A4-9120C
CPU·Budget

A4-9120C

AMD

PassMark

1,258

2014-01-01
1 MB
Stoney Ridge (2016−2019)

Performance Spectrum - CPU

About PassMark

PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.

Overview

The A4-9120C is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2014-01-01. It is based on the Stoney Ridge (2016−2019) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Max frequency: 1.6 GHz. L2 cache: 1 MB. Built on 28 nm process technology. Socket: BGA. Thermal design power (TDP): 1 MB. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 1,258 points. Launch price was $50.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A4-9120C is positioned at rank #855 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar A4-9120C

#843
Atom x5-Z8300
MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A
1399%
#844
Atom Z3735G
MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A
1379%
#845
Core i5-480M
MSRP: $81|Avg: $77
1266%
#846
Core i5-460M
MSRP: $80|Avg: $129
1260%
#847
Core i5-2540M
MSRP: $266|Avg: $10
1248%
#849
Core i5-450M
MSRP: $32|Avg: $31
1206%
#850
Core i3-380M
MSRP: $49|Avg: $25
1156%
#851
Core i5-430M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33
1154%
#852
Core 2 Duo T6600
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4
1123%
#855
A4-9120C
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#856
Ryzen Embedded R1305G
MSRP: $150|Avg: $50
100%
#863
Pentium Dual Core T2390
MSRP: $86|Avg: $5
98%
#867
Core i7-1160G7
MSRP: $426|Avg: N/A
98%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A4-9120C specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A4-9120C is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Stoney Ridge (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 28 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,258, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 418.

SpecificationA4-9120C
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost1.6 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designStoney Ridge (2016−2019)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient28 nm
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache160 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor124.5 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1200 Million
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,258
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming418
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Memory & Platform

The A4-9120C fits into the BGA socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 8 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 1 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon R4 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA4-9120C
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyAMD Bristol Ridge
SocketMotherboard socket requiredBGA
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion8
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR4
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyDDR4-1866
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory8 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel1
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon R4
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Advanced Features

The A4-9120C is primarily designed for Chromebook. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Celeron N3350.

SpecificationA4-9120C
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryChromebook
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologyAMD-V
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerCeleron N3350
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Power & Cooling

The A4-9120C has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 1 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: None.

SpecificationA4-9120C
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload1 MB
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxNo
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionNone
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #855 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3131 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA4-9120C
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$50
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#855
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#3131
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2019
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD

Our Recommendation for A4-9120C

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

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