Athlon II X3 420e
AMD
PassMark
1,557
MSRP
$107
AVG Price
$15
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 Athlon II X3 420e is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 21 September 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Rana (2009−2011) architecture. It features 3 cores and 3 threads. Base frequency is 2.6 GHz, with boost up to 2.6 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: AM3. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,557 points. Launch price was $116.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Athlon II X3 420e is positioned at rank #906 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 Athlon II X3 420e
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Athlon II X3 420e specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Athlon II X3 420e is a 3-core / 3-thread processor based on the Rana (2009−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.6 GHz from a base frequency of 2.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB (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 1,557, 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 314, while multi-core reaches 880.
| Specification | Athlon II X3 420e |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 3C / 3T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.6 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Rana (2009−2011) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 45 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 128 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 169 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 300 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,557 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 314 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 880 |
Memory & Platform
The Athlon II X3 420e fits into the AM3 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth).
| Specification | Athlon II X3 420e |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM3 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3-1333 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 16 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | 760G,785G,880G |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Athlon II X3 420e is primarily designed for Legacy Desktop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Athlon II X3 415e.
| Specification | Athlon II X3 420e |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Legacy 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 | Athlon II X3 415e |
Power & Cooling
The Athlon II X3 420e has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 45 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 | Athlon II X3 420e |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 45 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | Stock |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Air Cooler |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $15 (MSRP: $107), the Athlon II X3 420e delivers 104 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #906 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2773 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Athlon II X3 420e |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $107 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $15 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $116 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #906 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2773 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 21 September 2010 (15 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2010 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
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