Best Budget AMD Ryzen CPUs for Gaming in 2025: Top Picks

Discover the best budget AMD Ryzen processors in 2025. A complete guide to affordable CPUs that deliver powerful performance for gaming, multitasking, and everyday PCs.

In 2025, AMD has firmly established itself as the go-to choice for users who want performance and efficiency without paying premium prices. While high-end chips like the Ryzen 7 9800X3D dominate competitive gaming benchmarks, the real strength of AMD lies in its mid-range and entry-level processors—powerful, efficient, and offering unmatched value for the majority of PC users.

Part of this momentum comes from Intel’s recent struggles. The instability and degradation issues affecting Intel’s 13th and 14th Gen CPUs have hurt its reputation, creating an opening for AMD to capture both consumer and server markets. Meanwhile, AMD has stayed consistent, focusing on energy efficiency, long-term platform support, and steady generational improvements across AM4 and AM5 motherboards.

This guide breaks down the best budget AMD Ryzen processors in 2025—from affordable options for office and everyday PCs, to CPUs built for gaming and multitasking. Whether you need an APU with integrated graphics to skip buying a GPU, or a next-gen CPU to unlock DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 performance, you’ll find the right processor for your budget here.

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Quick AMD Processor Comparison (2025)

If you don’t want to read the full guide and just need a quick reference, this comparison table highlights the key specs of the most recommended AMD CPUs in 2025. It includes socket, cores, clock speeds, approximate price, and the type of user each processor is best suited for.

Best Budget AMD Ryzen Processors in 2025

Looking for the sweet spot between price and performance? Below you’ll find our top picks, from entry-level APUs with integrated graphics to gaming-ready Ryzen chips that deliver serious power without breaking the bank.

1. AMD Ryzen 5 9600X

The Ryzen 5 9600X is one of the most attractive CPUs in AMD’s new Zen 5 lineup. With 6 cores and 12 threads clocked up to 5.4 GHz, it delivers excellent single-thread performance, making it a standout for gaming. Despite its strong performance, it maintains a 65W TDP (with the option to unlock up to 105W in BIOS), making it both efficient and easy to keep cool.

One of its strengths is that AMD has fine-tuned firmware and OS compatibility since launch, improving overall performance. Today, the 9600X sits as one of the most competitive midrange processors—especially considering it’s now available for around $190, significantly less than its launch price.

As the direct successor to the popular Ryzen 5 7600, this chip brings meaningful improvements. Thanks to Zen 5, it not only delivers better gaming performance but also maintains much higher efficiency compared to Intel’s direct rivals. In demanding 1080p and 1440p titles, it often matches more expensive CPUs, making it a sweet spot for gamers who want maximum value.

Beyond gaming, the 9600X handles multitasking and light content creation with ease—basic 4K video editing, streaming, and productivity apps all benefit from its 12 threads. Plus, being part of the AM5 ecosystem ensures compatibility with DDR5 and PCIe 5.0, giving it excellent long-term upgrade potential. That makes it an ideal choice for anyone building a midrange gaming PC or a versatile system with future-proofing in mind.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 5
• Socket: AM5
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 3.9 GHz
• Boost Clock: 5.4 GHz
• TDP: 65W (up to 105W)
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: Radeon Graphics (basic, 2 CUs)

Pros

• Excellent gaming performance for the price
• Very efficient and easy to cool
• AM5 platform with DDR5 & PCIe 5.0 support
• Now cheaper than launch MSRP

Cons

• No stock cooler included
• Falls behind higher-core CPUs in heavy multitasking

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 9600X is a top pick for midrange gaming builds, offering great efficiency, strong performance, and long-term value thanks to the AM5 platform.

2. AMD Ryzen 7 7700X

The Ryzen 7 7700X is the natural successor to the 5800X and one of the best examples of what Zen 4 brings to the table. Packing 8 cores and 16 threads with boost speeds up to 5.4 GHz (and peaks around 5.5 GHz in single-thread workloads), it comfortably outpaces its predecessor—even challenging the 5800X3D in several games.

