Best APU for gaming in 2024 (2025)

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If you’ve been hunting for the best APU for gaming then you’re in the right place. APU stands for accelerated processing unit manufactured specifically by AMD and it differs from a traditional CPU, the way in which an APU differed is the inclusion of a GPU on the same package. This means that the APU is a combination of a CPU and a GPU, negating the need for you to install a dedicated video card.

In the world of gaming, having the right hardware can make all the difference. When it comes to choosing the best APU for gaming in 2024, several factors come into play. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, considering these key aspects will ensure you find the perfect APU to elevate your gaming experience to new heights. We also strongly recommend checking out the best bestCPUfor gaming, too.

Best APU for gaming

• Ryzen 7 7900X
• Ryzen 7 5700G
• Ryzen 5 5600G

Best APU for gaming in 2024 – Top Picks

Here are the APUs that we consider the best in 2024, don’t worry though, we have a larger selection below if these titans do not tickle your fancy.

Best APU for gaming in 2024 – Reviews

Here are the more in-depth reviews of our APUs today. We’re going to dive in and take a look at what makes every individual CPU tick.

Ryzen 9 7900X

The 7900X, belonging to the cutting-edge Zen 4 architecture, showcases AMD’s remarkable advancements in performance on the AM5 platform. The AM5 socket offers support for DDR5 and PCIe Gen 5, bringing the 7000 series into the present and ensuring a truly exceptional gaming experience.

Equipped with 8 cores and 16 threads, the Ryzen 7900X delivers impressive multi-core performance, while also excelling in single-core tasks thanks to its remarkable boost clock speed of 5.6 GHz. AMD has made significant strides in performance this time around, aiming to maintain a competitive edge against Intel.

In this iteration, the cache capacity has been doubled, now providing 1MB per core instead of the previous 512KB. This enhancement enables improved instruction buffering, reducing the likelihood of the CPU encountering instruction backlogs that could cause performance slowdowns.

However, it’s important to note that the 7900X comes with a TDP of 170 W at the base core speed and 230 W at the boost speed. Consequently, the CPU tends to run hotter than desired, echoing the situation with the 13900K. It appears that CPU cooler technology is struggling to keep up with the power packed into these new-generation CPUs.

Although the 7900X has only 2 RDNA2-based Compute Units, these units stand strong and benefit from software enhancements like AMD FSR. making for a truly unforgettable 1080p experience.

Undoubtedly, the 7900X stands as a formidable gaming powerhouse. Alongside its abundance of cores and threads, perfectly suited for handling demanding multithreaded workloads such as content creation and streaming, it also delivers exceptional performance for high-end gaming, making it an outstanding choice for gamers seeking top-tier AMD APUs.

Ryzen 7 5700G

The Ryzen 7 5700G stands as a compelling APU choice for gaming in 2024 due to its impressive performance and feature set. Equipped with AMD’s advanced Zen 3 architecture, it offers significant improvements over its predecessors, making it an excellent option for gamers.

The Ryzen 7 5700G features 8 cores and 16 threads, providing ample processing power to handle demanding gaming workloads. With a base clock speed of 3.8GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.6GHz, it offers swift and responsive performance, ensuring smooth gameplay experiences.

One of the standout features of the Ryzen 7 5700G is its integrated graphics solution, the AMD Radeon Vega 8 iGPU. This iGPU boasts 512 stream processors and operates at a clock speed of 2.0GHz. While it may not rival dedicated graphics cards, the Vega 8 iGPU delivers respectable graphical performance, allowing gamers to enjoy a variety of games at moderate settings and resolutions.

Additionally, the Ryzen 7 5700G supports PCIe 4.0, providing faster data transfer speeds and improved compatibility with high-speed storage devices and graphics cards. It also features 16MB of L3 cache, optimizing memory performance and reducing latency for enhanced gaming responsiveness.

The combination of powerful CPU performance and capable integrated graphics makes the Ryzen 7 5700G an attractive choice for gamers in 2024. Its versatility allows for smooth gameplay in a wide range of titles, and its compatibility with the latest technologies ensures it can handle future gaming advancements with ease.

Ryzen 5 5600G

The Ryzen 5 5600G, designed with budget-conscious builders in mind, offers an attractive option for gamers in 2024. Despite its affordability, this processor delivers comparable gaming performance to its predecessor, the 3400G, while introducing more cores, threads, and an enhanced design.

