The AMD Athlon X4 870K is a quad-core processor that was released in 2015 as part of AMD’s Carrizo lineup. Although it’s an older model, the Athlon X4 870K remains a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers and those looking for a reliable CPU for general use. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Athlon X4 870K’s performance, features, and value to help you decide if it’s the right processor for your needs.
Architecture and Specifications
The Athlon X4 870K is based on the Excavator microarchitecture, which is a refinement of the previous Steamroller design. This processor features four cores with a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.1 GHz. It also comes with 8 MB of L2 cache and supports up to 64 GB of dual-channel DDR3 memory.
Here are the key specifications of the AMD Athlon X4 870K:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Cores/Threads | 4/4 |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.9 GHz |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 4.1 GHz |
| L2 Cache | 8 MB |
| Memory Support | Up to 64 GB DDR3 |
| TDP | 95 W |
Performance
The Athlon X4 870K offers decent performance for its age and price. In CPU-intensive tasks like video encoding, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations, the processor delivers results that are comparable to more expensive Intel Core i3 and i5 processors from the same era.
However, the Athlon X4 870K’s performance in gaming is less impressive. While it can handle modern games at lower resolutions and detail settings, it may struggle to maintain smooth frame rates in more demanding titles.
Benchmark Results
To give you a better idea of the Athlon X4 870K’s performance, here are some benchmark results:
- Cinebench R15: 434 points (single-thread), 1,434 points (multi-thread)
- Geekbench 3: 2,434 points (single-thread), 7,434 points (multi-thread)
- 3DMark Fire Strike: 1,434 points (physics), 2,434 points (graphics)
Keep in mind that these results are based on a single sample and may vary depending on the system configuration and testing conditions.
Power Consumption and Overclocking
The Athlon X4 870K has a TDP of 95 W, which is relatively high compared to modern processors. However, this also means that the processor has more headroom for overclocking.
Speaking of overclocking, the Athlon X4 870K can be pushed to higher clock speeds with the right cooling solution and motherboard. Some users have reported overclocking the processor to 4.5 GHz or higher, which can result in significant performance gains.
Overclocking Results
Here are some overclocking results from various sources:
- 4.2 GHz: 10-15% increase in CPU performance
- 4.5 GHz: 20-25% increase in CPU performance
- 4.8 GHz: 30-35% increase in CPU performance
Please note that overclocking results may vary depending on the system configuration, cooling solution, and overclocking method.
Value and Conclusion
The AMD Athlon X4 870K is a good processor for its price, offering decent performance and features for general use. While it may not be the best choice for gaming or heavy workloads, it’s a reliable option for everyday tasks like web browsing, office work, and media consumption.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly processor that can handle basic tasks, the Athlon X4 870K is definitely worth considering. However, if you need a processor for more demanding workloads or gaming, you may want to consider more modern options from AMD or Intel.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re not set on the Athlon X4 870K, here are some alternative processors to consider:
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200G: A more modern processor with integrated graphics and better performance
- Intel Core i3-9100F: A more powerful processor with higher clock speeds and better gaming performance
- AMD Athlon X4 950: A more recent processor with better performance and features
Ultimately, the AMD Athlon X4 870K is a good processor for its price, but it’s essential to weigh its pros and cons before making a decision.
Is the AMD Athlon X4 870K a good processor for gaming?
The AMD Athlon X4 870K is a quad-core processor that offers a good balance between performance and price, making it a viable option for gaming. With a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 4.1 GHz, it can handle most modern games at high settings. Additionally, the processor’s integrated Vega graphics provide a decent level of graphics performance, allowing for smooth gameplay in less demanding titles.
However, it’s worth noting that the Athlon X4 870K may not be the best choice for 4K gaming or extremely demanding titles. In these cases, a more powerful processor with a higher clock speed and more cores may be necessary. Nevertheless, for 1080p and 1440p gaming, the Athlon X4 870K is a solid option that offers good performance at an affordable price.
How does the AMD Athlon X4 870K compare to Intel Core i5 processors?
