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AMD Athlon X4 880K Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£80
Avg. price in US: ~$90
PassMark benchmark result: 3632
N. of physical cores: 4
CPU boost clock speed: 4.2 GHz

AMD Athlon X4 880K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.0

Good

4.6

Poor

8.7

Excellent

5.6
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
2.1
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
9.0
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
5.2
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
9.0
L3 cache
8.0%
1.8
N. of physical cores
2.6
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
1.3
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
1.8
N. of physical cores
20.0%
1.6
CPU threads
15.0%
9.0
L3 cache

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#79 in Best AMD CPUs
#178 in Best Desktop CPUs

Verdict

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a quad-core desktop processor built on the 28nm Steamroller architecture for the FM2+ socket, featuring a base clock speed of 4.0 GHz and a turbo frequency up to 4.2 GHz. As a 'Godavari' series chip, it includes 4 MB of L2 cache, supports DDR3-2133 memory, and operates at a 95W TDP. Main pros include its unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking (reaching up to 4.5 GHz), the inclusion of a high-quality 'Near Silent' 125W stock cooler, and excellent value for budget gaming builds that utilize a discrete graphics card. However, significant cons include the lack of integrated graphics, aging single-core performance compared to modern standards, and high power consumption that can lead to thermal throttling under heavy loads.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD Athlon X4 880K

Overall score

5.0

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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.

Platform

7.3

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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

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

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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

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

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Performance

4.3

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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+

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+

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

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

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

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Cache & Architecture

4.4

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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

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

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

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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

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

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Memory & PCIe

5.5

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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

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

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

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

?

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

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Integrated Graphics

2.8

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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

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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Power & Thermal

5.7

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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

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

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

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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

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AMD Athlon X4 880K vs the average processor

Why is AMD Athlon X4 880K better than the average processor?

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Unlocked for overclocking
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
Includes stock cooler
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
27.6 °C lower CPU temperature
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (72.4 °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 Athlon X4 880K has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (72.4 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.72.4 °C vs 100 °C
Supports memory overclocking
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
2x more L2 per core
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K 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
10x more popular
AMD Athlon X4 880K is more popular than the average processor (10.00 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 Athlon X4 880K is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
8.3% higher user score
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher user score than the average processor (8.66 vs 8.000).
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.
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher user score than the average processor (8.66 vs 8.000).8.66 vs 8
3.13x cheaper
AMD Athlon X4 880K is cheaper than the average processor (£80 vs £250).
AMD Athlon X4 880K is cheaper than the average processor (£80 vs £250).£80 vs £250
Unlocked for overclocking
AMD Athlon X4 880K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
12 higher clock multiplier
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (40 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
2x more L2 per core
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K 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.
Supports memory overclocking
AMD Athlon X4 880K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
Includes stock cooler
AMD Athlon X4 880K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
27.6 °C lower CPU temperature
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (72.4 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Why is AMD Athlon X4 880K worse than the average processor?

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5 year/s older release date
AMD Athlon X4 880K has an older release date than the average processor (2015 vs 2020).
December 2015
No crypto acceleration
AMD Athlon X4 880K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
34.7% weaker single-core performance
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,621 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
73.6% lower multi-core score
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,266 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
65.5% lower PassMark score
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (3,632 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
2 fewer CPU cores
AMD Athlon X4 880K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
No multithreading support
AMD Athlon X4 880K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
4 fewer CPU threads
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
2.3% lower boost clock
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4.2 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
2.33x larger process node
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Godavari vs Kaby Lake).
37.6% larger die size
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher die size than the average processor (245 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
33.3% smaller L1 cache
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
Less advanced foundry
AMD Athlon X4 880K uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (GlobalFoundries 28 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
51.3% fewer transistors
AMD Athlon X4 880K has fewer transistors than the average processor (2.4 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
Older DDR support
AMD Athlon X4 880K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
25.5% lower memory bandwidth
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (34.1 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
Lower JEDEC memory speed
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower JEDEC memory speed than the average processor (DDR3-2133 MHz vs DDR4-3200 MHz). The average processor supports JEDEC memory speed of DDR4-3200 MHz.
27.3% lower memory speed
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,133 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
No integrated graphics
AMD Athlon X4 880K does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
2.11x higher base power
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
27.6 °C lower TJ Max
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (72.4 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
No configurable TDP
AMD Athlon X4 880K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
2.11x higher TDP
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
34.7% weaker single-core performance
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,621 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 Athlon X4 880K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,621 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,621 vs 2,483
2.33x larger process node
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K 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
73.6% lower multi-core score
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,266 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 Athlon X4 880K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,266 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.1,266 vs 4,793
65.5% lower PassMark score
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (3,632 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 Athlon X4 880K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (3,632 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.3,632 vs 10,532.5
Less advanced microarchitecture
AMD Athlon X4 880K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Godavari 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 Athlon X4 880K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Godavari vs Kaby Lake).Godavari vs Kaby Lake
2 fewer CPU cores
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
2.11x higher base power
AMD Athlon X4 880K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 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 Athlon X4 880K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.95 W vs 45 W
No multithreading support
AMD Athlon X4 880K 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 Athlon X4 880K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of AMD Athlon X4 880K and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD Athlon X4 880K?