Compared to its predecessor, the Ryzen 5 5600G boasts 6 cores and 12 threads, operating at a base clock speed of 3.9GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.4GHz. Similar to the 5700G, it features 16MB of L3 cache, although the L2 cache is reduced to 3MB. With a TDP of 65W, this APU is equipped with AMD’s VEGA 7 iGPU, clocked at 1.9GHz and comprising 448 stream processors.

Although the use of Vega 7 may appear as a regression at first glance, the efficiency improvements have effectively compensated for the reduction in cores. As a result, the graphical performance remains unaffected, providing a satisfying gaming experience despite the GPU’s seemingly lower specifications.

Considering its price point and performance, the Ryzen 5 5600G is an excellent choice for gamers who prioritize value and want a reliable APU that can handle modern gaming titles.

Best APU for gaming in 2024 – Things to consider

There are a few things to consider when buying an APU, as you’re essentially shopping for both CPU and a GPU in one go, so you want to make sure both components are up to scratch.

First, consider your needs and the use case of the APU, you’re not going to be gaming at 4K even with the best APU on the market right now. They might be incredible, but they cannot begin to compete with the might of the dedicated graphics card.

Without further delay, let’s jump into the things to consider when searching for the best APU for gaming in 2024.

Performance Matters

When shopping for the best APU, performance should be at the top of your priority list. Look for APUs with higher core counts and clock speeds, as they deliver superior performance for both CPU and GPU tasks. Assess the specific requirements of the games or applications you intend to use to ensure the APU can handle them without a hitch.

Graphics Capability

The integrated graphics performance of an APU is crucial for delivering smooth visuals and immersive gameplay. Pay attention to GPU clock speeds, the number of stream processors, and the architecture used. Opting for APUs with newer graphics architectures, such as AMD’s Radeon Vega or Intel’s Xe graphics, can provide significant improvements in graphics rendering and overall gaming experience.

Consider the Architecture and Technology

Choosing an APU built on the latest architecture is vital for unlocking optimal performance. In 2024, architectures like AMD’s Zen 3 or Intel’s Xe graphics offer enhanced efficiency, power, and compatibility with cutting-edge software and hardware technologies. Selecting an APU with the latest architecture ensures you stay ahead of the curve and enjoy a seamless gaming experience.

Power Efficiency for Cooler Operation

Keeping your gaming system cool and quiet is crucial, especially during intense gaming sessions. Consider the thermal design power (TDP) rating of the APU. Lower TDP values indicate more power-efficient APUs, which not only lead to the cooler and quieter operation but also reduce the strain on your system’s cooling solution.

Cache and Memory Support

An often-overlooked aspect is the APU’s cache size and memory support. Larger cache sizes contribute to improved overall performance, while faster memory technologies, such as DDR5, can enhance system responsiveness. Look for APUs that offer ample cache and support the latest memory standards for a smoother gaming experience.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

Budget is always a consideration when shopping for an APU. Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of each option by comparing the price to its performance capabilities. Striking the right balance between price and performance ensures you get the most value for your investment, without compromising on gaming quality.

Future-Proofing your Gaming Rig

Gaming technology evolves rapidly, so future-proofing your system is essential. Choose an APU that supports newer technologies like PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0, as these provide improved compatibility and performance with upcoming hardware components. Investing in a future-proof APU ensures your gaming rig can keep up with the demands of future gaming advancements.

Final word

By considering these factors when shopping for the best APU in 2024, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your gaming needs and budget. Remember, finding the perfect APU is a vital step toward unlocking an immersive gaming experience that will keep you at the top of your game.

APUs are a special subset of CPUs that are mainly chosen for simplicity or for budget reasons. We hope that the selection of APUs on offer was enough for you to decide on an APU that is fit for you.

Best gaming APU – FAQs

What APU is best for gaming?

We consider the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X to be the best APU for gaming. That’s because of the enhanced graphical prowess of the RDNA 3 microarchitecture which allows for smooth and consistent gaming in 1080p without many compromises.

Is an APU better than a GPU?

No. Simply put, an APU essentially relies on the graphics that are baked onto the chipset. While a high-end one can perform decently in mainstream resolutions such as 1080p, for the best gaming experience you’re going to want to invest in a dedicated graphics card. We recommend the Nvidia RTX 40 series or the AMD Radeon 7000 line.