OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

AMD A12 9800E Review | 78 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£90
  • Avg. price in US: ~$110
  • PassMark benchmark result: 3416
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.8 GHz

AMD A12 9800E review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.0

Technical Score

10.0%

6.7

User score

Poor
4.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.5

Performance

18.0%

3.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.5

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.1

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.2

Platform

1.0%

6.6

Integrated Graphics

Poor
6.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

3.6

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(34)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Good
  • 2.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.0

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    4.4

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.0

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.5
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.4

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    1.0

    L3 cache

  • amd-a12-9800e
  • amd-a12-9800e
  • amd-a12-9800e
amd-a12-9800e
amd-a12-9800e
amd-a12-9800e

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The AMD A12-9800E is a 7th Generation Bristol Ridge desktop APU built on a 28nm Excavator architecture for the AM4 socket. It features 4 CPU cores with a base clock of 3.1 GHz (boosting up to 3.8 GHz) and integrated Radeon R7 graphics with 512 shading units operating at 900 MHz. Its primary strengths are a low 35W TDP, making it highly energy-efficient for compact systems, and an unlocked multiplier that allows for straightforward overclocking. However, it suffers from dated architecture that results in poor single-threaded performance compared to contemporary Ryzen or Intel alternatives, lacks L3 cache, and is limited to slower DDR4-2400 memory speeds.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD A12 9800E

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.5

Performance

18.0%

3.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.5

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.1

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.2

Platform

1.0%

6.6

Integrated Graphics

4.0
AMD A12 9800E has a technical score of 4.01 points, which is lower than that of 80.5% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.0

User reviews

30.0%

3.6

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(34)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

6.7
AMD A12 9800E has a user score of 6.67 points, which is lower than that of 96.7% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
3.6
AMD A12 9800E has a popularity of 3.6 points, which is higher than 79.6% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.3

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.0
AMD A12 9800E has a quality-to-price ratio of 6 points, which is lower than 65.3% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

AMD
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
AMD A12 9800E belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

AM4
AMD A12 9800E uses the AM4 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 76.3% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

X370, B350, A320
AMD A12 9800E supports X370, B350, A320 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 66.2% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
AMD A12 9800E uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
Show more
N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

4
AMD A12 9800E has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

4
AMD A12 9800E offers 4 CPU threads, which is fewer than 67.3% of processors and equal to 26.6% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

1
AMD A12 9800E offers 1 threads per core, which is fewer than 69.7% of processors and equal to 30.3% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

3.8 GHz
AMD A12 9800E reaches a boost clock of 3.8 GHz which is lower than that of 68.5% of processors and equal to that of 4.1% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

4 x 3.1 GHz
AMD A12 9800E has a base clock of 4x3.1 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
Show more
Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

28 nm
AMD A12 9800E uses a 28 nm process node, which is older than that of 94.8% of processors and equal to that of 2.9% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

GlobalFoundries 28 nm
AMD A12 9800E is built on the GlobalFoundries 28 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 94.8% of processors and equal to that of 2.9% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

0 MB
AMD A12 9800E has an L3 cache of 0 MB which is smaller than that of 93.6% of processors and equal to that of 6.4% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

2 MB
AMD A12 9800E has an L2 cache of 2 MB which is smaller than that of 51.3% of processors and equal to that of 11.1% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

320 KB
AMD A12 9800E has an L1 cache of 320 KB which is smaller than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 4.1% of processors.
Show more
DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
AMD A12 9800E supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

2,400 MHz
AMD A12 9800E supports memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.2% of processors and equal to 12.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2400 MHz
AMD A12 9800E supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.4% of processors and equal to 10.6% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

N/A
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

64 GB
AMD A12 9800E supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
Show more
Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
AMD A12 9800E includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Radeon R7
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Radeon R7
AMD A12 9800E uses the Radeon R7 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 82.6% of processors and equal to that in 1.3% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

8
AMD A12 9800E has 8 GPU execution units, which is fewer than 74.1% of processors and equal to 7.2% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

