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. The A8-5550M is positioned at rank #692 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 A8-5550M

#680

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

972%

#681

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

958%

#682

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

879%

#683

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

875%

#684

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

867%

#686

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

838%

#687

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

803%

#688

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

802%

#689

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

780%

#692

A8-5550M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#696

Processor N95

MSRP: $160|Avg: $80

99%

#699

Athlon Silver 3050e

MSRP: $100|Avg: $60

99%

#705

C-60

MSRP: $50|Avg: $20

98%

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.

Specification	A8-5550M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.1 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Richland (2013−2014)
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	246 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	1,178 million
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,811

🧠

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.

Specification	A8-5550M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	AMD A-Series
SocketMotherboard socket required	FS1r2
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	16
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 8510G / 8550G
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	FP2,FS1r2
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

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

Specification	A8-5550M
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	true
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Core i3-4000M

🌡️

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.

Specification	A8-5550M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Integrated

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #692 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2667 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	A8-5550M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$90
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#692
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2667
Release DateLaunch date	2014-01-01
Release Year	2013
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	AMD