AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G with Radeon Vega 11 Graphics
AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G with Radeon Vega 11 Graphics: Review and Practical Tips for 2025
Introduction
Despite being released back in 2018, the AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G with Radeon Vega 11 Graphics remains a popular choice for budget PCs in 2025. This hybrid processor (APU) combines 4 cores of Zen architecture with powerful integrated graphics, making it a versatile solution for basic tasks. However, in the era of 5nm chips and DDR5, is it worth considering? Let's delve into the details.
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
Zen Architecture and 14nm Process Technology
The Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G is built on the first generation Zen architecture (2017) and a 14nm FinFET process technology. This means:
- 4 cores / 8 threads with a base frequency of 3.6 GHz (turbo up to 3.9 GHz).
- Integrated Vega 11 graphics with 11 compute units (704 stream processors) and a clock speed of up to 1250 MHz.
- 4MB L3 cache and a TDP of 65W.
By 2025, the 14nm process technology seems outdated compared to the 5nm Ryzen 8000 series, but its energy efficiency (65W) and low cost remain relevant.
Performance: Geekbench 6 Benchmarks
- Single-Core: 1089 points — comparable to Intel Core i5-7600K (2016).
- Multi-Core: 3220 points — similar to Ryzen 3 3300X (2020).
For everyday tasks (office applications, browsing, 1080p video), this performance is sufficient. Vega 11 can handle light gaming: for example, in CS:GO on low settings — 60-80 FPS, Fortnite — 30-40 FPS.
Key Features
- SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading) — 8 threads for multitasking.
- AMD SenseMI — adaptive power and frequency management.
- Virtualization support — useful for developers and testers.
2. Compatible Motherboards
AM4 Socket: A Proven Platform
The processor uses the AM4 socket, providing access to a variety of motherboards based on different chipsets:
- A320 / B350 / X370 — basic models (A320 does not support overclocking).
- B450 / X470 — the optimal choice with support for PCIe 3.0 and overclocking (e.g., MSI B450 Tomahawk).
In 2025, new AM4 boards are rarely found, but options can be found on the secondary market for $60-100 (ASRock B450M Pro4, Gigabyte X470 AORUS Ultra).
Important!
- Update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version for compatibility.
- To enable XMP memory profiles, choose boards with four DDR4 slots.
3. Supported Memory: DDR4 and Dual Channel
The Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G only works with DDR4:
- Official support: up to 2933 MHz.
- In practice: overclocking up to 3200-3400 MHz (depends on memory chips).
Recommendations:
- Use two modules for dual channel operation (e.g., 2x8 GB). This will increase the performance of Vega 11 by 20-30%.
- Popular kits: Kingston HyperX Fury 3200 MHz ($45 for 16 GB) or Crucial Ballistix 3000 MHz ($40).
DDR5 and LPDDR5 are not supported — this is the main limitation for upgrades.
4. Power Supplies: Balancing Power and Reliability
With a TDP of 65W, the processor does not require a powerful PSU, but it is important to consider:
- Minimum: 300W — for systems without a discrete graphics card.
- Recommended: 450-500W — if planning to add a GPU like the NVIDIA GTX 1660 ($180 in 2025).
Examples of PSUs:
- EVGA 450 BR (80+ Bronze, $50).
- Corsair CX550M (semi-modular, $70).
Do not skimp on the power supply: low-quality models can shorten the lifespan of components.
5. Pros and Cons
Pros
- Integrated Vega 11 graphics — no need for a discrete graphics card for basic tasks.
- Low power consumption — ideal for compact PCs and HTPCs.
- Price — a new processor costs $100-120 (in 2025), which is cheaper than modern APUs.
Cons
- Outdated process technology — heating under load (it is recommended to use a cooler better than the stock one).
- Limited gaming performance — modern AAA titles on low settings yield less than 30 FPS.
- No PCIe 4.0/5.0 — speeds of NVMe drives are limited.
6. Use Scenarios
Office and Multimedia
- Document work, browsing (+20 tabs), Zoom conferences.
- Watching 4K video via YouTube or local files (hardware VP9 decoding).
Light Gaming
- Games up to 2018: GTA V, Overwatch, Dota 2 (on medium settings).
- Emulators: RPCS3 (Persona 5) — 30-40 FPS, Yuzu (The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild) — 25-30 FPS.
Home Server or NAS
- Virtualization (Proxmox, VMware) thanks to AMD-V support.
- Energy efficiency reduces electricity costs.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD Ryzen 5 5600G (2021)
- Price: $150 (new).
- Advantages: Zen 3 (6 cores), 7nm process, Vega 7 (15-20% better performance).
- Conclusion: The best choice if the budget allows.
Intel Core i3-12100 (2022)
- Price: $130.
- Advantages: Single-Core 1800+ points, support for DDR4/DDR5.
- Disadvantage: Integrated UHD 730 graphics are weaker than Vega 11.
Conclusion
The Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G wins only when the budget is limited ($300-400 for the whole build) or if integrated graphics comparable to a GT 1030 are needed.
8. Practical Build Tips
Budget System (without GPU)
- Motherboard: ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 ($70).
- Memory: Patriot Viper 2x8 GB 3200 MHz ($50).
- Storage: Kingston NV2 500 GB (PCIe 3.0, $35).
- PSU: EVGA 450 BR ($50).
- Case: Cooler Master Q300L ($60).
- Total Cost: ~$365.
With Upgrade Options
- Add a 550W PSU and a case with good ventilation.
- Choose a motherboard with PCIe 3.0 x16 and M.2 slots.
9. Final Conclusion: Who is the Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G Suitable For?
This processor should be considered if:
- You need a PC for office or study — minimal costs, maximum reliability.
- The goal is an HTPC — 4K support, quiet operation.
- The budget is limited to $300-400 — an alternative to used gaming PCs.
Why not?
If you plan to work with 3D rendering, edit 4K video, or play modern titles — it is better to add $100-150 and get a Ryzen 5 5600G or Intel Core i3-13100.
Conclusion
As of 2025, the Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G is a "workhorse" for less demanding tasks. It may lag behind modern counterparts, but it remains a cost-effective option for those who value the balance of price and functionality. The key is to properly select compatible components and not have unrealistic expectations from the system.