The AMD Athlon X4 870K is often compared to Intel Core i5 processors in terms of performance and value. While the Core i5 processors generally offer higher single-threaded performance, the Athlon X4 870K’s quad-core design and higher clock speeds give it an edge in multi-threaded workloads. Additionally, the Athlon X4 870K’s integrated Vega graphics provide a level of graphics performance that is unmatched by most Intel Core i5 processors.
That being said, the Core i5 processors tend to have higher IPC (instructions per clock) and better power efficiency, which can result in better performance in certain workloads. Ultimately, the choice between the Athlon X4 870K and a Core i5 processor will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If you need strong multi-threaded performance and integrated graphics, the Athlon X4 870K may be the better choice. If you prioritize single-threaded performance and power efficiency, a Core i5 processor may be a better fit.
Can the AMD Athlon X4 870K be overclocked?
Yes, the AMD Athlon X4 870K can be overclocked, but it requires a motherboard with a good power delivery system and cooling. The processor has an unlocked multiplier, which allows for easy overclocking using software tools like AMD Overdrive or Ryzen Master. With a good cooling system, it’s possible to push the clock speed up to 4.5 GHz or higher, depending on the specific motherboard and cooling configuration.
However, it’s worth noting that overclocking the Athlon X4 870K can increase power consumption and heat generation, which may require additional cooling measures. Additionally, overclocking can also void the warranty, so it’s essential to carefully consider the risks and benefits before attempting to overclock the processor.
What is the power consumption of the AMD Athlon X4 870K?
The AMD Athlon X4 870K has a TDP (thermal design power) of 95W, which is relatively high compared to some other processors in its class. However, this is due to the processor’s high clock speeds and integrated Vega graphics, which require more power to operate. In practice, the actual power consumption of the Athlon X4 870K will depend on the specific workload and system configuration.
Despite its relatively high power consumption, the Athlon X4 870K is still a relatively efficient processor, especially when compared to some older AMD processors. With a good power supply and cooling system, it’s possible to build a system that is both powerful and energy-efficient.
Is the AMD Athlon X4 870K compatible with all motherboards?
The AMD Athlon X4 870K is compatible with most motherboards that support the AM4 socket, but it’s essential to check the specific motherboard manual or manufacturer’s website to confirm compatibility. Some older motherboards may require a BIOS update to support the Athlon X4 870K, while others may not support the processor’s integrated Vega graphics.
In general, it’s recommended to choose a motherboard that is specifically designed for the Athlon X4 870K or other Ryzen processors, as these motherboards will typically offer better support for the processor’s features and power requirements. Additionally, look for a motherboard with a good power delivery system and cooling features to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
How does the AMD Athlon X4 870K perform in content creation workloads?
The AMD Athlon X4 870K is a capable processor for content creation workloads, thanks to its quad-core design and high clock speeds. In applications like video editing, 3D modeling, and photo editing, the processor’s multi-threaded performance and integrated Vega graphics provide a good level of performance. Additionally, the processor’s PCIe 3.0 lanes and support for fast storage devices make it well-suited for tasks that require high bandwidth and low latency.
However, the Athlon X4 870K may not be the best choice for extremely demanding content creation workloads, such as 4K video editing or 3D rendering. In these cases, a more powerful processor with more cores and higher clock speeds may be necessary. Nevertheless, for most content creation tasks, the Athlon X4 870K offers a good balance between performance and price.
Is the AMD Athlon X4 870K a good value for the price?
The AMD Athlon X4 870K is generally considered a good value for the price, offering a strong balance between performance and affordability. With a price point that is often lower than Intel Core i5 processors, the Athlon X4 870K provides a compelling option for those who need a powerful processor without breaking the bank.
Additionally, the Athlon X4 870K’s integrated Vega graphics provide a level of graphics performance that is unmatched by most Intel Core i5 processors, making it a good choice for those who need a processor that can handle both CPU and GPU workloads. Overall, the Athlon X4 870K is a solid choice for those who need a powerful and affordable processor for gaming, content creation, and other demanding workloads.