AMD Ryzen 5 4600G
AMD Ryzen 5 4600G: A Budget APU for Work and Multimedia in 2025
Updated: April 2025
Introduction
Even in 2025, processors with integrated graphics remain in high demand for budget builds, office PCs, and compact systems. The AMD Ryzen 5 4600G, released back in 2020, continues to impress with its stability and affordability. In this article, we will explore why it is still relevant, how to use it effectively, and who it is best suited for.
1. Key Features: Zen 2, 7nm, and Hidden Potential
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The Ryzen 5 4600G is based on the Zen 2 architecture and is manufactured using TSMC's 7nm process. While it is not the latest design (following Zen 4 and Zen 5), its performance is more than adequate for basic tasks.
- Cores and Threads: 6 cores, 12 threads.
- Cache: L2 — 3 MB, L3 — 8 MB.
- Frequencies: Base — 3.7 GHz, Boost — 4.2 GHz.
Integrated Vega Graphics
The APU is equipped with Radeon Vega graphics with 7 cores (448 stream processors) and a frequency of up to 1900 MHz. This allows for gaming at resolutions of 720p-1080p on low settings. For example, CS:2 delivers stable 40-50 FPS, while GTA V runs at around 35-45 FPS.
Performance
According to Geekbench 6 tests:
- Single-core score: 1570 points.
- Multi-core score: 6129 points.
For comparison, the Ryzen 5 5600G (Zen 3) scores ~1650/6800 points but is priced $40-50 higher.
2. Compatible Motherboards: AM4 is Still Alive
The processor uses the AM4 socket, which by 2025 is somewhat outdated (with the release of AM5), but remains popular due to the low cost of components.
Recommended Chipsets
- B550: The best choice. Supports PCIe 4.0 (though the 4600G itself operates with PCIe 3.0) and USB 3.2 Gen 2. Examples: MSI B550-A Pro ($90-110).
- A520: A budget option without overclocking capabilities. Suitable for office PCs (ASUS Prime A520M-K — $70).
- X570: Overkill, but ideal for future-proofing (Gigabyte X570 UD — $120).
Important: Before purchasing, check if the motherboard supports Ryzen 4000G "out of the box." Some may require a BIOS update.
3. Memory: Only DDR4, But Optimized
The Ryzen 5 4600G works with DDR4, which has become its main drawback in 2025, compared to DDR5. However, this helps reduce the overall build cost:
- Recommended frequency: 3200 MHz (maximum official support).
- Mode: Must be dual-channel! 2x8 GB can yield up to a 20% performance increase in games compared to single-channel.
Example: A Kingston Fury DDR4 3200 16 GB (2x8) kit costs about $50.
4. Power Supply: Minimalism and Reliability
With a TDP of 65W, the processor is highly energy-efficient. However, if you plan to add a dedicated graphics card, choose a PSU with some overhead:
- Without discrete graphics: A 350-400W PSU is sufficient (Be Quiet! System Power 10 — $45).
- With a graphics card like the RTX 3050: 500-550W (Corsair CX550 — $60).
Tip: Don’t skimp on the PSU. Cheap models (like Apevia) can compromise the reliability of other components.
5. Pros and Cons: A Blend of Past and Present
Advantages
- Price: $120-150 for a new processor (April 2025).
- Graphics: Superior to Intel UHD 730 in Core i3-13100.
- Energy Efficiency: Ideal for mini-PCs and HTPCs.
Disadvantages
- Outdated platform: No PCIe 4.0 or DDR5 support.
- Weak single-core performance: Lags behind the Ryzen 5 5600G in gaming.
6. Usage Scenarios: Where the 4600G is Still Relevant
- Office and Education: Document handling, web browsing, Zoom meetings.
- Multimedia: Streaming video (4K via HDMI 2.0), editing in DaVinci Resolve (for 1080p videos).
- Light Gaming: Indie titles, online games (Dota 2, Fortnite).
- Servers: Due to its low TDP, it's suitable for NAS or home servers.
Real Experience: A Reddit user built a PC with the 4600G, A520, and 16 GB DDR4 for $300, using a book-sized case. The system functions as a media center and a spare gaming PC for their child.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
- Pros: Zen 3, +15% performance, PCIe 3.0.
- Cons: Price — $170-190.
- Conclusion: Opt for the 5600G if the budget allows.
Intel Core i5-12400
- Pros: Faster in single-threaded tasks, supports DDR4/DDR5.
- Cons: Integrated graphics UHD 730 is weaker.
- Conclusion: For gaming with a discrete graphics card — go for the i5; for an APU — the 4600G.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
1. Motherboard with HDMI: For instance, ASRock B550M-HDV ($85).
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quieter operation, consider the DeepCool GAMMAXX 400 ($25).
3. Storage: An NVMe SSD is a must (TeamGroup MP33 512 GB — $35).
4. Case: For compactness — Cooler Master MasterBox Q300L ($55).
9. Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider the Ryzen 5 4600G in 2025
This processor is ideal for those who:
- Are building a PC for $400-500.
- Need an "all-in-one" solution without discrete graphics.
- Are looking for a reliable option for work or a media center.
Why this one? It is cheaper than the Ryzen 5 5600G but offers 80% of its capabilities. If DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 are not necessary for you, the 4600G remains the king of the budget segment.
Price Summary (April 2025):
- Processor: $130.
- B550 Motherboard: $90.
- DDR4 Memory 16 GB: $50.
- 512 GB SSD: $35.
- 450W PSU: $45.
- Case: $55.
Total: ~$405.
Building a PC cheaper than a new Xbox? Easy!