Excellent value for budget-conscious gamers pairing it with a discrete GPU
Comes with a high-quality, 'near-silent' 125W stock cooler that handles heat well
Unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking (frequently hitting 4.5GHz)
Quad-core design meets the minimum requirements for many modern titles that fail to run on dual-core CPUs
Higher stock and turbo clock speeds (4.0GHz / 4.2GHz) compared to previous Athlon models

What customers dislike about AMD Athlon X4 880K?

Lacks integrated graphics, requiring the additional purchase of a dedicated video card
Dead-end FM2+ socket offers no viable future upgrade path to newer architectures like Ryzen
High power consumption (95W TDP) and high operating temperatures, especially when overclocked
Weak single-threaded performance compared to Intel competitors like the Core i3-6100
Relies on older DDR3 memory rather than faster, more modern DDR4

Expert reviews

goldfries.com

15/05/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Processor Review - goldfries

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a budget-friendly, quad-core processor on the FM2+ platform, offering a 4.0GHz base clock (4.2GHz boost) designed for use with discrete graphics cards. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to the A10 series, targeting value-focused gaming builds. Key pros highlighted in the review include exceptional value with performance comparable to more expensive Intel Core i3 options, alongside an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. The processor also features the improved, quieter "Near Silent" 125W stock cooler. Cons include the limited upgrade path due to the aging FM2+ platform and lower single-core performance compared to Intel competitors. Additionally, the lack of integrated graphics requires a dedicated GPU to boot.

relaxedtech.com

14/07/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Versus Intel Pentium G4400 Review

The RelaxedTech review identifies the AMD Athlon X4 880K as a superior budget gaming CPU compared to the Intel Pentium G4400 due to its quad-core design and high-frequency, unlocked performance. While the Pentium G4400 operates on a more modern, power-efficient architecture, it is limited by its dual-core configuration. In testing, the Athlon X4 880K demonstrated superior multi-threaded performance in Cinebench and key gaming titles, effectively running games like Far Cry 4 that struggle on dual-core systems, whereas the G4400 excelled only in single-core tasks. The 880K's main pros include high multi-core throughput and a high-quality stock cooler, with its primary con being higher power consumption. Ultimately, the review recommends the Athlon X4 880K for budget 1080p gaming, while noting the G4400 offers a better upgrade path.

vortez.net

18/08/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Review - Introduction - Vortez

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a Steamroller-based quad-core processor for the FM2+ socket, operating at 4.0GHz to 4.2GHz without integrated graphics. A key pro is the included 125W "Near Silent" cooler, providing excellent thermal performance for entry-level overclocking. The chip is positioned as a budget, dedicated gaming solution. In performance testing, the X4 880K competes well in multi-threaded tasks, often matching more expensive options, making it a viable choice over some dual-core Intel alternatives in gaming. However, its notable cons include lower single-threaded performance compared to Intel's Skylake architecture and a potentially limiting memory subsystem. The processor offers high value for, or a "bang-for-buck," system builders using a discrete graphics card. Despite the ability to overclock to around 4.5GHz, users should be aware that temperatures can run high under load. A major long-term drawback is the end-of-life status of the FM2+ platform, providing limited future upgrade options.

pcmag.com

17/03/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Review - PCMag

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a budget-focused, quad-core "Godavari" processor operating at 4.0GHz (4.2GHz boost) designed for FM2+ socket systems, offering a sub-$100 option that requires a dedicated graphics card. Its key advantages include solid, affordable 1080p gaming performance when paired with a mid-range GPU, and an improved "near-silent" 125W stock cooler that supports moderate overclocking. However, major drawbacks include the obsolete FM2+ platform offering no future upgrade path, lack of integrated graphics, and inferior performance in compute-intensive tasks compared to Intel counterparts.

hardwarecanucks.com

28/03/2016

Summary of the review

The AMD Athlon X4 880K Review | Hardware Canucks

The AMD Athlon X4 880K, reviewed by Hardware Canucks, acts as a budget-focused, 4.0GHz–4.2GHz quad-core "final hurrah" for the FM2+ platform, offering performance similar to higher-end APUs without integrated graphics. It allows for budget gaming builds by reducing CPU costs, enabling investment in better discrete graphics cards. Key advantages include the high-quality "Near-Silent 125W" cooler, an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking to around 4.6GHz, and strong performance in multi-threaded games. However, the review highlights that the 880K is a short-term value option on a "dead-end" socket, using older DDR3 memory and lacking any upgrade path to newer AMD architectures. While capable of handling modern games, its limitations include high power consumption and weak performance in single-threaded tasks compared to Intel's Skylake alternatives. The processor provides strong value for immediate, low-cost gaming builds, but not for future upgradability.

me.pcmag.com

29/06/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Review - PCMag Middle East Would you like to see a comparison of benchmark results between the Athlon X4 880K and its competitors f...

