
FX-6300
AMD
PassMark
4,137
MSRP
$132
AVG Price
$35
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-6300 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 23 October 2012 (13 years ago). It is based on the Vishera (2012−2015) architecture. It features 6 cores and 6 threads. Base frequency is 3.5 GHz, with boost up to 3.8 GHz. L3 cache: 8192 kB. L2 cache: 6144 kB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: AM3+. Thermal design power (TDP): 95 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1866. Passmark benchmark score: 4,137 points. Launch price was $132.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The FX-6300 is positioned at rank #579 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-6300
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for FX-6300 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-6300 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The FX-6300 is a 6-core / 6-thread processor based on the Vishera (2012−2015) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.8 GHz from a base frequency of 3.5 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 6144 kB of L2 cache and 288 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 4,137, 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 534.
| Specification | FX-6300 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 6C / 6T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.8 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.5 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Vishera (2012−2015) |
| 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 | 6144 kB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 288 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 |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 4,137 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 534 |
Memory & Platform
The FX-6300 fits into the AM3+ socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1866 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth).
| Specification | FX-6300 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3-1866 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3-1866 |
| 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 | No |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | AMD 990FX,AMD 970 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | FX-6300 |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | AMD-V |
Power & Cooling
The FX-6300 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. It ships with the Yes stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock.
| Specification | FX-6300 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 95 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 71 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | Yes |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Stock |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $35 (MSRP: $132), the FX-6300 delivers 118 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #579 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1993 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | FX-6300 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $132 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $35 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $132 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #579 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1993 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 23 October 2012 (13 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2012 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
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Our Recommendation for FX-6300
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
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