Built on TSMC’s 5nm process (with a 6nm I/O die), the 7700X is both more efficient and faster than the previous generation. It even comes with an Eco Mode, which reduces power consumption without major performance loss—an attractive option for power-conscious users.

Currently priced around $260, it’s a strong value for gamers and creators alike who want to step into AM5 with a balanced chip that can handle both high-refresh gaming and productivity workloads.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 4
• Socket: AM5
• Cores/Threads: 8 / 16
• Base Clock: 4.5 GHz
• Boost Clock: 5.4 GHz
• TDP: 105W
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: Radeon Graphics (basic, 2 CUs)

Pros

• Excellent performance in gaming and productivity
• Strong sustained frequencies (~5.15 GHz all-core)
• Good efficiency, especially with Eco Mode
• Great choice for a high-end build without overspending

Cons

• Price puts it in direct competition with strong Intel chips
• Higher power draw than Ryzen 5 models

Verdict: The Ryzen 7 7700X is a well-rounded performer, offering more than enough power for both gaming and work, with a clear efficiency upgrade over previous generations.

3. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

The Ryzen 5 7600X was one of the first Zen 4 processors to launch, and it remains a strong contender for midrange gaming PCs. With 6 cores and 12 threads boosting up to 5.3 GHz, it delivers reliable performance across gaming and general-purpose workloads.

It supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0, making it a future-ready option. For the first time in the Ryzen 5 lineup, it also includes basic integrated graphics—handy for troubleshooting or budget systems without a GPU.

The biggest drawback is platform cost: no DDR4 support means you’ll need an AM5 motherboard and DDR5 RAM, which are still relatively expensive compared to Intel alternatives. Even so, if you’re ready to invest in next-gen memory, the 7600X is a very appealing option around $185–190.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 4
• Socket: AM5
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 4.7 GHz
• Boost Clock: 5.3 GHz
• TDP: 105W
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: Radeon Graphics (basic, 2 CUs)

Pros

• Strong performance in modern games
• DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support
• High frequencies with overclocking potential
• Includes iGPU for basic video output

Cons

• No stock cooler included
• AM5 + DDR5 raises platform cost

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 7600X is still a fantastic pick for a mid-to-high-end gaming PC, as long as you’re ready to pay the entry cost of adopting the AM5 platform.

4. AMD Ryzen 5 7600

For many builders, the Ryzen 5 7600 is the smartest way to step into AMD’s AM5 platform without overspending. It shares nearly everything with the 7600X—6 cores, 12 threads, 32MB of L3 cache, DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support, and even basic integrated graphics for display output. The main difference comes down to clock speeds (up to 5.1 GHz) and a much lower 65W TDP, which makes it more efficient overall.

Another big win is that unlike the 7600X, the Ryzen 5 7600 does come with a stock cooler in the box, saving you money on your initial build. And since it’s overclockable, you can get very close to 7600X-level performance without paying extra.

In practice, it performs only about 5% slower in games than its “X” sibling, yet it often sells for the same or even less—around $180–185. That makes it a very strong competitor to CPUs like Intel’s Core i5-13400F, especially if you’re already planning on moving to DDR5 for a future-proof system.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 4
• Socket: AM5
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 3.8 GHz
• Boost Clock: 5.1 GHz
• TDP: 65W (up to 88W)
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: Radeon Graphics (basic, 2 CUs)

Pros

• Great gaming performance for the price
• More efficient than the 7600X
• Includes stock cooler
• Full support for DDR5, PCIe 5.0, and modern I/O
• Overclockable

Cons

• AM5 platform entry cost remains high
• Requires DDR5 memory (more expensive than DDR4)

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 7600 might be the most balanced chip in the Ryzen 7000 lineup: nearly the same as the 7600X, but cooler, cheaper, and bundled with a cooler. Perfect for a midrange gaming PC that’s efficient and future-ready.

5. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

The Ryzen 7 5800X was one of the flagship Zen 3 CPUs, and it still stands tall in 2025 as one of the best AM4 options available. With 8 cores, 16 threads, clock speeds up to 4.7 GHz, and 32MB of L3 cache, it offers strong performance in both gaming and demanding applications.

