the 3600X and 2600X likely remained in production, but their status depends on how long manufacturers keep them available. Purchasing a previous-gen CPU now usually means you’ll get a model that’s no longer being manufactured, though some retailers might still stock older units for resale or refurbishment.
It varies by item, but generally the latest version substitutes the older one, making any prior model outdated and unsold until it disappears completely.
Typically, making a CPU isn't done once it's put into a product, but there are many cases where this doesn't apply. For instance, the Ryzen 5 1600 saw huge interest from system builders, leading to the creation of a 12nm model to meet the need even when the newer third-gen Ryzen was unavailable.