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 A8-3520M 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 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 2.5 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: 1,441 points. Launch price was $90.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A8-3520M is positioned at rank #806 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 A8-3520M

#794

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

1221%

#795

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

1204%

#796

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

1105%

#797

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

1100%

#798

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

1090%

#800

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

1052%

#801

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

1009%

#802

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

1007%

#803

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

980%

#806

A8-3520M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#809

Athlon II M320

MSRP: $75|Avg: $15

100%

#810

Celeron B800

MSRP: $80|Avg: $5

99%

#811

Celeron B710

MSRP: $86|Avg: $10

99%

#812

Athlon II Neo K345

MSRP: $50|Avg: $10

99%

#818

Core i7-8709G

MSRP: $338|Avg: $150

98%

#819

Celeron M 560

MSRP: $86|Avg: $10

97%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A8-3520M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The A8-3520M 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 2.5 GHz from a base frequency of 1.6 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 1,441, 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 255.

Specification	A8-3520M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.5 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.6 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Llano (2011−2012)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	1 MB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	128 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	228 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	1,178 million
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,441
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	255

🧠

Memory & Platform

The A8-3520M fits into the FS1 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 20 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 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 6620G — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	A8-3520M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	AMD A-Series
SocketMotherboard socket required	FS1
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	20
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	16 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	Radeon HD 6620G
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The A8-3520M 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 i3-2330M.

Specification	A8-3520M
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Budget Laptop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	AMD-V
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Core i3-2330M

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The A8-3520M 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.

Specification	A8-3520M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	None

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #806 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2824 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	A8-3520M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$90
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#806
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2824
Release DateLaunch date	2014-01-01
Release Year	2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	AMD