AMD A6-7480
AMD A6-7480: Budget Processor for Undemanding Tasks
April 2025
Key Features: Architecture and Capabilities
The AMD A6-7480 processor, released in 2016, belongs to the company's budget solutions lineup. Despite its age, it is still available for sale (priced at $40–50 for a new unit) and is used in builds for basic tasks.
Architecture and Process Technology
- Codename: Carrizo (Excavator microarchitecture).
- Process Technology: 28 nm — outdated technology by 2025, which limits energy efficiency and performance.
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 2 threads. Clock speed — 3.5–3.8 GHz (Turbo mode).
Key Features:
- Integrated Radeon R5 Graphics (384 shader processors, clock up to 900 MHz). Capable of running undemanding games and decoding 1080p video.
- Low TDP: 45 W — suitable for compact systems.
- Virtualization Support: AMD-V is useful for software testing.
Performance:
- Geekbench 6: 624 (single-core), 895 (multi-core). In comparison, the modern Celeron G6900 scores around ~1500/2500.
Compatible Motherboards
The A6-7480 uses the FM2+ socket, which limits motherboard options. In 2025, such models are hardly produced, but they can still be found in stores:
- Chipsets: A68H, A78, A88X.
- Sample Boards:
- ASUS A68HM-K ($45–55).
- Gigabyte GA-F2A78M-DS2 ($50–60).
Selection Tips:
- Check CPU support in the BIOS (on manufacturer websites).
- Consider the number of SATA ports (for HDD/SSD) and the presence of USB 3.0.
- Avoid boards with damaged capacitors — FM2+ was actively used from 2014, and there are many used units available.
Supported Memory
The A6-7480 works only with DDR3 (up to 2133 MHz). Modern DDR4/DDR5 standards are not supported.
Recommendations:
- Use dual-channel mode (2 modules of 4 GB instead of 1×8 GB) to enhance graphics performance.
- Maximum capacity: 64 GB, but for CPU tasks, 8–16 GB is sufficient.
Power Supply: Requirements and Selection
With a TDP of 45 W, the processor does not require a powerful PSU.
Configuration Examples:
- Without a discrete graphics card: A PSU of 300–350 W is enough (e.g., EVGA 400 N1, $35).
- With a graphics card: For an RX 6400 (75 W), a 450 W PSU is needed (Corsair CX450, $55).
Important: Cheap PSUs may operate unstably — choose models with an 80+ Bronze certification.
Pros and Cons of A6-7480
Advantages:
- Low Price: $40–50.
- Energy Efficiency: Suitable for HTPCs or office PCs.
- Integrated Graphics: Replaces basic graphics cards.
Disadvantages:
- Outdated Platform: FM2+ does not support modern processors.
- Weak Multithreading: 2 cores are insufficient for streaming video or editing.
- Limited Upgrade Options: Maximum for the socket — A10-8000 series processors.
Use Cases
1. Office Tasks: Working with documents, browsing (up to 10 tabs), Zoom.
2. Multimedia: Watching 1080p, streaming (Netflix, YouTube).
3. Light Gaming: Dota 2 (30–40 fps at low settings), Minecraft, older RPGs.
4. Home Server: File storage, VPN.
Practical Example:
A user built a PC on the A6-7480 for their parents — tasks included Excel, online banking, and Full HD video. Total build cost: $200 (without a monitor).
Comparison with Competitors
AMD Athlon 3000G (2025 price: $65):
- 2 cores/4 threads, Vega 3.
- Geekbench 6: ~800/1600.
- Conclusion: Better due to multithreading and DDR4 support.
Intel Celeron G5905 (2025 price: $50):
- 2 cores/2 threads, UHD 610.
- Geekbench 6: ~950/1200.
- Conclusion: Stronger in single-threaded tasks, but more expensive.
Build Suggestions
1. SSD is essential: Kingston A400 240 GB ($25) will speed up system boot times.
2. RAM: 8 GB DDR3 (2×4 GB, $30).
3. Case: Micro-ATX with ventilation (Deepcool MATREXX 30, $40).
4. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but replace it with a Deepcool GAMMAXX 400 ($20) for quieter operation.
Caution: Do not buy expensive components — the system is not intended for upgrades.
Final Conclusion: Who is A6-7480 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Are building a cheap PC for office or browsing.
- Need a compact system without a dedicated graphics card.
- Have a limited budget ($200–300 for the entire build).
Alternative: Consider used Intel Core i3-7100 or new Athlon 3000G if future-proofing is needed.
Conclusion: The AMD A6-7480 is a specialist for narrow tasks. It won't impress with performance but will handle basic tasks if components are chosen wisely. In 2025, it is worth purchasing only for strict budgeting or specific scenarios (for example, replacing a burned-out CPU in an old PC).