AMD A4-6320

AMD A4-6320: Review of the Budget Processor for 2025

Current as of April 2025

Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance

The AMD A4-6320 processor, released in 2014, belongs to the APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) lineup with the codename Richland. It is built on a 32nm process technology, which is considered outdated by modern standards (2025) — most new chips use 7nm or 5nm processes. However, it is sufficient for basic tasks.

Cores and Threads:

- 2 cores / 2 threads.

- Base frequency: 3.8 GHz, Turbo Core: 4.0 GHz.

Integrated Graphics:

- Radeon HD 8370D (128 stream processors, 800 MHz).

Performance:

- Geekbench 6 (Single-Core): 398 points.

- Geekbench 6 (Multi-Core): 425 points.

Key Features:

- Supports SSE4, AVX, AES instructions.

- Built-in GPU for basic tasks.

- Low power consumption (TDP 65W).

Compatible Motherboards

Socket: FM2.

Chipsets: A55, A75, A85X.

Selection Features:

- A55 — basic option: USB 2.0, SATA II, no overclocking.

- A85X — top chipset: RAID support, SATA III, USB 3.0.

Example Models from 2025:

- ASUS A68HM-K (price: ~$55): compact form factor, HDMI output.

- Gigabyte GA-F2A88XM-D3H (~$70): 4 DDR3 slots, CPU overclocking.

Important: New FM2 motherboards are hardly produced — look for leftovers on the market or refurbished options.

Supported Memory

- Type: DDR3 (not compatible with DDR4/DDR5).

- Frequencies: Up to 1866 MHz (depending on the motherboard).

- Recommendations: 8–16 GB of dual-channel memory (e.g., 2×4 GB or 2×8 GB).

Example: Kingston HyperX Fury 16 GB (2×8 GB, 1866 MHz) — ~$45.

Power Supply Recommendations

With a TDP of 65W and no discrete graphics card, the system consumes ~100–120W under load.

Optimal PSU:

- Power: 300–400W (e.g., Corsair CV450 — ~$50).

- Certification: 80+ Bronze or higher.

Tip: If planning an upgrade (e.g., adding a graphics card), get a 500W PSU.

Pros and Cons of AMD A4-6320

Pros:

- Affordability: New processors cost ~$40–50.

- Energy Efficiency: Suitable for compact PCs.

- Integrated Graphics: Supports 4K video playback and old games.

Cons:

- Outdated Architecture: Falls behind even budget Intel Celerons from 2025.

- Limited Multitasking: 2 threads are weak for modern OS and applications.

- No DDR4/5 Support: Maximum is DDR3-1866.

Use Cases

1. Office Tasks

- Working with documents, browsers, Zoom.

- Example: A system with A4-6320 + 8 GB DDR3 + 240 GB SSD handles Microsoft Office 2025 well.

2. Multimedia

- Playback of 4K videos (with hardware acceleration).

- Limitation: Won't handle HDR or video encoding in HandBrake.

3. Gaming

- Older Titles: World of Warcraft: Wrath of the Lich King (~30–40 FPS on low settings).

- Indie Games: Stardew Valley, Terraria — runs comfortably.

Comparison with Rivals

Intel Pentium G3420 (Haswell, 2013)

- 2 cores / 2 threads, 3.2 GHz.

- Geekbench 6: Single-Core ~350, Multi-Core ~380.

- Conclusion: A4-6320 wins in frequency and graphics.

AMD Athlon 3000G (Zen, 2019)

- 2 cores / 4 threads, Vega 3 GPU.

- Geekbench 6: Single-Core ~750, Multi-Core ~1500.

- Conclusion: Athlon 3000G is twice as powerful but costs ~$70 (new).

Practical Build Tips

1. SSD is Essential: Kingston A400 240 GB (~$30) will speed up the system.

2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quiet operation, consider the Deepcool GAMMAXX 200T (~$20).

3. Graphics Card: It's better not to install one — the CPU will become a bottleneck.

4. Case: Micro-ATX with good ventilation (e.g., Thermaltake Versa H15 — ~$40).

Overall Verdict: Who Is the A4-6320 For?

This processor is suitable for:

- Budget Users: Building a PC for internet and office use for ~$150–200.

- Retro Computer Enthusiasts: Running older games and OS (Windows XP/7).

- Backup Systems: For example, a home file server.

Why Not to Buy in 2025:

If you need to run modern applications or games — even budget Intel Celeron N or AMD Athlon 3000G will be better. However, as a "digital typewriter," the A4-6320 is still relevant.

Prices are for new components as of April 2025.