AMD A4-1350
AMD A4-1350: An Ultrabudget Processor for Basic Tasks
April 2025
Introduction
The AMD A4-1350 processor, released in 2013, is still found in used and some new budget laptops. Its key feature is ultra-low power consumption (TDP of 8W) and a compact architecture designed for basic tasks. In 2025, this chip appears outdated, but it can be recommended only in very specific scenarios. Let’s see who might find it useful and for what purposes.
1. Architecture and Technology: Jaguar in the Service of Efficiency
Cores, Threads, and Clock Speeds
The AMD A4-1350 is built on the Jaguar microarchitecture, originally developed for compact devices (such as the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One game consoles). It is a 4-core CPU without support for multithreading (4 threads), operating at a base clock speed of 1.0–1.2 GHz (turbo mode is absent). The manufacturing process is 28nm, which is considered outdated for 2025 (modern chips use 5–7nm technology).
Integrated Graphics
The integrated GPU Radeon HD 8210 includes 128 shader processors operating at 300–400 MHz. This solution is weaker than even modern integrated GPUs like Intel UHD Graphics, but can handle HD video and simple 2D applications.
Architecture Features:
- No hardware support for modern codecs (e.g., VP9 or AV1).
- Limited multitasking performance due to low clock speeds.
2. TDP 8W: Cool, Silent, but Slow
The 8W TDP (Thermal Design Power) allows for passive cooling or a tiny fan. This makes laptops with the A4-1350:
- Thin and lightweight (up to 1.2 kg).
- Silent — the fan rarely kicks in.
- Cheap to manufacture.
However, low TDP is directly related to limited performance: the processor is not designed for prolonged workloads.
3. Performance: Minimum for Survival
Office Tasks
- Browser: Opening 3–5 tabs simultaneously in Chrome is possible, but with delays.
- Documents: Working with Word, Excel, or Google Docs is smooth as long as complex formulas or macros are not used.
- Video Calls: Zoom or Skype in HD is the limit, but freezes may occur when background effects are turned on.
Multimedia
- Video: Streaming 1080p@30fps (YouTube) works, but 60fps or 4K does not.
- Audio: Support for Spotify, online radio — no issues.
Gaming
- CS:GO: 720p, low settings — 15–20 FPS.
- Minecraft (Java Edition): 20–25 FPS in simplified mode.
- Dota 2: Only at a resolution of 800x600 with minimal graphics — around 18 FPS.
Turbo Mode: Absent. The frequency is fixed, making the chip predictable but inflexible.
4. Use Cases: Who is the A4-1350 For?
- Students: For text work, presentations, and webinars.
- Seniors: Simple tasks like email and news browsing.
- Travelers: As a backup device with long battery life.
- Kids' Laptops: For learning and low-demand games.
Important! Not suitable for:
- Video/audio editing.
- Modern OSs with heavy interfaces (e.g., Windows 11).
- Running multiple applications simultaneously.
5. Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours is Not a Myth
Thanks to the 8W TDP and the absence of discrete graphics, laptops with the A4-1350 provide:
- 8–10 hours of operation with moderate use (brightness at 50%, Wi-Fi on).
- Power-saving technologies:
- AMD PowerNow! — dynamic frequency scaling.
- CoolCore — shutting down unused CPU blocks.
Tip: For maximum battery life, choose models with a battery of at least 40 Wh.
6. Comparison with Competitors
AMD
- Athlon Silver 3050e (2020): 2 cores/2 threads, but higher frequency (1.4–3.2 GHz) and supports DDR4. Performance is 40% better.
- A6-1450 (contemporary of A4-1350): TDP 8W, but more powerful graphics (Radeon HD 8250).
Intel
- Celeron N4020 (2019): 2 cores/2 threads, 6W TDP. Better at multitasking due to Hyper-Threading support.
Apple
- Apple M1 (2020): Does not compete directly, but shows how outdated the A4-1350 is. The M1 is 5–7 times faster with a similar TDP.
Conclusion: The A4-1350 falls short even against budget chips from 2018-2020. Its only advantage is the price.
7. Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Record-low power consumption.
- Low cost of laptops (new models start at $150).
- Support for Windows 10/Linux.
Weaknesses:
- Struggles with modern applications.
- No support for USB 3.1, Wi-Fi 6, NVMe.
- Maximum of 8GB RAM (often 4GB).
8. Recommendations for Choosing a Laptop
- Device Type: Ultrabudget laptops or Chromebooks (e.g., HP Stream 11 or Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1).
- What to Check:
- RAM: Minimum 4GB (preferably 8GB).
- Storage: SSD is essential (HDD will slow down the system).
- Screen: 11–14 inches, matte display.
- Ports: USB-C for future compatibility.
Prices in 2025:
- New laptops with A4-1350 — $150–$250.
- Alternative: Used MacBook Air 2017 — starting at $200 (but without warranty).
9. Final Conclusion: Who is This Processor For?
The AMD A4-1350 is a chip for those who:
- Need an extremely cheap device for basic tasks.
- Value battery life more than speed.
- Are willing to deal with performance limitations.
Key Benefits:
- Price lower than that of smartphones.
- Ability to work all day without needing a power outlet.
Warning: If your budget allows for $300–$400, choose laptops with Intel N100 or AMD Athlon Silver processors — they will last longer and not disappoint you in the future.
Conclusion: The AMD A4-1350 is an example of a processor that became outdated even before its release. However, in 2025, it finds its niche among "grandma's" devices or as a temporary solution. The key is not to expect miracles from it.