A8-5550M
CPU·Budget

A8-5550M

AMD

PassMark

1,811

2014-01-01
35 Watt
Richland (2013−2014)

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 A8-5550M is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2014-01-01. It is based on the Richland (2013−2014) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.1 GHz, with boost up to 3.1 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: FS1r2. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,811 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.

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.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for A8-5550M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A8-5550M specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A8-5550M is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Richland (2013−2014) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.1 GHz from a base frequency of 2.1 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 1,811, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

SpecificationA8-5550M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost3.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency2.1 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designRichland (2013−2014)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1 MB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache128 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor246 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1,178 million
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,811
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Memory & Platform

The A8-5550M fits into the FS1r2 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to 1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 8510G / 8550G — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA8-5550M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyAMD A-Series
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFS1r2
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion16
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory16
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon HD 8510G / 8550G
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUFP2,FS1r2
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
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Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i3-4000M.

SpecificationA8-5550M
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologytrue
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerCore i3-4000M
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Power & Cooling

The A8-5550M 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. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Laptop Integrated.

SpecificationA8-5550M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload35 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxfalse
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionLaptop Integrated
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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #2667 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA8-5550M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$90
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2667
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2013
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

7 specs

TypeLaptop
SeriesAMD A-Series
DesignerAMD
Launch Price$90
Release Date2014-01-01
Architecture CodenameRichland (2013−2014)
Performance Ranking Position2667

Technical Specifications

13 specs

Cores4
Threads4
Die Size246 mm2
L1 Cache128 kB (per core)
L2 Cache1 MB (per core)
L3 Cache0 kB
Max Frequency3.1 GHz
64-Bit Support+
Base Frequency2.1 GHz
Transistor Count1,178 million
Process Technology32 nm
Windows 11 Compatible-
Max Case Temperature (TCase)71 °C

Compatibility

4 specs

SocketFS1r2
PCIe GenerationPCIe 3.0
Power Consumption (TDP)35 Watt
Max Processors In Config1

Memory

1 spec

RAM TypesDDR3

Our Recommendation for A8-5550M

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

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