AMD Athlon Gold 3150GE (OEM Only)
AMD Athlon Gold 3150GE (OEM Only): Budget Processor for Basic Tasks
April 2025
Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Architecture and Technology Process
The AMD Athlon Gold 3150GE processor is built on the Zen+ microarchitecture (12 nm), which debuted in 2018. Despite its age, this solution remains relevant for the OEM segment due to its low power consumption (TDP 35 W) and integrated graphics. The chip features 4 cores without multi-threading support (4 threads), which limits its multitasking capabilities but is sufficient for basic use cases.
Key features:
- Radeon Vega 3 Graphics — basic integrated graphics with 3 compute units (192 shader processors).
- Energy Efficiency — ideal for compact systems and passive cooling PCs.
- Price — the OEM version costs about $85–$110, making it one of the most affordable solutions on the market.
Performance
In Cinebench R23 tests, the Athlon Gold 3150GE scores around 2200–2400 points in multi-threaded mode, comparable to the Intel Pentium Gold G7400 (Alder Lake, 2 cores/4 threads). For office tasks (browser, Word, Excel), the processor operates without lag. However, when working with 10+ tabs in Chrome along with background applications, stuttering may occur due to the lack of SMT.
Compatible Motherboards
Socket and Chipsets
The processor uses the AM4 socket, which ensures compatibility with motherboards based on A320, B450, X470, and B550 chipsets (after a BIOS update). However, due to OEM status limitations, some manufacturers may not include support for the 3150GE in older models.
Selection Recommendations:
- ASRock A320M-HDV R4.0 ($55–$65) — a budget option with HDMI and DVI.
- Gigabyte B450M DS3H V2 ($75–$85) — supports PCIe 3.0 and dual-channel memory.
- MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi ($110–$130) — a current chipset, but excessive for the 3150GE.
Important: Check the list of supported processors on the motherboard manufacturer's website before purchasing.
Supported Memory
The Athlon Gold 3150GE works with DDR4-2933 MHz in dual-channel mode. The amount and speed of memory are critical for stable operation of the integrated graphics:
- Minimum: 8 GB (2×4 GB DDR4-2400).
- Optimal: 16 GB (2×8 GB DDR4-3200) — increases FPS in games by 15–20%.
Example: A build based on the 3150GE with Patriot Viper 4 16 GB (3200 MHz) memory demonstrates stable 40–45 FPS in Dota 2 on low settings (1080p).
Power Supply Recommendations
Considering the TDP of 35 W and the absence of a discrete graphics card, a power supply of 300–400 W is sufficient. However, for future upgrades (e.g., adding a GTX 1650 level graphics card), it is better to opt for a model rated at 450–500 W.
Options:
- Be Quiet! System Power 10 450W ($45–$50) — quiet and reliable.
- Corsair CX550M ($60–$70) — modular design for convenience during assembly.
Pros and Cons of the Processor
Advantages
- Low Power Consumption — suitable for HTPC and mini-PCs.
- Integrated Graphics — allows for operation without a dedicated graphics card.
- Affordability — cheaper than most competitors.
Disadvantages
- 4 Threads — weak in multi-threaded tasks (video editing, 3D rendering).
- Outdated Technology Process — 12 nm compared to 7 nm in Ryzen 5000.
- OEM Status — no retail boxed version available.
Use Cases
Office and Multimedia
Ideal for document work, video playback (including 4K via HDMI 2.0), and light web browsing. Example: An office PC based on the 3150GE, 8 GB RAM, and a 256 GB SSD handles typical tasks with ease.
Light Gaming
Radeon Vega 3 runs CS:GO (720p, 60 FPS), Minecraft (1080p, 50 FPS), World of Tanks (low settings, 30–40 FPS). Not suitable for modern AAA games.
Home Server/NAS
Low TDP and support for virtualization (AMD-V) make it suitable for building a NAS based on TrueNAS or Proxmox.
Comparison with Competitors
- Intel Pentium Gold G7400 ($90–$100): 2 cores/4 threads, UHD Graphics 710.
- Pros: Higher IPC, DDR5 support.
- Cons: Weaker graphics, more expensive.
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200G ($100–$120): 4 cores/4 threads, Vega 8.
- Pros: More powerful graphics, higher performance.
- Cons: TDP 65 W, harder to find in 2025.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. Choose a motherboard with HDMI — for connecting to monitors and TVs.
2. Use dual-channel memory — it is critical for iGPU performance.
3. Don't skimp on SSD — even a budget Kingston A400 (240 GB) will speed up system performance.
4. Cooling — the standard BOX cooler is sufficient, but for quiet operation, consider the Noctua NH-L9a ($45).
Final Conclusion: Who is the Athlon Gold 3150GE for?
This processor is a choice for those looking for a budget solution for basic tasks:
- Office PCs — low price and adequate performance.
- Home Media Centers — support for 4K and quiet operation.
- Starter Builds — upgrade potential on AM4 (e.g., to Ryzen 5 5600G).
However, for gaming, video editing, or working with "heavy" applications, it is better to consider Ryzen 3 4300GE or Intel Core i3-13100.
Prices are current as of April 2025 and are for new devices.