Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
Finding the right AM4 processor for your build is about one thing: which chip gives you a real performance gain in your actual games and programs without wasting money on cores you will never use. The socket has been around for years, so the best AM4 CPUs range from budget-friendly chips that work with an older motherboard all the way up to gaming monsters that still compete with newer hardware.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind The Tools Trunk. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
These six processors cover everything the AM4 platform can do today, from a low-power quad-core for basic tasks to the 3D V-Cache (a technology that stacks extra memory directly on the processor chip) beast that redefines gaming on an older socket.
Quick Picks
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D — Best Overall
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X — Top Performer
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700X — Best Value 8-Core
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700 — Efficient 8-Core
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600G — Best with Graphics
- AMD Ryzen 3 4100 — Budget Champion
How To Choose The Best AM4 CPUs
Picking a processor for the AM4 socket depends on three main factors: the number of cores and threads (a core is a physical processing unit; a thread is a virtual channel that lets a core handle two tasks at once) you need for your workload, the clock speed (measured in GHz, how fast each core can perform calculations) and cache size (the processor’s own private, super-fast storage) for how responsive the chip feels, and if you need integrated graphics to skip a separate GPU. A little planning saves you from buying more chip than your motherboard can handle or less than your games demand.
Cores, Threads, and Your Workload
Think of cores as individual workers inside the processor. More cores handle multiple tasks at the same time without slowing down. If you mainly game, a chip with 6 or 8 cores is the balance — most games do not scale beyond that. If you edit video, stream, or run virtual machines (software that simulates a separate computer), look for 8 cores and 16 threads so the processor keeps up when you are juggling several heavy programs at once. Each thread splits a core’s work further, so an 8-core, 16-thread chip like the Ryzen 7 5700X can handle almost twice the simultaneous tasks as a 4-core, 8-thread chip.
Cache Size and Gaming Performance
Cache is super-fast memory built right into the processor that stores data it expects to use again soon. A larger cache means the CPU can grab what it needs from its own tiny pool instead of waiting on the slower system RAM (Random Access Memory, the main memory your computer uses for active tasks). For gaming, cache size can be a bigger deal than raw clock speed. The 5800X3D’s 100 MB of cache is a massive jump over other chips, and that extra pool is exactly why it keeps game frame rates high even when a newer processor might have a faster clock speed on paper.
Integrated Graphics vs. Dedicated GPU
Most AM4 processors do not have built-in graphics, which means you must pair them with a separate video card to get a picture on your monitor. A few chips, like the 5600G, include Radeon graphics on the processor itself. That feature saves you money if you are building a budget gaming PC and want to delay buying a dedicated GPU, or if you just need a simple office machine that does not need a video card at all. The trade-off is that the integrated graphics use some of your system RAM, and you lose a bit of raw CPU performance compared to a chip without graphics baked in.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Max Boost Clock | Cores / Threads | Cache | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D | Ultimate Gaming | 4.5 GHz | 8 / 16 | 100 MB | Amazon |
| AMD Ryzen 7 5800X | High-End Performance | 3.8 GHz | 8 / 16 | 32 MB | Amazon |
| AMD Ryzen 7 5700X | Mid-Range Power | 3.40 GHz | 8 / 16 | — | Amazon |
| AMD Ryzen 7 5700 | Efficient 8-Core | 4.6 GHz | 8 / 16 | 20 MB | Amazon |
| AMD Ryzen 5 5600G | Built-In Graphics | 4.6 GHz | 6 / 12 | 20 MB | Amazon |
| AMD Ryzen 3 4100 | Budget Builds | 4.0 GHz | 4 / 8 | 6 MB | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
The king of AM4 gaming that still trades blows with newer chips thanks to a massive 100 MB cache.
This processor uses a clever piece of engineering called 3D V-Cache — it stacks an extra layer of super-fast memory on top of the chip, giving you a total of 100 MB of L3 cache (the last-level cache, the biggest and slowest of the on-chip memory pools). That huge pool lets the CPU keep more game data close at hand, so it avoids waiting on system memory. The result is frame rates that beat chips with much higher clock speeds. Buyers report video render times dropped from roughly 90 minutes to 30-40 minutes after upgrading, and one owner saw Minecraft at 1080p max settings hit around 770 FPS. Compared to the 5800X below with its 32 MB cache, the 5800X3D has 100 MB versus 32 MB — that gap translates directly into smoother gaming with fewer stutters (brief pauses when the CPU waits for data).
