AMD C-60
AMD C-60: An Outdated Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
April 2025
Introduction
The AMD C-60 processor, released in the early 2010s, is still found in some budget laptops. Despite its archaic architecture, it remains an option for those looking for devices priced under $200. However, its relevance in 2025 raises questions. Let's explore who might benefit from this chip and what its weaknesses are.
Architecture and Process Technology: 40nm and Modest Capabilities
Cores, Threads, and Frequencies
The AMD C-60 (codename Ontario) is built on the Bobcat architecture, designed for low-power mobile devices.
- 2 cores, 2 threads: No support for Hyper-Threading or similar technologies.
- Clock Speed: 1.0–1.33 GHz (no turbo mode).
- Process Technology: 40nm — an outdated standard even for 2025 (modern chips use 5–7nm).
Integrated Graphics Radeon HD 6290
iGPU with 80 stream processors and a frequency of 276–400 MHz.
- Capabilities: Supports DirectX 11, 1080p video decoding.
- Performance: In games — up to 10–15 FPS in older titles (like Half-Life 2) on low settings.
Example: The HP 2000 laptop with C-60 handles YouTube at 720p, but may struggle at 1080p.
Power Consumption and TDP: Passive Cooling and Quiet Operation
The processor's TDP is 9W, allowing it to operate without a fan.
- Pros: Low heat output, noiseless operation.
- Cons: Insufficient performance even for basic tasks.
Advice: If you need a laptop for reading or typing, the C-60 will suffice. For multitasking, it's better to choose a modern APU.
Performance: Minimum for Survival
Office Work and Multimedia
- Office Applications: LibreOffice, Google Docs — they work, but with delays during startup.
- Browser: 3–5 tabs in Chrome is the limit. 720p video playback is fine, while 1080p may lag.
Gaming
- 2020s Games: Unrealistic.
- Retro Titles: Stardew Valley, Terraria — yields 20–30 FPS on minimum settings.
Geekbench 6 Tests:
- Single-Core: 79 (for comparison, the 2023 Intel Core i3-1215U scores over 1500).
- Multi-Core: 140 (modern budget chips yield over 3000).
Use Cases: Who is the C-60 Suitable For?
- Students: For note-taking and working with PDFs.
- Retirees: Social media, email.
- Backup Devices: A cheap laptop for travel.
Not suitable for:
- Online conferences (struggles with Zoom + browser).
- Video/photo editing.
Battery Life: 5–7 Hours — Myth or Reality?
With a battery capacity of 40–45 Wh, the runtime is up to 5 hours. However:
- Actual battery life is 3–4 hours due to battery wear in older models.
- Power-saving technologies: None (except basic frequency reduction).
Advice: In 2025, even budget laptops with ARM processors (e.g., running Windows 12 SE) operate for 8–10 hours.
Comparison with Competitors
AMD
- Athlon Silver 7120U (2023): 2 cores/2 threads, 6nm, TDP 15W. Performance is 3–4 times higher.
- Ryzen 3 7320U: 4 cores/8 threads, RDNA 2 graphics. Starting price: $350.
Intel
- Celeron N4500 (2023): 6W TDP, 10nm. Geekbench 6 Single-Core — 450.
- Core i3-N305: 8 cores, 15W. 5 times faster than the C-60.
Apple
- Apple M1 (2020): Even the outdated M1 outperforms the C-60 by 20 times.
Conclusion: The C-60 falls short even against budget chips from 2023–2025.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Laptop prices: $150–$200.
- Noiselessness (passive cooling).
Drawbacks:
- Low performance.
- Outdated interfaces: No USB-C, no Wi-Fi 6.
- Limited OS support: Windows 11 is incompatible.
Recommendations for Choosing a Laptop
When is the C-60 an Acceptable Choice:
- A cheap device needed for Linux (e.g., Lubuntu).
- Strict budget capped at $200.
Alternatives for 2025:
1. Chromebooks with MediaTek Kompanio 500: $250, battery life 10+ hours.
2. Laptops with Intel N100: $300, supports Windows 12.
3. Used devices with Core i5 8th generation: $250–$300.
Important: Check for SSD (HDD in 2025 is a red flag).
Final Conclusion
The AMD C-60 in 2025 is a processor for very specific cases. It should be considered only if:
- An extremely cheap laptop is needed for text and browsing.
- Quiet operation is important.
Key Benefits:
- Price under $200.
- Ease of repair (often found in older models with accessible parts).
Risks:
- Low future software compatibility.
- Limited lifespan.
If the budget allows adding $100–$150, it's better to choose a modern budget chip — it will save time and frustration.