AMD A4 PRO-7300B
AMD A4 PRO-7300B Processor: Overview and Practical Guide for 2025
Current analysis of an outdated chip for budget systems
Introduction
The AMD A4 PRO-7300B processor, released in 2013, has become a relic by 2025. However, it can still find application in specific scenarios. Let's explore who should pay attention to this APU, for what reasons, and how to build a working system based on it.
1. Key Specifications
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The A4 PRO-7300B is built on the Piledriver microarchitecture (codename Richland) with a 32 nm manufacturing process. This is the second generation of AMD's hybrid APUs, combining CPU and GPU on a single chip.
- Cores/Threads: 2/2 — a minimal configuration even for its time.
- Base Clock Speed: 3.8 GHz (no turbo mode).
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon HD 8470D (128 stream processors, 800 MHz).
Performance
Geekbench 6 tests (2025-adapted version) show:
- Single-core: 375 points.
- Multi-core: 568 points.
For comparison, the modern budget Intel Celeron G6900 (2023) scores approximately 1200/2400 points.
Key Features
- Energy Efficiency: TDP 65W — lower than many desktop CPUs of the 2010s.
- Integrated Graphics: Allows for operation without a discrete graphics card for basic tasks.
2. Compatible Motherboards
Socket and Chipsets
- Socket: FM2 — an outdated socket that has been discontinued.
- Compatible Chipsets: A55, A75, A85X.
Selection Features
- Availability: New boards are no longer produced, but used options can be found on AliExpress or eBay for $20–40 (e.g., ASUS A85XM-A).
- Recommendations:
- Look for models with USB 3.0 and SATA III for faster storage speeds.
- Check support for DDR3-1866 MHz.
3. Supported Memory
- Type: Only DDR3 (up to 1866 MHz).
- Maximum Capacity: Depends on the motherboard — usually up to 64 GB, but for this CPU, 8–16 GB is sufficient.
Tip: Use dual-channel mode (2×4 GB or 2×8 GB) to boost the performance of the Radeon HD 8470D by 10–15%.
4. Power Supply Recommendations
- Power Rating: Even with a margin, a power supply of 400–450 W will suffice (e.g., EVGA 450 BR, $45).
- Nuances:
- When installing a discrete graphics card (e.g., GTX 1650), choose a 500 W power supply.
- Ensure the presence of a 4-pin CPU power connector.
5. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Price: New leftovers — around $30–40 (as of 2025).
- Power Consumption: Suitable for low-power builds.
- Integrated Graphics: Can run older games (e.g., CS:GO on low settings — 30–40 FPS).
Cons:
- Outdated Architecture: Lags behind even budget CPUs of the 2020s.
- Limited Multitasking: 2 cores cannot handle modern applications effectively.
6. Use Cases
Office Tasks
- Document work, browsing (up to 10 tabs), Zoom.
Example: An office PC based on A4 PRO-7300B + 8 GB DDR3 + 240 GB SSD — total cost about $100.
Multimedia
- Playback of Full HD video, streaming.
Lifehack: Use Kodi to create a media center.
Gaming
- Older titles: Half-Life 2, Minecraft, World of Tanks (720p, low settings).
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Athlon X4 750K
- Pros: 4 cores, better performance in multi-threaded tasks.
- Cons: No integrated graphics, more expensive ($50–60).
Intel Celeron G1820
- Pros: Better single-threaded performance.
- Cons: Intel HD graphics are weaker than Radeon HD 8470D.
Conclusion: The A4 PRO-7300B is preferable only when integrated GPU is needed.
8. Practical Build Tips
- Storage: Always use an SSD (e.g., Kingston A400 240 GB, $25) — an HDD will make the system unacceptably slow.
- Cooling: The standard cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste (Arctic MX-4, $5).
- Upgrade: Do not invest in this platform — it is a temporary solution.
9. Final Thoughts: Who is A4 PRO-7300B Suitable For?
- Budget Office PCs: For companies saving on hardware.
- Retro Gaming: For enthusiasts of older games from the 2000s to 2010s.
- Backup Systems: For example, a home file server.
Why in 2025? Only if the budget is critically limited, and the tasks are primitive. In other cases, it’s better to opt for a modern AMD Athlon 3000G (priced from $80) or Intel Celeron G6900.
Conclusion
The AMD A4 PRO-7300B is an example of "digital archaeology." Its time has passed, but in the hands of an enthusiast, it can find a second life. Build your system wisely, avoid overpaying for outdated components, and remember: this solution is only for very specific needs.