One catch: the processor is locked, meaning you cannot overclock it (increase its speed beyond the factory setting). It also runs hot, so you need a good liquid cooler — buyers recommend a 240mm or 360mm AIO (All-In-One liquid cooler) — and a high-wattage power supply. A cooler is not included in the box. But if you already have a high-end AM4 board and want the best gaming performance the socket can deliver without moving to a new platform, this is the chip.
The 5800X3D supports PCIe 4.0 (the latest high-speed slot standard for parts like SSDs and graphics cards) on X570 and B550 motherboards, so it works with the fastest storage and graphics cards available for the socket. At 4.5 GHz max boost across 8 cores and 16 threads, it has plenty of power for productivity too. You pay a premium over standard 8-core chips for that 3D V-Cache advantage.
The Gaming Advantage
- Massive 100 MB cache crushes gaming frame rates and reduces stutter
- 8 cores / 16 threads handle heavy multitasking without slowing down
- Simple drop-in upgrade on existing AM4 boards
The Real Trade-Offs
- Locked multiplier means no overclocking
- Runs hot — requires a quality liquid cooler
- Higher price than other AM4 8-core options
The clear winner for: anyone who games at high frame rates and wants to squeeze every drop of performance out of an AM4 motherboard without upgrading the whole system.
Think twice if: you are on a tight budget or do not already own a strong CPU cooler and power supply — the cooling and power requirements add to the total cost.
2. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
A high-clocked 8-core beast that delivers serious performance for both gaming and content creation.
With a 3.8 GHz operating frequency and 32 MB of L3 cache, the 5800X is a pure performance chip that does not rely on special 3D stacking tricks. Its 8 cores and 16 threads chew through video encoding, 3D rendering, and demanding games with equal ease. One satisfied buyer noted that after installing it, the processor “does its job excellently” even during online gaming, with no problems encountered. Because the 5800X uses a standard design, it does not generate the extreme heat of the 5800X3D, though buyers still recommend good cooling and compatible hardware to let the processor reach its full potential.
At 100 grams, the chip itself is light, but it does not include a cooler in the box. You will need to budget for an aftermarket cooler, and with an unlocked multiplier (the part of the processor that controls clock speed), you have the option to overclock for even more speed. It supports PCIe 4.0 on compatible AM4 boards, keeping you current with fast storage and modern GPUs. While the 5800X3D clearly outpaces it in gaming due to its extra cache, the 5800X offers a strong blend of gaming and productivity at a lower investment.
Why It Shines
- Unlocked multiplier gives you the freedom to overclock
- 8 cores and 16 threads offer serious productivity grunt
- Lower operating temperatures than the X3D variant
Where It Lags
- No cooler included — budget for one separately
- Gaming performance falls short of the 3D V-Cache chip
- Requires careful configuration and good cooling to shine
Best suited for: power users who need a fast all-rounder for both work and play, and who want the option to overclock for extra performance.
Skip it for: pure gaming builds where the extra cache of the 5800X3D makes a bigger difference — if you never overclock, that chip is a better buy.
3. AMD Ryzen 7 5700X
An 8-core octa-core processor that gives you serious multi-tasking power without the premium price tag.
The Ryzen 7 5700X sits in a smart spot: it delivers 8 cores and 16 threads at a base clock of 3.40 GHz, putting it in the same performance league as the more expensive 5800X for tasks that use every core. If you edit video, run multiple virtual machines, or stream while gaming, having those extra cores keeps your computer responsive when the workload piles up. It is a drop-in upgrade for any AM4 board that supports the Ryzen 5000 series, making it a favorite for people extending the life of their current system without replacing the motherboard and RAM.
