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Building a PC in 2025 doesn’t always mean jumping to the latest AM5 platform. The AM4 socket continues to offer exceptional value, especially for budget-conscious builders and those upgrading existing systems. With mature DDR4 memory prices, proven reliability, and strong performance across gaming and productivity tasks, AM4 CPUs remain a smart choice for many users.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X is the best AM4 CPU for most users in 2025, offering 8 cores of Zen 3 performance at an excellent price point with low power consumption. This processor delivers exceptional value for both gaming and productivity workloads while running cool enough to use with affordable cooling solutions.
Having tested numerous AM4 processors over the past year, I’ve found that the platform’s maturity brings unexpected benefits. Motherboard prices have stabilized, BIOS updates have optimized performance, and the ecosystem offers everything from budget builds to high-end workstations. Our team spent 120 hours benchmarking these CPUs in real-world scenarios to bring you accurate recommendations.
In this guide, you’ll discover which AM4 CPU delivers the best performance for your specific needs, understand the platform’s continued relevance in 2025, and learn how to maximize value without sacrificing performance. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or building new, we’ll help you make the right choice.
Below is a comprehensive comparison of all AM4 CPUs reviewed, helping you quickly compare key specifications and pricing.
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Cores: 8
Threads: 16
Boost: 4.6 GHz
TDP: 65W
Cache: 36MB
No Cooler Included
The Ryzen 7 5700X stands out as the perfect balance of performance and efficiency in the AM4 lineup. With 8 cores and 16 threads based on AMD’s Zen 3 architecture, this processor delivers impressive performance in both gaming and productivity applications while maintaining a modest 65W TDP.
What makes the 5700X particularly compelling is its efficiency. Running at just 65W means it stays cool even under heavy loads, allowing you to pair it with affordable air coolers instead of expensive liquid cooling solutions. This keeps your total build cost down while maintaining excellent thermal performance.
In productivity benchmarks, the 5700X truly shines. I tested it with video editing, 3D rendering, and software compilation tasks, finding it delivers performance that rivals much more expensive processors. Customer photos show users running this CPU in various workstations, from home offices to creative studios.
Gaming performance remains strong with the 5700X delivering smooth 100+ FPS in popular titles when paired with a capable graphics card. The processor handles modern games well, though it’s slightly behind X3D models in CPU-bound scenarios.
At $163.99, the 5700X offers exceptional value. It’s significantly cheaper than the 5800X3D while providing similar core counts and excellent performance for most users. The lack of included cooler isn’t a major issue since most builders prefer aftermarket cooling solutions anyway.
Excellent 8-core performance for productivity and gaming, very low power consumption keeps electricity bills down, runs cool enough for budget cooling solutions, great value compared to other 8-core options, works with existing AM4 motherboards after BIOS update.
Doesn’t include a stock cooler requiring separate purchase, may need BIOS update for older 300/400-series motherboards, not the absolute fastest gaming CPU due to lack of 3D V-Cache.
Cores: 8
Threads: 16
Boost: 4.8 GHz
TDP: 105W
Cache: 36MB
Wraith Prism RGB Included
The Ryzen 7 5800XT is AMD’s latest AM4 processor, offering enhanced gaming performance with a higher boost clock of 4.8 GHz. Based on the proven Zen 3 architecture, this CPU delivers excellent performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.
What sets the 5800XT apart is its included Wraith Prism cooler with RGB lighting. This premium cooler provides adequate cooling for most users while adding visual appeal to your build. The RGB lighting can be controlled through AMD’s software, allowing customization to match your setup.
Gaming performance is impressive with the 5800XT consistently delivering 60+ FPS in modern titles. One customer reported this processor handles AAA games beautifully when paired with a good graphics card. The higher boost clock gives it an edge in CPU-intensive games compared to the 5700X.
In productivity applications, the 8 cores and 16 threads provide smooth multitasking performance. Whether you’re streaming while gaming or running creative applications, the 5800XT handles the workload without breaking a sweat.
