AMD Athlon X4 740
AMD Athlon X4 740: A Budget Processor for Undemanding Tasks in 2025
An up-to-date review and recommendations for building a PC based on an outdated but still useful CPU.
Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Trinity Architecture and 32nm Manufacturing Process
The AMD Athlon X4 740, released in 2012, belongs to the Trinity line—an era when AMD focused on hybrid processors with integrated graphics (though in this case, the GPU is absent). The 32nm manufacturing process looks archaic by modern standards (2025), where CPUs typically use 5–7nm nodes, ensuring better power efficiency and transistor density. However, this processor remains functional for basic tasks.
Performance: Geekbench 6 and Real-World Scenarios
- Single-Core Performance (421 points): This is sufficient for using office applications (Word, Excel) and web browsing, but don’t expect smooth performance with many tabs open.
- Multi-Core Performance (927 points): Four physical cores allow for comfortable multitasking, such as running antivirus software while watching videos.
For example, a user in 2023 built a media center on this processor for streaming Netflix and YouTube in Full HD. The system performed adequately, but 4K or HDR is out of reach.
Compatible Motherboards: FM2 Socket and Chipsets
FM2 Socket: Finding Boards in 2025
The Athlon X4 740 uses the FM2 socket, which was relevant until 2014. New motherboards for this socket are no longer being manufactured, but you can find models with chipsets on the secondary market (e.g., eBay):
- A55/A75/A85X: The best choice is boards with the A85X chipset (support for PCIe 3.0, SATA III). For example, the ASUS F2A85-M PRO (~$30–40 used).
- Limitations: No USB 3.1, M.2 slots, or Wi-Fi modules. To connect an SSD, you'll need to use SATA III.
Tip: Avoid motherboards with damaged capacitors—the age of the components increases the risk of failure.
Supported Memory: Only DDR3
The Athlon X4 740 works exclusively with DDR3. The maximum frequency is 1866 MHz (depending on the chipset). In 2025, DDR3 is outdated, but 8 GB (2x4 GB) can be found for $15–20 (used).
Recommendations:
- For an office PC, 8 GB is sufficient.
- For light gaming (e.g., CS:GO), add a discrete graphics card and increase the memory to 16 GB (though this is redundant for a CPU of this level).
Power Supply: Minimum Requirements
With a TDP of 65W and no integrated graphics, a system with the Athlon X4 740 and a graphics card like the NVIDIA GT 1030 will require a power supply of 350–400W.
Sample Build:
- CPU: Athlon X4 740 (65W).
- GPU: NVIDIA GT 1030 (30W).
- SSD: SATA 256 GB (5W).
- Total: ~100W under load.
A budget power supply like the be quiet! System Power 10 450W ($45 new) would be suitable. Avoid cheap noname blocks—they could damage components.
Pros and Cons of the Athlon X4 740
Pros:
- Price: On the second-hand market, the CPU costs $10–15 (2025).
- Energy Efficiency: Suitable for low-power builds.
- Reliability: Runs for years without overclocking.
Cons:
- Outdated Architecture: Lags behind even budget Intel Celeron processors from 2025 in single-threaded tasks.
- Lack of Modern Technology Support: No AVX, PCIe 4.0, or USB-C support.
- Limited Upgrade Options: The most you can do is upgrade to an Athlon X4 860K (but this is a minor boost).
Usage Scenarios: Where is the Processor Relevant in 2025?
1. Office PC: Document work, Zoom meetings, browsing.
2. Home Media Center: Streaming video in Full HD via Plex or Kodi.
3. Entry-level Server: File storage, VPN, home automation.
4. Light Gaming: Dota 2, CS:GO on low settings (with a GTX 750 Ti level GPU).
User experience: In 2024, a terminal was built on the Athlon X4 740 for a café—running accounting software and a fiscal registrar. The system operated without issues.
Comparison with Competitors
AMD Athlon X4 740 vs. Intel Pentium Gold G7400 (2025)
- Performance: The Pentium Gold G7400 (2 cores/4 threads, 10nm) scores 1100 points in Geekbench 6 Single Core—2.6 times faster.
- Price: The new Pentium costs $75, while the Athlon costs $15 (used).
- Conclusion: The Pentium is more advantageous for new builds, but the Athlon is justifiable under ultra-budget constraints.
Practical Building Tips
1. Use an SSD: Even a SATA SSD (e.g., Kingston A400) will speed up the system.
2. Add a Graphics Card: Without a GPU, the processor is only suitable for servers. For gaming, consider a used GTX 1050 ($50–60).
3. Cooling: A stock cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste (e.g., Arctic MX-4).
4. Check BIOS: Update the motherboard firmware for memory compatibility.
Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider the Athlon X4 740?
This processor should only be considered in two cases:
1. Upgrading an Old PC: If you already have an FM2 motherboard and DDR3.
2. Ultra-Budget Build: When the goal is to stay under $100–150 for simple tasks.
In 2025, the Athlon X4 740 is not a choice for gaming or professional work, but it remains a workhorse for specific scenarios. If the budget allows, it’s better to opt for a new AMD Ryzen 3 7300X ($120) or Intel Pentium Gold, which will provide more longevity for future needs.