AMD Ryzen 4700S
AMD Ryzen 4700S: Budget 8-Core Processor for Compact Systems
April 2025
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Features
Codename and Architecture
The AMD Ryzen 4700S processor, known by its codename Cardinal, is based on the Zen 2 architecture—a solution from 2019 that remains relevant in the budget segment by 2025. Despite its age, Zen 2 maintains competitiveness thanks to optimization of the 7nm process (TSMC).
Technical Specifications
- Cores/Threads: 8/16.
- Base/Max Clock Speed: 3.6 GHz / 4.4 GHz.
- L3 Cache: 8 MB (less than the Ryzen 7 5800X with 32 MB).
- TDP: 65 W.
Key Features
- Energy Efficiency: The low TDP allows the processor to be used in compact cases and systems with passive cooling.
- PCIe 4.0 Support: 24 lanes, which is important for fast NVMe drives and modern GPUs.
- Multithreading: 16 threads enable smooth operation in multitasking scenarios.
Price: Approximately $160–180 (new, OEM version).
2. Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets
AM4 Socket: Despite the launch of AM5, the Ryzen 4700S remains compatible with AM4, making it a cost-effective option for upgrading older systems.
Recommended Chipsets:
- B550: Optimal choice (PCIe 4.0, overclocking support).
- A520: Budget option for office PCs.
- X570: For enthusiasts, but may be excessive due to the limitations of the 4700S.
Selection Considerations:
- Ensure the motherboard BIOS is updated to a version that supports Zen 2.
- Avoid boards with weak VRMs (minimum 6-phase design).
Examples of Motherboards:
- ASUS TUF B550-Plus ($130) — reliability and VRM cooling.
- Gigabyte A520M DS3H ($85) — compact format for budget builds.
3. Supported Memory: DDR4
The Ryzen 4700S works only with DDR4, which feels outdated in 2025 compared to DDR5 but lowers the build cost.
Recommendations:
- Frequency: Optimal at 3200–3600 MHz (lower latencies improve Zen 2 performance).
- Mode: Dual-channel configuration is essential (2×8 GB instead of 1×16 GB).
- Capacity: 16 GB is the minimum for gaming, 32 GB for work tasks.
Example: Corsair Vengeance LPX 32 GB kit (2×16 GB, 3600 MHz) — $75.
4. Power Supplies: Power Calculation
With a TDP of 65 W, the Ryzen 4700S is not demanding on power supplies, but the choice depends on the GPU:
- Integrated Graphics: None — a discrete GPU is required.
- For RTX 4060 / RX 7600: A power supply of 500–550 W is sufficient (e.g., Corsair CX550M, $65).
- For RTX 4080 / RX 7900 XT: A minimum of 750 W is recommended (though such GPUs are excessive for the 4700S).
Tip: Use a power supply with an 80+ Bronze certification or higher.
5. Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Low price for an 8-core CPU.
- Energy efficiency — suitable for HTPCs and mini PCs.
- Versatility: handles gaming, office tasks, and streaming well.
Disadvantages:
- Outdated Zen 2 architecture — lagging behind in IPC compared to Zen 4.
- Small L3 cache (8 MB vs. 32 MB in Ryzen 7 5800X).
- No support for DDR5 and PCIe 5.0.
6. Use Cases
- Gaming: Paired with an RTX 3060 / RX 6600 GPU, it will deliver 60+ FPS in Full HD (Cyberpunk 2077 on medium settings).
- Work Tasks: Video editing in Premiere Pro, 3D modeling in Blender (but rendering is slower than with Ryzen 5 7600).
- Multimedia: Ideal for a media center (4K HDR, Plex server).
User Experience: Users report smooth operation in Adobe Photoshop while running a browser with 20+ tabs open.
7. Comparison with Competitors
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600 (Zen 3): 15–20% faster in gaming, but more expensive ($190).
- Intel Core i5-13400: Better in single-threaded tasks, but consumes more power (TDP 65–148 W).
- Ryzen 7 5700X: At $220, it offers more cache and performance, but requires better cooling.
Conclusion: The 4700S excels in price but falls short in speed.
8. Assembly Tips
- Case: Choose models with good ventilation (Fractal Design Meshify C Mini).
- Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but an Arctic Freezer 34 ($35) will reduce noise.
- Graphics Card: Avoid pairing with high-end GPUs — limited by PCIe 4.0 x16.
- Storage: An NVMe SSD (Samsung 980 Pro 1 TB, $90) will unleash PCIe 4.0 performance.
9. Conclusion: Who is the Ryzen 4700S For?
This processor is suitable for those who:
- Are building a budget PC for gaming and work.
- Are upgrading an old AM4 system without replacing the motherboard.
- Seek an energy-efficient solution for a media center or mini-PC.
Alternatives: If the budget allows, it’s better to opt for the Ryzen 5 7600 (Zen 4, $230) for future-proofing. However, for immediate tasks, the 4700S remains a favorable compromise.
Final Word: The Ryzen 4700S is not a performance king but a reliable "workhorse" CPU focused on price and efficiency. In 2025, it finds its niche among budget-conscious users and compact system enthusiasts.