A8-6500
CPU·Budget

A8-6500

AMD

PassMark

2,598

2014-01-01
65 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 A8-6500 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 3.5 GHz, with boost up to 4.1 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 4096 kB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: FM2. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1866. Passmark benchmark score: 2,598 points. Launch price was $90.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A8-6500 is positioned at rank #474 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 A8-6500

#1
Ryzen 9 7950X
MSRP: $194|Avg: $20
7199%
#2
Core i9-10900T
MSRP: $120|Avg: $5
6802%
#3
Ryzen 3 PRO 4355GE
MSRP: $423|Avg: $5
4939%
#4
Ryzen Threadripper 3960X
MSRP: $1399|Avg: $85
1488%
#5
Ryzen 9 9950X
MSRP: $649|Avg: $129
1179%
#6
Ryzen 5 8400F
MSRP: $303|Avg: $55
1031%
#7
Ryzen 7 PRO 2700
MSRP: $299|Avg: $60
591%
#8
Ryzen 5 2600X
MSRP: $229|Avg: $55
583%
#9
Ryzen 3 PRO 5350G
MSRP: $150|Avg: $60
531%
#10
Core Ultra 5 245KF
MSRP: $294|Avg: $189
531%
#11
Ryzen 5 5500
MSRP: $159|Avg: $85
525%
#12
Ryzen 5 3600
MSRP: $199|Avg: $80
511%
#13
Core i3-9100E
MSRP: $202|Avg: $30
503%
#14
Core Ultra 5 245K
MSRP: $319|Avg: $200
501%
#15
Core i3-8300T
MSRP: $138|Avg: $25
497%
#365
Core i5-8600T
MSRP: $213|Avg: $213
100%
#366
Celeron G4950
MSRP: $52|Avg: $63
99%
#367
Core i9-10900E
MSRP: $488|Avg: $450
99%
#368
Core i7-9700KF
MSRP: $374|Avg: $333
99%
#369
Core i5-8400T
MSRP: $182|Avg: $179
96%
#370
Athlon 240GE
MSRP: $75|Avg: $110
96%
#474
A8-6500
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#476
Athlon X4 830
MSRP: $70|Avg: $25
100%
#480
Athlon X4 860K
MSRP: $80|Avg: $20
99%
#483
Core i7-8700
MSRP: $303|Avg: $110
97%
#487
Pentium Dual-Core E2220
MSRP: $32|Avg: $32
96%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of A8-6500 specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The A8-6500 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 4.1 GHz from a base frequency of 3.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 4096 kB of L2 cache and 192 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,598, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

SpecificationA8-6500
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost4.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency3.5 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 data4096 kB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache192 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor246 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1,178 million
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)71 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score2,598
🧠

Memory & Platform

The A8-6500 fits into the FM2 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1866 memory at speeds up to 1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 8570D — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationA8-6500
TypeDesktop or Laptop processordesktop
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFM2
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion16
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3-1866
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency1866
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory64
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon HD 8570D
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUFM2
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
🔧

Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i3-4130.

SpecificationA8-6500
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 i3-4130
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The A8-6500 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the true stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock Cooler.

SpecificationA8-6500
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload65 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)71 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxtrue
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionStock Cooler
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #474 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2358 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationA8-6500
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$90
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#474
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2358
Release DateLaunch date2014-01-01
Release Year2013
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD

Our Recommendation for A8-6500

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

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