You’ve come to the correct place if you’re seeking for the greatest AM3 CPU to power your PC. Knowing what is best might be challenging with so many options on the market. Fortunately, we’ve spent the time testing and evaluating various AM3 CPUs to identify the best processors. We’ll share our research with you in this article so you can choose wisely. We’ll also give you useful details on the specifications and features of each of these processors so you can pick the one that best suits your requirements. So continue reading if you’re seeking for a strong CPU at a reasonable price.
Best AM3 CPU Reviews
1. AMD FD8350FRHKBOX FX-8350
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Let’s begin our reviews of the best AM3 CPU with one of the best high-end processors in the market, the FX-8350. It, in essence, is an 8-core CPU. Therefore, it can take care of multiple tasks without any issue at all. Thus, its performance, in terms of gaming, would be quite top-notch.
The device comes with a basic clock-speed of around 4.0GHz, which is pretty remarkable. However, if you wish to, then you can overclock it to almost 4.2GHz through the coveted overdrive software of AMD.
The cores of the model can only cater to a single thread, which means that it can only control eight of them simultaneously. Nevertheless, as it has an 8MB L2 and 8MB L3 cache, it can provide decent performance in almost any circumstance.
The only major issue of the model is its tendency to get overheated, especially when you are overclocking it. However, if you do add a cooling system to your motherboard, then everything will be alright.
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2. AMD FD8370FRHKHBX FX-8370
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As you can already guess from the name, the FX-8370 is, indeed, the upgraded version of FX-8350. Thus, in a way, it does offer better performance and efficiency than the former. For example, unlike the previous model, you can overclock this one to 4.3GHz comfortably.
That’s not all.
As one of the best AM3 processors in the market, it also comes with a wraith cooler, which helps it to maintain an optimum temperature. It also does not make much noise while running. So, with it, you can enjoy a quiet gaming experience without any issue.
Besides, it also features an 8MB L2 and an 8MB L3 cache. Thus, besides gaming, it can be an ideal option for multitasking purposes as well. The integrated AMD virtualization and advanced Vector Extensions boosts its overall performance to some extent as well.
Nonetheless, like its predecessor, this model, too, tends to consume a substantial amount of power. So, make sure to use a decent power supply with it.
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3. AMD FX Processor 3.8 FD8300WMHKBOX
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In essence, the FX Processor 3.8 is a little bit less potent than the previously-mentioned models. However, as a cost-effective product, it fares well with most of its rivals in the market. So, let’s take a look at it.
As an honorable member of the AMD FX series, the FX Processor 3.8 comes with an eight-core module, which offers a smooth multitasking performance. The base clock speed of the product revolves around 3.3GHz.
But, you can over-clock it at a speed of 4.2GHz with its smart over-clocking feature. It, in turn, might help you in playing advanced games and making 1080p videos seamlessly. In addition, the integrated AMD Turbo Core Technology increases its power even more than usual.
However, there is an issue with it.
The stock cooler of the product is not good enough at all. Hence, if you usually perform over-clocking, then it would be better for you to use another external cooling system with it.
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4. AMD FD4300WMHKBOX FX
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When talking about the best quad-core products in the market, the first name that comes to mind is FX-4300. It, in essence, is a worthy yet budget-friendly alternative of the G4560 of Intel. For starters, the product comes with a base clocking-speed of 3.8GHz.
If you want, you can take advantage of the clock multiplier and increase its speed to 4.0GHz. While working at its maximum, the FX-4300 tends to overheat a little bit. But, there’s no need to worry. AMD has included a powerful fan with it to avert overheating issues.
However, we are not done with it.
The model also comes with a 4MB L3 cache system, which offers a smarter and faster transfer of crucial data. It usually excels in low-demanding jobs. However, with some tweaks, you can play high graphics games on it as well.
Also, unlike a few other products on our best AM3+ CPU, it does offer decent single-threaded performance as well.
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5. AMD FX-6200 FD6200FRGUBOX
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In terms of gaming setups, the six-core module from AMD, the FX-6200, too, works fascinatingly well. It has a base clock speed of 3.8GHz and, thus, should be ideal for gaming purposes.
However, if you do need it for multitasking purposes, you can also use the overdrive software and increase its clock rate to 4.1GHz.
The exciting thing about FX-6200 is its cache platforms. The L2 component comes with a space of 6MB while the L3 boasts a storage room of 8MB. So, it can both work a lot faster while transferring a decent amount of data.
However, unlike other best socket AM3+ CPU models, it does consume a decent amount of power and, sometimes, gets overheated. So, make sure to keep a close eye on it.
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6. AMD FX-8120 8-Core Black Edition
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In all honesty, the FX-8120 is one of the oldest offerings of AMD’s AM3+ lineage. However, it still comes with some extraordinary features, which can help you out in your endeavors. For starters, it features a unique Bulldozer architecture, which improves its core communication by a mile. So, you can use it for gaming, multitasking, and several other purposes.
Although the product has a base processor speed of 3.1GHz, you can easily overclock it to 4.0GHz with the overdrive software. The Turbo Core Technology boosts its overall efficiency even more and helps you to enjoy a seamless working experience. The 32nm die shrink of the model enhances its stability and keeps the overheating issues in check as well.
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7. AMD FD832EWMHKBOX FX
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There are several best AM3+ CPUs for gaming available in the market. However, among them, no one can beat FX-8320E at all. Well, as an affordable model, it comes with eight different cores, which allows it to reach a remarkable speed of 4GHz.
