AMD A8-3850
AMD A8-3850: Review and Relevance in 2025
Architecture, Performance, and Use Cases of the Obsolete APU
1. Key Specifications: Llano and Features
The AMD A8-3850 processor, released in 2011, became part of the Llano lineup — the company's first hybrid solutions that combined CPU and GPU on a single chip.
Architecture and Fabrication Process
- Codename: Llano.
- Fabrication Process: 32 nm (obsolete even for 2025).
- Cores/Threads: 4 cores, 4 threads (no support for SMT/Hyper-Threading).
- Base Frequency: 2.9 GHz (no Turbo Boost).
- TDP: 100 W — a high figure by modern standards.
Integrated Graphics
- Radeon HD 6550D: 400 MHz, 320 stream processors.
- GPU Performance: ~15-20 FPS in games from 2012-2015 on low settings (e.g., Dota 2, CS:GO).
Geekbench 6 Tests
- Single-Core: 334 points — extremely low for 2025.
- Multi-Core: 953 points — weaker even than budget CPUs from the 2020s.
Key Features
- First AMD APU with support for DirectX 11.
- Cost savings on a discrete graphics card for basic tasks.
2. Compatible Motherboards
Socket: FM1 (obsolete, no new boards are being produced).
Chipsets:
- A75: Supports USB 3.0, SATA 6 Gb/s.
- A55: Only USB 2.0 and SATA 3 Gb/s.
Examples of Boards (new ones unavailable, prices in 2025 for used market):
- ASRock A75 Pro4: ~$30–40 (used).
- Gigabyte GA-A55M-DS2: ~$20–25 (used).
Selection Tips:
- Look for boards with HDMI/DVI ports for monitor connections.
- Check the condition of capacitors — old boards often fail.
3. Supported Memory
- Type: DDR3 (DDR4/DDR5 are not supported).
- Frequencies: Up to 1866 MHz (with overclocking).
- Recommendations:
- 8–16 GB of dual-channel memory (2×4 GB or 2×8 GB).
- Use modules with low timings (CL9–CL11) to minimize latency.
Example: Kingston HyperX Fury DDR3-1866 kit (2×8 GB) — $45–50 (new modules still available).
4. Power Supply: Power Calculation
- CPU TDP: 100 W.
- Recommended PSU: 400–450 W (considering GPU and peripherals).
- Examples:
- EVGA 450 BR (80+ Bronze) — $50 (new).
- Be Quiet! System Power 10 450W — $55.
Important: When installing a discrete GPU (e.g., GTX 1650), ensure the PSU has a 6-pin PCIe connector.
5. Pros and Cons of the A8-3850 in 2025
Pros:
- Low cost (used processor — $15–20).
- Integrated graphics for basic tasks.
- Support for old OS (Windows 7, Linux).
Cons:
- Outdated architecture: Single-Core performance lags by 300–400% behind Ryzen 3 5300G.
- High power consumption.
- No support for modern interfaces (PCIe 4.0, NVMe).
6. Use Cases
Suitable for:
- Office PCs: Document work, browsing.
- Media Centers: Playback of Full HD video (H.264), streaming.
- Retro Games: Running games from the 2000s to early 2010s (Half-Life 2, Skyrim on low settings).
Not Suitable for:
- Modern games (Cyberpunk 2077, Starfield).
- Video editing or 3D rendering.
Real Example: A user built a PC with the A8-3850 for parents — watching YouTube, Zoom calls.
7. Comparison with Competitors
Intel Core i3-2100 (2011):
- Better Single-Core performance (+15–20%), but weaker in Multi-Core and Intel HD 2000 graphics lag behind Radeon HD 6550D.
AMD Athlon X4 750K (2013):
- No integrated graphics, but higher frequency (3.4–4.0 GHz).
In 2025:
- Budget Intel Celeron G6900 ($50–60) outperforms the A8-3850 by 2–3 times in all parameters.
8. Assembly Tips
- Motherboard: Look for models with USB 3.0 (A75) for fast flash drives.
- Cooling: Cooler with TDP dissipation of at least 100 W (e.g., Deepcool Gammaxx 400 — $20).
- Storage: Install a SATA SSD (Crucial MX500 500 GB — $45) to speed up the system.
- Upgrade: Add a discrete GPU like GTX 1050 Ti (used — $70) for gaming.
9. Final Conclusion: Who is A8-3850 Suitable For?
This processor is relevant only in three scenarios:
1. Ultra-Budget Build: If the budget is limited to $100–150.
2. Undemanding Tasks: Office work, browsing, old games.
3. Experiments: Learning about PC building or creating a retro system.
Alternatives for 2025:
- New AMD Ryzen 3 5300G ($120) — 4–5 times faster, supporting DDR4 and PCIe 4.0.
- Intel Core i3-12100 ($100) — similar performance boost.
Conclusion: The AMD A8-3850 in 2025 is a relic that should only be considered as a temporary solution or for nostalgic projects. For any modern tasks, it is better to choose budget processors of the new generation.