AMD Ryzen 5 3400GE

AMD Ryzen 5 3400GE: Budget APU for Compact Systems (April 2025)

Updated review of a processor that remains relevant years after its release.

Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance

The AMD Ryzen 5 3400GE, released in 2019, still finds its niche thanks to its balance of price and capabilities. Built on the Zen+ architecture (codename Picasso) and 12nm process technology, it features 4 cores and 8 threads with a base clock of 3.3 GHz and a boost clock of up to 4 GHz. With integrated Radeon Vega 11 graphics (704 stream processors), it is classified as an APU—a hybrid of CPU and GPU.

Key Features:

- Low TDP of 65W — suitable for compact systems.

- Support for Precision Boost 2 technology for automatic overclocking.

- 4MB of L3 cache, which seems modest by 2025 standards but is sufficient for basic tasks.

Performance:

- In the Geekbench 6 test (2025), the 3400GE scores 1009 points in single-threaded and 3013 in multi-threaded modes. This is adequate for office applications, browsing, and light gaming (e.g., Dota 2 on medium settings at 1080p).

Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets

The processor uses the AM4 socket, which AMD supported until 2023. Suitable motherboards include:

- A320/B450 — budget options, but may require a BIOS update.

- B550/X570 — support PCIe 4.0, but the APU operates only with PCIe 3.0.

Examples of motherboards (2025):

- ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 ($65): a compact mATX, suitable for office PCs.

- Gigabyte B550M DS3H ($110): a better option for upgrading to newer processors.

Important: When choosing, check for HDMI/DisplayPort availability for connecting a monitor through the integrated graphics.

Memory Support: DDR4 as the Standard

The Ryzen 5 3400GE works only with DDR4 memory (up to 2933 MHz in dual-channel mode). In 2025, DDR5 dominates the market, but it is not relevant for this processor.

Recommendations:

- Optimal amount: 16GB (2x8GB) with a frequency of 3200 MHz (will automatically downclock to 2933 MHz).

- Popular models: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (3200 MHz) — $45.

Power Supply: Calculations and Examples

With a TDP of 65W, the processor does not require a powerful PSU. However, adding a discrete graphics card (e.g., Radeon RX 6400) increases the minimum power requirement.

Tips:

- For a system without discrete graphics, a 300–400W PSU is sufficient (e.g., EVGA 400 N1, $35).

- With a mid-range GPU (NVIDIA GTX 1650) — 450–500W (Corsair CX450M, $55).

Important: Don’t skimp on certifications (80+ Bronze or higher) — this ensures stability.

Pros and Cons of Ryzen 5 3400GE

Strengths:

- Energy efficiency: ideal for mini-PCs and HTPCs.

- Integrated graphics: replaces budget graphics cards.

- Price: new processor costs around $120 (2025), which is cheaper than the Ryzen 5 5600G ($170).

Weaknesses:

- 4 cores: multi-threaded tasks (rendering, streaming) are challenging.

- Outdated process technology: 12nm versus 7nm for the Ryzen 5000 series.

- No support for PCIe 4.0.

Use Cases: Where is the 3400GE Relevant in 2025?

1. Office PCs and Home Systems:

- Working with documents, browsers, Zoom.

- Example: build based on ASRock A320M-HDV ($60) + 16GB DDR4 — a total of $250.

2. Media Centers (HTPCs):

- 4K video via HDMI 2.0, streaming Netflix.

3. Light Gaming:

- CS:GO, Fortnite, Genshin Impact on low/medium settings (40–60 FPS).

4. Educational Projects:

- Programming, virtual machines (for basic tasks).

Comparison with Competitors

- Intel Core i3-13100F ($110):

4 cores/8 threads, higher IPC, but requires a discrete GPU. Suitable for gaming with a discrete GPU.

- AMD Ryzen 5 5600G ($170):

6 cores/12 threads, Vega 7 graphics is weaker, but the CPU is more powerful. A choice for those needing more performance.

- Intel N100 (NVIDIA) — integrated into mini-PCs ($150–200):

More power-efficient, but has 4 cores without Hyper-Threading. Falls short in multitasking.

Conclusion: The 3400GE wins only when on a tight budget and in need of integrated graphics.

Practical Assembly Tips

1. Case: Choose compact models with good ventilation (e.g., Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L).

2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quiet operation consider Arctic Freezer 34 ($30).

3. BIOS: For A320/B450 boards, update the firmware to a version supporting Zen+.

4. Upgrade: Don’t plan to install top-tier GPUs — the processor will become a bottleneck.

Final Conclusion: Who is the Ryzen 5 3400GE For?

This processor is an option for those who:

- Are building a budget PC under $400.

- Need a quiet and compact system (office, media center).

- Do not plan to run AAA games or heavy editing software.

Alternative: If the budget allows, it’s better to opt for the Ryzen 5 5600G or Intel i3-13100 + graphics card. But for “minimal hardware — maximum functionality” tasks, the 3400GE remains a valuable choice even in 2025.

Prices are current as of April 2025. When building, consider regional differences and availability of components.