A6-9400
CPU·Budget

A6-9400

AMD

PassMark

2,717

2014-01-01
65 Watt
Bristol 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 A6-9400 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2014-01-01. It is based on the Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 3.4 GHz, with boost up to 3.7 GHz. L2 cache: 1 MB (total). Built on 28 nm process technology. Socket: AM4. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-2400. Passmark benchmark score: 2,717 points. Launch price was $70.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. 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

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A6-9400 specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A6-9400 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 28 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.7 GHz from a base frequency of 3.4 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 2,717, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

SpecificationA6-9400
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost3.7 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency3.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designBristol Ridge (2016−2019)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient28 nm
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1 MB (total)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache160K
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor250 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities3,100 million
64-bit SupportYes
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score2,717
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Memory & Platform

The A6-9400 fits into the AM4 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 8 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4-2400 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: AMD Radeon R5 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA6-9400
TypeDesktop or Laptop processordesktop
SocketMotherboard socket requiredAM4
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion8
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR4-2400
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyDDR4-2400
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory64 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorAMD Radeon R5
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUAMD AM4
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
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Power & Cooling

The A6-9400 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.

SpecificationA6-9400
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload65 Watt
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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #2322 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA6-9400
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$70
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2322
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2019
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)GlobalFoundries

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