AMD A4-4000
AMD A4-4000 in 2025: Is it Worth Buying a Budget Processor from a Decade Ago?
Key Specifications: Architecture and Capabilities
The AMD A4-4000 processor, released in 2013, belongs to the budget APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) lineup with the codename Richland. It is built on a 32nm manufacturing process, which appears archaic by 2025 standards—modern CPUs utilize 7nm and 5nm norms. The chip features 2 cores and 2 threads with a base clock speed of 3.0 GHz (without Turbo Boost). The integrated graphics Radeon HD 7480D (128 streams, 720 MHz) provides basic performance for office tasks and HD video playback.
Performance according to Geekbench 6:
- 349 points (single-core);
- 482 points (multi-core).
For comparison, the modern budget option, AMD Athlon 3000G (2023), scores around 900/1600 points. The A4-4000 even lags behind entry-level mobile processors from 2025.
Key Features:
- Low cost (on the secondary market — $15–25);
- Integrated graphics without the need for a discrete GPU;
- Energy efficiency (TDP 65W).
Compatible Motherboards: What to Look For in 2025?
The A4-4000 uses the FM2 socket, which has been outdated since the mid-2010s. Suitable chipsets include:
- A55 (basic functionality, no USB 3.0);
- A75/A85X (supports SATA III and USB 3.0).
New motherboards for FM2 have not been produced since 2016. In 2025, you can find them only on the secondary market (priced at $30–50 for used ones). Example models include:
- ASUS A85XM-A;
- Gigabyte GA-F2A55M-DS2.
Selection Features:
- Check the condition of the VRM modules—older boards often suffer from bulging capacitors;
- Ensure the availability of necessary ports (e.g., HDMI for connecting a monitor).
Supported Memory: DDR3 Limitations
The A4-4000 only works with DDR3 (max frequency 1866 MHz). Modern DDR4/DDR5 standards are not supported.
- Recommended capacity: 8–16 GB (2 modules for dual-channel mode);
- Latencies (timings) are not critical—the performance gain in everyday tasks is minimal.
Important: FM2 motherboards often have only 2 memory slots. The maximum supported capacity is 64 GB, but practically, 16 GB is sufficient for basic needs.
Power Supply: Minimum Requirements
The processor itself consumes up to 65W, but when building a system, consider other components:
- Integrated graphics do not require additional power;
- If adding a discrete graphics card (e.g., GTX 1050), choose a PSU rated 400–450W (Corsair CV450, 450W — $45);
- For a system without a graphics card, a 300W unit will suffice (Be Quiet! Pure Power 11 300W — $40).
Tip: Don’t skimp on the PSU. Cheap models with low efficiency can fail and damage components.
Pros and Cons of A4-4000 in 2025
Pros:
- Extremely low price (even with motherboard and memory, the system will cost about $70–100);
- Energy efficiency—suitable for a PC that runs 24/7;
- Adequate for basic tasks: office work, web surfing, YouTube (1080p).
Cons:
- Outdated architecture—no AVX or AES-NI support;
- Weak cores and graphics—stutters even in a browser with 10+ tabs open;
- No upgrade potential: the FM2 socket is dead, and replacing it with a modern CPU would require a platform change.
Use Case Scenarios: Who Is It Suitable For?
1. Office PC: Document processing, email, Zoom.
Example: In a small office, the A4-4000 handles 1C:Accounting, but under load (e.g., creating reports), it may experience stuttering.
2. Home Media Center: Viewing videos (up to 1080p), streaming.
Limitation: 4K and HDR are not supported.
3. Retro Gaming: Running old games (up to 2010)—for instance, Half-Life 2, GTA: San Andreas.
4. Backup System: A computer "on standby" for emergency situations.
Not Suitable For:
- Modern gaming (even Dota 2 on low settings — 20–25 FPS);
- Video editing, 3D modeling;
- Virtualization and multitasking.
Comparison with Competitors
1. Intel Celeron G1820 (2013):
- 2 cores, 2 threads, HD graphics;
- Geekbench 6: ~300/450 points.
Conclusion: The A4-4000 is slightly faster, but the difference is not critical.
2. AMD Athlon 3000G (2023):
- 2 cores/4 threads, Vega 3 graphics;
- Geekbench 6: ~900/1600 points;
- Price: $60–70 (new).
Conclusion: The Athlon is 3 times faster and supports DDR4 and 4K.
3. Intel Celeron G6900 (2024):
- 2 cores/2 threads, UHD 710;
- Geekbench 6: ~1100/1900 points;
- Price: $50–60.
Conclusion: A modern alternative with room for future upgrades.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. SSD is a Must: Even a SATA SSD (Kingston A400, 240 GB — $25) will speed up the system.
2. Don't Overpay for Memory: DDR3 1600 MHz is the optimal choice.
3. Cooler: The stock cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste (Arctic MX-4 — $5).
4. Case: Choose a compact case (for example, Fractal Design Core 1100 — $40).
Example Build (2025 Prices):
- CPU + used motherboard — $50;
- DDR3 8 GB — $15;
- SSD 240 GB — $25;
- 400W PSU — $40;
- Case — $40.
Total: $170.
Final Conclusion: Who Is Suitable for A4-4000?
This processor is suitable for those who:
- Are building an extremely budget-friendly PC for basic tasks;
- Need an energy-efficient system (e.g., for a home server);
- Want to revive old components (memory, case).
Why You Shouldn't Buy A4-4000 in 2025:
Even new budget CPUs (like Intel Celeron G6900) offer 3-4 times higher performance, DDR4 support, and modern interfaces for $50–70. The A4-4000 is only justifiable for strict budget constraints or as a temporary solution.
Conclusion: The AMD A4-4000 is a relic of the past that can still serve in 2025 but only in narrow scenarios. For most users, it’s wiser to invest in a modern platform, even at an entry-level.