A6-3400M
CPU·Budget

A6-3400M

AMD

PassMark

1,223

2014-01-01
35 Watt
Llano (2011−2012)

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 A6-3400M is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2014-01-01. It is based on the Llano (2011−2012) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 1.4 GHz, with boost up to 2.3 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: FS1. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,223 points. Launch price was $70.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A6-3400M is positioned at rank #869 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 A6-3400M

#857
Atom x5-Z8300
MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A
1440%
#858
Atom Z3735G
MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A
1419%
#859
Core i5-480M
MSRP: $81|Avg: $77
1302%
#860
Core i5-460M
MSRP: $80|Avg: $129
1296%
#861
Core i5-2540M
MSRP: $266|Avg: $10
1284%
#863
Core i5-450M
MSRP: $32|Avg: $31
1240%
#864
Core i3-380M
MSRP: $49|Avg: $25
1189%
#865
Core i5-430M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33
1187%
#866
Core 2 Duo T6600
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4
1156%
#869
A6-3400M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#873
Celeron M 540
MSRP: $86|Avg: $20
100%
#877
Microsoft SQ1
MSRP: $300|Avg: $180
99%
#879
Core i5-6440HQ
MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A
99%
#882
Celeron Dual-Core T1600
MSRP: $150|Avg: $150
98%
#884
Athlon II N330
MSRP: $100|Avg: $50
98%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A6-3400M specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A6-3400M is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Llano (2011−2012) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.3 GHz from a base frequency of 1.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 1 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 128 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,223, 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 218.

SpecificationA6-3400M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost2.3 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency1.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designLlano (2011−2012)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1 MB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache128 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor228 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1,178 million
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,223
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming218
🧠

Memory & Platform

The A6-3400M fits into the FS1 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 6520G — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA6-3400M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyAMD A-Series
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFS1
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion16
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyDDR3-1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory8 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon HD 6520G
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
🔧

Advanced Features

The A6-3400M is primarily designed for Budget Laptop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i3-2310M.

SpecificationA6-3400M
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryBudget Laptop
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 manufacturerCore i3-2310M
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The A6-3400M has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35 Watt — 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.

SpecificationA6-3400M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload35 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxNo
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionNone
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #869 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2931 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA6-3400M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$70
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#869
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2931
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD

Our Recommendation for A6-3400M

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

Compare A6-3400M

See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives

Compare with other CPUs