AMD A4-4020
AMD A4-4020: Review of the Budget Processor from 2025
Introduction
The AMD A4-4020 processor, released in 2013, is still found in budget builds due to its affordability and integrated graphics. Despite its age, it remains relevant for certain tasks. Let’s explore its features, advantages and disadvantages, as well as its application areas in 2025.
1. Key Specifications
Architecture and Process Technology
The AMD A4-4020 belongs to the Richland family and is manufactured using a 32nm process technology. It is a dual-core CPU with a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz (without Turbo Boost), supporting 2 threads. The integrated graphics, Radeon HD 7480D (128 stream processors, 720 MHz), provide basic performance for undemanding tasks.
Performance
According to Geekbench 6 (2025):
- Single-Core: 341 points
- Multi-Core: 490 points
These results are comparable to modern budget processors, such as the Intel Celeron N5105 (Single-Core ~350), but fall short even against entry-level Ryzen 3 processors from 2025 (Single-Core ~1100).
Key Features
- Low power consumption (TDP 65 W).
- Built-in graphics without the need for a discrete graphics card.
- Support for DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.2 for simple games and multimedia.
2. Compatible Motherboards
Socket and Chipsets
The processor uses the outdated FM2 socket, which limits the choice of motherboards. Compatible chipsets include:
- A55, A58, A68H, A78, A85X, A88X.
Selection Features
- New boards are rarely produced, but options can be found on the secondary market (eBay, AliExpress) for $40-60.
- Look for models with USB 3.0 and SATA III (e.g., ASUS A68HM-K) for more convenient SSD use.
- Avoid boards without UEFI support — they may conflict with modern operating systems.
3. Supported Memory
The A4-4020 works with only DDR3 (up to 1866 MHz).
- Maximum capacity: 64 GB (theoretically), but it is recommended to limit it to 8-16 GB due to the CPU's narrow workload capabilities.
- Recommendation: Use dual-channel mode (2x4 GB or 2x8 GB) for a 15-20% performance boost in integrated graphics.
Important! DDR4/DDR5 is not supported — this is a key limitation for system upgrades.
4. Power Supply Recommendations
With a TDP of 65 W and no discrete graphics card, a 300-400 W power supply will suffice. Examples include:
- Be Quiet! System Power 10 400W ($45) — quiet and reliable.
- EVGA 400 N1 ($30) — a budget option.
If you plan to install a graphics card (e.g., GTX 1650), choose a PSU rated at 500 W (Corsair CX550M, $65).
5. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Price: New processors (rare) cost $30-50, used ones start from $15.
- Energy efficiency: Suitable for compact PCs and office builds.
- Graphics: HD 7480D can handle 4K YouTube and older games (Dota 2 on low settings — 30-40 FPS).
Cons:
- Weak performance: Not suitable for video editing or modern games.
- Outdated standards: No support for DDR4, PCIe 3.0, USB-C.
- Limited upgrade options: FM2 socket is incompatible with new CPUs.
6. Use Cases
Office Tasks
- Document work, browsing (10-15 tabs), Zoom/Teams.
- Example: PC with A4-4020 + 8 GB DDR3 + 240 GB SSD — ideal for accounting.
Multimedia
- Watching movies in 4K (with hardware decoding), streaming.
- Tip: For HDR, a monitor with HDMI 1.4 support is required.
Gaming
- Older titles: Half-Life 2, CS:GO (40-50 FPS on low), Minecraft.
- Limitation: GTA V can run but will lag even at minimum settings.
7. Competition Comparison
Intel Pentium G3220 (2013, 2 cores, 54 W):
- Geekbench 6: Single-Core 320, Multi-Core 470.
- Pros: Better compatibility with motherboards.
- Cons: No integrated graphics.
AMD Athlon 3000G (2019, 2 cores, 35 W):
- Geekbench 6: Single-Core 850, Multi-Core 1600.
- Pros: DDR4 support, Vega 3 graphics.
- Cons: Costs $70-90 — twice as much as the A4-4020.
Conclusion: The A4-4020 falls short compared to even budget CPUs from the 2020s but wins in terms of price.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
1. SSD is a must: Kingston A400 240 GB ($25) will speed up system boot times by 3 times.
2. Don’t overpay for memory: DDR3 1600 MHz is the optimal choice.
3. Cooling: The stock cooler will suffice, but for quiet operation, consider the Deepcool GAMMAXX 200T ($18).
4. Case: Micro-ATX (Fractal Design Core 1100, $40) will save space.
9. Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider the A4-4020?
This processor should be considered only in extreme cases:
- Budget office PCs: When a computer is needed for $100-150.
- Retro gaming: For running games from the 2000s.
- Backup system: For a summer house or for parents.
Alternatives: If the budget allows, it's better to choose a Ryzen 3 3200G ($90) or Intel Core i3-10100 ($120) — these will provide future-proofing.
Conclusion
The AMD A4-4020 is an example of a “workhorse” that has outlived its time. In 2025, it is only relevant for narrow tasks, but due to its price and simplicity, it remains an option for ultra-budget builds.