AMD has made headlines at CES 2024 with the official unveiling of its latest desktop APUs – the Ryzen 8000 series, codenamed Hawk Point. This lineup includes four distinct SKUs: Ryzen 7 8700G, Ryzen 5 8600G, Ryzen 5 8500G, and Ryzen 3 8300G. Set to be available for purchase on January 31, these APUs showcase an intriguing blend of Zen 4 and Zen 4c CPU cores, accompanied by RDNA 3 iGPUs.
Processor Details
The flagship model, Ryzen 7 8700G, boasts an impressive 8-core/16-thread configuration. Its Zen 4 cores are clocked at 4.2 GHz (5.1 GHz boost), with a TDP of 65 Watts and 24 MB of cache. Notably, it features a full-fat Radeon 780M iGPU. AMD claims that the Ryzen 7 8700G can outperform a Core i5-13400F + GeForce GTX 1650 setup in 1080p gaming with low details.
It's crucial to highlight that the performance of the integrated Radeon 780M is highly dependent on memory bandwidth. Tests conducted with high-end rigs equipped with DDR5 6,400 RAM showcased the APU's gaming prowess. However, users may experience varied performance with lower-end modules.
The Ryzen 7 8700G is positioned as a 1080p gaming powerhouse. AMD has demonstrated its capabilities in consoles like the ROG Ally (currently priced at $699 on Amazon). The APU is equipped with advanced features such as AMD Hypr-Rx and Fluid Motion Frames, enhancing the Radeon 780M's performance. The potential for additional thermal headroom and robust cooling solutions further raises expectations for an immersive gaming experience.
Ryzen 5 8600G
Following the flagship model, the Ryzen 5 8600G features a 6-core, 12-thread design. With a 5.0 GHz boost clock, 22 MB cache, and a TDP of 65 Watts, it presents a balanced option for users seeking a combination of performance and affordability. The APU is equipped with a scaled-down Radeon 760M iGPU featuring 6 Compute Units (CUs).
Ryzen 5 8500G and Ryzen 3 8300G
Two intriguing models, the Ryzen 5 8500G and Ryzen 3 8300G, introduce a unique blend of Zen 4 and Zen 4c CPU cores. The Ryzen 5 8500G, a 6-core (2C + 4c) CPU with 12 threads, shares similarities with the Ryzen 5 8600G. However, it utilizes a lower-end Radeon 740M iGPU. Despite the differences in iGPU, other specifications such as cache, TDP, and boost clocks remain identical to the Ryzen 5 8600G.
On the other hand, the Ryzen 3 8300G is a 4-core (1C + 3c), 8-thread CPU featuring a 4.9 GHz boost clock, 12 MB cache, and a 65 W TDP. Similar to the Ryzen 5 8500G, it comes with a Radeon 740M iGPU. These processors cater to different segments of users, offering varying levels of performance to meet diverse needs.
Availability and Pricing
Enthusiasts and budget-conscious users can mark their calendars, as the Ryzen 7 8700G, Ryzen 5 8600G, and Ryzen 5 8500G are set to be available for purchase on January 31. The prices for these models are $329, $229, and $179, respectively. However, the Ryzen 3 8300G will have a different trajectory, being exclusively available for OEMs. Its availability is expected to commence in Q1, 2024.
Reactions and Assessments
The tech community has greeted the announcement of the Ryzen 8000 series APUs with considerable excitement and anticipation. The combination of Zen 4 and Zen 4c cores, coupled with RDNA 3 iGPUs, promises a substantial leap in performance for budget gaming rigs. The Ryzen 7 8700G, in particular, stands out with its impressive specifications, challenging the performance boundaries of dedicated CPU-GPU combos in the mid-range gaming segment.
Enthusiasts are eager to witness the real-world performance of these APUs, especially in comparison to existing options in the market. The potential for a 1080p gaming powerhouse with advanced features like AMD Hypr-Rx and Fluid Motion Frames has captured the attention of gamers looking for a cost-effective yet high-performance solution.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Powerful gaming performance at 1080p, Competitive pricing, Inclusion of advanced features like AMD Hypr-Rx and Fluid Motion Frames.
- Cons: Variability in iGPU performance based on RAM specifications, Limited availability for the Ryzen 3 8300G as an OEM-only SKU.
Conclusion
As AMD continues to push the boundaries of desktop computing, the Ryzen 8000 series APUs showcase the company's commitment to providing high-performance solutions for budget-conscious gamers. The diverse lineup caters to a range of users, offering options for different performance requirements and budget constraints.
Enthusiasts and gamers alike eagerly await the release of these APUs to experience firsthand the promised gaming prowess and advanced features. AMD's strategic integration of Zen 4 and Zen 4c cores with RDNA 3 iGPUs positions the Ryzen 8000 series as a compelling choice in the competitive landscape of desktop processors.
