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AMD A8 5600K Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£9
  • PassMark benchmark result: 2857
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.9 GHz

AMD A8 5600K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

3.6

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%

3.6

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
3.6

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%

3.0

Performance

18.0%

3.4

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.1

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.2

Platform

1.0%

7.1

Integrated Graphics

Poor
?

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%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 1.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.7

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    1.0

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.3

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.0

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.3
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.0

    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

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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 A8-5600K is a 32nm Trinity architecture quad-core APU designed for the FM2 socket, featuring a 3.6 GHz base clock with a 3.9 GHz Turbo speed and a 100W TDP. It includes 4MB of L2 cache and integrated Radeon HD 7560D graphics with 256 shader cores running at 760 MHz. Main pros include an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, competitive value for budget builds, and integrated graphics that generally outperformed contemporaneous Intel solutions for light gaming and HTPC use. However, notable cons include high power consumption relative to performance, reliance on fast system RAM for GPU efficiency, and weak single-core performance that often bottlenecks modern applications or dedicated high-end graphics cards.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD A8 5600K

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%

?

Performance

18.0%

?

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

?

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

?

Power & Thermal

4.0%

?

Platform

1.0%

?

Integrated Graphics

3.6
AMD A8 5600K has a technical score of 3.62 points, which is lower than that of 92.1% 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%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
AMD A8 5600K has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% 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%

3.6

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

5.5
AMD A8 5600K has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.5 points, which is lower than 85.9% 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 A8 5600K 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

FM2
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

A88X, A85X, A78, A75, A68H, A55
AMD A8 5600K supports A88X, A85X, A78, A75, A68H, A55 chipsets, which is narrower compatibility than 64.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% 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 A8 5600K 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.
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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 A8 5600K 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 A8 5600K 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 A8 5600K 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

3.9 GHz
AMD A8 5600K reaches a boost clock of 3.9 GHz which is lower than that of 65% of processors and equal to that of 3.5% 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 3.6 GHz
AMD A8 5600K has a base clock of 4x3.6 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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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

32 nm
AMD A8 5600K uses a 32 nm process node, which is older than that of 97.8% of processors and equal to that of 2.3% 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 32 nm
AMD A8 5600K is built on the GlobalFoundries 32 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 98.2% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% 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 A8 5600K 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

4 MB
AMD A8 5600K has an L2 cache of 4 MB which is larger than that of 55.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.2% 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 A8 5600K 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.
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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

DDR3
AMD A8 5600K supports DDR DDR3, which is older than that of 86.3% of processors and equal to that of 13.7% 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

1,866 MHz
AMD A8 5600K supports memory speeds up to 1866 MHz, which is lower than that of 84.5% of processors and equal to 2.7% 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

DDR3-1866 MHz
AMD A8 5600K supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR3-1866 MHz, which is lower than that of 85.5% of processors and equal to 0.8% 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 A8 5600K 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 A8 5600K includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
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 HD 7560D
AMD A8 5600K uses the Radeon HD 7560D integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 86.1% of processors and equal to that in 0.1% 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

?
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

760 MHz
AMD A8 5600K has an integrated GPU clock of 760 MHz which is higher than that of 90.4% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% of processors.
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), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode), MPEG-4 (HW decode)
AMD A8 5600K supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode), MPEG-4 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 51.2% of processors and equal to 1.1% of processors.
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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

100 W
AMD A8 5600K has a TDP of 100 W which is higher than that of 90.6% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% 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

100 W
AMD A8 5600K has a base power of 100 W which is higher than that of 90.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% 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

100 W
AMD A8 5600K has a boost power of 100 W which is higher than that of 69.5% of processors and equal to that of 0.4% of processors.
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 A8 5600K does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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AMD A8 5600K vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD A8 5600K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD A8 5600K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD A8 5600K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    What it is: The number of PCIe lanes provided directly by the processor.
    When it matters: When you connect fast GPUs, SSDs, or expansion cards.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=20

    AMD A8 5600K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.24 vs 16
  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD A8 5600K 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 A8 5600K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 26 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (74 °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 A8 5600K has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (74 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.74 °C vs 100 °C
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD A8 5600K 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 A8 5600K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more L2 per core
    AMD A8 5600K has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    AMD A8 5600K has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.1 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 27.78x cheaper
    AMD A8 5600K is cheaper than the average processor (£9 vs £250).
    AMD A8 5600K is cheaper than the average processor (£9 vs £250).£9 vs £250
  • 2.17x higher GPU clock speed
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (760 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
    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

    AMD A8 5600K has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (760 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.760 MHz vs 350 MHz
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD A8 5600K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more L2 per core
    AMD A8 5600K has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 60% larger L2 cache
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (4 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD A8 5600K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD A8 5600K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2.17x higher GPU clock speed
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (760 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD A8 5600K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 26 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (74 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.

