AMD Athlon X4 730
AMD Athlon X4 730: A Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
Relevant as of April 2025
Key Features: Architecture and Performance
Trinity Architecture and 32nm Process Technology
The AMD Athlon X4 730, released in 2012, is based on the Piledriver microarchitecture (codename — Trinity). It is a 4-core processor with 4 threads, manufactured using a 32nm process technology. By 2025, these specifications are considered outdated: modern CPUs use 5-7nm technologies, providing greater energy efficiency and performance.
Key Features:
- Support for AVX and AES-NI instruction sets to accelerate encryption and computations.
- Integrated DDR3 memory controller.
- Low power consumption (TDP 65W) — suitable for compact PCs.
Performance:
According to Geekbench 6 tests (2025):
- Single-threaded score: 452 points.
- Multi-threaded score: 949 points.
In comparison, the modern budget Ryzen 3 7300X (4 cores/8 threads) scores around 1800 points in single-threaded tests. The Athlon X4 730 can handle basic tasks (office applications, browsing) but struggles with rendering or streaming.
Compatible Motherboards
FM2 Socket and Chipsets
The processor uses the FM2 socket, limiting the choice of motherboards. Compatible chipsets include:
- A55/A75/A85X — support USB 3.0, SATA III (A75/A85X), and overclocking (on high-end models).
Choosing Considerations in 2025:
- New FM2 motherboards are no longer being produced. They can only be found on the secondary market (for example, ASUS A85XM-A — priced at $20-40 used).
- Look for working VRM modules and SATA III ports for SSD compatibility.
Important: FM2+ is incompatible with the Athlon X4 730 — only FM2!
Memory Support
DDR3 and Dual-Channel Mode
The CPU works with DDR3-1866 MHz in a dual-channel configuration. In 2025, this is a significant drawback:
- DDR3 lags behind DDR4/DDR5 in speed (up to 30 GB/s vs. 50+ GB/s for DDR5).
- Maximum capacity — up to 64GB (but 8-16GB is sufficient for an office PC).
Sample Configuration:
2 modules of 8GB DDR3-1600 (Kingston HyperX) — priced at $25-30 for a set (used).
Power Supply Recommendations
Power Consumption and Compatibility
With a TDP of 65W, the Athlon X4 730 does not require a powerful PSU. However, consider other components:
- Integrated Graphics: None — a discrete graphics card is needed.
- Sample Build:
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GT 1030 (30W).
- Storage: 256GB SSD.
- PSU: 450W (for instance, be quiet! System Power 10 — $45).
Tip: Even for this system, choose a PSU with an 80+ Bronze certification — it will prolong the lifespan of the components.
Pros and Cons of the Athlon X4 730
Advantages:
1. Price: On the secondary market — $10-15 (processor) + $20-40 (motherboard).
2. Energy Efficiency: Suitable for mini-PCs or home servers.
3. 4 Cores: Better parallel task processing than older 2-core CPUs.
Disadvantages:
1. Outdated Architecture: Lags behind even budget Intel Celeron G6900 (2023) in single-thread tasks.
2. No Support for DDR4/PCIe 4.0: Limits upgrade potential.
3. Weak IPC: Low performance per clock cycle.
Use Cases
1. Office and Multimedia
- Document editing, browsing with 10+ tabs, YouTube 1080p — the processor can handle it, but with lags when running multiple applications simultaneously.
- Tip: Add an SSD — this will speed up OS boot times (Windows 10/11 or Linux).
2. Light Gaming
- Examples: Minecraft, Dota 2, CS:GO (at low settings, 720p).
- Setup: GTX 1050 Ti + 16GB DDR3 — FPS 40-60 in CS:GO.
3. Home Server
- NAS or media server (Plex, Jellyfin): 4 cores are sufficient for streaming to 1-2 clients.
Comparison with Competitors
1. Intel Core i3-3220 (Ivy Bridge, 2012)
- Single-threaded performance: ~10% higher, but 2 cores/4 threads.
- Conclusion: For multi-tasking, the Athlon X4 730 is preferable.
2. AMD Ryzen 3 3200G (2019)
- Price: $90-100 (new, 2025).
- Performance: 3 times higher in multi-thread tasks + integrated Vega 8 graphics.
- Conclusion: Even an old Ryzen 3 is a better investment.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. Look for combos on the secondary market: CPU + motherboard + 8GB DDR3 — no more than $50.
2. Use an SSD: Kingston A400 240GB — $20 (new).
3. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste (Arctic MX-4 — $5).
4. Graphics Card: If gaming is needed, look for used GTX 1650 ($60-80).
Sample Build (2025 pricing):
- Athlon X4 730 + motherboard + 8GB DDR3: $40 (used).
- 240GB SSD: $20.
- 450W PSU: $45.
- Case: $30.
Total: ~$135 + graphics card.
Final Conclusion: Who Is the Athlon X4 730 For?
This processor is a choice for:
1. Enthusiasts of budget builds: Assemble a PC for $150 for browsing and films.
2. Upgrading old systems: If a compatible motherboard is available.
3. Educational projects: Learning the basics of PC assembly without the risk of damaging expensive components.
Why Not To Get It in 2025?
Even new budget CPUs (like the Intel Processor N100) offer better performance and energy efficiency. However, if your goal is maximum savings, the Athlon X4 730 can still serve its purpose!
This article is relevant as of April 2025. Prices listed are for new components, where available on the market.