Z-60
CPU·Budget

Z-60

AMD

PassMark

1,249

9 October 2012 (13 years ago)
5 Watt
Hondo (2012)

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 Z-60 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 9 October 2012 (13 years ago). It is based on the Hondo (2012) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Max frequency: 1 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB. Built on 40 nm process technology. Socket: FT1. Thermal design power (TDP): 5 Watt. Memory support: DDR3 Single-channel. Passmark benchmark score: 1,249 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Z-60 is positioned at rank #787 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Z-60

#774
Atom x5-Z8300
MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A
1175%
#775
Atom Z3735G
MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A
1157%
#776
Core i5-480M
MSRP: $81|Avg: $77
1062%
#777
Core i5-460M
MSRP: $80|Avg: $129
1058%
#778
Core i5-2540M
MSRP: $266|Avg: $10
1048%
#780
Core i5-450M
MSRP: $32|Avg: $31
1012%
#781
Core i3-380M
MSRP: $49|Avg: $25
970%
#782
Core i5-430M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33
969%
#783
Core 2 Duo T6600
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4
943%
#787
Z-60
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#789
Athlon 64 TF-20
MSRP: $50|Avg: $10
100%
#794
Core i3-1115G4E
MSRP: $213|Avg: $47
98%
#796
Celeron M 900
MSRP: $86|Avg: $10
98%
#799
Celeron B815
MSRP: $86|Avg: $15
97%
#800
Celeron B810
MSRP: $86|Avg: $86
97%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Z-60 specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Z-60 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Hondo (2012) architecture, manufactured on a 40 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1 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 of L2 cache and 128 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,249, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 658.

SpecificationZ-60
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost1 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designHondo (2012)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient40 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache128 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor75 mm2
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,249
Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance658
🧠

Memory & Platform

The Z-60 fits into the FT1 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 Single-channel memory at speeds up to DDR3-1066 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads) across 1 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon HD 6250 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationZ-60
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFT1
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 2.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3 Single-channel
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyDDR3-1066
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel1
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorRadeon HD 6250
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
🔧

Advanced Features

The Z-60 is primarily designed for Tablet. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i3-2310M.

SpecificationZ-60
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryTablet
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologyAMD-V
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerCore i3-2310M
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Z-60 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 5 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: Passive.

SpecificationZ-60
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload5 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxNo
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionPassive
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #787 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3571 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationZ-60
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#787
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#3571
Release DateLaunch date9 October 2012 (13 years ago)
Release Year2012
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)AMD

Our Recommendation for Z-60

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

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