A9-9420
AMD
PassMark
1,538
MSRP
$150
AVG Price
$30
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 A9-9420 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 31 May 2016 (9 years ago). It is based on the Stoney Ridge (2016−2019) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 3 GHz, with boost up to 3.6 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB (total). Built on 28 nm process technology. Socket: FT4. Thermal design power (TDP): 15 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 1,538 points. Launch price was $69.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The A9-9420 is positioned at rank #1074 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. 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 A9-9420
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for A9-9420 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of A9-9420 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The A9-9420 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Stoney Ridge (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 28 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.6 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 (total) of L2 cache and 160 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,538, 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 497, while multi-core reaches 950.
| Specification | A9-9420 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.6 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Stoney 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 | 1 MB (total) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 160 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 125 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,200 million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,538 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 497 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 950 |
Memory & Platform
The A9-9420 fits into the FT4 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 8 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2133 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 1 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon R5 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | A9-9420 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | AMD Bristol Ridge |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | FT4 |
| 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 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2133 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 8 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 1 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Radeon R5 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | SoC |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The A9-9420 is primarily designed for Budget Laptop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium N4200.
| Specification | A9-9420 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Budget Laptop |
| 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 N4200 |
Power & Cooling
The A9-9420 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 15 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Laptop Cooling.
| Specification | A9-9420 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 15 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | None |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Laptop Cooling |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $30 (MSRP: $150), the A9-9420 delivers 51 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1074 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2784 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | A9-9420 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $150 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $30 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $69 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #1074 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2784 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 31 May 2016 (9 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2016 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for A9-9420
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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