AMD Athlon 3000G

AMD Athlon 3000G: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025

Overview of Capabilities, Compatibility, and Practical Applications

Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance

Code Name and Process Technology

The AMD Athlon 3000G, released in 2019, is based on the Zen (1st generation) microarchitecture and manufactured using a 14nm process technology. Despite its age, it remains popular in the budget segment in 2025 due to its low power consumption (TDP 35W) and integrated Radeon Vega 3 graphics. The code name Picasso indicates its belonging to the APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) line, designed for multimedia tasks.

Cores, Threads, and Cache

- 2 Cores / 4 Threads: Thanks to SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading) technology, the processor can handle up to 4 tasks simultaneously.

- Cache Memory: 4MB L3 cache, which is sufficient for simple applications, but may be limited for heavy workloads.

- Base Frequency: 3.5 GHz, without Turbo Boost support.

Integrated Graphics

The Radeon Vega 3 features 3 compute units (192 shader processors) and a frequency of up to 1100 MHz. This is enough for 4K video playback, light gaming (such as Minecraft or Dota 2 at low settings), and office applications.

Performance in Benchmarks

- Geekbench 6: 956 (single-core), 1970 (multi-core). For comparison, modern Ryzen 3 processors of 2025 show 1500+ in single-core tests.

- Cinebench R23: 1800 points (multi-core).

Key Features

- Low price ($50-60 in 2025).

- Support for Precision Boost technology for stable operation.

- Unlocked multiplier (overclocking possible on some motherboards).

Compatible Motherboards: Sockets and Chipsets

AM4 Socket

The Athlon 3000G uses the AM4 socket, compatible with motherboards based on the following chipsets:

- A320: Budget option without overclocking (e.g. ASUS Prime A320M-K, ~$60).

- B450/B550: Support for PCIe 4.0 (in B550), CPU and memory overclocking (MSI B450 Tomahawk Max, ~$90).

- X470/X570: For enthusiasts, excessive for this processor.

Selection Features

- BIOS Update: Boards released before 2019 may require a firmware update.

- Form Factor: Micro-ATX models (like Gigabyte GA-A320M-S2H) are suitable for compact builds.

- Ports: Check for HDMI/DVI ports to connect a monitor via integrated graphics.

Supported Memory: DDR4 and Optimization

Types and Frequencies

The processor works with DDR4 memory in dual-channel mode. Supported frequencies:

- Officially: up to 2666 MHz.

- With overclocking: up to 3200 MHz (depends on the motherboard).

Recommendations

- Use two modules (e.g., 2x4 GB) to enable dual-channel mode — this will improve Vega 3 graphics performance by 15-20%.

- Optimal capacity: 8-16 GB. For Windows 11 and basic tasks, 8 GB will suffice.

Power Supplies: Calculation and Recommendations

Power Consumption

With a TDP of 35W, even under load, a system with an Athlon 3000G rarely consumes more than 80-100W (including the motherboard, SSD, and memory).

Power Supply Selection

- Minimum Power: 300W (e.g., EVGA 300 BR, ~$40).

- With Upgrade Margin: 450-500W (Corsair CX450, ~$60).

Tips

- Don’t skimp on the power supply — low-quality models can damage components.

- Compact power supplies are suitable for passive cooling in Mini-ITX cases.

Pros and Cons of the Athlon 3000G

Advantages

- Price: One of the most affordable processors with integrated graphics.

- Energy Efficiency: Ideal for HTPC or office PCs running all day.

- Ease of Assembly: Doesn’t require powerful cooling (a stock cooler is sufficient).

Disadvantages

- 2 Cores: Multitasking is limited — launching a browser with 20 tabs and background applications may cause stuttering.

- Outdated Architecture: Lags behind modern Celeron and Pentium Gold in single-core performance.

- Limited Upgrade Path: On AM4 socket, it's better to consider Ryzen 3/5 right away.

Usage Scenarios: What This Processor is Suitable For

Office Tasks

- Working with documents, video conferencing, browsing.

- Example: A build based on Athlon 3000G, 8 GB DDR4, and 256 GB SSD can handle Microsoft Office and 10+ Chrome tabs.

Multimedia

- Watching 4K videos (via HDMI 2.0), streaming Netflix.

- Connecting to a TV as an HTPC.

Light Gaming

- CS:GO: 40-50 FPS on low settings (720p).

- GTA V: 25-30 FPS (720p, minimum settings).

Comparison with Competitors

Intel Pentium Gold G6405 (2025 price: ~$70)

- Pros: Better single-core performance (Geekbench 6 ~1100), supports DDR4-2666.

- Cons: Integrated UHD 610 graphics is weaker than Vega 3, higher price.

AMD Ryzen 3 3200G (price: ~$80)

- Pros: 4 cores/4 threads, Vega 8 (twice as powerful), overclocking potential.

- Cons: TDP 65W, requires a more expensive cooler.

Practical Building Tips

1. SSD is Mandatory: An HDD will bottleneck even this processor.

2. Dual-channel Memory: 2x4 GB DDR4-2666 will boost performance in games.

3. Ventilated Case: Even a 35W processor heats up in enclosed cases.

4. Upgrades: Choose a motherboard with PCIe 4.0 (B550) for future Ryzen 5 installations.

Final Conclusion: Who Is the Athlon 3000G Suitable For?

This processor is an option for those who need:

- A budget PC for office or study (up to $300 for the entire build).

- A media center for connecting to a TV.

- A backup system or a computer for elderly users.

Why in 2025? Despite its age, the Athlon 3000G remains a cost-effective option due to its low price and minimal cooling requirements. However, for gaming or graphics work, it is better to pay extra for a Ryzen 3 or Intel Core i3.

This article is relevant as of April 2025. Prices are for new devices in U.S. retail stores.