AMD A4 PRO-7350B

AMD A4 PRO-7350B: Review and Analysis of the 2025 Processor
Relevant for budget builds and office tasks
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Kaveri Architecture and 28 nm Process Technology
The AMD A4 PRO-7350B processor, released in 2015, is based on the Kaveri microarchitecture. This is one of AMD's first solutions that combined CPU and GPU on a single chip (APU). The process technology is 28 nm, which by 2025 is considered outdated (modern chips use 5–7 nm).
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 2 threads. Base clock speed — 3.5–3.9 GHz in turbo mode.
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon R5 with 256 shader processors and a clock speed of 720 MHz.
Performance:
- In Cinebench R23 tests: ~220 points (single-threaded), ~430 points (multi-threaded).
- For comparison: the modern Ryzen 3 7300U (4 cores/8 threads) scores ~1400 points in multi-threaded mode.
Key Features:
- Support for DirectX 12 and Mantle API for graphics optimization.
- TrueAudio technology for improved sound in games.
2. Compatible Motherboards
FM2+ Socket and Chipsets
The A4 PRO-7350B uses the FM2+ socket, which limits motherboard choices. Current chipsets include:
- A68H (supports USB 3.0, SATA III).
- A78 (more advanced models with HDMI 2.0).
Examples of Motherboards:
- ASUS A68HM-K (price in 2025: ~$50–$60).
- Gigabyte GA-F2A78M-DS2 (~$55–$65).
Selection Features:
- Check for HDMI/DVI ports for monitor connections.
- Update the BIOS before installing the processor (some boards require patches).
3. Supported Memory
DDR3 — Outdated Standard
The processor works only with DDR3 (up to 2133 MHz). DDR4 and DDR5 are not supported.
- It is recommended to use dual-channel mode (2×4 GB or 2×8 GB).
- Example kits: Kingston HyperX Fury DDR3-1866 (8 GB — ~$25).
Limitations:
- Maximum capacity — 64 GB, but 8–16 GB is sufficient for office tasks.
4. Power Supply Recommendations
Energy Efficiency and Minimum Requirements
With a TDP of 65 watts, the processor does not require a powerful power supply.
- Without a discrete graphics card: A power supply of 300–400 watts is sufficient (for example, be quiet! System Power 10, 400W — ~$45).
- With a graphics card: For the GTX 1650 (TDP 75W), choose a power supply of 450–500 watts (Corsair CX450 — ~$55).
Tip: Don’t skimp on the power supply — cheap models can damage components.
5. Pros and Cons of AMD A4 PRO-7350B
Pros:
- Low price ($40–$60 for a new processor).
- Integrated graphics for basic tasks.
- Energy efficiency (suitable for low-power builds).
Cons:
- Only 2 cores — multitasking is limited.
- Outdated standards (DDR3, PCIe 2.0).
- Weak upgrade potential: FM2+ platform does not support modern CPUs.
6. Use Cases
Who is This Processor For?
- Office PCs: Working with documents, browsing, video conferencing (Zoom, Teams).
- Multimedia: Watching Full HD videos, streaming (Netflix, YouTube).
- Casual Gaming: Dota 2 on low settings (30–40 FPS), Minecraft, older RPGs.
Real Example:
A user built a PC on the A4 PRO-7350B for a home theater (OSMC + Kodi). It can handle 4K via HDMI, but with limited HDR.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD vs Intel
- Intel Pentium Gold G6400 (2 cores/4 threads, ~$60):
- Better in multi-threading (+15–20%), but requires a separate graphics card.
- AMD Athlon 3000G (2 cores/4 threads, ~$55):
- Newer architecture (Zen), supports DDR4.
Conclusion: The A4 PRO-7350B wins only in strict budget scenarios and lacks upgradeability.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
- SSD is a must: Kingston A400 (240 GB — ~$20) will speed up the system.
- Cooling: The boxed cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste (Arctic MX-4 — ~$5).
- Graphics card: If gaming is required, add a GT 1030 (does not require extra power).
Example Build:
- Motherboard: ASUS A68HM-K ($55).
- Memory: 8 GB DDR3 ($25).
- Storage: 240 GB SSD ($20).
- PSU: 400W ($45).
- Total: ~$200 without the case.
9. Final Verdict: Who is the A4 PRO-7350B Suitable For?
This processor is relevant only for:
- Budget office PCs, where minimal cost is essential.
- Retro gaming or media centers.
- Temporary solutions until an upgrade.
Why not to choose it in 2025?
Even budget Ryzen 3 2200G (4 cores, DDR4, $80) offer 3–4 times higher performance.
Final Verdict: The A4 PRO-7350B is a niche solution for those who value saving pennies over capabilities.