AMD PRO A8-9600
AMD PRO A8-9600: Budget APU for Basic Tasks in 2025
April 2025
Introduction
The AMD PRO A8-9600 processors, released back in 2016, are still found in budget builds and office PCs. Despite its outdated architecture, this APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) remains in demand due to its low cost and integrated graphics. In this article, we'll analyze the relevance of Bristol Ridge in 2025, how to use it correctly, and who it is suitable for.
1. Key Specifications
Architecture and Technology Process
The AMD PRO A8-9600 is built on the Excavator microarchitecture (codename: Bristol Ridge) and manufactured using a 28nm technology process. This is a significant drawback for 2025, as modern AMD and Intel processors use 5-7nm technology, providing better energy efficiency and performance.
Key Parameters:
- 4 cores / 4 threads (without SMT support);
- Base frequency - 3.1 GHz, maximum - 3.4 GHz;
- TDP - 65 W;
- Integrated graphics Radeon R7 (384 stream processors, frequency up to 900 MHz).
Performance:
- Geekbench 6: 617 (Single-Core), 1496 (Multi-Core). In comparison, the Ryzen 3 3200G (2019) scores around ~1000/3500 points.
- The integrated graphics can handle HD video and simple games: for example, CS:GO at low settings gives ~40–50 FPS.
Features:
- Support for virtualization technologies (AMD-V);
- Integrated GPU with DirectX 12 support;
- Low price (new units starting from $50).
2. Compatible Motherboards
Sockets and Chipsets
The A8-9600 uses the AM4 socket but with limitations. Supported chipsets include:
- A320 (basic, no overclocking);
- B350 (expanded settings);
- X370 (premium segment).
Important! Not all AM4 boards are compatible with Bristol Ridge. For instance, models with B550/X570 chipsets may not support this APU. Check the compatibility list on the manufacturer’s website before purchasing.
Examples of Boards:
- ASRock A320M-HDV ($60): basic model with HDMI;
- Gigabyte GA-AB350M-DS3H ($80): 4 DDR4 slots, M.2 support.
3. Supported Memory
The A8-9600 works with DDR4-2400 MHz in dual-channel mode. Using two modules (e.g., 2x8 GB) will boost integrated graphics performance by 15-20%.
Recommendations:
- Minimum - 8 GB (for Windows 11/12);
- Optimal - 16 GB (two 8 GB sticks);
- DDR5 is not supported.
4. Power Supplies
With a TDP of 65 W and no discrete graphics card required, a power supply of 300–400 W will suffice. However, for future upgrades (e.g., installing a GTX 1650 level graphics card), choose models rated for 450-550 W.
Examples of Power Supplies:
- EVGA 450 BR ($45): reliable option for basic builds;
- Corsair CX550M ($70): modular design, headroom for upgrades.
5. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low cost;
- Integrated graphics for office tasks;
- Energy efficiency (suitable for HTPC).
Cons:
- Outdated architecture;
- Weak multi-threaded performance;
- No support for PCIe 4.0 or DDR5;
- Limited compatibility with new AM4 boards.
6. Use Cases
Office and Multimedia
- Document work, browser (20+ tabs), Zoom conferences;
- 4K video playback (with hardware decoding).
Gaming
- Light projects: Dota 2, Minecraft, GTA V (on low settings);
- Retro console emulators (up to PS2).
Servers and NAS
- Virtualization (Proxmox, Docker);
- File storage due to low TDP.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Ryzen 3 3200G (4/4, Vega 8)
- Pros: 12nm technology process, +30% performance, support for DDR4-2933.
- Cons: costs $120 (new), more expensive than A8-9600.
Intel Pentium Gold G7400 (2/4, UHD 710)
- Pros: higher IPC, support for DDR5.
- Cons: weak graphics, only 2 cores.
Conclusion: The A8-9600 only wins on price but falls short in performance compared to even budget CPUs from 2023–2024.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
1. Motherboard: choose A320/B350 with guaranteed support for Bristol Ridge.
2. Memory: 2x8 GB DDR4-2400.
3. Cooling: the stock cooler is sufficient, but for quieter operation, consider the DeepCool Gammaxx 400 ($25).
4. Storage: NVMe SSD (if the board supports M.2) or SATA.
5. Upgrade: avoid using powerful graphics cards — the CPU will become a “bottleneck.”
Example Build:
- Processor: A8-9600 ($50);
- Board: ASRock A320M-HDV ($60);
- Memory: Patriot Signature 16 GB DDR4-2400 ($40);
- SSD: Kingston A400 480 GB ($35);
- PSU: EVGA 450 BR ($45).
Total: $230 (without case).
9. Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider the A8-9600?
This processor should be considered only in two cases:
1. Super budget build: when you need a PC for office or server use for $200–300.
2. Upgrade of an old system: replacing outdated AMD A6/A10 on AM4.
Alternatives:
- For $100–150, you can buy a used Ryzen 5 2600 or Intel Core i3-10100, which are significantly more powerful.
Conclusion
In 2025, the AMD PRO A8-9600 is a compromise for those prioritizing minimal price over performance. It is suitable for office tasks, home theaters, or as a temporary solution. However, for gaming and professional tasks, it is better to choose more modern processors, even from the used segment.