AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£180
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • PassMark benchmark result: 13138
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.9 GHz

AMD Ryzen 5 2600 review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.2

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%

4.7

Technical Score

10.0%

9.7

User score

Good
4.7

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%

3.8

Performance

18.0%

5.2

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.6

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.7

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%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(28518)
amazon
4.1
(10)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.5

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.2

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.3

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.1
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.7

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

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Best rankings

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

Verdict

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a Zen+ 'Pinnacle Ridge' 12nm desktop processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with a 3.4 GHz base clock and a 3.9 GHz boost frequency. Designed for the AM4 socket, it includes 16MB of L3 cache, supports dual-channel DDR4-2933 RAM, and maintains a power-efficient 65W TDP. Main pros include its exceptional multi-threaded performance for its value, an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, and the inclusion of a capable Wraith Stealth stock cooler. However, it lacks integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU, and has lower single-core performance and lower stock clock speeds compared to its sibling, the Ryzen 5 2600X.

Technical Specifications of processor AMD Ryzen 5 2600

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%

3.8

Performance

18.0%

5.2

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.6

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

4.7
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a technical score of 4.68 points, which is lower than that of 61.9% 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%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(28518)
amazon
4.1
(10)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.7
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a user score of 9.72 points, which is higher than that of 99.5% 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.
10
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 88.3% 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%

5.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

6.5
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is higher than 53% 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 Ryzen 5 2600 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 Ryzen 5 2600 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

X570, B550, X470, B450, X370, B350, A320
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports X570, B550, X470, B450, X370, B350, A320 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 71.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.6% 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 Ryzen 5 2600 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+

6
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has 6 CPU cores, which is more than 49.9% of processors and equal to 13.4% 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+

12
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% 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

2
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% 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 Ryzen 5 2600 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

6 x 3.4 GHz
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a base clock of 6x3.4 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

12 nm
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 uses a 12 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 49.3% 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 12 nm
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is built on the GlobalFoundries 12 nm foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 49.3% 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

16 MB
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has an L3 cache of 16 MB which is larger than that of 64.2% of processors and equal to that of 12.7% 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

3 MB
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has an L2 cache of 3 MB which is larger than that of 50.2% of processors and equal to that of 4.4% 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

576 KB
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has an L1 cache of 576 KB which is larger than that of 73.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.7% 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

DDR4
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 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

2,933 MHz
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports memory speeds up to 2933 MHz, which is higher than that of 46.3% of processors and equal to 5.1% 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

DDR4-2933 MHz
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2933 MHz, which is higher than that of 46.8% of processors and equal to 4% 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

?
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 Ryzen 5 2600 supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
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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

no
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 does not include 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

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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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

65 W
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% 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

65 W
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% 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 Ryzen 5 2600 does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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AMD Ryzen 5 2600 vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 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 Ryzen 5 2600 has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 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 Ryzen 5 2600 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 Ryzen 5 2600 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 Ryzen 5 2600 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 55.8% more L3 per core
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.7 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.7 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2.67 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 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 Ryzen 5 2600 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (95 °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 Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.95 °C vs 100 °C
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Can work with ECC memory, which helps detect and correct certain memory errors on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When long-term stability, uptime, or data integrity matter more than a basic consumer-style setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
    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

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.16 MB vs 8 MB
  • Modern CPU socket
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (AM4 vs FP2).
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 55.8% more L3 per core
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.7 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 50% larger L1 cache
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (576 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • More advanced foundry
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (GlobalFoundries 12 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 8 more PCIe lanes
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Supports ECC memory
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • Includes stock cooler
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C lower CPU temperature
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower CPU temperature than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
  • 2 year/s older release date
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has an older release date than the average processor (2,018 vs 2,020).
    April 2018
  • Older TPM support
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 supports an older TPM version than the average processor (fTPM 2.0 vs PTT 2.0).
  • 22.7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (374 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 21.8% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,150 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 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.
  • 9.9% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,236 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 11.1% slower Blender rendering
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (295.1 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Pinnacle Ridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 19.7% larger die size
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher die size than the average processor (213 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • No integrated graphics
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 5 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 22.7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (374 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 Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (374 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.374 vs 484
  • 21.8% lower single-core score
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,150 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 Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,150 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,150 vs 1,471
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 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.
    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 Ryzen 5 2600 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.3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Pinnacle 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 Ryzen 5 2600 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Pinnacle Ridge vs Kaby Lake).Pinnacle Ridge vs Kaby Lake
  • 44.4% higher base power
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 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 Ryzen 5 2600 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W
  • No configurable TDP
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    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

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 5 °C lower TJ Max
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    What it is: The highest safe operating junction temperature before the CPU starts throttling or protecting itself.
    When it matters: When you tune cooling or monitor thermals under load.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=100 °C

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (95 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.95 °C vs 100 °C
  • 9.9% weaker single-core performance
    AMD Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,236 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 Ryzen 5 2600 has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,236 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,236 vs 2,483

Graphic comparison of AMD Ryzen 5 2600 and other processors

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about AMD Ryzen 5 2600?

  • Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a 6-core/12-thread processor
  • Strong multi-threaded performance, making it great for productivity and streaming
  • High energy efficiency with a low 65W TDP
  • Includes a capable and quiet stock cooler (Wraith Stealth) for non-overclocked use
  • Backward compatibility with older 300-series AM4 motherboards
  • Fully unlocked for manual overclocking to match or exceed 'X' model performance

What customers dislike about AMD Ryzen 5 2600?

  • Lower out-of-the-box clock speeds compared to the Ryzen 5 2600X
  • Stock cooler (Wraith Stealth) is less effective than the 2600X's Wraith Spire for heavy overclocking
  • Lags behind similar Intel CPUs in single-core performance and some game titles
  • Memory controller can be picky with certain high-speed RAM kits (e.g., above 3400MHz)
  • Requires manual tweaking or overclocking to reach its full performance potential compared to 'X' versions

Expert reviews

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techspot.com
23/04/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a 6-core/12-thread CPU offering significant performance gains over the 1600 due to a 12nm process, improved IPC, and higher clock speeds. It excels in multi-threaded tasks, competing with higher-end Intel chips in workstation applications, while offering excellent efficiency with a 65W TDP. While gaming performance trails the Core i5-8400 by up to 18% at...Read more

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tomshardware.com
29/05/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a 6-core, 12-thread 12nm Zen+ processor that offers a significant performance boost over the previous generation, featuring improved memory latency and Precision Boost 2 algorithms. With a 65W TDP, this unlocked CPU is a strong contender for productivity and gaming, offering high multi-threaded performance and including the capable Wraith Stealth cooler....Read more

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gamersnexus.net
21/04/2018

GamersNexus reviews the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 and 2600X, highlighting them as strong 6-core/12-thread "all-arounders" that offer superior multi-threaded production performance and better stream frame consistency than Intel’s 8th Gen i5 counterparts. While the 2600X features improved Precision Boost 2, XFR2, and a better stock cooler (Wraith Spire) for "lazy" overlockers, it carries a...Read more

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guru3d.com
01/05/2018

The Guru3D review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a highly efficient 6-core, 12-thread 12nm "Zen+" processor, offering a notable performance jump over its predecessor while maintaining a 65W TDP. Operating at 3.4 GHz base and 3.9 GHz boost, this unlocked CPU allows for easy overclocking, often reaching 4.0–4.2 GHz with adequate cooling, making it an exceptional value option....Read more

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windowscentral.com
05/07/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a 12nm, 6-core/12-thread processor offering excellent value for budget-conscious builders, featuring improved clock speeds and memory latency over previous models. It provides strong multi-threaded performance, competing with higher-end chips, and supports overclocking up to 4.2GHz, resulting in solid benchmarks. Pros include a low price point, the capable...Read more

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bit-tech.net
11/05/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is described by bit-tech.net as a "stunning success" and a top-tier mid-range CPU, offering 6 cores and 12 threads on the 12nm "Pinnacle Ridge" architecture, with impressive stock performance and an ability to be overclocked to 4.15GHz across all cores. It delivers exceptional value, often outperforming the Intel Core i5-8400 in multi-threaded tasks, rendering,...Read more

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eteknix.com
06/05/2018

The eTeknix review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a standout mid-range, 12nm "Pinnacle Ridge" processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with a 65W TDP, offering superior value over competitors. It delivers excellent multi-threaded performance, excelling in rendering and video transcoding tasks over Intel counterparts, while easily achieving stable 4.1 GHz overclocks. While...Read more

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rockpapershotgun.com
03/05/2018

The Rock Paper Shotgun review identifies the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 and 2600X as superior value alternatives to Intel's Core i5-8600K, offering exceptional multi-core performance and including capable stock coolers. While the 2600X excels in multitasking and productivity, the review notes that Intel retains a slight edge in raw gaming performance at lower resolutions. Ultimately, the 12nm...Read more

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bit-tech.net
11/05/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a six-core, 12-thread 12nm Zen+ processor that offers significant improvements over the 1600, delivering exceptional value and productivity performance. It features Precision Boost 2 for better all-round performance and excels in multi-threaded tasks, often matching or outperforming pricier Intel alternatives in content creation. A notable con, however, is...Read more

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forbes.com
03/05/2018

Antony Leather’s Forbes review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a high-value, six-core/12-thread processor that disrupted the $200 market by leveraging 12nm Zen+ architecture for superior multi-threaded performance against rivals like the Intel Core i5-8600K. Key advantages include exceptional value, efficient power consumption at 124W under load, and strong overclocking potential...Read more

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hardwareinside.de
14/07/2018

The HardwareInside review finds that the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X excels in multi-threaded productivity tasks, outperforming the Intel Core i7-8700K in rendering and content creation. However, the i7-8700K maintains a 10–15% frame rate advantage in 1080p gaming due to superior single-core performance and higher clock speeds. The Ryzen 5 2600X and 2600 are highlighted as high-value,...Read more

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gamestar.de
22/05/2018

The GameStar review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a premier mid-range processor, delivering improved performance over the 1600 via the 12nm "Zen+" architecture. Key advantages include exceptional value, 6 cores/12 threads for multitasking, and a 65W TDP, although the included "Wraith Stealth" cooler is considered a downgrade from previous, more robust stock options....Read more

