AMD Ryzen 3 3350U
AMD Ryzen 3 3350U: Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks in 2025
Overview of Features, Comparison to Competitors, and Recommendations for Laptop Selection
Architecture and Process Technology: Zen+ and Vega 6
The AMD Ryzen 3 3350U processor, released in 2020, continues to be popular in budget laptops due to its balanced specifications. It is built on a 12nm process and uses the Zen+ architecture, which was a step forward compared to the first generation of Zen.
- 4 Cores and 4 Threads: Unlike more advanced Ryzen models with SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading) support, each core here works with a single thread. The base frequency is 2.1 GHz and reaches 3.5 GHz in Turbo Boost mode.
- Integrated Vega 6 Graphics: The GPU includes 6 Compute Units (CUs) with a frequency of up to 1200 MHz. This allows for running less demanding games and processing multimedia.
- Cache Memory: 4 MB of L3 cache — a modest figure, but sufficient for basic tasks.
Despite the architecture's age, the 12nm manufacturing process ensures stable performance and compatibility with modern operating systems, including Windows 11 and Linux distributions.
Power Consumption and TDP: 15W for Thin Laptops
The processor's TDP is 15W, which is typical for ultrabooks and budget devices. This allows for:
- Use of compact cooling systems.
- Low noise levels even under load.
- Maintaining a thin laptop body (up to 18 mm).
However, under prolonged load (e.g., video rendering), throttling may occur due to overheating in cheap models with poor cooling systems.
Performance: Office Work, Multimedia, and Light Gaming
Geekbench 6:
- Single-Core: 912 points.
- Multi-Core: 2422 points.
Real-World Tasks:
- Office Work: Handles browsing (20+ tabs), Microsoft Office, and Zoom without issues.
- Multimedia: Streams 4K video, edits in DaVinci Resolve (Full HD projects with simple effects).
- Gaming:
- CS:GO — 40-50 FPS on medium settings (720p).
- GTA V — 25-30 FPS (low settings, 720p).
- Indie Games (Hollow Knight, Stardew Valley) — 60 FPS.
Turbo Mode: Frequency holds at 3.3–3.5 GHz for about 2–3 minutes, after which it reduces to 2.6–2.8 GHz to prevent overheating.
Usage Scenarios: Who is the Ryzen 3 3350U Suitable For?
- Students: Working with texts, presentations, online courses.
- Office Workers: Email, spreadsheets, video conferencing.
- Home Users: Internet surfing, streaming Netflix, social media communication.
- Casual Gamers: Games like Minecraft or Dota 2.
Not Suitable For:
- 4K video editing, 3D modeling.
- Running AAA games from 2023–2025.
Battery Life: Up to 8 Hours in Mixed Mode
With a battery capacity of 40–50 Wh, laptops with the Ryzen 3 3350U demonstrate:
- Up to 10 hours working with documents (brightness at 50%).
- 5–6 hours streaming YouTube.
- 3–4 hours under load (gaming, editing).
Power Saving Technologies:
- Precision Boost 2: Dynamically adjusts frequencies based on load.
- AMD Cool’n’Quiet: Reduces power consumption when idle.
Tip: Choose models with low-resolution IPS screens (1366x768) for power savings.
Comparison with Competitors: Where Does the Ryzen 3 3350U Stand?
- Intel Core i3-1115G4 (Tiger Lake, 10nm):
- Better single-threaded performance (Geekbench 6 Single-Core ~1100).
- Weaker in multi-threaded tasks (Geekbench 6 Multi-Core ~2200).
- Intel UHD graphics (weaker for gaming).
- Apple M1:
- Twice the performance (Geekbench 6 Single-Core ~2200).
- Laptop prices starting at $800 compared to $500 for models with Ryzen 3.
- AMD Ryzen 5 3500U:
- 4 cores/8 threads, Vega 8.
- 15–20% faster in multitasking.
Conclusion: The Ryzen 3 3350U wins on price and sufficient performance for its niche.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Low laptop prices ($450–$600).
- Powerful enough for everyday tasks.
- Good energy efficiency.
Weaknesses:
- Only 4 threads (loses out on multitasking).
- Outdated 12nm process (competitors have moved to 7–10nm).
- Vega 6 is weaker than Intel Iris Xe and Radeon 600M.
Laptop Selection Recommendations
- Device Type: Ultrabook or budget laptop (e.g., Lenovo IdeaPad 3, HP 15).
- What to Look For:
- 8 GB RAM (preferably with upgrade options).
- 256 GB SSD (not HDD!).
- Matte screen with a resolution of 1920x1080.
- Avoid:
- Models with 4 GB RAM.
- TN screens.
Prices in 2025:
- Base models: $450–$550.
- Versions with improved build: $600–$700.
Final Conclusion
The AMD Ryzen 3 3350U is a solid choice for those in need of an affordable laptop for studying, work, and light entertainment. Its key advantages include:
- Affordable price.
- Reliable performance in basic scenarios.
- Good battery life.
It falls short compared to modern processors in multitasking and gaming, but remains one of the best options in its price category ($500–$600). If your budget is limited and your tasks do not require powerful hardware, the Ryzen 3 3350U is worth considering.