AMD A6 PRO-7400B
AMD A6 PRO-7400B: Review and Analysis of the Outdated Processor's Capabilities in 2025
Introduction
The AMD A6 PRO-7400B processor, released in the mid-2010s, is still found in budget builds and on the secondary market. Despite its outdated architecture, it remains of interest to enthusiasts building PCs for specific tasks. In this article, we will analyze whether this chip is still relevant in 2025, who might benefit from it, and how to avoid mistakes when using it.
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Kaveri Architecture and 28nm Process
The AMD A6 PRO-7400B belongs to the Kaveri family, introduced in 2014. This hybrid APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) combines CPU and GPU on a single chip. The 28nm process technology has long been surpassed by 7nm and 5nm technologies, making the chip energy-inefficient by modern standards.
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 2 threads — a minimum configuration even for office tasks.
- Base/Max Frequency: 3.5 GHz (no turbo mode).
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon R5 (256 shader processors, 533 MHz).
Performance in Benchmarks
According to Geekbench 6 (2025):
- Single-Core: 389 points — comparable to Intel Celeron G1820 (2013).
- Multi-Core: 645 points — half the performance of Ryzen 3 1200 (2017).
Key Features:
- Supports DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.4 for basic gaming.
- AMD Turbo Core 3.0 technology (not relevant due to the absence of turbo mode in this chip).
2. Compatible Motherboards
FM2+ Socket and Chipsets
The processor uses the FM2+ socket, limiting the motherboard selection to outdated models:
- Chipsets: A68H, A78, A88X.
- Examples of Motherboards: ASUS A68HM-K, Gigabyte GA-F2A88XM-D3H.
Selection Considerations:
- New FM2+ motherboards haven’t been produced since 2017. In 2025, they can only be found on the secondary market or as remaining stock (price: $50–80).
- Lack of support for USB 3.1, NVMe, and Wi-Fi 6.
3. Supported Memory
The Kaveri APU only works with DDR3:
- Frequencies: up to 2133 MHz (with overclocking).
- Recommendations: 8–16 GB of dual-channel memory (e.g., 2x4 GB Kingston HyperX DDR3-1866).
Limitations:
- Modern DDR4/DDR5 is incompatible.
- Memory bandwidth affects the performance of the integrated graphics.
4. Power Supply: Power Calculation
With a TDP of 65W, the chip does not require a powerful PSU:
- Minimum Recommendation: 300–400W (e.g., EVGA 400 W1).
- With Headroom for a Discrete GPU: If planning to install a graphics card (e.g., NVIDIA GT 1030), a 450W PSU (Corsair CX450) will suffice.
Important: Use a PSU with an 80+ Bronze certification for stability, especially considering the age of the components.
5. Pros and Cons of AMD A6 PRO-7400B
Pros:
- Ultra-Low Price: New units (if you find them) — $40–60.
- Integrated Graphics: Suitable for HD video and older games (e.g., CS:GO at low settings).
- Energy Efficiency: Compared to older FX chips with a TDP of 125W.
Cons:
- Outdated Architecture: Falls behind even budget Intel Celeron models from 2023.
- Weak Multi-Threading Potential: 2 threads are a drawback for multitasking.
- Limited Compatibility: No support for modern interfaces.
6. Use Cases
Budget Office PC
- Tasks: Document work, web browsing, Zoom.
- Example: System with 8 GB DDR3, 240 GB SSD — assembly cost ~$150 (without a monitor).
Media Center
- Tasks: Watching 1080p videos, streaming.
- Limitations: 4K is not supported.
Light Gaming
- What It Can Run: Minecraft, Dota 2 (30–40 FPS on low settings).
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Athlon X4 845 (2016)
- Pros: 4 cores, FM2+ socket, price ~$50 (used).
- Conclusion: Better suited for multitasking.
Intel Pentium G4560 (2017)
- Pros: 2 cores/4 threads, DDR4 support, price ~$60 (used).
- Conclusion: Higher performance in single-threaded tasks.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
What to Consider:
1. Motherboard: Look for models with HDMI and USB 3.0 (ASUS A88XM-A).
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste.
3. SSD is Essential: Kingston A400 240 GB (~$25) will eliminate system "lag."
4. Don't Overpay: This PC is a temporary solution. Don’t invest more than $200 into it.
9. Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider the A6 PRO-7400B?
This processor is suitable for:
- Enthusiasts building PCs from old components.
- Budget Office Systems, where minimal cost is important.
- Upgrading old PCs with FM2+ socket.
Alternatives in 2025:
- New processors: AMD Ryzen 3 5300G ($120) or Intel Core i3-13100T ($130) offer 3–4 times the performance and support modern technologies.
Conclusion
The AMD A6 PRO-7400B in 2025 is a relic of the past, but it can still serve in extremely limited scenarios. It should only be considered as a temporary solution or an experiment, not as a foundation for a new system. If the budget allows, it’s better to choose modern Ryzen or Intel Core APUs for future-proofing.