Total
Overall
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • 8 year/s older release date
    AMD A8 5600K has an older release date than the average processor (2,012 vs 2,020).
    October 2012
  • Older CPU socket
    AMD A8 5600K uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FM2 vs FP2).
  • No crypto acceleration
    AMD A8 5600K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 71.1% lower single-core score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (425 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 42.4% weaker single-core performance
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,429 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 91.1% lower multi-core score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (425 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 60.1% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (193 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 72.9% lower PassMark score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,857 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    AMD A8 5600K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • No multithreading support
    AMD A8 5600K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    AMD A8 5600K has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 37.5% lower bus transfer rate
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
  • 1 fewer threads per core
    AMD A8 5600K has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
  • 37.5% lower bus speed
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower bus speed than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
  • 2.67x larger process node
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher process node than the average processor (32 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD A8 5600K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Trinity vs Kaby Lake).
  • 38.2% larger die size
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher die size than the average processor (246 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 73.7% fewer transistors
    AMD A8 5600K has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.3 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • Less advanced foundry
    AMD A8 5600K uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (GlobalFoundries 32 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • Older DDR support
    AMD A8 5600K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 34.7% lower memory bandwidth
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (29.9 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Older PCIe version
    AMD A8 5600K supports an older PCIe version than the average processor (2 vs 3.0).
  • 36.4% lower memory speed
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,866 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    AMD A8 5600K uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Radeon HD 7,560D vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 2.22x higher base power
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (100 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 26 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (74 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD A8 5600K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 2.22x higher TDP
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher TDP than the average processor (100 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 56.3% higher boost power
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (100 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 71.1% lower single-core score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (425 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (425 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.425 vs 1,471
  • 42.4% weaker single-core performance
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,429 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 A8 5600K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,429 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,429 vs 2,483
  • 91.1% lower multi-core score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (425 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 A8 5600K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (425 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.425 vs 4,793
  • 60.1% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (193 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >600

    AMD A8 5600K has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (193 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.193 vs 484
  • 2.67x larger process node
    AMD A8 5600K has a higher process node than the average processor (32 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 A8 5600K has a higher process node than the average processor (32 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.32 nm vs 12 nm
  • 72.9% lower PassMark score
    AMD A8 5600K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,857 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 A8 5600K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,857 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.2,857 vs 10,532.5
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD A8 5600K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Trinity 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 A8 5600K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Trinity vs Kaby Lake).Trinity vs Kaby Lake
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    AMD A8 5600K 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 A8 5600K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of AMD A8 5600K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about AMD A8 5600K?

  • Excellent value for money for budget PC builds
  • Solid integrated graphics (Radeon HD 7560D) for light gaming and HD video
  • Unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking
  • Ideal for Home Theatre PCs (HTPC) and daily office tasks
  • Significant performance boost when paired with high-speed (2133MHz) RAM
  • Supports Dual Graphics mode with compatible discrete cards like the HD 6670

What customers dislike about AMD A8 5600K?

  • CPU core performance is weak compared to Intel's contemporary offerings
  • High 100W TDP can lead to significant heat output under heavy load
  • Requires a separate FM2 socket motherboard (not backwards compatible with FM1)
  • Limited multi-threaded performance for intensive tasks like video encoding
  • High power draw relative to newer processors
  • Stock cooling may be insufficient or loud during heavy usage

Expert reviews

T
techwarelabs.com
19/11/2012
AMD A8-5600K Trinity APU Review

The AMD A8-5600K Trinity APU is a versatile quad-core processor running at 3.6 GHz, offering strong, budget-friendly performance for general computing, video playback, and light tasks, while featuring an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking up to 4.1 GHz or higher. Its integrated Radeon HD 7560D graphics provide capable entry-level gaming at lower resolutions, with the added...Read more

H
hexus.net
18/10/2012
Review: AMD A8-5600K - CPU

The AMD A8-5600K is a £75 Trinity-based APU featuring a quad-core 3.6GHz (3.9GHz Turbo) CPU, performing within 5% of the faster A10-5800K in multi-threaded tasks. As a "K" series chip with an unlocked multiplier, it is aimed at budget-conscious enthusiasts interested in overclocking. While featuring reduced integrated graphics compared to the top-tier model, the Radeon HD 7560D...Read more

G
guru3d.com
04/10/2012
AMD A8 5600K review

The Guru3D review of the AMD A8-5600K "Trinity" APU highlights it as a strong budget option featuring a 3.6 GHz quad-core processor and Radeon HD 7560D graphics, offering playable frame rates at lower settings. Key advantages include the unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, excellent integrated graphics performance for the price, and strong GPGPU/media playback capabilities...Read more

E
eteknix.com
03/10/2012
AMD A8-5600k APU Processor Review

The eTeknix review of the AMD A8-5600K, a Trinity-based APU, identifies it as a cost-effective, versatile option for the FM2 platform featuring Piledriver architecture with Radeon HD 7560D graphics. While the chip delivers competitive integrated graphics performance in 3DMark, it shows mixed results with slower CPU processing speeds in tests like Cinebench compared to the previous...Read more

V
vortez.net
02/10/2012
AMD A8-5600K (Trinity) Review - Introduction

The AMD A8-5600K "Trinity" APU, featuring a 3.6 GHz quad-core Piledriver CPU and Radeon HD 7560D integrated graphics, positions itself as a budget-friendly option for entry-level gaming. A key advantage is its unlocked multiplier, allowing for easy overclocking, while the integrated GPU significantly outperforms contemporary Intel HD 4000 solutions. However, the APU suffers from a...Read more