?
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode)
AMD A12 9800E supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 56.2% of processors and equal to 9.5% of processors.
Show more
TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

35 W
AMD A12 9800E has a TDP of 35 W which is lower than that of 51.8% of processors and equal to that of 14.8% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

35 W
AMD A12 9800E has a base power of 35 W which is lower than that of 51.7% of processors and equal to that of 15.1% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

?
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

N/A
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
AMD A12 9800E does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
Show more

AMD A12 9800E vs the average processor

  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD A12 9800E includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
    What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
    When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD A12 9800E includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD A12 9800E supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD A12 9800E supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 10 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (90 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
    What it is: The reported operating temperature of the processor.
    When it matters: When you monitor thermals, cooling, or system stability.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <100 °C

    AMD A12 9800E has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (90 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.90 °C vs 100 °C
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD A12 9800E uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM4 vs FP2).
    What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

    Importance: HIGH

    AMD A12 9800E uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM4 vs FP2).AM4 vs FP2
  • 3.56x more popular
    AMD A12 9800E is more popular than the average processor (3.56 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
    When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
    AMD A12 9800E is more popular than the average processor (3.56 vs 1.000).3.56 vs 1
  • 22.2% lower base power
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower base power draw than the average processor (35 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    AMD A12 9800E has a lower base power draw than the average processor (35 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.35 W vs 45 W
  • 2.78x cheaper
    AMD A12 9800E is cheaper than the average processor (£90 vs £250).
    AMD A12 9800E is cheaper than the average processor (£90 vs £250).£90 vs £250
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD A12 9800E uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM4 vs FP2).
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD A12 9800E supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD A12 9800E includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 10 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (90 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
  • 22.2% lower base power
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower base power draw than the average processor (35 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.

Total
Overall
Platform
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal
  • 3 year/s older release date
    AMD A12 9800E has an older release date than the average processor (2,017 vs 2,020).
    July 2017
  • No crypto acceleration
    AMD A12 9800E does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • Older TPM support
    AMD A12 9800E supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).
  • 36.9% weaker single-core performance
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,566 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 67.6% lower PassMark score
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (3,416 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 67.6% lower multi-core score
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,552 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 11.6% lower boost clock
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • No multithreading support
    AMD A12 9800E does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 1 fewer threads per core
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
  • 2.33x larger process node
    AMD A12 9800E has a higher process node than the average processor (28 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD A12 9800E uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Bristol Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 40.4% larger die size
    AMD A12 9800E has a higher die size than the average processor (250 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • Less advanced foundry
    AMD A12 9800E uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (GlobalFoundries 28 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 20% smaller L2 cache
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (2 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 37.4% fewer transistors
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer transistors than the average processor (3.1 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • 8 fewer PCIe lanes
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 18.2% lower memory speed
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 16.2% lower memory bandwidth
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (38.4 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    AMD A12 9800E uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Radeon R7 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 66.7% fewer GPU execution units
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer GPU execution units than the average processor (8 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.
  • Narrower media codec support
    AMD A12 9800E supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 10 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (90 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD A12 9800E does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 36.9% weaker single-core performance
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,566 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    AMD A12 9800E has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,566 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,566 vs 2,483
  • 2.33x larger process node
    AMD A12 9800E has a higher process node than the average processor (28 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    AMD A12 9800E has a higher process node than the average processor (28 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.28 nm vs 12 nm
  • 67.6% lower PassMark score
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (3,416 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    AMD A12 9800E has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (3,416 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.3,416 vs 10,532.5
  • 67.6% lower multi-core score
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,552 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    AMD A12 9800E has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,552 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.1,552 vs 4,793
  • 11.6% lower boost clock
    AMD A12 9800E has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
    When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4.7 GHz

    AMD A12 9800E has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    AMD A12 9800E has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    AMD A12 9800E has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD A12 9800E uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Bristol Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
    What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
    When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.