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a sub-$100, quad-core processor for the FM2+ socket, featuring high 4.0GHz-4.2GHz clock speeds and an efficient "near-silent" 125W cooler, ideal for budget gaming with a dedicated GPU. It provides solid performance, often surpassing more expensive A10 APUs in raw CPU tasks and supporting 1080p gaming, but it lacks integrated graphics and is hindered by the lack of an upgrade path on the dead-end FM2+ platform. Key pros include its unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking and high value, while cons include a high 95W TDP and weak performance in heavy, multi-threaded workloads. Copy

uk.pcmag.com

29/06/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K - PCMag UK

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a budget-focused, quad-core processor priced around $95, designed for gaming builds that use a dedicated graphics card, offering 4.0GHz stock and 4.2GHz turbo speeds. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to APUs, delivering solid 1080p gaming performance while omitting integrated graphics. Key pros include an unlocked multiplier for stable overclocking up to 4.5GHz and a high-quality, quiet 125-watt thermal solution included in the box. Performance in single-threaded tasks is strong, often exceeding higher-priced A10 chips. Conversely, the 880K shows limited performance in CPU-intensive, multi-threaded tasks compared to Intel Core i3/i5, and the aging FM2+ platform restricts future upgrade paths. It can also become a bottleneck for high-end GPUs in demanding titles. Copy

legitreviews.com

30/11/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Processor Review & Overclocking to 4.5 GHz

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a quad-core "Steamroller" processor for the FM2+ platform, offering a 4.0GHz base clock and a 4.2GHz turbo speed without integrated graphics. Highlighted for value, the package includes a notably efficient and quiet "Near Silent" 125W stock cooler. While outperforming budget dual-core competitors in multi-threaded tasks and 1080p gaming, the chip falls behind in single-core performance and relies on the dated DDR3 platform. The unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking, with tests reaching a stable 4.5GHz. Key constraints include the lack of integrated graphics, the need for a discrete GPU, and the dead-end nature of the FM2+ socket. Copy

computerbase.de

23/05/2016

Summary of the review

A10-7890K, 7860K, X4 880K Review: AMD's Fastest Processors for Socket FM2+

The ComputerBase review of AMD's 2016 FM2+ refresh highlights the A10-7890K, A10-7860K, and Athlon X4 880K as the final high-end push for the Kaveri/Godavari architecture. The lineup focuses on improved cooling with the new Wraith cooler on the 7890K, high-performance integrated graphics for HTPCs in the A10 models, and efficient, unlocked performance. However, the processors suffer from an aging architecture that lags behind Intel in single-threaded tasks and the lack of an upgrade path, while the Athlon X4 880K requires a dedicated GPU.

planet3dnow.de

13/02/2018

Summary of the review

Kaveri (Benchmark Results Overview incl. Athlon X4 880K)

The AMD Kaveri APU introduces Heterogeneous System Architecture (HSA) for shared CPU-GPU memory access, featuring "Steamroller" cores and Graphics Core Next (GCN). While it supports modern APIs, a significant drawback is lower raw CPU clock speeds compared to previous generations, resulting in stagnant single-threaded performance. The integrated GPU represents a major leap, with the A10-7850K offering capable gaming at 720p/1080p, though performance is heavily dependent on fast system RAM. A major con is that using slower memory can reduce GPU performance by 20-30%, adding to the total system cost. Kaveri features configurable TDP for smaller builds, with the A8-7600 often providing better value than the flagship model. It is considered a future-focused APU ideal for HTPC users, but it falls short of Intel options in raw CPU-heavy tasks. You can find detailed reviews for this platform on hardware analysis sites.

chip.de

03/12/2016

Summary of the review

Full PCs from 200 to 1,200 Euros (Individual test section on the Athlon X4 880K)

CHIP.de reviews pre-built PC systems ranging from 200 to 1,200 euros, highlighting the modular Acer Revo Build as a 200-euro option featuring easy component stacking and high power efficiency, though it suffers from weak base performance. Mid-to-high range systems offer guaranteed compatibility and stabilized pricing, but often cut costs on components like power supplies and motherboards to maintain lower retail prices. While gaming-capable PCs are available from around 650 euros, pre-built models frequently lack long-term upgradeability due to proprietary components, making them best suited for users prioritizing out-of-the-box reliability over customization.

ginjfo.com

22/04/2016

Summary of the review

Athlon X4 880K Review: A chip built for gaming?

