A8-9600
AMD
PassMark
3,295
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 A8-9600 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 27 July 2017 (8 years ago). It is based on the Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 3.1 GHz, with boost up to 3.4 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 2048 kB. Built on 28 nm process technology. Socket: AM4. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-2400. Passmark benchmark score: 3,295 points. Launch price was $78.
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 A8-9600 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2
Genshin Impact
Hearts of Iron IV
League of Legends
Monster Hunter Wilds
Path of Exile 2
Phasmophobia
Red Dead Redemption 2
Rocket League
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of A8-9600 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The A8-9600 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 28 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.4 GHz from a base frequency of 3.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 2048 kB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 3,295, 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 607, while multi-core reaches 1,415.
| Specification | A8-9600 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.1 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 28 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 2048 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 250 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 3,100 million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 3,295 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 607 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 1,415 |
Memory & Platform
The A8-9600 fits into the AM4 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 8 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4-2400 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon R7 Series — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | A8-9600 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM4 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 8 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2400 |
| 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 R7 Series |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | A320,B350,X370 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The A8-9600 is primarily designed for Budget Desktop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium G4560.
| Specification | A8-9600 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Budget 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 | Pentium G4560 |
Power & Cooling
The A8-9600 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 Stock stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Air Cooler.
| Specification | A8-9600 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | Stock |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Air Cooler |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #2165 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | A8-9600 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $78 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2165 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 27 July 2017 (8 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
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
General Information
7 specs
| Type | desktop |
| Designer | AMD |
| Launch Price | $78 |
| Manufacturer | GlobalFoundries |
| Release Date | 27 July 2017 (8 years ago) |
| Architecture Codename | Bristol Ridge (2016−2019) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 2165 |
Technical Specifications
13 specs
Technical Specifications
13 specs
| Cores | 4 |
| Threads | 4 |
| Die Size | 250 mm2 |
| L2 Cache | 2048 kB |
| L3 Cache | 0 kB |
| Max Frequency | 3.4 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 3.1 GHz |
| Transistor Count | 3,100 million |
| Process Technology | 28 nm |
| Max Core Temperature | 90 °C |
| Windows 11 Compatible | - |
| Max Case Temperature (TCase) | 74 °C |
Compatibility
4 specs
Compatibility
4 specs
| Socket | AM4 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 3.0 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 65 Watt |
| Max Processors In Config | 1 |
Memory
2 specs
Memory
2 specs
| RAM Types | DDR4-2400 |
| Memory Channels | 2 |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for A8-9600
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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