AMD E2-3800
AMD E2-3800: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
Overview of Capabilities, Pros, and Cons of an Obsolete but Still Relevant Platform
Introduction
In the era of 5nm chips and neural network accelerators, processors like the AMD E2-3800 seem like relics from the past. However, even in 2025, this chip still appears in budget laptops priced at $200–300, positioned as a solution for undemanding users. Let’s explore who it might suit and who should seek more modern alternatives.
Architecture and Process Technology
Cores, Threads, and Base Frequency
The AMD E2-3800, released in 2014 on the Jaguar architecture (codename Kabini), is built on a 28nm process technology. This is a quad-core processor without support for multithreading (4 threads) with a base frequency of 1.3 GHz and no turbo mode. The integrated Radeon HD 8280 graphics operate at a frequency of 450 MHz, offering 128 stream processors.
CPU and iGPU Features
- Jaguar: Simplified architecture focused on low power consumption. Supports SSE4 and AES instructions but lacks AVX, which limits performance in modern applications.
- Radeon HD 8280: Graphics from the 2013-2014 era, compatible with DirectX 11.1. It is capable of decoding 1080p video but won't handle 4K HDR.
Power Consumption and TDP
The processor's TDP is 15W, which allows for passive cooling or miniature heatsinks. This is an advantage for slim laptops, but by 2025, even budget devices frequently offer more efficient chips (e.g., Intel N100 with 6W TDP).
Energy-Saving Technologies:
- AMD PowerNow!: Dynamically adjusts frequency and voltage based on load.
- CoolCore: Disables unused CPU blocks.
Performance in Real Tasks
Office and Multimedia
- Geekbench 6: 136 (Single-Core), 372 (Multi-Core). For comparison, the Intel Celeron N5100 (2021) scores ~400/1200.
- Office Applications: LibreOffice and Google Docs run smoothly, but with 5-10 tabs open in Chrome, slowdowns may occur.
- Video: Smooth playback of 1080p (YouTube, local files), but 4K or Twitch streaming causes lag.
Gaming
- Light Games: Minecraft (30–40 FPS on low settings), Dota 2 (720p, ~25 FPS).
- Indie Projects: Stardew Valley and Hollow Knight — consistently 60 FPS.
- Modern Games: Even Fortnite on minimal settings produces less than 15 FPS.
Turbo Mode
Absent. The frequency is fixed at 1.3 GHz, which limits peak performance.
Usage Scenarios
The AMD E2-3800 is suitable for:
1. Basic Tasks: Web surfing, document work, online courses.
2. Older Users or Children: Undemanding applications with minimal complex settings.
3. Backup Device: For example, a laptop for trips where high performance is unnecessary.
Not Suitable For:
- Video/photo editing.
- Running virtual machines.
- Games, except the most basic ones.
Battery Life
The average battery life of a laptop with the E2-3800 and a 40-45 Wh battery is 6-8 hours under moderate load. However, modern processors (e.g., AMD Athlon Silver 7120U) with a similar TDP offer 30% more battery life thanks to optimizations.
Energy Saving:
- Disabling cores during idle time.
- Adaptive screen brightness.
Comparison with Competitors
AMD vs Intel
- AMD Athlon Silver 3050e (2020): 2 cores/2 threads, 6W TDP, Geekbench 6 ~200/400. Better efficiency.
- Intel Celeron N4020 (2019): 2 cores, 6W TDP, Geekbench 6 ~180/350. Inferior in multithreading.
Apple and Others
Comparing with the Apple M1 (2020) is not appropriate; the Apple chip is five times faster, but laptops with it start at $800.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Low device price ($200–300).
- Sufficient for basic tasks.
- Passive cooling (quiet operation).
Drawbacks:
- Weak single-threaded performance.
- No support for modern codecs (AV1, VP9).
- Limited compatibility with Windows 11.
Laptop Selection Recommendations
1. Device Type: Ultrabooks with a display size of 11–14 inches (e.g., HP Stream 14 or Lenovo IdeaPad 1).
2. RAM: Minimum 8 GB (4 GB in 2025 would be challenging even for browsing).
3. Storage: Only SSD (256 GB is sufficient).
4. Display: IPS matrix with a resolution of 1366×768 or 1920×1080.
5. Ports: USB-C for charging, HDMI for projectors.
Important: Check the OS. Windows 11 may not be officially supported; look for models with Linux or Windows 10.
Final Conclusion
In 2025, the AMD E2-3800 is a choice for those who need the cheapest laptop for:
- Working with texts and spreadsheets.
- Watching videos on YouTube.
- Communicating on Zoom/Telegram.
Key Benefits:
- Price below $300.
- Quiet operation.
- Sufficient battery life for a day's work.
However, even in the budget segment, there are fresher alternatives (e.g., Intel N-series or AMD Mendocino). Purchase the E2-3800 only if the price difference is critical and tasks are extremely simple.
Note: All mentioned models and prices are current as of April 2025.