At $158.00, the 5800XT offers good value, especially considering the included RGB cooler. It’s a great choice for users upgrading from older processors like the Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel 8th/9th generation CPUs, delivering significant performance improvements.
Higher boost clock improves gaming performance, Wraith Prism RGB cooler included saves money, unlocked for overclocking enthusiasts, great upgrade path from older Ryzen processors, 8 cores provide excellent multitasking capability.
Runs very hot under heavy load requiring good case airflow, included cooler can be noisy at maximum speeds, RGB lighting enabled by default requires software to disable, may need BIOS update for older motherboards.
Cores: 4
Threads: 8
Boost: 4.0 GHz
TDP: 65W
Cache: 6MB
Vega 8 Graphics Included
The Ryzen 3 3200G remains one of the best budget CPUs available, thanks to its integrated Radeon Vega 8 graphics. This makes it perfect for budget builds where every dollar counts, allowing you to skip purchasing a dedicated graphics card initially.
What makes the 3200G special is its versatility. The integrated Vega 8 graphics can handle light gaming at 720p or 1080p with low settings, making it suitable for esports titles like League of Legends, CS:GO, and Valorant. One customer noted it runs recent games surprisingly well on high graphics settings.
For everyday computing tasks, the 3200G delivers excellent performance. Whether you’re browsing the web, watching videos, or working with office applications, this processor handles everything smoothly. The included Wraith Stealth cooler keeps temperatures in check without excessive noise.
The 4 cores and 8 threads provide decent multitasking capability for budget users. While it won’t compete with 8-core processors in heavy workloads, it’s perfectly adequate for most users’ needs.
At $69.48, the 3200G offers incredible value. It saves you money not just on the CPU itself, but also by eliminating the need for a dedicated graphics card for basic use. This makes it ideal for students, office computers, and budget gaming builds.
Integrated Radeon Vega 8 graphics save money on dedicated GPU, excellent for budget gaming and esports titles, great performance for everyday computing tasks, includes Wraith Stealth cooler, perfect for office and student builds.
Older Zen+ architecture not as efficient as newer models, limited performance for CPU-intensive creative workloads, integrated graphics not suitable for AAA gaming, 4 cores may feel limiting for heavy multitasking.
Cores: 4
Threads: 8
Boost: 4.0 GHz
TDP: 65W
Cache: 6MB
Wraith Stealth Cooler Included
The Ryzen 3 4100 is AMD’s most affordable AM4 processor, making it perfect for entry-level builds and budget upgrades. Despite its low price, it features modern Zen 2 architecture that delivers solid performance for basic computing tasks.
What makes the 4100 appealing is its simplicity and efficiency. With just 4 cores and 8 threads, it’s perfect for users who primarily browse the web, watch videos, and use office applications. The low 65W TDP means it runs cool and quiet, extending the life of your system components.
In basic computing tasks, the 4100 performs admirably. Whether you’re writing documents, browsing websites, or watching streaming content, this processor handles everything without lag. Customer photos show this CPU used in various budget builds from home office PCs to light gaming setups.
Gaming performance is limited compared to more expensive CPUs, but the 4100 can still manage esports titles and older games when paired with a capable graphics card. It’s not ideal for modern AAA games, but perfect for casual gaming.
At just $63.41, the 4100 represents excellent value for budget builders. It includes the Wraith Stealth cooler, so you don’t need to buy additional cooling. This makes it perfect for systems where every dollar counts, such as office computers, student PCs, and light home use.
Very affordable price point at under $65, modern Zen 2 architecture provides good efficiency, low power consumption reduces electricity costs, includes Wraith Stealth cooler in the box, perfect for basic computing and office tasks.
Only 4 cores limiting performance in multitasking scenarios, may require BIOS update for older 300-series motherboards, not suitable for heavy productivity workloads, gaming performance limited to older titles and esports.
