In the battle of PC processors, the discussion typically revolves around raw performance, efficiency, temperatures, and, of course, price. But in 2025, there’s another factor gaining importance among those building or upgrading a system: perceived reliability and warranty experience when things go wrong.
According to a comparison of “warranty & return rates” in the processor category, AMD outperforms Intel on three key indicators that, while not determining which CPU to buy on their own, provide an interesting insight into market behavior: lower failure rates in the first 24 months, faster average warranty processing, and lower return rates.
Three metrics that matter (more than you think)
The shared data reflects the following:
- “Warranty score” (failures within the first 24 months): AMD registers 1.2% compared to 2.1% for Intel.
- “Warranty case duration” (average warranty case response time): AMD takes an average of 3 business days, whereas Intel averages 8 days.
- “Return rate” (percentage of returns): AMD records 3.2% versus Intel’s 4.3%.
In simple terms: the message is clear — AMD “performs better” in this set of metrics. However, the full picture warrants a little more context.
Why are these figures significant in 2025?
Over recent months, many users have scrutinized every euro spent on PC upgrades. RAM is expensive, prices for various components have fluctuated significantly, and the holiday season often raises a logical doubt: what if I get a defective unit?
Additionally, AMD has been very visible in gaming recommendations, especially around the Ryzen X3D series, which in many scenarios is seen as a performance benchmark for gaming. This marketing push usually translates into more sales… and statistically, into more potential cases of returns or warranty claims. That’s why, when an indicator like “defects in 24 months” favors AMD, it naturally sparks conversations.
And there’s an important nuance: just because a brand has a popular product doesn’t mean it’s “immune” to specific issues. In fact, notable incidents have been reported — such as cases of Ryzen 7 9800X3D processors damaged on ASRock motherboards — which highlights the importance of post-sales support. In this context, the fact that the data shows AMD with a shorter average RMA time (3 days vs. 8) is a detail many users value almost as much as gaining an extra 10 FPS in a benchmark.
What these metrics don’t tell you (and why it’s worth remembering)
Before turning a table into a definitive judgment, there are three key points to keep in mind:
- A return doesn’t always mean a “defective product”. Returns can stem from incompatibility issues, mistaken purchases, changes of mind, or problems unrelated to the CPU (motherboard, RAM, BIOS, configuration, etc.).
- The duration of an RMA depends on the process. Handling warranty cases with a specific store, distributor, or manufacturer can differ. Nonetheless, the contrast (3 vs. 8 days) suggests significant differences in average times.
- “Fewer failures” doesn’t mean “zero failures”. Even with a 1.2% failure rate, most processors tend to fail infrequently, and when failures do occur, the real causes are often around: cooling, power supply, VRM on the motherboard, aggressive profiles, etc.
That said, when the three metrics point in the same direction (fewer failures, fewer returns, faster warranty processing), it’s reasonable to conclude that AMD is offering a more favorable overall experience in 2025 based on this snapshot.
What can a user do to minimize risks when buying a CPU?
Apart from considering brands, some practical habits can be very helpful:
- Choose a motherboard with mature BIOS and, if necessary, update it before pushing profiles.
- Avoid extreme configurations on the first day (PBO, aggressive undervolting, XMP/EXPO at the limit) until stability is confirmed.
- Keep packaging, receipts, and serial numbers during the first months: it speeds up any warranty process.
- Buy from channels with good return policies, because the “real” post-sale experience often hinges more on the retailer than the manufacturer.
A practical conclusion: performance is great, but post-sale support is also part of the product
In 2025, AMD isn’t just competing in performance and popularity; it’s also gaining points in warranty and return metrics compared to Intel. For the average user, this translates into something very tangible: lower chances of dealing with an RMA and, if needed, shorter wait times.
It’s not the only criterion when choosing, but it’s becoming an increasingly sensible consideration, especially now that a new PC isn’t a minor purchase, and any issue could ruin your holidays, your work, or simply the excitement of a freshly assembled build.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “warranty score” mean for processors (first 24 months)?
It indicates how often a product from that brand experiences a defect within the first 24 months.
Why isn’t the return rate the same as the failure rate?
Because many returns happen due to incompatibilities, mistaken purchases, or changes of mind, not necessarily manufacturing defects.
What is an RMA and why does the average time matter (3 vs. 8 days)?
RMA is the warranty/devolution process used for replacement or repair. A shorter average time typically means fewer days without the device or critical components.
Should I choose AMD in 2025 just based on these figures?
Not necessarily. These are useful complementary indicators, but it’s also important to consider your budget, performance for your intended use (gaming, work, creation), and compatibility with your system (motherboard, RAM, etc.).