AMD’s recent intentions and actions give no reason to doubt that the company plans to continue supporting the Socket AM4 desktop platform. We recently learned that the manufacturer is going to expand the Ryzen 5000X3D chip line, and now we have information about additional attention to one of the most affordable AM4 chips, the Athon 3000G.

Athlon 3000G old box

The model was introduced back in 2019. It is a dual-core processor that supports SMT technology, which allows it to process up to four data streams simultaneously. The chip uses the first-generation Zen architecture, and the processor itself is manufactured according to 14 nm standards by GlobalFoundries. The CPU, which has a 3.5 GHz operating frequency, is equipped with 4 MB of L3 cache and fits within a 35 W thermal package. The dual-channel memory controller supports DDR4-2666 modules. The presence of the “G” index in the model name clearly indicates the presence of integrated graphics. The model has a Radeon Vega 3 video core with three computing clusters (128 units) operating at 1100 MHz.

Interestingly, the Athlon 3000G has an unlocked multiplier and allows overclocking. Instead of the standard 3.5 GHz with an air cooler, it is quite possible to get 3.8-4.0 GHz, and with liquid nitrogen you can count on 4.8-5.0 GHz.

The first iteration of Athlon 3000G chips belonged to the Raven Ridge line (part number YD3000C6FBBOX) and had some compatibility issues when trying to install Windows 11. A later modification with an updated kernel stacking (Dali) already allowed for smooth validation with the new Microsoft OS. The newer version has the article number YD3000C6FHBOX.

Recently, AMD decided to minimally update the packaging design of the retail version of the Athlon 3000G. As before, the light-colored box is used, but this time the maximum attention is focused on the vendor’s logo, which occupies almost the entire surface of the front panel. At the same time, the visual emphasis on the presence of integrated Radeon Vega 3 graphics has disappeared in the design. It is mentioned only on a sticker on the top of the box.

The updated retail version of Athlon 3000G will be designated YD3000C6FHSBX. There are no technical changes to the CPU in this case. The chip will continue to have a functional configuration of 2/4 and operate at 3.5 GHz. However, the release of the “updated” version is not limited to the new box design. The processors will be equipped with Wraith Stealth coolers instead of the previous simpler cooler modification.

The initial recommended price of the dual-core Athlon 3000G was $49. In Ukraine, it is currently difficult to find a retail version of this processor. OEM versions are offered from ~1900 UAH ($50). However, if you want to use Win 11, you need to understand the modifications in more detail. However, on the eve of 2024, does it make sense to pay attention to 2-core desktop processors at all?