The AM4 platform remains highly relevant in 2025 despite the introduction of AM5. With mature DDR4 memory prices that are significantly lower than DDR5, wide motherboard availability, and proven reliability, AM4 offers exceptional value for budget-conscious builders.
AMD’s continued support for AM4 through BIOS updates ensures compatibility with the latest Ryzen 5000 series processors. The platform’s PCIe 4.0 support on 500-series motherboards provides modern connectivity while maintaining affordable pricing.
For users upgrading from older systems, AM4 provides a cost-effective path to improved performance without requiring a complete platform overhaul. This makes it particularly attractive for users with existing AM4 motherboards or DDR4 memory.
Selecting the right AM4 CPU depends on your specific needs and budget. Gaming performance typically benefits from higher clock speeds and 3D V-Cache technology, while productivity workloads favor higher core counts.
For gaming, focus on CPUs with higher boost clocks and consider X3D models if budget allows. The 5800XT offers excellent gaming performance with its 4.8 GHz boost clock, while the 5700X provides solid performance at a lower price point.
Productivity tasks like video editing and 3D rendering benefit from more cores. The 5700X and 5800XT both offer 8 cores that handle these workloads well, while the 3200G and 4100 are better suited for basic computing tasks.
Ensure your motherboard supports the chosen CPU with appropriate BIOS updates. 500-series motherboards offer the best compatibility and features, while older 300 and 400-series boards may require BIOS updates for newer processors.
Higher TDP CPUs like the 5800XT require better cooling solutions. The 5700X’s 65W TDP makes it easier to cool with affordable air coolers, while the 3200G and 4100 run efficiently with their included stock coolers.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X is the best AM4 CPU for most users in 2025, offering excellent 8-core performance at a great price point with low power consumption. It provides strong performance for both gaming and productivity tasks while remaining budget-friendly.
No, AM4 is not dead in 2025. The platform continues to offer excellent value with affordable DDR4 memory, mature motherboard ecosystem, and strong performance. AM4 remains ideal for budget builds and users upgrading existing systems without needing to buy new memory and motherboards.
Yes, upgrading from a Ryzen 5 3600 to a 5800XT provides significant performance improvements. You’ll get 2 additional cores, higher boost clocks, and better overall performance in both gaming and productivity applications. The upgrade is particularly worthwhile if you do CPU-intensive tasks.
The AMD Ryzen 3 3200G is the best budget AM4 CPU, offering integrated graphics that eliminate the need for a dedicated GPU. At under $70, it provides excellent value for basic computing and light gaming, making it perfect for budget builds and office computers.
No, AM4 CPUs only support DDR4 memory. DDR5 requires the newer AM5 platform. However, DDR4 memory remains significantly more affordable than DDR5, making AM4 a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious builders.
The 5800XT includes a Wraith Prism RGB cooler that provides adequate cooling for most users. However, if you plan to overclock or live in a warm environment, consider an aftermarket air cooler or 240mm AIO liquid cooler for better thermal performance.
After extensive testing with these AM4 processors, I can confidently recommend the Ryzen 7 5700X as the best overall choice for most users. It delivers exceptional performance at a reasonable price point while maintaining excellent efficiency. For gaming-focused builds, the 5800XT offers slightly better performance with its included RGB cooler.
Budget builders should consider the Ryzen 3 3200G for its integrated graphics and excellent value, while the Ryzen 3 4100 serves as an even more affordable option for basic computing tasks. Each of these processors represents excellent value within their respective categories.
For those looking to explore more CPU options beyond AM4, check out our comprehensive best gaming CPUs guide which covers both AMD and Intel options across different platforms. And for all your other PC building needs, browse our gaming hardware category for complete build guides and component recommendations.
The AM4 platform continues to offer excellent value in 2025, and with these processor recommendations, you can build a capable system without breaking the bank. Choose the CPU that best matches your specific needs and budget, and you’ll have a system that serves you well for years to come.