Its biggest strength is compatibility. The 5800X works with a wide range of AM4 motherboards from the 400- and 500-series, making it an easy and affordable upgrade path for users on older Ryzen systems. No need to invest in DDR5 or a pricey new platform—just update your BIOS and keep using DDR4 RAM.

One drawback is that it doesn’t include a stock cooler, so you’ll need to budget for one. Still, with a 105W TDP, a decent air cooler is more than enough to handle it.

While it’s been surpassed by newer models like the Ryzen 7 7700X, the 5800X remains a compelling choice for those who want power without abandoning AM4. And with current prices often dipping below $180, it’s one of the best deals for an 8-core chip.

If you’re considering the Ryzen 7 5800X, it’s also worth looking at the slightly newer Ryzen 7 5800XT. The 5800XT is essentially a refined version of the same chip, featuring a slightly higher boost clock (up to 4.8 GHz vs. 4.7 GHz), better silicon binning for overclocking, and the inclusion of the Wraith Prism cooler in the box. Performance is almost identical in most real-world scenarios, but at current Amazon prices around $158, it can actually be the better deal—especially if you don’t already own a capable cooler.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 3
• Socket: AM4
• Cores/Threads: 8 / 16
• Base Clock: 3.8 GHz
• Boost Clock: 4.7 GHz
• TDP: 105W
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: None

Pros

• Strong performance in both gaming and productivity
• PCIe 4.0 support and overclocking enabled
• Compatible with affordable AM4 motherboards (400/500 series)
• Great value for upgrading older systems

Cons

• No stock cooler included
• No integrated graphics
• Less appealing than AM5 models if starting from scratch

Verdict: The Ryzen 7 5800X is perfect for users already on AM4 looking to breathe new life into their system. With eight powerful cores and bargain pricing, it’s one of the best upgrades you can make without switching platforms.

6. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

The Ryzen 5 5600X is arguably the most popular Zen 3 processor—and for good reason. Packing 6 cores, 12 threads, boost speeds up to 4.6 GHz, and just a 65W TDP, it’s cool, quiet, and impressively efficient.

At launch, it turned heads by outperforming Intel’s Core i9-10900K in gaming, all at a much lower price. With performance close to the 5800X in gaming, it quickly became the go-to CPU for gamers looking for the best balance of power, efficiency, and cost.

Another major advantage is compatibility. Like the 5800X, it runs on AM4 motherboards from the 400- and 500-series, making upgrades straightforward. Unlike the 5800X, though, the 5600X does include a stock Wraith Spire cooler, which is more than capable for standard builds.

Nowadays, it’s often available in the $150–160 range, making it one of the strongest price-to-performance CPUs still available on AM4.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 3
• Socket: AM4
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 3.7 GHz
• Boost Clock: 4.6 GHz
• TDP: 65W
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: None

Pros

• Excellent gaming performance
• Very efficient and easy to cool
• AM4 compatibility for budget-friendly upgrades
• Includes stock cooler
• PCIe 4.0 support

Cons

• Launch price was higher than its predecessor
• Falls short in multitasking versus higher-core CPUs

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 5600X remains one of the best choices for budget-friendly AM4 gaming PCs. Lightweight, powerful, and efficient, it’s a classic that still deserves a spot in 2025 builds.

7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600

The Ryzen 5 5600 is arguably the best bang-for-buck CPU in the entire AM4 lineup. With 6 cores, 12 threads, boost clocks up to 4.6 GHz, and just a 65W TDP, it delivers performance nearly identical to the Ryzen 5 5600X—at a much lower price.

In gaming, the difference between the 5600 and 5600X is about 1%, while in productivity tasks it’s around 4%. In practice, that means you’re basically getting the same processor, but at a significantly cheaper cost. This makes it an excellent choice for budget gaming PCs or upgrading older Ryzen systems.

It’s compatible with AM4 motherboards from the 300-, 400-, and 500-series, making it a straightforward upgrade for systems going back several generations. Plus, it comes with a Wraith Spire cooler, which is more than enough for such a power-efficient chip.