Unlike the high-end 5800X3D, the 5700X does not have the huge 100 MB cache, but its price makes it a much more accessible option for budget-conscious builders who still want 8-core performance. Buyers have noted it is a “better update within AM4” than even the 5700X in terms of price. Just keep in mind that, like the 5800X, there is no cooler in the box, and you will want a decent aftermarket cooler to keep temperatures in check under sustained loads.
What You Gain
- 8 cores and 16 threads handle demanding multi-threaded work
- Strong value proposition versus the higher-end 8-core chips
- Compatible with a wide range of AM4 motherboards
What You Give Up
- No integrated graphics — requires a separate GPU
- No cooler included in the box
- Lower base clock than the 5800X
Great for: builders on a mid-range budget who need 8-core muscle for video editing, streaming, or heavy multi-tasking without paying flagship prices.
Not ideal for: gamers chasing the highest frame rates in CPU-bound titles — the extra cache on the 5800X3D or 5800X gives a noticeable lift there.
4. AMD Ryzen 7 5700
A power-sipping 8-core chip that stays cool and quiet while still hitting a fast 4.6 GHz boost clock.
The Ryzen 7 5700 stands out because it packs 8 cores and 16 threads into a 65W TDP (Thermal Design Power) envelope. That low power draw means it generates less heat than most other 8-core AM4 processors, so you can use a more modest cooler and it places less strain on your power supply. Despite the low wattage, it boosts up to 4.6 GHz, which matches the top speed of higher-power chips in the lineup. It also comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler in the box, saving you the expense of buying one separately.
Its 20 MB of L3 cache is smaller than the 32 MB on the 5800X, but for everyday multitasking, moderate gaming, and office work, the difference is barely noticeable. One buyer described it as the “best option over the 5700X for the price.” The trade-off is that a few users reported the chip looked used, with thermal paste residue on it, so you may want to buy from a reliable seller. If you want the efficiency of a low-power chip without sacrificing an 8-core layout, this is the one to consider.
Why It Stands Out
- 65W TDP runs cool and works with basic coolers
- 4.6 GHz max boost clock matches higher-wattage rivals
- Wraith Stealth cooler included — saves you money
Potential Downsides
- 20 MB cache is smaller than the 5800X’s 32 MB
- Some buyers reported receiving units that looked used
- Not as fast in heavy multi-threaded tasks as the 5700X or 5800X
Perfect for: anyone building a compact or quiet PC who wants 8 cores without the heat and noise of high-power chips — the included cooler keeps costs down.
skip it if: you need the absolute fastest multi-core performance for video rendering or 3D work — the 5700X or 5800X are better choices there.
5. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
The only chip on this list with built-in Radeon graphics, letting you play popular games without a dedicated GPU.
If you are building a PC on a tight budget, the 5600G is a lifesaver. Its integrated Radeon graphics means you can plug your monitor directly into the motherboard and get a picture without buying a separate video card. Owners mention it runs games like Elder Scrolls Online at 45-70 FPS (frames per second, how many complete images the screen draws each second), Diablo II at 40-60 FPS, and Fallout 4 at 50-60 FPS at 1080p on low to medium settings. Those numbers are perfectly playable for casual gaming. The processor itself has 6 cores and 12 threads with a 4.6 GHz max boost, so it holds its own for streaming, multitasking, and everyday productivity.
The catch is that the 5600G is a little slower than a 5600X or a 6-core chip without integrated graphics, because the graphics hardware shares the same chip package. You also need fast RAM — buyers recommend 3600 MHz or higher — for the integrated graphics to perform their best. The good news is you can add a dedicated GPU later when your budget allows, turning this into a capable gaming machine. It comes with a stock cooler that keeps temperatures around 70°C under load, per one buyer’s experience.
The Big Advantage
- Built-in Radeon graphics play many games at 1080p without a GPU
- 6 cores and 12 threads handle streaming and heavy multitasking
- Stock cooler is sufficient for normal use
The Compromises
- Slightly slower CPU performance than non-G versions
- Needs fast RAM (3600 MHz or better) for graphics to shine
- Integrated graphics use system memory, reducing available RAM
Best for: budget builders who want a playable gaming experience right now without spending on a GPU, or those building an office PC that does not need a separate graphics card.
pass on it if: you already own a decent dedicated graphics card — you will get more CPU performance from a 5600 or 5600X for about the same investment.
