AMD Athlon 220GE
AMD Athlon 220GE: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
Overview of Features, Comparison, and PC Build Recommendations
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The AMD Athlon 220GE is a dual-core processor with support for 4 threads (SMT) based on the first-generation Zen microarchitecture. Although Zen is considered outdated by 2025 (modern Ryzen CPUs use Zen 4/5), this model remains relevant for budget builds. The manufacturing process is 14 nm, which accounts for its modest thermal output (TDP 35 W).
Performance
- Geekbench 6: 993 points (single-core test), 2103 (multi-core). This is sufficient for basic tasks such as office applications, web surfing, and 1080p video playback.
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon Vega 3 (384 shader processors) handles gaming at 720p on low settings (e.g., CS:GO — 40-50 FPS).
- Cache: 4 MB L3 — minimal for multitasking but acceptable for 2 cores.
Key Features
- Energy efficiency: Suitable for compact PCs and systems without active cooling.
- Support for modern interfaces: PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1.
- Price: about $45–55 (new, April 2025).
2. Compatible Motherboards
Socket and Chipsets
The processor uses the AM4 socket. Recommended chipsets:
- A320: Budget option ($40–60). Example: ASRock A320M-HDV.
- B450: More upgrade options (supports Ryzen 5000, memory overclocking). Example: MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX ($70–90).
Selection Tips
- Check the BIOS version. Any revision works with the Athlon 220GE, but if you plan to upgrade to Ryzen 5000, look for boards with UEFI Flashback.
- Form factor: Micro-ATX is optimal for compact builds.
3. Supported Memory
Types and Frequency
The processor operates with DDR4-2666 (official support). However, on B450/X470 chipset boards, memory can be overclocked to 3200 MHz, which will enhance the performance of Vega 3.
Recommendations
- 8 GB (2×4 GB) DDR4-2666 — minimum for Windows 11 and multimedia.
- 16 GB (2×8 GB) DDR4-3200 — a buffer for browsers with dozens of tabs and light work in Photoshop.
4. Power Supplies: Calculation and Selection
Power Consumption
The processor itself consumes up to 35 W, but considering the motherboard, SSD, and memory, the system rarely requires more than 80–100 W under load.
Recommendations
- A 300–400 W power supply (e.g., EVGA 400 BR, $35). This will be sufficient even for adding a GTX 1650 level graphics card.
- For fully passive systems: PicoPSU 120 W + external adapter.
5. Pros and Cons of AMD Athlon 220GE
Pros
- Low price and power consumption.
- Integrated graphics for casual gaming.
- Compatibility with modern OSes (Windows 11, Linux).
Cons
- Only 2 cores: multi-threaded tasks (rendering, streaming) will be problematic.
- Vega 3 is weaker than Intel UHD 730 (competitors: Pentium Gold G7400).
- No support for PCIe 4.0/5.0.
6. Use Scenarios
Office and Study
- Document editing, Zoom conferences, 10–20 browser tabs.
Multimedia
- Viewing 4K video through hardware decoding (Vega 3 supports H.265).
- Light editing in Shotcut or DaVinci Resolve (with caveats).
Gaming
- Minecraft, Dota 2, Rocket League — 720p/30–60 FPS.
- Emulators up to PS2/GameCube (e.g., The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker).
7. Comparison with Competitors
Intel Pentium Gold G7400 ($65–75):
- 2 cores/4 threads, UHD 710, higher single-core performance (+15% in Geekbench 6).
- Price is higher, but better support for Quick Sync for video encoding.
AMD Ryzen 3 3200G (used, $50–60):
- 4 cores/4 threads, Vega 8 — gains in gaming and multitasking.
Conclusion: The Athlon 220GE is the choice for the most budget-conscious, but the Ryzen 3 3200G or Pentium G7400 are preferable at a budget of $70+.
8. Practical Build Tips
Optimal Configuration
- Motherboard: ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 ($55).
- Memory: Patriot Viper 4 16 GB DDR4-3200 ($40).
- Storage: Kingston A400 480 GB ($25).
- Case: Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L ($50).
Important Notes
- Update the BIOS to the latest version for stability.
- Use a BOX cooler — it will be sufficient even in summer.
9. Final Conclusion: Who Is the Athlon 220GE For?
This processor is suitable for:
1. Budget office PCs, where low cost and reliability are important.
2. Home media centers (HTPC) for streaming and video viewing.
3. Backup systems or computers for elderly users.
Why in 2025?
Despite its outdated architecture, the Athlon 220GE remains one of the most affordable processors with DDR4 support and modern interfaces. However, if your budget allows for an additional $20–30, it’s better to choose the Ryzen 3 3200G or Pentium G7400 for a more long-term perspective.
Prices are current as of April 2025. Examples provided are based on actual experience building similar systems.