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 A8-3850 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 2.9 GHz, with boost up to 2.9 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: FM1. Thermal design power (TDP): 100 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,421 points. Launch price was $90.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A8-3850 is positioned at rank #497 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 A8-3850

Ryzen 9 7950X

MSRP: $194|Avg: $20

7725%

Core i9-10900T

MSRP: $120|Avg: $5

7300%

Ryzen 3 PRO 4355GE

MSRP: $423|Avg: $5

5300%

Ryzen Threadripper 3960X

MSRP: $1399|Avg: $85

1597%

Ryzen 9 9950X

MSRP: $649|Avg: $129

1265%

Ryzen 5 8400F

MSRP: $303|Avg: $55

1106%

Ryzen 7 PRO 2700

MSRP: $299|Avg: $60

634%

Ryzen 5 2600X

MSRP: $229|Avg: $55

625%

Ryzen 3 PRO 5350G

MSRP: $150|Avg: $60

569%

#10

Core Ultra 5 245KF

MSRP: $294|Avg: $189

569%

#11

Ryzen 5 5500

MSRP: $159|Avg: $85

563%

#12

Ryzen 5 3600

MSRP: $199|Avg: $80

548%

#13

Core i3-9100E

MSRP: $202|Avg: $30

540%

#14

Core Ultra 5 245K

MSRP: $319|Avg: $200

538%

#15

Core i3-8300T

MSRP: $138|Avg: $25

533%

#256

Ryzen 7 1700X

MSRP: $399|Avg: $60

97%

#371

Core 5 120UL

MSRP: $277|Avg: $270

97%

#372

Ryzen Embedded V3C14

MSRP: $305|Avg: $305

97%

#373

Core i7-9700T

MSRP: $323|Avg: $276

95%

#497

A8-3850

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#499

Pentium G4400

MSRP: $64|Avg: $85

99%

#501

Core i5-8600K

MSRP: $257|Avg: $100

98%

#505

Athlon II X4 651

MSRP: $92|Avg: $92

97%

#511

Athlon X4 880K

MSRP: $95|Avg: $25

95%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for A8-3850 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A8-3850 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The A8-3850 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 2.9 GHz from a base frequency of 2.9 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 2,421, 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 363.

Specification	A8-3850
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.9 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.9 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	2,421
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	363

🧠

Memory & Platform

The A8-3850 fits into the FM1 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 20 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 6550D — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	A8-3850
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	desktop
SeriesProduct family	A-Series (Desktop)
SocketMotherboard socket required	FM1
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	DDR3-1866
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	32 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 6550D
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	A55,A75
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The A8-3850 is primarily designed for Mainstream Desktop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i3-2105.

Specification	A8-3850
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Mainstream Desktop
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 i3-2105

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The A8-3850 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 100 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.

Specification	A8-3850
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	100 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	Yes
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Stock

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #497 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2421 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	A8-3850
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$90
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#497
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2421
Release DateLaunch date	2014-01-01
Release Year	2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	AMD