AMD PRO A12-9800E
AMD PRO A12-9800E: Budget Processor for Office and Multimedia in 2025
Current Review and PC Build Recommendations
1. Key Specifications: Bristol Ridge Architecture and Features
The AMD PRO A12-9800E processor, released in 2016, continues to hold its ground due to low power consumption and affordability. However, in 2025, its standing appears modest compared to modern chips.
Architecture and Process Technology
- Codename: Bristol Ridge (7th generation AMD A-Series).
- Process Technology: 28 nm - outdated norm even for budget models in 2025.
- Cores/Threads: 4 cores, 4 threads (without SMT support).
- Base Frequency: 3.1 GHz, Turbo Core - up to 3.8 GHz.
- TDP: 35 W - a significant advantage for compact systems.
Integrated Graphics
- Radeon R7: 8 GPU cores, frequency of 900 MHz.
- Performance: Suitable for Full HD video, browser games, and older titles like CS:GO (30-40 FPS on low settings).
Benchmarks
- Geekbench 6: Single-Core - 643, Multi-Core - 1517.
For comparison: Ryzen 3 5300U (2023) scores ~1200/4000 points.
Key Features
- AMD Secure Processor: Hardware data protection.
- Support for Windows 11: Officially compatible but with limitations (for example, the absence of TPM 2.0 requires workarounds).
2. Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets
AM4 Socket: Universal platform, but with nuances.
- Supported Chipsets: A320, B350, X370 (BIOS update required to work with Bristol Ridge).
- Recommended Models in 2025:
- ASUS Prime A320M-K (price: ~$60) - basic board with HDMI and USB 3.1.
- Gigabyte GA-AB350M-DS3H (~$70) - better VRM cooling.
Important!
- New AM4 motherboards are nearly nonexistent – look for leftovers in warehouses or certified refurbished units.
- Check BIOS version: for the A12-9800E, a version no older than P5.90 is required (an example for ASUS).
3. Supported Memory: DDR4 and Its Nuances
- Memory Type: DDR4-2400 (officially), but many boards allow overclocking to 2666 MHz.
- Modes: Dual-channel (recommended to use 2 modules).
- Maximum Volume: 64 GB (but 8-16 GB is sufficient for an office PC).
Example Configuration:
- 2x8 GB Kingston Fury DDR4-2400 (~$45) - optimal balance.
- Avoid DDR5: the processor and AM4 chipsets do not support it.
4. Power Supply: Minimalism and Reliability
With a TDP of 35 W, even for a complete system (motherboard, SSD, memory), a power supply of 300-400 W is enough.
Recommendations:
- Corsair CX450M (450 W, 80+ Bronze, ~$55) - headroom for future upgrades.
- Be Quiet! Pure Power 11 300W (~$50) - quiet and energy-efficient.
Tip: Don’t skimp on the power supply! Cheap models (like Apevia) can damage components.
5. Pros and Cons of AMD PRO A12-9800E
Pros:
- Energy Efficiency: Ideal for compact PCs and mini-PCs (e.g., ASRock DeskMini).
- Price: New processors can still be found for $50-60.
- Integrated Graphics: Does not require a discrete graphics card for basic tasks.
Cons:
- Outdated Architecture: Falls behind even budget Intel Core i3-12100 in multi-threaded tasks.
- Limited Upgrade: AM4 lacks compatibility with Ryzen 5000/7000.
- Weak Single-Core Performance: Slow response in "heavy" applications like Photoshop.
6. Use Cases: Where is the A12-9800E Relevant in 2025
- Office PCs: Document work, Zoom, browsing.
- Home Theater: 4K HDR video via HDMI 2.0 (with HDCP support).
- Casual Gaming: Minecraft, Stardew Valley, PS2/GameCube emulators.
- Educational Projects: PC for schoolchildren or students.
Real Example:
A user built a system on the A12-9800E in an InWin Chopin case (~$100), using it as a media center with Kodi. Consumption - 25 W at idle.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD PRO A12-9800E vs Intel Core i3-10100:
- i3-10100: 4 cores/8 threads, 65 W, UHD 630.
- Geekbench 6: ~1100/3300.
- Price: ~$90 (new).
- Conclusion: Better in multitasking but more expensive and demanding in cooling.
AMD PRO A12-9800E vs Ryzen 3 2200G:
- Ryzen 3 2200G: 4 cores/4 threads, Vega 8, 14 nm.
- Geekbench 6: ~800/2500.
- Price: ~$70 (new).
- Conclusion: A12-9800E wins in energy efficiency but loses in graphics.
8. Practical Build Tips
1. Case: Choose models with good ventilation (Cooler Master N200) or compact options (Fractal Design Node 202).
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for silence, consider replacing it with Noctua NH-L9a (~$45).
3. Storage: Ensure an SSD (Crucial BX500 500 GB, ~$40) - an HDD will bottleneck performance.
4. Networking: Add a Wi-Fi adapter (TP-Link Archer TX50E, ~$35), if the motherboard lacks a wireless module.
9. Final Conclusion: Who is A12-9800E Suitable For?
This processor is suitable for those who:
- Are building a PC for office or study with a budget of up to $300.
- Value quiet operation and low power consumption.
- Do not plan to play modern games or work with 3D rendering.
Alternatives in 2025:
- For $100-120, you could get a Ryzen 5 5500 (6 cores, 65 W) or Intel Core i3-13100 - which offer 2-3 times the performance.
Conclusion: The AMD PRO A12-9800E is a niche solution for specific tasks, but its price and availability keep it relevant even 9 years after its release.