Despite Socket AM5 launching almost two years ago now, we’re yet to see AMD launch low-end Athlon or Ryzen 3 processors for the platform. However, rumours suggest the company may now be working on low-end processors to plug the gap. While their suggested sub-$100 price point appears promising, these chips may be surprisingly familiar looking under their integrated heat spreader.
As a reminder, the best CPU AMD currently offers in terms of price for AM5 is Ryzen 5 7600, which now frequently retails well below its $229 MSRP. While Ryzen 5 7500F should be the most affordable chip, it’s an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) model that’s difficult to obtain as a standalone part. As such, even sub-$200 Ryzen 3 and Athlon chips would go a long way to helping budget builders switch to AM5.
According to Bits and Chips, AMD plans to do just that. The outlet claims these processors will be part of the new Ryzen 9000 series, launching later this month. More specifically, it states that “one or two Athlon/Ryzen 3 CPUs” are “probably” in the works.
Unfortunately, these processors won’t feature new dies using the Zen 5 architecture. So, don’t expect to see the touted temperature improvements and other benefits of the new core design on these CPUs. Instead, AMD will rebadge existing Ryzen 7000 series chips but will manufacture them using TSMC’s 7nm node, instead of 5nm. Reusing older SKUs and opting for an older node should reduce cost and improve yields, allowing the company to sell them for such a low price.
If true, this strategy remedies two problems for AMD. Firstly, it should increase the adoption of its AM5 platform, removing incentives for cash strapped buyers to go with AM4. Secondly, it allows the company to potentially increase its market share by competing with Intel’s Celeron and Core i3 series.
While no one save AMD knows the exact specifications of these CPUs, we expect them to feature a smaller pool of cache, fewer cores, and potentially no integrated graphics. Frustratingly, there’s every chance some, if not all, could end up as OEM exclusive too. What is certain, though, is that we are in great need of more affordable options for AM5, both for businesses and home builders.
