A6-5400K
CPU·Budget

A6-5400K

AMD

PassMark

1,279

2014-01-01
65 Watt
Trinity (2012−2013)

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 A6-5400K is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2014-01-01. It is based on the Trinity (2012−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 3.6 GHz, with boost up to 3.8 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: FM2. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,279 points. Launch price was $70.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A6-5400K is positioned at rank #765 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 A6-5400K

#1
Ryzen 9 7950X
MSRP: $194|Avg: $20
14621%
#2
Core i9-10900T
MSRP: $120|Avg: $5
13815%
#3
Ryzen 3 PRO 4355GE
MSRP: $423|Avg: $5
10031%
#4
Ryzen Threadripper 3960X
MSRP: $1399|Avg: $85
3022%
#5
Ryzen 9 9950X
MSRP: $649|Avg: $129
2394%
#6
Ryzen 5 8400F
MSRP: $303|Avg: $55
2094%
#7
Ryzen 7 PRO 2700
MSRP: $299|Avg: $60
1199%
#8
Ryzen 5 2600X
MSRP: $229|Avg: $55
1184%
#9
Ryzen 3 PRO 5350G
MSRP: $150|Avg: $60
1078%
#10
Core Ultra 5 245KF
MSRP: $294|Avg: $189
1078%
#11
Ryzen 5 5500
MSRP: $159|Avg: $85
1066%
#12
Ryzen 5 3600
MSRP: $199|Avg: $80
1037%
#13
Core i3-9100E
MSRP: $202|Avg: $30
1022%
#14
Core Ultra 5 245K
MSRP: $319|Avg: $200
1018%
#15
Core i3-8300T
MSRP: $138|Avg: $25
1009%
#291
Core i9-7900X
MSRP: $999|Avg: $188
98%
#764
Core i5-6440EQ
MSRP: $250|Avg: $150
100%
#765
A6-5400K
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#766
Core i5-4590T
MSRP: $192|Avg: $130
99%
#768
Celeron G530T
MSRP: $50|Avg: $17
99%
#769
Core i7-4770K
MSRP: $339|Avg: $100
99%
#770
A10-9700
MSRP: $169|Avg: $40
99%
#771
Core i5-2400
MSRP: $184|Avg: $25
99%
#772
Core i7-5775C
MSRP: $366|Avg: $150
99%
#774
Pentium G2140
MSRP: $100|Avg: $95
98%
#775
Core i7-4790T
MSRP: $303|Avg: $102
98%
#776
Core i5-2320
MSRP: $177|Avg: $22
98%
#777
Pentium G2030
MSRP: $85|Avg: $85
98%
#778
Celeron E3500
MSRP: $62|Avg: $10
98%
#779
Athlon II X2 260
MSRP: $60|Avg: $12
98%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A6-5400K specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A6-5400K is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Trinity (2012−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.8 GHz from a base frequency of 3.6 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 1,279, 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 390.

SpecificationA6-5400K
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost3.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency3.6 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designTrinity (2012−2013)
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 processor246 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1,178 million
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclockedYes (Overclockable)
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,279
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming390
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Memory & Platform

The A6-5400K fits into the FM2 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 7540D — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA6-5400K
TypeDesktop or Laptop processordesktop
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFM2
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 frequencyDDR3-1866
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory32 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon HD 7540D
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUA55,A75,A85X,A88X
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
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Advanced Features

The A6-5400K is primarily designed for Budget Desktop. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium G2120.

SpecificationA6-5400K
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryBudget Desktop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased✅ Unlocked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologyAMD-V
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerPentium G2120
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The A6-5400K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the Yes stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock.

SpecificationA6-5400K
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload65 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxYes
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionStock
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #765 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2899 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA6-5400K
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$70
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#765
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2899
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2012
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD

Our Recommendation for A6-5400K

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

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