AMD Athlon 320GE
AMD Athlon 320GE: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks
April 2025
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Zen Architecture and 14nm Technology
The AMD Athlon 320GE is built on the first-generation Zen microarchitecture, which by 2025 is already considered outdated but remains relevant for budget systems. The 14nm FinFET process provides a balance between energy efficiency and manufacturing cost. Despite modern processors transitioning to 5nm and 3nm standards, the 14nm process keeps the chip price around $65–75 (for new units), which is critical for budget-conscious users.
Key specifications:
- 2 cores / 4 threads thanks to SMT (Simultaneous Multi-Threading) technology.
- 4 MB of L3 cache — sufficient for basic applications.
- Integrated Radeon Vega 3 graphics (192 shader processors, frequency up to 1100 MHz).
- TDP 35W — suitable for compact systems without active cooling.
Performance in Tests
In Geekbench 6 (2025), the processor shows:
- 868 points in single-threaded mode.
- 1776 points in multi-threaded mode.
These results are comparable to the Intel Pentium Gold G7400 (2 cores / 4 threads, 10nm), but AMD wins with its integrated graphics. For example, in office tasks (Word, Excel, browser with 10+ tabs), the Athlon 320GE performs smoothly. However, during video rendering or when running heavy IDEs (like Android Studio), the lack of cores becomes apparent.
2. Compatible Motherboards
AM4 Socket: A Proven Platform
The processor uses the AM4 socket, supported by motherboards with chipsets:
- A320 — basic option without overclocking (price: $45–60).
- B450 — optimal choice with PCIe 3.0 support and upgrade potential to Ryzen 5000 (price: $70–90).
- X470 — for enthusiasts, but excessive for the Athlon 320GE.
Practical example: The ASRock A320M-HDV R4.0 motherboard ($55) is a popular option for builds based on Athlon. However, check the BIOS version before purchasing: some boards require an update for compatibility with Zen chips.
3. Supported Memory
DDR4: Maximum of 2933 MHz
The Athlon 320GE works with DDR4 memory in dual-channel mode. Officially supported frequencies go up to 2933 MHz. For this processor, capacity is more critical than speed:
- 8 GB (2×4 GB) — minimum for Windows 11 and light tasks.
- 16 GB (2×8 GB) — a comfortable option for multitasking.
Important: DDR5 and LPDDR4X are not supported. If you've bought DDR5 modules — they will not physically fit in AM4 motherboard slots.
4. Power Supply Recommendations
Power Consumption and PSU Selection
With a TDP of 35W, the processor consumes less power than a lightbulb. Even accounting for the motherboard, SSD, and memory, the system rarely exceeds 80–100W at peak. However, if you plan to add a discrete graphics card (like the GTX 1650), consider its power needs:
- Without a graphics card: A 300W PSU (e.g., EVGA 300 BR, $35).
- With a graphics card: A 450–500W PSU (Corsair CX450, $55).
Tip: Don't skimp on the power supply. Cheap models (like Apevia or PowerUp) may perform unstably under load.
5. Pros and Cons
Strengths
- Energy efficiency. Ideal for mini PCs and HTPCs.
- Integrated graphics. Vega 3 handles 4K video and games like Dota 2 on low settings (30–40 FPS).
- Low price. One of the most affordable processors with SMT support.
Weaknesses
- 2 cores. Multi-threaded tasks (streaming, rendering) are challenging.
- Outdated manufacturing process. 14nm vs. 7nm of the Ryzen 3 5300GE.
- No PCIe 4.0. Limits the speed of NVMe drives.
6. Use Cases
Office and Multimedia
The Athlon 320GE is an excellent choice for:
- Document work and browsing.
- Watching 4K videos on YouTube (Vega 3 supports H.265 decoding).
- Surfing social media and video calls.
Example: An office PC based on this processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a 256 GB SSD will cost around $200–250.
Gaming
The integrated Vega 3 graphics may be a weak link, but it's sufficient for indie games or older projects:
- Minecraft (60 FPS on medium settings).
- CS:GO (720p, low settings, 50–60 FPS).
- GTA V (720p, minimum settings, 30 FPS).
For AAA games in 2025, a discrete graphics card will be necessary.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Athlon 320GE vs. Intel Pentium Gold G7400
- Price: $65 vs. $80.
- Graphics: Vega 3 vs. Intel UHD 710 (AMD wins).
- Performance: Single-threaded tests are better for Intel (+10%), multi-threaded — parity.
AMD Athlon 320GE vs. Ryzen 3 2200G
- Price: $65 vs. $90 (used).
- Graphics: Vega 3 vs. Vega 8 (loss).
- Cores: 2 vs. 4 (Ryzen wins in multitasking).
Conclusion: Athlon 320GE is for those who prioritize price and minimal power consumption.
8. Assembly Tips
- Motherboard: Choose models with HDMI 2.0 (for 4K@60Hz), such as the Gigabyte B450M DS3H ($75).
- Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quiet operation, consider the Deepcool GAMMAXX 400 V2 ($20).
- Storage: NVMe SSD (e.g., Kingston NV2 500 GB, $35) will speed up system boot times.
Common mistake: Installing a single RAM stick instead of two can reduce graphics performance by 15–20%.
9. Final Conclusion: Who is the Athlon 320GE Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for:
1. Budget office PCs.
2. Home theaters (HTPCs).
3. Entry-level servers (e.g., for file storage).
4. Educational computers for students.
Why is it still relevant in 2025? Its low price, minimal power consumption, and sufficient performance for basic tasks make it a favorable option where multitasking isn't a priority. However, for gaming or graphic work, it’s better to add a graphics card or choose the Ryzen 3 4300GE.
Summary: The AMD Athlon 320GE is a "workhorse" for undemanding users. It won't impress with speed, but it will get the job done at a modest price.