The real kicker is the price: often found around $120–130, and sometimes even as low as $110. At that level, it’s tough to find a more balanced CPU. That said, Intel’s Core i5-12400F can be a compelling alternative if you’re planning on jumping into DDR5 and PCIe 5.0.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 3
• Socket: AM4
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 3.7 GHz
• Boost Clock: 4.6 GHz
• TDP: 65W
• L3 Cache: 32MB
• Integrated Graphics: None

Pros

• Nearly identical gaming performance to the 5600X
• Works with AM4 boards as far back as 300-series
• Includes stock cooler
• Very efficient and easy to cool
• Outstanding value in its price class

Cons

• No integrated graphics
• Limited to DDR4 and PCIe 4.0
• Intel offers DDR5 alternatives in the same price range

Verdict: If you’re building a budget gaming PC with a dedicated GPU, the Ryzen 5 5600 is hands down the most balanced option on AM4. Powerful, affordable, and easy to pair with existing hardware.

8. AMD Ryzen 5 8600G

The Ryzen 5 8600G is part of AMD’s Zen 4 lineup and stands out because it combines 6 cores and 12 threads with RDNA 3 integrated graphics. Unlike most desktop CPUs, this one can handle gaming without a dedicated GPU.

Its integrated GPU is capable of running most games smoothly at 720p, and even at 1080p with settings tweaks. On top of that, it supports AMD’s Hyper-RX technologies (frame generation, upscaling, and Anti-Lag+), which help squeeze even more out of the experience. This makes it a fantastic option for entry-level gaming PCs or compact builds where you don’t want to invest in a GPU right away.

The tradeoff is platform cost: the AM5 socket requires DDR5 and newer motherboards, which are pricier than AM4 options. While budget-friendly chipsets like B650 and A620 exist, total system cost will still be higher compared to a 5600/5600G build on AM4.

In terms of connectivity, it’s limited to PCIe 4.0 (while other AM5 CPUs already support PCIe 5.0), but that’s not really a downside for entry-level setups.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 4
• Socket: AM5
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 4.3 GHz
• Boost Clock: 5.0 GHz
• TDP: 65W
• Integrated GPU: RDNA 3 with 8 CUs
• Support: DDR5, PCIe 4.0

Pros

• Integrated GPU capable of 720p/1080p gaming
• Supports AMD Hyper-RX tech
• Includes stock cooler
• Low power draw, efficient design

Cons

• AM5 platform is more expensive (motherboard + DDR5)
• No PCIe 5.0 support
• iGPU is limited for demanding games

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 8600G is perfect for entry-level gaming PCs without a dedicated GPU—or for builders who want to jump into AM5 now and add a stronger graphics card later.

9. AMD Ryzen 5 8500G

The Ryzen 5 8500G is one of the most affordable Zen 4 APUs on AM5. It packs 6 cores, 12 threads, boost speeds up to 5.0 GHz, and—most importantly—integrated Radeon 740M graphics based on RDNA 3. This makes it a great pick for entry-level builds without a GPU, capable of running games at 1080p low/medium or 720p smoothly.

Under the hood, it’s a hybrid chip: 2 high-performance Zen 4 cores plus 4 efficient Zen 4C cores. This balance keeps power draw low while still offering a nice bump over previous-gen APUs like the 5600G and 5700G. In fact, gaming performance is up to 30% better compared to those older models.

The catch? Connectivity. The 8500G only offers 4 PCIe 4.0 lanes for a GPU, which makes it a poor choice if you plan to add a powerful graphics card later. It’s best suited for an iGPU-only build or paired with a low/mid-range GPU.

