AMD Ryzen 5 1400
AMD Ryzen 5 1400: A Comprehensive Overview of the 2025 Processor
April 2025
Introduction
The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 processor, released in 2017, has become an important milestone in the evolution of budget CPUs. Despite its age, it is still found in builds due to its affordability and balanced performance. In 2025, this chip remains an interesting choice for budget PCs or upgrading older systems. Let's explore who it is suitable for today.
1. Key Specifications: Zen Architecture and More
Summit Ridge Architecture
The Ryzen 5 1400 is built on the Zen microarchitecture (first generation of Ryzen). This marked AMD's breakthrough after years of lagging behind Intel. With four cores and eight threads (thanks to SMT - Simultaneous Multi-Threading), it offers competitive multi-threaded performance.
- Manufacturing process: 14nm (GlobalFoundries) - this was the standard for 2017, but by 2025, the technology is outdated.
- Base/Turbo frequency: 3.2 / 3.4 GHz.
- Cache: 8 MB L3 - adequate for light tasks but insufficient for heavy workloads.
- TDP: 65W - energy efficiency on par with modern budget CPUs.
Key Features:
- Unlocked multiplier - allows for overclocking even on B350/X370 chipsets.
- PCIe 3.0 support (16 lanes) - relevant for NVMe SSDs and mid-range GPUs.
- Compatibility with AM4 - a platform that remained relevant until the 2020s.
Performance:
- Geekbench 6: 947 (Single-Core), 3103 (Multi-Core).
- In gaming (e.g., CS2 or Fortnite), it delivers 60-80 FPS on medium settings with a GTX 1660 Super level GPU.
- In video editing (Premiere Pro), rendering a 1080p video takes about 20-25 minutes - slower than modern counterparts, but acceptable for hobbyists.
2. Compatible Motherboards: Options in 2025
AM4 Socket and Chipsets
The Ryzen 5 1400 uses the AM4 socket, opening up many motherboard options, but by 2025, new models are no longer being released. Look for options in the second-hand market or leftover stock:
- A320: Budget boards (starting at $40 in 2025). No overclocking, minimal ports. Example: ASUS Prime A320M-K.
- B350: Optimal choice (previously around $60-80). Support for overclocking, USB 3.1. Example: MSI B350 Tomahawk.
- X370: Premium segment (formerly $100+). Enhanced power delivery, more PCIe lanes. Example: Gigabyte AX370-Gaming 5.
Tips:
- Check the BIOS version. For Ryzen 5 1400, you need a version no newer than 2021 (e.g., AGESA 1.0.0.6).
- Avoid boards with weak VRMs (e.g., 3-phase) - they are unstable under overclocking.
3. Supported Memory: DDR4 and Tuning Nuances
The Ryzen 5 1400 only works with DDR4. Officially, it supports frequencies up to 2666 MHz, but in practice, many achieve 2933-3200 MHz.
Recommendations:
- Use dual-channel mode (2×8 GB is better than 1×16 GB).
- Choose modules with low timings (CL16 or lower). For example, Crucial Ballistix 3200 MHz CL16.
- For stability, update the BIOS microcode and configure the XMP profile.
Practical Example:
A build with Ryzen 5 1400 + ASRock AB350 Pro4 + 16 GB DDR4 3000 MHz CL16 shows a 10-15% performance boost in games compared to a configuration with 2400 MHz memory.
4. Power Supplies: Power Calculation
With a TDP of 65W, the Ryzen 5 1400 is undemanding in terms of power. Even with an RTX 3060 level GPU (170W), a PSU rated between 450-550W will suffice.
Recommendations:
- Budget option: EVGA 500 BR (500W, 80+ Bronze, ~$45).
- For overclocking: Corsair CX550M (550W, semi-modular, ~$65).
- Avoid noname power supplies - unstable voltage can damage components.
5. Pros and Cons: A Look After 8 Years
Pros:
- Low price (on the second-hand market - $30-50).
- Multi-threading thanks to SMT.
- Energy efficiency (ideal for mini-PCs).
- Upgrade potential to Ryzen 3000/5000 (with BIOS update).
Cons:
- Outdated manufacturing process (14nm vs. 5-7nm for modern CPUs).
- Weak single-threaded performance (even lags behind Ryzen 3 5300G).
- No support for PCIe 4.0/5.0, DDR5.
6. Use Cases: Years Later
Gaming
Suitable for less demanding titles (Dota 2, GTA V, Overwatch 2) paired with a GPU up to an RTX 2060. In AAA titles (Cyberpunk 2077), it may drop below 60 FPS, even on low settings.
Work Tasks
- Office applications, browsing: perfect.
- Video editing/3D rendering: tolerable for short clips, but be prepared for long renders.
Multimedia
Streaming at 720p (OBS + x264) is possible, but CPU load will be 80-90%.
7. Comparison with Competitors
Intel Core i5-7400 (2017):
- 4 cores/4 threads, Single-Core ~950 (Geekbench 6).
- No SMT, performs worse in multitasking. Price on the second-hand market: ~$40.
Ryzen 5 3400G (2019):
- 4 cores/8 threads + Vega 11 iGPU.
- Higher IPC, PCIe 3.0 support. Price: $80-100 (new leftovers).
Conclusion: The Ryzen 5 1400 outperforms Intel's 7th generation in multi-threading but lags behind newer APUs.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
- Motherboard: Look for B350/X370 with warranty or in good condition.
- Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for overclocking, consider a DeepCool Gammaxx 400 (~$20).
- Graphics Card: No higher than RTX 3060/RX 6600 – the CPU will become a bottleneck.
- SSD: Make sure it's NVMe (e.g., Kingston NV2 500 GB, ~$35) – this will speed up OS loading and operation.
9. Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider the Ryzen 5 1400 in 2025?
This processor is worth considering for:
1. Budget Users: Building a PC for $200-300 for office or study purposes.
2. Enthusiasts: Experimenting with overclocking on older platforms.
3. AM4 Owners: A temporary upgrade before transitioning to Ryzen 5000.
Why not? If you need modern performance in gaming or work tasks, look toward Ryzen 5 5500 (6 cores, $120) or the Intel Core i3-12100F ($90).
Conclusion
The Ryzen 5 1400 in 2025 is a relic, but not yet a museum exhibit. It finds its niche where saving money matters more than speed. The key is to select the right components and not to expect miracles from it.