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pcwelt.de
28/07/2018

The PC-WELT review identifies the 6-core/12-thread AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a high-value mid-range CPU for multitasking and gaming, utilizing the Zen+ 12nm architecture to provide a notable performance increase over its predecessor. Pros include a competitive price-to-performance ratio in content creation, high power efficiency with a 65W TDP, and an unlocked multiplier for overclocking...Read more

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chip.de
18/06/2018

The CHIP review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a highly efficient, 12nm "Zen+" mid-range processor (6 cores/12 threads) that offers a significant performance boost over its predecessor. Key pros include exceptional multi-threaded performance for workstations and a low 65W TDP for energy-efficient builds. However, the bundled Wraith Stealth cooler is insufficient for heavy...Read more

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computerbase.de
19/04/2018

The ComputerBase review of the AMD Ryzen 2000 series (Pinnacle Ridge) highlights a significant refinement of the Zen architecture through a 12nm process, offering higher clock speeds and improved memory latency. Key advancements include Precision Boost 2 and XFR2 for better multi-core performance, though top models like the 2700X exhibit higher power consumption. While gaming...Read more

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forum.lesnumeriques.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a 12nm "Pinnacle Ridge" processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads that balances productivity and value. Les Numériques highlights its strong multi-threaded performance in rendering and audio processing, making it a competitive mid-range option. The CPU operates at a 65W TDP and includes a Wraith Stealth cooler, appealing to budget-conscious users. Key...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
13/08/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a 6-core/12-thread processor utilizing the 12nm "Zen+" architecture, offering a balanced mid-range option with excellent multi-threaded performance for tasks like video editing. It operates with high energy efficiency (65W TDP) and provides strong, competitive performance against Intel counterparts, frequently outperforming them in productivity scenarios....Read more

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tomshardware.fr
17/04/2018

The Tom's Hardware France review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a 6-core/12-thread processor reaching 3.9 GHz, offering gaming performance that closely rivals the more expensive Intel Core i5-8600K. Priced under €200, the CPU serves as a high-value mid-range option, boasting improved thermals via indium solder and backward compatibility with AM4 motherboards. While the included...Read more

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comptoir-hardware.com
19/04/2018

The second-generation Ryzen "Zen+" CPUs, including the R7 2700X/2700 and R5 2600X/2600, are refined 12nm processors offering a roughly 3% IPC increase, improved latency, and higher sustained boost clocks via Precision Boost 2.0. The lineup offers excellent multi-threaded performance and strong value, with the R7 2700X serving as a robust flagship and the R5 2600X providing strong...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
12/06/2018

The AMD Ryzen 7 2700 (8C/16T) and Ryzen 5 2600 (6C/12T) are 65W TDP processors offering high value through Zen+ 12nm architecture improvements, including improved memory latency and solid multi-threaded performance against Intel counterparts. A major pro is their unlocked multiplier, allowing manual overclocking to bridge the performance gap with higher-priced "X" models,...Read more

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geeknetic.es
13/06/2018

The Geeknetic review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as a highly efficient, 6-core/12-thread processor built on the 12nm "Pinnacle Ridge" architecture, designed for balanced mid-range performance with a 65W TDP. Offering a 3.4 GHz base clock and 3.9 GHz boost, it provides roughly 10% higher performance than its predecessor, with key pros including an unlocked multiplier for easy...Read more

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multiplayer.it
26/06/2018

The Ryzen 5 2600 and Ryzen 7 2700, based on AMD's 12nm "Zen+" architecture, offer improved efficiency with a 65W TDP, supporting overclocking despite lower base clocks. The Ryzen 5 2600 is considered a value-oriented gaming option with great performance-per-dollar, though it comes with a basic Wraith Stealth cooler and trails Intel slightly in single-core speeds. Conversely, the...Read more

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tech.everyeye.it
07/06/2018

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is a 12nm Zen+ six-core processor, featuring a 3.4 GHz base and 3.9 GHz boost clock, which offers a significant generational improvement over its predecessor. Its 65W TDP makes it an exceptionally efficient, "power-frugal" option ideal for compact workstations, while still maintaining high multi-threaded performance. For gaming, the CPU provides reliable, solid...Read more

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tomshw.it
29/05/2018

The Tom's Hardware review positions the 12nm "Zen+" AMD Ryzen 5 2600 (6-core/12-thread) as a highly efficient, budget-friendly upgrade over the 1600, boasting a 65W TDP for versatile, low-power workstation use. It excels in multi-threaded tasks, rendering, and streaming, while utilizing Precision Boost 2 to improve performance and lower memory latency. Key advantages include its...Read more

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guru3d.com
01/05/2018

The Guru3D review highlights the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 as an exceptional $199, 6-core/12-thread value proposition utilizing the 12nm Zen+ process to deliver improved productivity performance, memory latency, and refined efficiency. Key advantages include its unlocked nature, allowing for stable all-core overclocks to 4.2 GHz on the stock cooler, along with excellent power consumption and...Read more

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