AMD Athlon 300U
AMD Athlon 300U: A Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks - Full Review
Introduction
In an era dominated by multi-core processors and neural network technologies, budget chips continue to hold their niche. The AMD Athlon 300U, despite its modest specifications, remains a popular solution for entry-level ultrabooks. In this article, we'll explore who this processor is suitable for in 2025 and what compromises you may need to make.
Architecture and Technology Process: What's Inside the Athlon 300U?
Raven Ridge 2: A Hybrid Platform
The Athlon 300U belongs to the Raven Ridge 2 family—an updated version of the Zen (1st generation) architecture adapted for mobile devices. The chip is built on a 14nm technology process, which by 2025 is considered outdated, but allows for reduced manufacturing costs.
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 4 threads thanks to SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading). Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with turbo mode up to 3.3 GHz.
- Cache: L3 - 4 MB (shared across all cores), L2 - 512 KB per core.
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon Vega 3 with 3 compute units (192 shader processors), running at up to 1000 MHz.
Features of iGPU
Vega 3 is the minimal configuration for basic tasks. It supports DirectX 12, 4K video (with H.265 decoding), and dual monitor setups, but is unsuitable for gaming or 3D modeling.
Power Consumption and TDP: Balancing Power and Battery Life
The processor's TDP is 15 W, typical for ultrabooks. However, due to the 14nm technology process, energy efficiency lags behind modern 7nm chips (e.g., Ryzen 5000U).
- Operating Modes: In idle, the frequency drops to 1.2–1.5 GHz, saving battery charge.
- Power Saving Technologies:
- AMD SenseMI: Adaptive voltage and frequency control.
- CoolCore: Disabling unused CPU blocks.
Performance: What Can the Athlon 300U Do in 2025?
Office Tasks and Web Browsing
- Running a browser with 10+ tabs, working in Google Docs/Zoom—smooth operation, but simultaneous use of photo editors (like GIMP) may result in lag.
- Geekbench 6: 660 (Single-Core), 1273 (Multi-Core). For comparison, the Intel Core i3-1215U (2023) scores about ~850/2200.
Multimedia
- Streaming 4K video (YouTube, Netflix)—smooth playback thanks to hardware decoding.
- Photo editing in Lightroom: Processing RAW files takes 2–3 times longer than on the Ryzen 5 5500U.
Gaming
- CS:GO: 720p, low settings—30–40 FPS.
- Fortnite: 720p, Performance mode—25–30 FPS (with frequent drops).
- Indie games (Hollow Knight, Stardew Valley)—stable 60 FPS.
Turbo Mode: Does It Work?
Under load on 1–2 cores, the frequency rises to 3.3 GHz, but in multi-threaded scenarios (rendering, archiving), it hits the TDP limit and drops to 2.6–2.8 GHz. In laptops with poor cooling systems, throttling begins after just 5–7 minutes.
Usage Scenarios: Who is the Athlon 300U For?
1. Students—writing essays, online courses, watching lectures.
2. Office Workers—document work, email, video conferences.
3. Older Users—simplicity, long battery life, absence of complex tasks.
4. Backup Laptop—for travel or as a second device.
Not Suitable For:
- Gamers (except for casual games).
- Designers, video engineers.
- Users of virtual machines or heavy software (e.g., AutoCAD).
Battery Life: How Long Will the Laptop Last?
With a battery capacity of 42 Wh (typical for budget models), operating time will be:
- Web browsing: 6–7 hours.
- Video: 8–9 hours (with power-saving mode).
- Load (Zoom + browser): 4–5 hours.
Tip: Choose laptops with a battery of at least 50 Wh and an energy-efficient IPS screen (e.g., panels from LG or AU Optronics).
Comparison with Competitors
AMD Ryzen 3 3300U (4 cores/4 threads, Vega 6):
- 30–40% faster in multi-threaded tasks.
- Laptops with Ryzen 3 start at $450 (compared to $300–$350 for the Athlon).
Intel Core i3-1115G4 (2 cores/4 threads, Iris Xe):
- Better single-core performance (Geekbench 6 Single-Core ~950).
- Iris Xe graphics are 20–25% more powerful than Vega 3.
Apple M1 (in MacBook Air):
- Absolute leader in energy efficiency and speed, but starts at $999.
Conclusion: The Athlon 300U is a choice for those looking for a device strictly under $400. Competitors offer better performance but at a higher price.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Low-priced laptops (starting from $300).
- Sufficient for basic tasks.
- Support for modern interfaces (USB-C, HDMI 2.0).
Weaknesses:
- Only 2 cores—multi-tasking is limited.
- 14nm technology process lags in energy efficiency.
- Vega 3 is weak even for 2010s games.
Recommendations for Choosing a Laptop
1. Device Type: ultrabook or compact notebook (13–15 inches).
2. Mandatory Parameters:
- 8GB RAM (upgrading to 16GB is pointless due to the weak CPU).
- 256GB SSD (not HDD!).
- 1920×1080 resolution screen (TN panels are not recommended—poor viewing angles).
3. Additional Features:
- Wi-Fi 6 (for future network upgrades).
- 720p webcam (in 2025, 1080p has become the standard, but is rare in budget models).
Examples of 2025 Models:
- Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15ALC6 — $329.
- HP 15-dw2000 — $349.
- Acer Aspire 3 A315-23 — $309.
Final Conclusion
The AMD Athlon 300U is a processor for undemanding users. It is suitable for:
- Those looking for a laptop under $400.
- For working with documents, browsing, and video.
- As a children's or educational device.
Key Benefits: low price, sufficient performance for everyday tasks, support for modern standards. However, if the budget allows for an additional $100–150, it is better to choose a laptop with Ryzen 3 or Core i3—these will last longer and will not disappoint under heavier loads.