AMD Ryzen 5 7520U vs Ryzen 5 40: One Processor with Two Names

AMD Ryzen 5 40 looks like a new model, but there is no technical update here. It uses the same Mendocino die, four Zen 2 cores, and integrated Radeon 610M graphics as the Ryzen 5 7520U.

AMD changed the processor designation while keeping its specifications and performance. Therefore, it is necessary to compare the laptops in which they are installed, not the chips themselves.

Key Differences

The architecture, core count, frequencies, cache, power consumption, memory support, and integrated graphics are the same. The Ryzen 5 40 is neither a new revision nor an upgraded version of the Ryzen 5 7520U.

Why the Name Changed

The Ryzen 5 7520U was released as part of the budget mobile Ryzen 7020 series. Later, AMD reintroduced the same processor in the catalog under the shorter designation Ryzen 5 40.

The new name may create the impression of a fresh model; however, the hardware foundation remains the same. The processor still uses the Zen 2 architecture and the capabilities of the Mendocino platform.

CPU Performance

Both processors feature four Zen 2 cores with support for eight threads. The base frequency is 2.8 GHz, with a maximum of 4.3 GHz. L3 cache size is 4 MB, and the standard TDP is set at 15 W.

This is sufficient for browsing, office applications, video calls, video playback, and moderate multitasking. However, four Zen 2 cores are already at the entry-level. In tasks like video editing, rendering, compiling, and working with heavy applications, both chips noticeably lag behind newer mobile processors.

Differences between specific laptops may arise due to cooling, power limits, SSD speed, and background software. Under the same conditions, the Ryzen 5 7520U and Ryzen 5 40 show identical performance.

Radeon 610M - The Main Limitation

Both processors come with integrated Radeon 610M graphics based on the RDNA 2 architecture. It contains only two compute units and operates at frequencies of up to 1.9 GHz.

It is adequate for the Windows interface, video playback, browser games, and older projects. In modern games, it will be necessary to lower the resolution and graphics quality, and demanding projects often remain beyond a comfortable frame rate.

In gaming, there is no difference between the Ryzen 5 7520U and Ryzen 5 40: in both cases, performance is limited by the Radeon 610M. The new name did not bring additional compute units or increased frequencies.

For significantly faster integrated graphics, it’s better to look for laptops with Radeon 660M, Radeon 680M, Radeon 740M, or more modern solutions.

Which Laptop to Choose

Both processors are commonly found in budget laptops with 8 or 16 GB of LPDDR5-5500 memory. This memory is often soldered to the motherboard, making it impossible to upgrade after purchase.

A version with the Ryzen 5 7520U and 16 GB of memory will be more practical than a laptop with the Ryzen 5 40 and 8 GB. Additional RAM has a greater impact on multitasking and the longevity of the device than the new processor designation.

When choosing, it’s worth comparing:

• price;
• amount of RAM;
• screen quality;
• battery life;
• cooling system;
• SSD upgradeability.

It makes no sense to overpay for the Ryzen 5 40 with identical specifications. If the laptop with the Ryzen 5 7520U is cheaper, it will be the more rational choice.

Conclusion

The AMD Ryzen 5 7520U and Ryzen 5 40 are one Mendocino processor under different names. The new designation has not brought any additional performance or new capabilities.

The choice should be made based on the price and specifications of the laptop. With all else being equal, the model with 16 GB of memory, a better screen, and a larger battery is preferable, regardless of which of the two names is listed in the specifications.