    Importance: LOW

    AMD A12 9800E uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Bristol Ridge vs Kaby Lake).Bristol Ridge vs Kaby Lake
  • No multithreading support
    AMD A12 9800E does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
    What it is: Lets each physical core run more than one thread at the same time, such as with Hyper-Threading or SMT.
    When it matters: When multitasking, rendering, compiling, virtualization, or other thread-heavy work benefits from more total processing threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    AMD A12 9800E does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of AMD A12 9800E and other processors

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
34 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD A12 9800E?

  • Efficient 35W TDP makes it ideal for low-power, cool-running HTPC or small form factor builds
  • Uses the modern AM4 socket, providing a clear upgrade path to more powerful Ryzen processors
  • Integrated Radeon R7 graphics perform better than Intel's budget HD graphics from the same era
  • Capable of handling everyday office tasks, web browsing, and 1080p video playback smoothly
  • Good for budget-conscious users who want to play light eSports titles at 720p/900p without a dedicated GPU

What customers dislike about AMD A12 9800E?

  • Based on older 'Excavator' architecture, resulting in poor CPU performance compared to Ryzen or modern Intel i3 chips
  • Performance is roughly 30% slower than the standard 65W version (A12-9800) due to power constraints
  • Struggles significantly with CPU-intensive tasks like video encoding, rendering, or complex multitasking
  • Memory support is limited to DDR4-2400, which can bottleneck the integrated graphics performance
  • Poor value proposition compared to newer entry-level APUs like the Ryzen 3 2200G which offer much higher performance for a similar price

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
30/01/2025
AMD A12-9800E - CPU Benchmarks

The AMD A12-9800E is a 7th Gen "Bristol Ridge" 35W TDP APU designed for efficient, small-form-factor AM4 systems, featuring four Excavator cores up to 3.8 GHz and Radeon R7 graphics. Pros include exceptional power efficiency for HTPCs and integrated graphics that outperform typical Intel alternatives of its era for entry-level gaming, along with a clear upgrade path on the AM4...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
N/A
AMD A12-9800E Benchmarks - Geekbench Browser

The AMD A12-9800E is a 35W TDP, 7th-gen "Bristol Ridge" quad-core APU from 2017 designed for energy-efficient AM4 socket systems, featuring 3.1 GHz to 3.8 GHz clock speeds and Radeon R7 graphics. Pros include low power consumption for SFF/HTPCs, support for DDR4, and an upgrade path to AM4 Ryzen chips, with reasonable performance for casual e-sports. However, cons include an aging...Read more

C
cpubenchmark.net
30/03/2026
AMD PRO A12-9800E vs Intel i5-6400T - CPU Benchmarks

According to PassMark data, the Intel Core i5-6400T outperforms the AMD PRO A12-9800E by approximately 26% in multi-threaded tasks and holds a slight lead in single-threaded performance. While the i5-6400T is superior for general processing due to its efficient architecture and larger cache, the AMD A12-9800E offers better integrated Radeon R7 graphics for light gaming and a more...Read more

C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
30/03/2026
AMD A12-9800E APU (2016 M.BR) AD9800AHABBOX

The AMD A12-9800E is a 35W TDP, 28nm quad-core APU based on the "Excavator" architecture, designed for AM4 socket systems, offering low power consumption and capable integrated Radeon R7 graphics for light, basic multimedia tasks. Key disadvantages highlighted by UserBenchmark include its dated, low-performance architecture compared to modern Ryzen processors, along with a 2400 MT/s...Read more

T
tomshardware.fr
23/09/2016
First tests of the AMD A12-9800 CPU: 20% more power-efficient, 10% faster

The AMD A12-9800 "Bristol Ridge" APU, based on the Excavator architecture, acts as an AM4 platform bridge, offering a 10% performance increase and 20% better power efficiency over the A10-7870K, operating at a 65W TDP. It features four CPU cores (3.8-4.2 GHz) and integrated Radeon R7 graphics, supporting modern DDR4-2400 memory and PCIe Gen 3. Key advantages include superior...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
cpubenchmark.net
30/01/2025
AMD A12-9800E - CPU Benchmarks