The AMD Athlon X4 880K, reviewed by GinjFo, is a budget-focused, unlocked quad-core processor based on the Godavari architecture, designed for entry-level gaming systems without an integrated graphics core. Operating at 4.0 GHz with a 4.2 GHz turbo, the chip pairs well with dedicated GPUs for Full HD gaming and offers strong price-to-performance value. Key advantages include the high-performance "Near-Silent" 125W stock cooler and good overclocking potential, often reaching 4.5 GHz. Performance drawbacks include lower single-core efficiency compared to Intel alternatives and high 95W TDP. Additionally, the FM2+ platform offers limited upgrade paths compared to newer sockets. While ideal for affordable gaming, it is less suited for heavy workstation tasks.

pcmag.com

17/03/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Review

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a budget-friendly, $95 quad-core processor tailored for gamers using a dedicated graphics card on the aging FM2+ socket. It features high 4.0GHz to 4.2GHz clock speeds by removing integrated graphics, offering excellent value for budget gaming builds. The processor delivers strong, entry-level performance for 1080p and 1440p gaming and includes a superior "near-silent" 125W stock cooler that enables easy overclocking to 4.5GHz. Key drawbacks include its reliance on older Steamroller architecture, which limits performance in heavy productivity tasks compared to competitors, and the lack of integrated graphics for booting without a dedicated card. Furthermore, the FM2+ platform offers no future upgrade path. Copy

pcmag.com

17/03/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K Review - PCMag

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a budget-friendly, $100 quad-core processor designed for dedicated graphics gaming, featuring a 4.0GHz base clock that boosts to 4.2GHz without integrated graphics. A key advantage is the bundled, near-silent 125W stock cooler, which allows for effective, easy overclocking. Performance-wise, the chip provides excellent value for 1080p and 1440p gaming, with an unlocked multiplier allowing stable overclocking up to 4.5GHz for up to 25% better performance. It is described as a "plucky underdog," offering strong raw CPU performance compared to more expensive AMD A10 models by eliminating the "on-chip graphics tax". However, the X4 880K is constrained by the aging FM2+ socket, which limits future upgrade options. It also underperforms in intense creative tasks, such as 4K video encoding, when compared to Intel Core i3 or i5 alternatives.

geeknetic.es

22/05/2016

Summary of the review

AMD Athlon X4 880K with Stock Cooler - Geeknetic

The AMD Athlon X4 880K, reviewed at Geeknetic, is a high-clocked (4.0/4.2 GHz) "Godavari" quad-core CPU designed specifically as a budget-friendly, "pure" CPU option for the FM2+ socket, requiring a dedicated graphics card. It provides solid performance for games requiring four cores, though it trails newer, more modern architectures in heavily threaded tasks. A key feature noted is the included 125W "Near-Silent" cooler, which offers a significant upgrade over previous stock solutions with its copper base, heatpipes, and quiet 38 dBA operation under load. This cooler supports the 95W TDP chip comfortably, even allowing for moderate overclocking to around 4.5 GHz. The main advantages are high stock speeds, an unlocked multiplier, and the improved stock cooler, while the disadvantages include the dead-end FM2+ platform, lack of integrated graphics, and weak single-thread performance. It serves as a strong "bang-for-buck" upgrade for existing, budget-conscious FM2+ users.

pangoly.com

No date available

Summary of the review

Compare AMD Athlon X4 880K with similar processors - Pangoly

The AMD Athlon X4 880K is a budget-focused, quad-core processor based on the 28nm "Steamroller" architecture, operating at 4.0 GHz to 4.2 GHz for the FM2+ socket. By omitting integrated graphics, this CPU serves as a value option for budget gaming, enabling pairing with dedicated graphics cards for 1080p and 1440p gaming. Pros include high value, an included efficient "Near Silent" 125W cooler, and an unlocked multiplier for overclocking to 4.5 GHz. Conversely, cons involve the deprecated FM2+ platform, lack of upgrade paths, high thermal output, and lower single-threaded performance compared to modern alternatives. Copy

tweakers.net

03/05/2016

Summary of the review

AMD A10-7860K, 880K and 845 Review - Stopgaps while waiting for Zen

The Tweakers review covers the AMD A10-7860K APU, Athlon X4 880K, and 845 CPUs as budget-focused "stopgap" solutions intended for the FM2+ platform while awaiting the Zen architecture. The processors offer strong value for entry-level gaming and media, with the A10-7860K’s Radeon R7 graphics outperforming Intel competitors, alongside improved 65W TDP thermal efficiency and quieter stock coolers. However, the review highlights significant drawbacks, including a "dead-end" platform with no upgrade path, older DDR3 memory constraints, and inferior CPU performance compared to Intel Core i3 alternatives in productivity tasks.

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