A6-6400K
CPU·Budget

A6-6400K

AMD

PassMark

1,511

2014-01-01
65 Watt
Richland (2013−2014)

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 A6-6400K is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2014-01-01. It is based on the Richland (2013−2014) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 3.9 GHz, with boost up to 4.1 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1024 kB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: FM2. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1866. Passmark benchmark score: 1,511 points. Launch price was $70.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A6-6400K is positioned at rank #688 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 A6-6400K

#1
Ryzen 9 7950X
MSRP: $194|Avg: $20
12379%
#2
Core i9-10900T
MSRP: $120|Avg: $5
11697%
#3
Ryzen 3 PRO 4355GE
MSRP: $423|Avg: $5
8493%
#4
Ryzen Threadripper 3960X
MSRP: $1399|Avg: $85
2559%
#5
Ryzen 9 9950X
MSRP: $649|Avg: $129
2027%
#6
Ryzen 5 8400F
MSRP: $303|Avg: $55
1773%
#7
Ryzen 7 PRO 2700
MSRP: $299|Avg: $60
1015%
#8
Ryzen 5 2600X
MSRP: $229|Avg: $55
1002%
#9
Ryzen 3 PRO 5350G
MSRP: $150|Avg: $60
913%
#10
Core Ultra 5 245KF
MSRP: $294|Avg: $189
912%
#11
Ryzen 5 5500
MSRP: $159|Avg: $85
902%
#12
Ryzen 5 3600
MSRP: $199|Avg: $80
878%
#13
Core i3-9100E
MSRP: $202|Avg: $30
866%
#14
Core Ultra 5 245K
MSRP: $319|Avg: $200
862%
#15
Core i3-8300T
MSRP: $138|Avg: $25
854%
#688
A6-6400K
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#689
Core i7-7700T
MSRP: $303|Avg: $75
99%
#690
Core i3-4150T
MSRP: $117|Avg: $30
98%
#691
Core i7-3770S
MSRP: $250|Avg: $250
98%
#692
Core i7-6800K
MSRP: $434|Avg: $120
98%
#693
Core i5-4670S
MSRP: $213|Avg: $30
98%
#694
Core i5-3550
MSRP: $194|Avg: $30
98%
#695
Core i3-7300
MSRP: $184|Avg: $46
98%
#696
FX-4300
MSRP: $122|Avg: $25
97%
#697
Core i5-3450
MSRP: $184|Avg: $95
97%
#698
Celeron G550
MSRP: $52|Avg: $15
97%
#700
Core i3-4370T
MSRP: $138|Avg: $138
97%
#701
FX-6200
MSRP: $169|Avg: $25
97%
#702
FX-4150
MSRP: $137|Avg: $20
96%
#703
Core i5-2450P
MSRP: $177|Avg: $30
96%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A6-6400K specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A6-6400K is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Richland (2013−2014) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.1 GHz from a base frequency of 3.9 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 1024 kB of L2 cache and 96 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,511, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

SpecificationA6-6400K
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost4.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency3.9 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designRichland (2013−2014)
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 data1024 kB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache96 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor246 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1,178 million
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)70 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclockedYes (Overclockable)
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,511
🧠

Memory & Platform

The A6-6400K fits into the FM2 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1866 memory at speeds up to 1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 8470D — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA6-6400K
TypeDesktop or Laptop processordesktop
SeriesProduct familyAMD A-Series (Desktop)
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFM2
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion16
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3-1866
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency1866
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory32
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon HD 8470D
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUFM2
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
🔧

Advanced Features

It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium G3258.

SpecificationA6-6400K
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased✅ Unlocked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologytrue
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerPentium G3258
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The A6-6400K 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 true stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock Cooler.

SpecificationA6-6400K
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload65 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)70 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxtrue
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionStock Cooler
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #688 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2798 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA6-6400K
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$70
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#688
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2798
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2013
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD

Our Recommendation for A6-6400K

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

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