A8-3870K
AMD
PassMark
2,360
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 A8-3870K 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 3 GHz, with boost up to 3 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: 2,360 points. Launch price was $90.
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.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for A8-3870K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Among Us
Apex Legends
ARC Raiders
Counter-Strike 2
Dead by Daylight
Destiny 2
Fortnite
League of Legends
Minecraft
Path of Exile 2
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of A8-3870K specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The A8-3870K 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 3 GHz from a base frequency of 3 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 2,360, 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 380.
| Specification | A8-3870K |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3 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 |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,360 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 380 |
Memory & Platform
The A8-3870K 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 | A8-3870K |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | 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 A8-3870K is primarily designed for Budget Gaming Desktop. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i3-2125.
| Specification | A8-3870K |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Budget Gaming Desktop |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | AMD-V |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Core i3-2125 |
Power & Cooling
The A8-3870K 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 | A8-3870K |
|---|---|
| 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
Performance ranking position: #2440 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | A8-3870K |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $90 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2440 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2014-01-01 |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
Specifications Reference
Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.
4 categories
General Information
6 specs
General Information
6 specs
| Type | desktop |
| Designer | AMD |
| Launch Price | $90 |
| Release Date | 2014-01-01 |
| Architecture Codename | Llano (2011−2012) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 2440 |
Technical Specifications
13 specs
Technical Specifications
13 specs
| Cores | 4 |
| Threads | 4 |
| Die Size | 228 mm2 |
| L1 Cache | 128 kB (per core) |
| L2 Cache | 1 MB (per core) |
| L3 Cache | 0 kB |
| Max Frequency | 3 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 3 GHz |
| Transistor Count | 1,178 million |
| Process Technology | 32 nm |
| Unlocked Multiplier | + |
| Windows 11 Compatible | - |
Compatibility
4 specs
Compatibility
4 specs
| Socket | FM1 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 2.0 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 100 Watt |
| Max Processors In Config | 1 |
Memory
1 spec
Memory
1 spec
| RAM Types | DDR3 |
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Our Recommendation for A8-3870K
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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