AMD Z-60
AMD Z-60 (Hondo): Processor for Ultraportable Devices – Overview and Practical Tips for 2025
Introduction
In an era where thin laptops and hybrid devices dominate the market, even outdated processors can find their niche. The AMD Z-60, released under the codename Hondo, is an example of a chip designed for compact gadgets with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Despite its architecture seeming archaic in 2025, it remains relevant in certain scenarios. Let’s explore who should pay attention to devices with this CPU and what compromises they will need to accept.
1. Architecture and Technology Process: Balancing the Past and Future
40 nm Process: Why Does It Matter?
The AMD Z-60 is manufactured using a 40 nm technology standard, which is considered outdated by 2025. Modern processors (like the AMD Ryzen 5 8640U or Intel Core Ultra 5 125U) utilize 3–5 nm processes, resulting in greater transistor density and lower heat generation. However, in 2012 (when the Z-60 debuted), 40 nm was a standard for budget solutions.
Cores, Threads, and Clock Speeds
- 2 Cores / 2 Threads: The lack of Hyper-Threading or SMT limits multitasking capabilities.
- Clock Speed: 1.0–1.4 GHz (no turbo mode).
- Cache: 1 MB L2.
Integrated Graphics Radeon HD 6250
The GPU is based on the TeraScale 2 architecture, supports DirectX 11, and resolutions up to 1080p. However, by 2025, it can only handle:
- Basic video playback (YouTube, Netflix).
- Office applications.
- 2010s-level games on low settings (like Counter-Strike: Source or League of Legends).
2. TDP 5W: Energy Efficiency as a Key Advantage
A TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 5W enables passive cooling, making devices with the Z-60 silent and compact. For comparison:
- The modern Intel Core Ultra 5 125U (15W) requires a fan.
- The Apple M3 in the MacBook Air (5–10W) demonstrates 3–4 times greater performance with a similar TDP.
Power-Saving Technologies
- AMD PowerNow!: Dynamic frequency and voltage management.
- CoolCore: Disabling unused CPU blocks.
3. Performance: Realistic Expectations
Office Tasks
- Examples: Working in Google Docs, Excel, browsing with 5–7 tabs.
- Results: Lag when running Zoom and Slack simultaneously.
Multimedia
- Video: Smooth 1080p (H.264) streaming; 4K is not supported.
- Audio: No issues.
Gaming
- Playable: Minecraft (30 FPS on low settings), Stardew Valley.
- Not Feasible: Fortnite, GTA V.
Turbo Mode: Absent. The processor operates at a fixed frequency, which stabilizes power consumption.
4. Use Cases: Who is the Z-60 Made For?
- Ultrabudget Laptops: Devices priced at $150–$250 (like HP Stream 11 or ASUS EeeBook).
- Specialized Gadgets: Hotel terminals, medical tablets.
- Education: School laptops designed for text work and browsing.
Who Should Avoid It:
- Freelancers working with graphics.
- Gamers.
- Programmers compiling code.
5. Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours?
With a battery capacity of 40–45 Wh (like in the ASUS X101CH), the Z-60 delivers:
- 8–10 hours of web surfing (Wi-Fi, brightness at 50%).
- 6–7 hours of video playback.
Factors Reducing Battery Life:
- Aging batteries in used devices.
- HDD instead of SSD (unless replaced).
6. Comparison with Competitors: Who's Leading?
AMD A4-5000 (Kabini):
- 4 cores, 15W TDP.
- Better for multitasking, but with lower battery life.
Intel Atom Z2760 (Clover Trail):
- Comparable performance, worse graphics.
Apple A7 (2013):
- Higher IPC (instructions per cycle), optimized for iOS.
In 2025:
- MediaTek Kompanio 820: ARM chip for Chromebook (4 cores, 5W, 4K support).
- Intel N100: 6W, 4 cores, modern 7nm process.
7. Advantages and Disadvantages
Strengths:
- Affordability of devices (new models starting at $200).
- Passive cooling.
- Compatibility with Windows 10/11 (limited).
Weaknesses:
- No support for USB 3.2, Wi-Fi 6.
- Weak upgrade potential: max 4–8 GB RAM, eMMC storage.
8. Laptop Selection Tips
What to Look For in 2025:
- SSD instead of eMMC: Even a 128 GB SATA SSD will speed up the system.
- Display: IPS panel with 1366x768 resolution as a minimum.
- Ports: USB-C with charging support.
Examples of Relevant Alternatives:
- Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3i (Intel N100, $299).
- HP Chromebook 14a (MediaTek Kompanio 820, $279).
9. Final Conclusion: Is It Worth Buying in 2025?
The AMD Z-60 is a processor for a very narrow range of users:
- For Whom: Those needing an inexpensive device for reading, mail, and Zoom without demanding speed.
- Key Benefits: Price, quiet operation, ease of repair.
Alternative: If the budget allows for $300–400, it's better to choose a modern Chromebook or a laptop with Intel N100—these will last longer and will not disappoint in terms of speed.
Final Advice: Purchase devices with the Z-60 only as a temporary solution or for specific tasks. By 2025, even the budget segment offers much more advantageous options.