The AMD 3015e is a low-power, low-end processor designed for use in entry-level laptops, tablets, and mini-PCs. It has a dual-core, quad-thread configuration and is part of the Pollock product family, based on the Zen architecture. The processor's TDP of 6 W is among the lowest available, making it ideal for passively cooled devices. In this review, we will examine the 3015e's performance, graphics capabilities, power consumption, and compatibility.
Architecture:
The AMD 3015e is based on the Zen architecture, which is somewhat dated compared to more recent designs. Its dual-core configuration and low clock speeds make for rather poor performance-per-MHz values. The processor has a 4 MB L3 cache and several PCI-Express 3.0 lanes for connecting NVMe SSDs, discrete graphics cards, and other devices. The RAM controller functions in single-channel mode and supports DDR4-1600 memory or slower. The processor is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 11, and many Linux distributions. One important note is that this CPU is not user-replaceable and is soldered permanently to the motherboard (FT5 socket interface).
Performance:
The AMD 3015e is a low-end processor designed for basic tasks such as web browsing, office work, and video streaming. Its performance is comparable to that of Intel's N-class Celeron and Pentium processors, such as the N4500. It is not suitable for demanding tasks such as video editing or gaming.
Graphics:
The 3015e has a built-in Vega 3 graphics adapter running at up to 600 MHz. It can support several monitors with resolutions as high as UHD 2160p, and it can decode AVC, HEVC, and VP9-encoded videos. However, it does not support the latest AV1 video codec, which means that any video encoded with AV1 will have to be software-decoded, limiting the maximum resolution that can be played back without stuttering. Gaming is possible with the integrated graphics, but only to a very limited extent. Even older games like CS:GO will require the user to set the settings to low to achieve playable frame rates.
Power Consumption:
The 3015e has a low TDP of 6 W, making it an ideal choice for devices that need to be passively cooled, such as ultra-thin laptops or mini-PCs. The processor is manufactured using the 14 nm process which is relatively outdated as of early 2023. This leads to subpar energy efficiency compared to more modern processors.
Compatibility:
The AMD 3015e is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 11, and many Linux distributions. The processor's low power consumption and small size make it a good fit for mini-PCs, tablets, and laptops designed for basic tasks. Its low-end performance means that it is not suitable for demanding applications or gaming.
Conclusion:
The AMD 3015e is a low-end processor that is designed for basic computing tasks such as web browsing, office work, and video streaming. Its dual-core, quad-thread configuration and low clock speeds make it unsuitable for demanding tasks such as video editing or gaming. However, its low TDP of 6 W makes it an ideal choice for passively cooled devices such as ultra-thin laptops or mini-PCs. The processor's integrated Vega 3 graphics adapter can support several monitors with resolutions as high as UHD 2160p, but its performance is limited, even when compared to other integrated graphics solutions. Ultimately, the AMD 3015e is a budget-friendly option for those who need a basic processor for their entry-level device.
