
FX-4100
AMD
PassMark
2,630
MSRP
$115
AVG Price
$20
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 FX-4100 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 12 October 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Zambezi (2011−2012) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 3.6 GHz, with boost up to 3.8 GHz. L3 cache: 8192 kB. L2 cache: 4096 kB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: AM3+. Thermal design power (TDP): 95 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,630 points. Launch price was $69.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The FX-4100 is positioned at rank #728 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 FX-4100
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for FX-4100 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 FX-4100 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The FX-4100 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Zambezi (2011−2012) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.8 GHz from a base frequency of 3.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. With a massive 8192 kB L3 cache (3D V-Cache technology), this processor has a significant gaming advantage — the large cache drastically reduces memory latency in game engines., 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 2,630, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | FX-4100 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.8 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Zambezi (2011−2012) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 32 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 8192 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 4096 kB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 192 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 315 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,200 million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 71 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,630 |
Memory & Platform
The FX-4100 fits into the AM3+ socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.
| Specification | FX-4100 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM3+ |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The FX-4100 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | FX-4100 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 95 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 71 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $20 (MSRP: $115), the FX-4100 delivers 132 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #728 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2350 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | FX-4100 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $115 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $20 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $69 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #728 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2350 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 12 October 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
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Our Recommendation for FX-4100
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