The initial Ryzen 8000 desktop computers from AMD, previously known as “APUs,” combine a swiftly integrated GPU with a relatively capable CPU.
The Ryzen desktop processors from AMD’s G-series have always stood out for their integrated graphics functionality, catering to small and cost-effective gaming desktops without the need for dedicated graphics cards. While these processors may lag slightly behind AMD’s latest CPU architectures, they offer a practical solution for budget-conscious users. The new lineup of Ryzen 8000G processors, set to be unveiled by AMD, promises significant improvements over the 2021 AMD 5000G chips.
On January 31, AMD will release three new chips. At the top end is the Zen 7 8700G, an 8-core CPU paired with a Radeon 780M GPU, priced at \(329. Following closely is the Zen 5 8600G, a 6-core processor with a Radeon 760M GPU, priced at \)229, offering an attractive price-performance ratio. At the entry level is the Zen 5 8500G priced at $179, featuring six cores, albeit with a mix of Zen 4 and “Zen4c” cores designed for space efficiency rather than high clock speeds, accompanied by a Radeon 740M GPU.
The Ryzen 8000G processors leverage the RDNA3 graphics architecture, with the Radeon 780M boasting 12 compute units (CUs), the Radeon 760M equipped with eight CUs, and the Radeon 740M utilizing four CUs. These processors offer flexibility in terms of TDP adjustments when used with an AM5 socket laptop featuring a B650 or X670 chipset.
The Ryzen 8300G, a quad-core processor, will be exclusive to PCOEMs, not available for individual retail purchase. This processor is equipped with three Zen 4c cores and one larger Zen 4 core.
In comparison to the Ryzen 7000 chips, the Ryzen 8700G and 8600G offer similar pricing but with higher boost clock speeds and larger cache sizes, making them preferable for users planning to integrate a dedicated GPU or prioritize performance over integrated graphics capabilities.
The Ryzen 8000G CPUs for laptops offer enhanced performance similar to the Ryzen 8040 and 7040 chips, featuring higher clock speeds and performance due to increased energy limits. These G-series processors are essentially modified versions of AMD’s mobile processors repackaged for desktop use. Unlike the chiplet-based AMD 7000 PC processors, the Ryzen 8000G CPUs are a single integrated silicon piece beneath the heat spreader.
AMD’s RDNA3 graphics architecture in the Ryzen 8700G and Radeon 780M offers advantages such as hardware-accelerated ray tracing, FSR 3 frame generation, and AV1 video codec hardware encoding. These features enhance the overall graphics performance, making the Ryzen 8000G processors a compelling choice for users seeking improved graphical capabilities.
The Ryzen 8000G chips, including the 8700G and 8600G, share the same silicon as the Cyzen 7040⁄8040, enabling the development of an AI neural processor. This distinction positions these chips as unique desktop processors with Nvidia integration, potentially becoming more significant with future advancements in Windows AI and machine learning features.
When considering the Ryzen 8000G sales pitch, it’s essential to account for the additional costs of a compatible motherboard and RAM, areas where Intel currently holds a pricing advantage. However, as prices for CPUs, motherboards, and memory continue to decrease, the Ryzen 8000G processors may become a more cost-effective option in the future.
In conclusion, while building a Ryzen 8000G PC may not currently be cheaper than one with a dedicated GPU, ongoing price reductions in CPU and component costs could make it a more attractive proposition. Additionally, advancements in GPU technology under $200 are not expected imminently from Nvidia or AMD.