Moreover, like many other AMD options, FX-8320E, too, features a Turbo Core System and HyperTransport technology, enhancing its data transferring capability even more. Conversely, the virtualization features make it easier for you to do multiple tasks at a time.
One of the best things about the FX-8320E is that it does not make much noise while working. Also, it dissipates only a small amount of heat due to its cooling system, even when you are playing the game for a prolonged period.
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8. AMD FD9590FHHKWOF FX-9590
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Are you considering buying the best AM3+ CPU in to build an ultimate gaming setup? Then, the FX-9590 from AMD can be an ideal option for you. It is a high-power processor, which has around 4.7GHz of clock-speed without breaking a sweat.
So, besides gaming, it can offer decent multimedia-based performance as well. Additionally, it comes with a fascinating combination of L2 (8GB) and L3 (8GB) Cache modules, which improves its overall efficiency as well. Its liquid cooling system is yet another positive aspect of the model.
However, the architecture (Piledriver) of the model has stayed the same, which is also available in FX-830 and FX-8350. Its power consumption is around 220W as well. So, it might end up spiking your overall electricity bill.
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Buying Guide
Whether you believe it or not, purchasing the best AM3+ CPU usually depends on a few factors. If you do not follow or abide by them, then you may end up buying the wrong one instead. So, to help you with it, here, we are going to provide you with a comprehensive buying guide. Make sure to check it out in a proper manner!
Cores
As you probably do already know, the processors generally consist of multiple different cores. Each of them is somewhat different than one another and, thus, can take care of diverse duties.
So, in essence, if your processor has a decent amount of cores, then it will work a lot faster than other modules. Anyways, if you are thinking about only doing your daily tasks on your computer, then going for a three or four-core product should be ideal for you.
However, for gaming, you would require more power and, therefore, have to choose a higher core product.
Sockets
To make things tick, you will have to connect your processor to the motherboard through a socket.
Hence, if you are buying the best AM3+ CPU, then make sure to purchase a compatible motherboard as well or vice versa.
If the socket does not fit with the motherboard, then the CPU would not get the power of running properly.
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Threads
In the case of a CPU, the term’ thread’ refers to the number of procedures it can take care of at a time. In most cases, the threading option would be the same as the number of cores your CPU comprises of.
Nevertheless, some of the high-priced and powerful processors tend to be multithreading. In this aspect, one of its cores can generate around two threads or more simultaneously. Thus, with them, you will be able to relish a superior multitasking-based performance.
Overall Clock-speed
The clock speed of a CPU generally measures how fast it can work. In general, if your chipset has a higher clocking-speed, then it can operate a lot quicker than usual and, thus, provide superior performance while you are playing high-end games.
Thus, if you wish to buy the best AM3+ CPU, then make sure to check if it has a maximum clock speed of over 4.0GHz or not. Otherwise, it would not be up-to-the-mark for 1080p or 4K gaming purposes.
Cooling System
In essence, the CPU of your computer has to take care of a lot of different operations. Thus, sometimes, if you are using your PC for a prolonged period, then it can get overheated.
In this case, if it does not have a decent cooling system, then it might get damaged due to the temperature issues. Due to this reason, while checking other factors, you should take a look at its cooling system as well.
In essence, the cooling system of the AM3+ CPUs tends to be pretty decent. Nevertheless, still, being extra cautious in this aspect would be excellent for you.
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Motherboard Compatibility
No matter which processor you are buying, it needs to be suitable for your system’s motherboard. If it is not, then a lot of issues can happen in this case. For starters, your CPU would not get enough power to run correctly.
It, in turn, might cause lags in the game. Moreover, sometimes, the socket systems might not match with the motherboard as well. Thus, it would be literary impossible for you to install your processor in your system.
Power Supply
The best AM3+ CPU would, undoubtedly, require a decent amount of power to run efficiently. Thus, along with a compatible motherboard, you will have to use a high-end power supply system as well.
It should be around at least 800W. Moreover, you will also have to make sure that your power supply is in a safe condition. The cable, which connects the motherboard with the power supply, should be long enough as well.
Cache
With the cache of a CPU, you can measure its overall data transferring capability, which occurs between it and the RAM. Usually, the cache is measured in megabyte and, its storage options can be categorized in three different formats. Let’s know a little bit about them.
- L3: The L3-based CPUs do have a lot of cache space. However, they tend to be a lot slower than usual.
- L2: The L2 setups generally come with a lower amount of space than L3. But, they are a lot faster and tend to transfer data pretty quickly.
- L1: The operational speed of the L1 modules are known to be the fastest. Nonetheless, they do not have a high capacity at all.
Conclusion
The best AM3 CPU for your PC depends on what you need it for. You should consider factors such as clock speed, core count, power consumption, and price when making your decision. If you’re looking for a good overall performance processor then the AMD Phenom II X4 965 Black Edition is a great choice with its clock speeds of up to 3.4GHz and four cores.
If you’re looking for something more power efficient then the AMD Athlon II X2 245 Dual Core could suit your needs as it is energy efficient yet still offers decent performance. Lastly, if you are on a budget then the AMD Sempron 145 offers a good balance between price and performance.
No matter which processor you choose, an AM3 socket-based CPU can provide great value and performance for your money.
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