6. AMD Ryzen 3 4100
A cheap entry-level chip that gets you onto the AM4 platform for very little money, cooler included.
The Ryzen 3 4100 is the most affordable way to build an AM4 system. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it is perfectly fine for web browsing, office work, streaming video, and light gaming when paired with a discrete graphics card (a separate video card, not built into the processor). It boosts up to 4.0 GHz and comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler in the box, so you do not need to spend anything extra on cooling. One buyer uses it for running virtual machines and Discord bots without lag, calling it “excellent for budget builds.” For the price, you get a solid baseline that can handle most everyday tasks without complaint.
The big limitation is the tiny 6 MB cache, compared to the 100 MB on the 5800X3D. That small cache means it will struggle with modern AAA games (high-budget, high-performance games) and heavy multi-tasking. Its 4 cores are half the count of the 8-core chips on this list. Buyers also note it runs warmer than higher-end 65W chips, and one warned that the CPU arrived DOA (Dead On Arrival, meaning it would not work) until a BIOS update brought it to life. It is a good deal at a discount, but if you can stretch to a Ryzen 5 3600 or 5500, you get noticeably more performance for a small step up in budget.
What You Get for the Price
- Very low cost of entry for the AM4 platform
- Wraith Stealth cooler is included — no extra purchase needed
- Unlocked multiplier lets you overclock for extra speed
The Hard Limits
- 6 MB cache is extremely small — hurts gaming performance
- Only 4 cores — struggles with heavy multitasking and modern games
- Runs warmer than other low-power chips
Ideal for: the tightest budgets where every dollar counts — a great starting point for a home server, office PC, or a basic gaming machine using a used GPU.
it’s not for you if: your budget can stretch a little further — the jump to a 6-core chip like the 5600G gives you vastly more performance per dollar.
Understanding the Specs
Cache Memory
This is the processor’s own private, super-fast storage. The CPU checks here first for any data it might need again soon. A larger cache means the CPU finds what it needs more often without having to ask the slower system RAM. For gaming, a big cache (like the 100 MB on the 5800X3D) makes a huge difference in frame rate smoothness because game data gets retrieved instantly.
Max Boost Clock
This is the fastest speed the processor can reach when it is working hard and has enough cooling. Measured in gigahertz (GHz), a higher number means each core can finish more calculations every second. The actual speed you see depends on how many cores are active and how cool the chip stays, so good cooling helps you sustain that boost for longer.
Cores and Threads
A core is a physical processing unit inside the chip. Each core can handle one task at a time. Threads are virtual channels that let a single core juggle two tasks, essentially doubling the number of simultaneous operations. An 8-core, 16-thread chip can handle roughly twice as many instructions at the same time as a 4-core, 8-thread chip, which matters for video editing, streaming, and running many programs at once.
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
Measured in watts, this number tells you how much heat the cooling system needs to handle. A higher TDP means more heat output. It also hints at power draw — a 65W chip like the Ryzen 7 5700 places less stress on your power supply and can be cooled with a basic air cooler, while a chip with a high TDP often needs a beefier cooler or liquid cooling.
FAQ
Can I use a B450 or A320 motherboard with these CPUs?
Does the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D include a cooler?
Which AM4 CPU is best for gaming without a graphics card?
Is the Ryzen 7 5700X good for video editing?
Can I overclock the AMD Ryzen 3 4100?
What is the difference between the Ryzen 7 5700 and 5700X?
Do I need fast RAM for the Ryzen 5 5600G?
Which AM4 CPU is best for a home server or NAS build?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
Across the board, the am4 cpus winner is the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D because its 100 MB of 3D V-Cache delivers class-leading gaming frame rates that keep it relevant even against newer platforms. If you need built-in graphics to skip a GPU entirely, grab the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G. And for the tightest budget where every dollar matters, the standout is the AMD Ryzen 3 4100 as an entry point to the AM4 platform.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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