AMD Ryzen 5 2400G vs. AMD Ryzen 5 4650G: A Comprehensive Comparison
Introduction
When choosing a CPU for a mid-range build, AMD’s Ryzen 5 series often stands out due to its performance and value. Two notable models in this lineup are the Ryzen 5 2400G and the Ryzen 5 4650G. While both processors cater to different generations and have distinct specifications, understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision.
**1. Architecture and Process Technology
Ryzen 5 2400G:
- Architecture: Zen (First Generation)
- Process Technology: 14nm
- Release Date: February 2018
Ryzen 5 4650G:
- Architecture: Zen 2
- Process Technology: 7nm
- Release Date: July 2020
Analysis: The Ryzen 5 4650G benefits from the Zen 2 architecture and the 7nm process technology, which generally offer improved performance and efficiency compared to the Zen architecture and 14nm process of the Ryzen 5 2400G. The smaller process node allows for better power efficiency and higher performance per watt.
**2. Core and Thread Count
Ryzen 5 2400G:
- Cores/Threads: 4 Cores / 8 Threads
- Base Clock: 3.6 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 3.9 GHz
Ryzen 5 4650G:
- Cores/Threads: 6 Cores / 12 Threads
- Base Clock: 3.7 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 4.3 GHz
Analysis: The Ryzen 5 4650G offers a higher core and thread count, providing a significant advantage in multitasking and threaded applications. The increased base and boost clocks also contribute to better overall performance, especially in scenarios that leverage multiple cores.
**3. Integrated Graphics
Ryzen 5 2400G:
- Graphics: Radeon RX Vega 11 Graphics
- GPU Cores: 11 Compute Units
- Graphics Clock: Up to 1250 MHz
Ryzen 5 4650G:
- Graphics: Radeon Vega Graphics
- GPU Cores: 7 Compute Units
- Graphics Clock: Up to 1900 MHz
Analysis: While both CPUs feature integrated graphics, the Ryzen 5 2400G’s Radeon RX Vega 11 Graphics offers more compute units, which theoretically should deliver better performance in GPU-intensive tasks compared to the Ryzen 5 4650G’s Vega Graphics. However, the higher clock speed of the 4650G's GPU helps close the performance gap.
**4. Cache and Memory Support
Ryzen 5 2400G:
- L3 Cache: 4 MB
- Memory Support: DDR4-2933
Ryzen 5 4650G:
- L3 Cache: 8 MB
- Memory Support: DDR4-3200
Analysis: The Ryzen 5 4650G features a larger L3 cache and supports faster memory speeds. The increased cache size and higher memory bandwidth contribute to improved overall performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and games.
**5. Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP)
Ryzen 5 2400G:
- TDP: 65W
Ryzen 5 4650G:
- TDP: 65W
Analysis: Both processors have the same TDP, indicating similar power consumption under typical operating conditions. However, the Ryzen 5 4650G’s advanced 7nm process technology means it should be more power-efficient and generate less heat per performance unit compared to the 14nm Ryzen 5 2400G.
**6. Pricing and Value
Ryzen 5 2400G:
- Typical Price: ~$160 (when it was available)
Ryzen 5 4650G:
- Typical Price: ~$250
Analysis: The Ryzen 5 4650G is priced higher due to its newer architecture, improved performance, and enhanced efficiency. If budget is a constraint, the Ryzen 5 2400G provides good value for money, but the 4650G offers better long-term performance and future-proofing.
Conclusion
In summary, the AMD Ryzen 5 4650G represents a significant upgrade over the Ryzen 5 2400G. It offers more cores, threads, a larger cache, faster memory support, and generally better overall performance thanks to its Zen 2 architecture and 7nm process. While the Ryzen 5 2400G remains a capable processor, especially in systems where integrated graphics are a priority, the Ryzen 5 4650G is a more powerful choice for users seeking better performance and efficiency.
Recommendation:
- For Budget-Conscious Builds: The Ryzen 5 2400G remains a solid choice, offering decent performance and good integrated graphics.
- For High-Performance Needs: The Ryzen 5 4650G is the better option, providing superior multi-core performance, enhanced efficiency, and future-proofing capabilities.