AMD A10-5700
AMD A10-5700: A Comprehensive Review of an Obsolete APU in 2025
(As of April 2025)
1. Key Specifications: Trinity Architecture and Its Legacy
The AMD A10-5700 processor, released in 2012, belongs to the Trinity line — the second generation of the company's hybrid chips (APU). Despite its age, it retains niche interest due to its low TDP and integrated graphics.
Architecture and Process Technology
- Cores: 4 physical (Piledriver), 4 threads.
- Process Technology: 32 nm (an obsolete standard: for comparison, modern Ryzen uses 5–7 nm).
- Base Clock: 3.4 GHz, Turbo Core — up to 4.0 GHz.
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon HD 7660D (384 stream processors, 800 MHz).
Performance
- Geekbench 6: Single-Core — 442, Multi-Core — 987.
Example: For web browsing and office tasks, this is sufficient, but video rendering in DaVinci Resolve will take 3–4 times longer compared to the Ryzen 3 7300U.
- Graphics: The HD 7660D handles 2010s games at low settings (for instance, Skyrim at 720p — 25–30 FPS).
Key Features
- Low power consumption (65 W).
- The built-in GPU eliminates the need for a discrete graphics card for basic tasks.
2. Compatible Motherboards: FM2 Socket and Finding Rare Components
The A10-5700 uses the FM2 socket, which is not compatible with modern platforms (AM5, LGA 1700).
Chipsets
- A55/A75/A85X: The main options. A85X is recommended (supports RAID, more SATA 6 Gb/s ports).
- Examples of Boards: ASUS F2A85-M (price in 2025 — $40–60 for new, if stock remains).
Selection Considerations
- Problem: New FM2 motherboards are not being produced. Look for remaining stock from small suppliers or refurbished options.
- Advice: Check for BIOS version P2.10 support for stable operation.
3. Supported Memory: Only DDR3
The A10-5700 works with DDR3-1866 MHz (maximum capacity — 64 GB, but realistically limited by the motherboard).
Nuances
- Compatibility: Does not support DDR4/DDR5.
- Recommendations: Use a dual-channel configuration (2×4 GB or 2×8 GB) to improve GPU performance.
- Example: In games, the difference between single-channel and dual-channel mode can reach 15–20% FPS.
4. Power Supply: Minimum Requirements
With a TDP of 65 W, the A10-5700 is one of the most energy-efficient APUs of its generation.
Recommendations
- Without Discrete GPU: A power supply of 300–400 W is sufficient (for example, be quiet! Pure Power 11 400W — $55).
- With GPU: For cards like the GTX 1650, a 450–500 W power supply is required.
- Important: Older power supplies with a 24-pin ATX connector and 4-pin CPU connector will suffice.
5. Pros and Cons in 2025
Pros
- Energy Efficiency: Ideal for low-power builds (e.g., home NAS).
- Price: New processors are not available on the market, but used ones can be found for $15–25.
- Graphics: The HD 7660D outperforms Intel HD Graphics 2500 of its time.
Cons
- Obsolete Architecture: Falls short against even budget Celeron models of 2025 in single-core performance.
- No Support for Modern Technologies: Lacks PCIe 4.0, NVMe, USB 3.2.
6. Use Cases: Where is the APU Still Relevant?
- Office PCs: Document work, Zoom, browser.
- Media Center: 1080p video playback via Kodi or Plex.
- Retro Gaming: Running games from 2005–2013 (Half-Life 2, GTA IV).
- Servers: Low-power file server running on Linux.
Limitations
- Not suitable for modern games (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077 won't even run on minimum settings).
7. Comparison with Competitors
Historical Competitors (2012–2013)
- Intel Core i3-3220: Better single-core performance (Geekbench 6 ~500), but weaker in multi-threading and graphics.
Modern Analogues (2025)
- AMD Ryzen 3 8300G (APU): 4 times higher CPU performance, Radeon 740M is 3x faster than HD 7660D. Price — $130.
- Intel Core i3-N305: Energy-efficient, but more expensive ($120).
8. Practical Assembly Tips
- SSD is a Must: Install a SATA SSD (e.g., Kingston A400 240 GB — $25) instead of HDD for faster system performance.
- Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quieter operation, consider the Deepcool Gammaxx 400 V2 ($20).
- Upgrade: Avoid investing in DDR3 — memory is outdated. It’s better to save it for future builds on AM5.
9. Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the A10-5700 in 2025?
This processor is suitable for:
1. Retro PC Enthusiasts: Building a budget computer in the style of the 2010s.
2. Owners of Old Systems: Upgrading an AM3/FM2 PC without replacing the motherboard.
3. Special Projects: Media centers, terminals, or servers where minimal cost and energy consumption are important.
Alternative: If the budget allows for $100+, choose the Ryzen 3 8300G or Intel Core i3-N305 — they will provide a better future-proofing.
Note: Prices are listed for new devices as of April 2025. The A10-5700 has been discontinued; new units are not available, only used ones.