Priced around $150–170, it’s an affordable entry into AM5, but still a bit on the pricey side for a “budget” CPU.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 4 + Zen 4C
• Socket: AM5
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: ~3.5 GHz
• Boost Clock: 5.0 GHz
• TDP: 65W
• Integrated GPU: Radeon 740M (RDNA 3, 4 CUs @ 2.8 GHz)
• Support: DDR5, PCIe 4.0 (limited to 4 GPU lanes)

Pros

• Much stronger iGPU than AM4 APUs
• Improved efficiency with Zen 4C cores
• Cheapest entry point to AM5 with graphics included
• Solid 1080p low/medium gaming without a GPU

Cons

• Only 4 PCIe lanes for a dedicated GPU
• Weaker overall than the Ryzen 5 8600G
• A bit expensive for a true budget chip

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 8500G is ideal for basic AM5 systems without a dedicated GPU, or for builders planning to stick with integrated graphics. If you want to add a high-end GPU later, you’re better off choosing another Ryzen chip.

10. AMD Ryzen 7 5700G

The Ryzen 7 5700G is one of the last—and most solid—APUs for the AM4 platform. Featuring 8 cores, 16 threads, Zen 3 architecture, boost speeds up to 4.6 GHz, and a modest 65W TDP, it also packs integrated Radeon Vega graphics. While the Vega iGPU is showing its age, it’s still capable of light gaming at 720p and even 1080p low-to-medium in many titles.

Its main appeal lies in its price and platform: usually available for around $150–160, it pairs perfectly with affordable AM4 motherboards and DDR4 memory, keeping total build cost very low. A stock Wraith Stealth cooler is included, making it even easier to put together a budget-friendly system.

That said, it’s an older chip: no support for PCIe 4.0 or DDR5, which makes it strictly a solution for those sticking to AM4. Compared to the newer Ryzen 5 8500G, its iGPU is much weaker, though the extra two cores give it an edge in multitasking and light productivity.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 3
• Socket: AM4
• Cores/Threads: 8 / 16
• Base Clock: 3.8 GHz
• Boost Clock: 4.6 GHz
• TDP: 65W
• Integrated GPU: Radeon Vega (8 CUs)
• Support: DDR4, PCIe 3.0

Pros

• Affordable entry point for AM4 builds
• 8 cores/16 threads great for multitasking
• Comes with stock cooler
• Efficient and easy to cool
• Attractive pricing in 2025

Cons

• Older Vega iGPU, weaker than new 8000G APUs
• Limited to DDR4 and PCIe 3.0
• AM4 platform is near end-of-life

Verdict: The Ryzen 7 5700G is a great choice if you want an affordable AM4-based PC with decent multitasking ability and basic integrated graphics. Not as strong in gaming as new AM5 APUs, but more versatile thanks to its 8-core design.

11. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

The Ryzen 5 5600G is arguably the most balanced APU AMD ever launched on AM4. With 6 cores, 12 threads, Zen 3 architecture, and boost speeds up to 4.4 GHz, it combines solid CPU performance with Radeon Vega integrated graphics—all while keeping power draw at just 65W.

For just over $130, it delivers about 95% of the 5700G’s gaming performance, while being cheaper and more efficient. At 720p, it handles most games respectably, and at 1080p low-medium it remains surprisingly capable.

It’s compatible with AM4 boards from the 500-series (and some 400-series), and comes bundled with the Wraith Stealth cooler, which helps minimize build costs. The main drawback is platform limitations—DDR4 and PCIe 3.0 only—but for budget entry-level systems, it’s still a fantastic value.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 3
• Socket: AM4
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 3.9 GHz
• Boost Clock: 4.4 GHz
• TDP: 65W
• Integrated GPU: Radeon Vega (7 CUs)
• Support: DDR4, PCIe 3.0

Pros

• Excellent price-to-performance ratio
• Surprisingly capable Vega iGPU
• Very efficient and easy to cool
• Wide compatibility with AM4 motherboards
• Includes stock cooler

Cons

• Limited to DDR4 and PCIe 3.0
• Vega graphics are outdated compared to 8000G series
• AM4 offers no upgrade path

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 5600G remains one of the best entry-level APUs for AM4. If you’re building on a budget and don’t want to invest in a GPU right away, this chip is a hidden gem.

