AMD A6-7470K
AMD A6-7470K: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
Overview of Architecture, Compatibility, and Practical Use Cases
1. Key Specifications: Godaveri Architecture and Features
The AMD A6-7470K processor, released in 2015, is based on the Godaveri microarchitecture (part of the Kaveri Refresh series). It is a hybrid chip that combines CPU and GPU on a single die.
Process Technology and Cores:
- 28 nm process technology — outdated even for 2025 (modern processors use 5–7 nm).
- 2 cores, 2 threads — lacks multithreading (SMT/Hyper-Threading).
- Base frequency: 3.7 GHz, turbo mode up to 4.0 GHz.
Integrated Radeon R5 Graphics:
- 256 shader processors, clocked at 757 MHz.
- Supports DirectX 12, Vulkan 1.0.
- Capable of running games like CS:GO or Dota 2 on low settings (720p, 30–40 FPS).
Key Features:
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking (but potential is limited due to 28 nm).
- AMD TrueAudio technology for enhanced gaming audio.
- Energy efficiency: TDP 65 W.
2. Compatible Motherboards
Socket: FM2+ — an outdated format, with no new boards released since 2017.
Chipsets:
- A68H — basic model: 2 SATA III ports, USB 3.0.
- A78/A88X — advanced features: RAID support, more USB 3.0 ports.
Examples of models in 2025 (new, stock leftovers):
- Gigabyte GA-F2A68HM-HD2 — $60–70.
- ASUS A88XM-Plus — $80–90 (rare).
Selection Tips:
- Check for HDMI/DVI support to connect to a monitor via integrated graphics.
- Ensure that the BIOS is updated to a version that supports the A6-7470K (some boards require a firmware update).
3. Supported Memory Types
- DDR3-2133 MHz (dual-channel mode).
- Maximum capacity: 64 GB (but FM2+ boards rarely support more than 32 GB).
Recommendations:
- Use two identical modules (e.g., 2x8 GB) to activate dual-channel mode.
- DDR3L (1.35 V) is compatible, but standard DDR3 (1.5 V) is preferred for stability.
4. Power Supply: Calculation and Recommendations
- CPU TDP: 65 W.
- Considering a discrete graphics card (if added):
- For Radeon RX 6400 (75 W), a PSU of 400–450 W will suffice.
- For integrated graphics, 300–350 W is enough.
Power Supply Examples:
- Corsair CV450 (80+ Bronze, 450 W) — $55–60.
- be quiet! System Power 10 (400 W) — $50.
Important: Don’t skimp on the power supply — cheap models can damage components.
5. Pros and Cons of the A6-7470K in 2025
Pros:
- Low price: $50–70 (new, in stock).
- Energy efficiency: Suitable for compact builds.
- Integrated graphics: No separate graphics card needed for basic tasks.
Cons:
- Outdated architecture: Falls behind even budget Intel Celeron processors from 2023–2024.
- 2 cores: Multitasking is limited (e.g., streaming + gaming is unrealistic).
- No DDR4/5 support: DDR3 is a performance bottleneck.
6. Use Cases
Suitable for:
- Office tasks: Working with documents, browsing (up to 10 tabs).
- Multimedia: Watching 1080p videos, streaming (Netflix, YouTube).
- Retro gaming: Games up to 2015 (Skyrim, GTA IV) or indie projects.
Not suitable for:
- Video editing: 2 cores struggle with rendering in DaVinci Resolve.
- Modern games: Cyberpunk 2077 or Hogwarts Legacy — even on low settings.
Real Experience:
A user from Russia built a PC with an A6-7470K in 2024 for a home theater:
- ASRock FM2A88X-ITX+ motherboard
- 16 GB DDR3 RAM
- 240 GB SSD
Outcome: a quiet system for $200, streaming 4K via YouTube (with hardware decoding).
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Athlon X4 845 (2016):
- 4 cores, 65 W, priced at $60.
- Plus: Better in multithreaded tasks.
- Minus: No integrated graphics.
Intel Celeron G5925 (2023):
- 2 cores, 54 W, UHD Graphics 610, $65.
- Plus: Supports DDR4, higher IPC.
- Minus: Weaker in gaming due to Intel graphics.
Conclusion: The A6-7470K only wins when cheap integrated graphics are a necessity.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
1. Case Selection: Mini-ITX or Micro-ATX to save space.
2. Cooling: The boxed cooler is sufficient, but for overclocking, consider a DeepCool Gammaxx 400 ($20).
3. Storage: Be sure to get an SSD (Kingston A400 480 GB — $35).
4. Networking: If the motherboard lacks Wi-Fi, add a TP-Link Archer T4E adapter ($25).
Example Build for $250:
- CPU: A6-7470K ($60)
- Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-F2A68HM-S1 ($65)
- Memory: 8 GB DDR3 ($25)
- SSD: 240 GB ($30)
- PSU: 400 W ($50)
- Case: Mini-ITX ($20)
9. Final Conclusion: Who is the A6-7470K Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for:
- Budget PCs: If you need a computer "for the internet" under $300.
- Media centers: A player for TV with 4K support via HDMI.
- Retro enthusiasts: A build in the style of the 2000s for old games.
Why in 2025? Only if other options are unavailable. For example, in regions with a shortage of new components or for upgrading an old FM2+ system. In other cases, it's better to go for a modern AMD Ryzen 3 7300U or Intel N100.
Final Tip: Don’t buy the A6-7470K new for more than $70 — its actual value on the second-hand market is around $30.