The AMD A12-9800E is a 35W TDP, 7th-generation "Bristol Ridge" APU designed for AM4 platform SFF and HTPC builds, offering 4 cores, 3.1 GHz base clock, and integrated Radeon R7 graphics. Its primary advantages lie in high energy efficiency and superior integrated graphics performance for light eSports compared to budget alternatives, utilizing the versatile AM4 socket. However, the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
I
ixbt.com
Septiembre 2017
AMD A10-9700 and A12-9800E (AM4 Platform) APU Benchmarks

The ixbt.com review examines the AMD A10-9700 and A12-9800E (Bristol Ridge) APUs, highlighting their role as a 28nm transition to the AM4 platform with DDR4 and PCIe 3.0 support. While offering improved efficiency and capable Radeon R7 graphics for basic tasks and 4K media, they are limited by an outdated architecture compared to Ryzen. Ideal for budget or SFF builds, the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
pangoly.com
01/07/2026
AMD A12-9800 vs A12-9800E CPU Comparison - Pangoly

The AMD A12-9800 is designed for higher performance with a 3.8 GHz base clock and a 65W TDP, offering roughly 22.6% faster CPU speeds than the 9800E but with higher heat output. The A12-9800E is a 35W, low-power variant suitable for HTPCs that runs cooler with lower, 3.1 GHz base clock speeds and a roughly 10% performance reduction, prioritizing efficiency over raw power. While the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
01/11/2018
Desktop Best Buy Guide - November 2018 (Including A12-9800E comparison)

The Tweakers Desktop Best Buy Guide for November 2018 presents three curated systems for the winter season: Budget, Mainstream, and High-end Gaming PCs. Built on community feedback and internal testing, these configurations offer balanced performance, featuring a strong price-to-performance ratio in the lower tiers (e.g., Ryzen 5) while noting the con of price volatility, say,. The...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardware.info
19/11/2017
AMD A12-9800 APU review: Bristol Ridge revisited

The AMD A12-9800 "Bristol Ridge" APU acts as a final 28nm "Bulldozer" architecture transitional chip, introducing the AM4 socket with DDR4 support while serving primarily as a 65W budget or OEM stop-gap solution. Pros include the capable integrated Radeon R7 graphics, which allow for entry-level 1080p gaming and 4K media acceleration, alongside the benefit of an upgrade path to AM4...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
01/02/2018
AMD A12-9800E Boxed - nonnominandus - Product reviews

The AMD A12-9800E is reviewed as an budget-friendly, energy-efficient (35W) APU for the AM4 platform, offering a useful, cost-effective stopgap solution with decent integrated graphics. A major advantage is its compatibility with modern motherboards, allowing for easy, future-proof upgrades to faster Ryzen processors. However, the primary drawback is its reliance on the outdated...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

amd-ryzen-5-8400f
AMD Ryzen 5 8400F

Processors

6.9
No image
Intel 300

Processors

6.3
amd-ryzen-5-5600
AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Processors

6.0
amd-ryzen-7-2700x
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X

Processors

5.6
amd-ryzen-7-3700x
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X

Processors

6.0
amd-ryzen-5-7500f
AMD Ryzen 5 7500F

Processors

7.0
amd-ryzen-5-4600g
AMD Ryzen 5 4600G

Processors

5.5
intel-core-i5-9400f
Intel Core i5 9400F

Processors

5.3
amd-ryzen-3-5300g
AMD Ryzen 3 5300G

Processors

5.7
amd-ryzen-5-7400f
AMD Ryzen 5 7400F

Processors

6.8
No image
AMD Ryzen 3 Pro 4350GE

Processors

5.1
amd-ryzen-7-1700
AMD Ryzen 7 1700

Processors

5.5

Compare AMD A12 9800E with other processors

VS
VS

Compare