T
techpowerup.com
02/10/2012
AMD A10-5800K and A8-5600K APUs for Socket FM2 Review

The TechPowerUp review of AMD’s Socket FM2 A10-5800K and A8-5600K APUs, based on the "Trinity" architecture, highlights a strong entry-level offering with Piledriver CPU cores and efficient VLIW4 graphics, aimed at budget gaming and HTPC systems. Key advantages include vastly superior integrated graphics—outperforming Intel solutions by up to 200%—along with Dual Graphics support...Read more

T
tomshardware.com
26/09/2012
AMD Trinity On The Desktop: A10, A8, And A6 Get Piledriver And VLIW4

The Tom’s Hardware review of AMD’s Trinity-based A10-5800K, A8-5600K, and A6-5400K APUs highlights a shift to Piledriver architecture, with the flagship A10-5800K offering a 3.8 GHz base clock and Radeon HD 7660D graphics. Key pros include superior integrated graphics performance, which outperforms Intel's HD Graphics 4000 by ~20%, alongside improved idle power efficiency and...Read more

H
hexus.net
18/10/2012
Review: AMD A8-5600K Would you like to see a performance comparison between the A8-5600K and its modern Ryzen successors?

The AMD A8-5600K "Trinity" APU, featured in a HEXUS review, presents a value-oriented quad-core option with a 3.6GHz base and 3.9GHz turbo frequency. It delivers CPU performance within roughly 5% of the flagship A10-5800K, offering strong performance for its price point. Key advantages include an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking and Radeon HD 7560D graphics that outperform...Read more

G
guru3d.com
04/10/2012
AMD A8 5600K review

The AMD A8-5600K "Trinity" APU for the FM2 socket features four 3.6 GHz Piledriver cores and integrated Radeon HD 7560D graphics, offering significant VLIW4-based performance gains for budget builds and HTPCs. While CPU performance trails Intel i3/i5 alternatives, the APU excels in OpenCL-accelerated tasks and features an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. Key pros include...Read more

E
eteknix.com
03/10/2012
AMD A8-5600k APU Processor Review

The eTeknix review finds the AMD A8-5600K "Trinity" APU to be a strong, cost-effective entry-to-mid-level option, featuring 3.6GHz/3.9GHz clocks and 256 Radeon cores on the FM2 platform. It delivers impressive integrated graphics performance for light gaming and HD media, alongside good power efficiency and overclocking potential, with stable speeds reaching 4.4GHz. However, the APU...Read more

T
tech-review.de
19. Oktober 2012
AMD A8-5600K: Trinity Follows Llano

The AMD A8-5600K "Trinity" APU acts as a budget-friendly, FM2-socket solution balancing a 3.6 GHz "Piledriver" CPU with Radeon HD 7560D graphics. A primary pro is its high value and DirectX 11 support, which eliminates the need for a discrete card, though a notable con is its high 100W TDP and power consumption. Performance highlights include competitive integrated graphics for...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakpc.de
18. Oktober 2012
Review: AMD A10-5700, A8-5600K and A10-5800K

AMD's second-generation "Trinity" APUs, including the A10-5800K and A10-5700, utilize the Piledriver architecture to balance decent x86 processing with superior integrated graphics, outperforming Intel in entry-level gaming. The flagship A10-5800K offers high clock speeds and the robust Radeon HD 7660D, while the A10-5700 provides superior energy efficiency, though both rely heavily...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
pcmasters.de
31. Oktober 2012
AMD Trinity: A8-5600K CPU Performance Review

The AMD A8-5600K is a 32nm "Trinity" APU featuring four "Piledriver" cores at 3.6 GHz (3.9 GHz Turbo), offering a balanced, budget-friendly option for computing and integrated graphics. A key advantage is its unlocked multiplier, allowing for easy overclocking of both the processor and the Radeon HD 7560D GPU. While the integrated 256-shader core GPU delivers capable 720p gaming...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tomshardware.fr
02/10/2012
AMD Trinity: affordable APUs, but what about performance and overclocking?

The AMD Trinity APU review from Tom's Hardware highlights a shift to "Piledriver" CPU cores and Radeon HD 7000-series graphics, delivering impressive integrated GPU performance that outperforms Intel’s Ivy Bridge in gaming. While idle energy efficiency is excellent, the 100W TDP on top models is high and raw, single-threaded CPU performance struggles to beat Intel’s Core i3 in...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
nexthardware.com
02/10/2012
AMD APU A10-5800K and A8-5600K: Trinity is here!

The Nexthardware review of AMD’s A10-5800K and A8-5600K "Trinity" APUs highlights a transition to the Piledriver architecture and FM2 socket, featuring integrated Radeon HD 7660D/7560D graphics and unlocked multipliers for overclocking. Trinity delivers superior integrated graphics performance compared to Intel’s HD 4000, making it capable of entry-level gaming, although CPU IPC...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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