12. AMD Ryzen 5 5500

If you’re looking for something even cheaper and don’t need integrated graphics, the Ryzen 5 5500 is hard to ignore. It’s essentially a cut-down Ryzen 5 5600, keeping the same Zen 3 architecture with 6 cores and 12 threads, but with a few compromises:

• Half the L3 cache (16 MB vs. 32 MB on the 5600)
• Slightly lower boost clock (4.2 GHz vs. 4.4 GHz)
• Limited to PCIe 3.0 instead of PCIe 4.0

Even with those cuts, it still delivers around 90% of the 5600’s performance—but costs just $70–80. That makes it a fantastic budget option for office builds, light multitasking, and affordable gaming PCs with a dedicated GPU.

In gaming, it pairs well with mid-range GPUs like the RX 6600, but struggles with cards that rely heavily on PCIe 4.0 bandwidth (like the RX 6500 XT). On the bright side, it includes a Wraith Stealth cooler and works with nearly all AM4 boards and DDR4 memory.

Key Specs

• Architecture: Zen 3
• Socket: AM4
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Clock: 3.6 GHz
• Boost Clock: 4.2 GHz
• L3 Cache: 16MB (vs. 32MB on 5600)
• TDP: 65W
• Integrated GPU: None
• Support: DDR4, PCIe 3.0

Pros

• Extremely low price
• Solid multicore performance
• Includes stock cooler
• Compatible with the massive AM4 ecosystem

Cons

• Half the L3 cache compared to the 5600
• No PCIe 4.0 support (limits certain GPUs)
• No integrated graphics
• AM4 platform is aging out

Verdict: The Ryzen 5 5500 is an ideal choice for ultra-budget gaming builds with a dedicated GPU. You give up a bit of performance compared to the 5600, but the savings make it a killer value.

Best Budget AMD Ryzen Processors 2025: Conclusion

Choosing an AMD processor in 2025 means betting on a proven balance of performance, efficiency, and cost. Whether you stick with the veteran AM4 platform, which still offers excellent budget options, or move to the newer AM5 platform for a more future-proof setup, there’s a Ryzen CPU that fits your needs.

Ultimately, AMD has cemented itself as the go-to brand for value seekers. With options ranging from $70 to $200, you can build a versatile PC capable of handling daily workloads, content creation, and even demanding gaming sessions—without draining your wallet.

FAQ: Budget AMD Ryzen CPUs in 2025

1. What’s the best cheap Ryzen processor in 2025?

The Ryzen 5 9600X is the best budget-friendly choice this year. It offers strong gaming and multitasking performance at a very accessible price, making it a great balance between cost and future-proofing.

2. What should I consider when buying a budget Ryzen CPU?

• Platform cost: AM4 is cheaper (DDR4 + older motherboards), AM5 is pricier but future-ready (DDR5 + PCIe 5.0).
• Integrated graphics: Some Ryzen “G” models have iGPUs, meaning you don’t need a dedicated graphics card.
• Upgrade path: If you want to upgrade later, AM5 has a much longer lifespan.
• Use case: Gaming, productivity, or basic office work all demand different levels of performance.

3. How many cores should a Ryzen processor have for gaming?

For most modern games, 6 cores / 12 threads is the sweet spot. More demanding titles and multitasking benefit from 8 cores or more, but 6 cores remain the best value for budget gaming builds.

4. What is a CPU socket?

A CPU socket is the physical connector on the motherboard where the processor is installed. Each socket type supports only certain generations of CPUs, so you need to make sure your CPU and motherboard are compatible.

5. What is AM5?

AM5 is AMD’s current-generation socket, introduced in 2022. It supports DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, and will receive support for multiple future Ryzen generations. It’s designed for users who want long-term upgrade potential.

6. What is AM4?

AM4 is AMD’s previous-generation socket (2017–2024). It supports DDR4 memory, PCIe 3.0/4.0, and has one of the widest CPU compatibility ranges ever. It’s still excellent for budget builds but has reached the end of its upgrade cycle.

7. What’s the difference between AM5 and AM4?

• AM5: Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0, higher platform cost, long-term upgrade path.
• AM4: Uses DDR4, cheaper overall, but no new CPUs will be released for it.