A6-9500
AMD
PassMark
1,876
MSRP
$101
AVG Price
$25
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 A6-9500 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 27 July 2017 (8 years ago). It is based on the Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 3.5 GHz, with boost up to 3.8 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1024 kB. Built on 28 nm process technology. Socket: AM4. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-2400. Passmark benchmark score: 1,876 points. Launch price was $64.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A6-9500 is positioned at rank #823 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar A6-9500
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of A6-9500 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The A6-9500 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 3.8 GHz from a base frequency of 3.5 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. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,876, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | A6-9500 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.8 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.5 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 28 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1024 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 246 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,178 million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,876 |
Memory & Platform
The A6-9500 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.
| Specification | A6-9500 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM4 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 8 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | AMD Radeon R5 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | AMD AM4 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The A6-9500 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.
| Specification | A6-9500 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $25 (MSRP: $101), the A6-9500 delivers 75 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #823 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2642 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | A6-9500 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $101 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $25 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $64 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #823 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2642 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 27 July 2017 (8 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
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