Intel Celeron J4025
Intel Celeron J4025: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
(Updated: April 2025)
Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
The Intel Celeron J4025 processor, released in 2020, remains a niche solution for ultra-budget systems. Its Gemini Lake Refresh architecture is built on an outdated 14nm manufacturing process, which explains its low performance and energy efficiency by 2025 standards.
Key Parameters:
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 2 threads (no Hyper-Threading support).
- Frequencies: Base - 2.0 GHz, maximum turbo frequency - 2.9 GHz (activated only under single-core load).
- Cache: 4 MB L2 cache (L3 is absent).
- Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 600 with a base frequency of 250 MHz and a maximum of 700 MHz.
- TDP: 10W.
Performance:
Geekbench 6 tests show modest results: 395 points in single-threaded mode and 675 in multi-threaded mode. In comparison, modern budget processors in 2025 (e.g., Intel N100) demonstrate performance that is 2-3 times higher.
Features:
- Energy Efficiency: Ideal for passive cooling.
- 4K Support: Integrated graphics handle H.265/VP9 video decoding.
- Compactness: Often integrated into mini-PCs and thin clients.
Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets
The Celeron J4025 uses a soldered BGA socket, meaning the processor is soldered onto the motherboard during manufacturing. This limits the choice of motherboards—they are only available as part of complete systems.
Examples of Compatible Solutions:
- ASRock J4025-ITX: Mini-ITX board with two SO-DIMM DDR4 slots, SATA, and M.2. Price in 2025 is around $70-90 (as part of complete systems).
- Motherboards from Mini-PC Manufacturers: For example, Beelink or Chuwi frequently use the J4025 in their budget models.
Chipsets: Gemini Lake Refresh works with the Intel Series 6 chipset (e.g., H610E), which supports up to 8 PCIe 2.0 lanes, USB 3.1 Gen 1, and SATA III.
Tip: When choosing a complete system, pay attention to the presence of HDMI 2.0, USB-C, and M.2 for upgrades.
Supported Memory
The Celeron J4025 operates with DDR4-2400 MHz in dual-channel mode (officially supports up to 8 GB, but in practice can use 16 GB).
Important:
- Memory type DDR5 or LPDDR4X is not supported.
- For optimal performance, use two SO-DIMM modules (e.g., 2x4 GB).
Example Configuration:
- Kingston ValueRAM DDR4-2400 8 GB (2x4 GB) — around $25-30.
Power Supply Recommendations
With a TDP of 10W, the processor consumes minimal power. Even as part of a complete system (SSD, 8 GB RAM, Wi-Fi), power consumption rarely exceeds 20-25W.
Tips:
- For mini-PCs: A 40-65W adapter is sufficient (e.g., from Xiaomi or Cooler Master).
- For custom builds: A power supply of 150-200W (e.g., Be Quiet! SFX Power 3 200W — $45).
Real Experience: Users note that J4025 systems successfully run from car inverters or power banks with PD support.
Pros and Cons of Celeron J4025
Pros:
- Price: Complete mini-PCs based on J4025 range from $120-170 (e.g., Beelink U59).
- Quiet Operation: No fans.
- Energy Saving: Suitable for 24/7 operation (e.g., home server).
Cons:
- Weak Performance: Struggles with 10+ browser tabs open.
- No Upgrade Options: Cannot replace the processor.
- Outdated Interfaces: Lacks PCIe 4.0, Thunderbolt support.
Use Cases
1. Office Tasks:
- Working with documents, Zoom, email.
- Example: An office PC based on ASUS PN40-J4025 (price — $150) handles LibreOffice but lags when running Excel and a browser simultaneously.
2. Multimedia:
- Watching 4K on YouTube (via hardware decoding).
- Limitation: Cannot stream Twitch in 1080p.
3. Simple IoT Devices:
- Digital signage, payment terminals.
4. Not for Gaming:
- CS:GO — 15-20 FPS on low settings.
Comparison with Competitors
1. AMD Athlon Silver 3050e (2020):
- 2 cores/2 threads, 6W TDP, Vega 3 GPU.
- Better in multitasking (+15% in Geekbench 6 Multi) but more expensive ($180 for systems).
2. Intel N100 (Alder Lake-N, 2023):
- 4 cores/4 threads, 6W TDP, UHD Graphics 24 EU.
- 2.5 times faster in tests; mini-PC price starts from $200.
3. Raspberry Pi 5 (ARM, 2023):
- Cheaper ($80 for a kit) but weaker in x86 tasks.
Conclusion: The Celeron J4025 is only advantageous when the budget is below $150.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. Choose SSD: Even a SATA SSD (e.g., Kingston A400 240 GB — $20) will speed up the system.
2. Don't Skimp on Memory: 8 GB DDR4 is the minimum for Windows 11.
3. Cooling: A passive heatsink is sufficient.
4. Operating System: Better to use Linux (Lubuntu) or Windows 10 LTSC.
Example Build:
- Mini-PC Beelink J45: $130 (J4025, 8 GB, 256 GB SSD).
- Monitor: 19" Dell E1916H (used — $40).
Final Conclusion: Who is the Celeron J4025 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who need:
- An inexpensive device for basic tasks (e-book, note-taking server).
- An energy-efficient system running 24/7 (e.g., home NAS with 1-2 disks).
- A digital display in a store or office.
Why You Shouldn't Buy:
If you plan to work in Photoshop, watch Netflix in 4K HDR, or run modern applications — even budget solutions of 2025 (e.g., Intel N200) will be significantly better.
Final Recommendation: Purchase systems based on the J4025 only when strictly limited by budget or for very specialized tasks. In 2025, this processor is more of a relic than a viable solution.