What is an APU? Difference Between CPU, GPU and APU - Explained! (2024)

While most of us are aware of abbreviations like CPU (Central Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), many are unaware of a relatively new term called APU that was added to the PC lexicon by AMD a few years ago. Simply speaking, an APU, or Accelerated Processing Unit, is AMD-speak for combined CPU and GPU chips on a single die. However, there’s much more to APUs than just sticking two separate circuits onto a single board. So, let’s check out the exact differences between a CPU, GPU and APU and what you need to know before your next laptop or desktop purchase.

What are the Key Differences Between CPU, GPU and APU?

Broadly speaking, the CPU takes care of application processing, while the GPU kicks in for all graphics-intensive workloads. An APU is the combination of the two, which means in theory, it should be able to do both jobs with aplomb. But is it really the magic potion that AMD would have us believe? Or is it just a marketing gimmick that doesn’t stand up to its promise in the real world? We will discuss just that in this article, but before we get to APUs, we’ll need to understand why such a solution was necessitated in the first place.

Table Of Contents

What is a CPU?

Often described as the ‘brain’ of a PC, the CPU is, quite possibly, the single-most crucial component in a computer. It is the part that performs all of the core processes in smart devices, including all the number crunching, information sequencing, and problem solving. Broadly speaking, this includes loading the operating system, running programs and applications, performing spreadsheet calculations, and more. Some noted microprocessor-makers for consumer devices include Intel, AMD, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments etc.

What is an APU? Difference Between CPU, GPU and APU - Explained! (1)

While early CPUs were spread over multiple chips that required larger die sizes and consumed massive amounts of power, modern technology has allowed researchers to bundle billions of transistors into single chips (hence the name ‘microprocessors’), thereby reducing the footprint and increasing efficiency. However, all-purpose microprocessors are still incapable of rendering graphics well enough to run high-end games or render 3D imagery. This is where specialized graphics processors, or GPUs, come in.

What is a GPU?

A GPU is responsible for spatial, images, videos, and 3D processing duties in smart devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets. These are specialized chips designed for heavy graphics workloads, like gaming or running professional CAD (Computer-aided Design) and CGI (Computer-generated Imagery) applications.

What is an APU? Difference Between CPU, GPU and APU - Explained! (2)

While consumer graphics chips, like AMD Radeon and Nvidia GeForce RTX, are tailored for gaming graphics, professional GPUs, like AMD’s Radeon Pro and Nvidia’s Quadro, are designed for high-end workstations. They are also often used for machine learning and were widely used for cryptocurrency mining in the early years of the bitcoin boom, resulting in an unnatural spike in their prices a few years ago.

What is an APU?

An APU is also technically a standard all-purpose microprocessor, but with one notable exception. It comes with an integrated on-board GPU that makes it better at graphics processing than traditional CPUs. Simply put, an APU is a microprocessor that includes both the CPU and GPU on a single chip.

What is an APU? Difference Between CPU, GPU and APU - Explained! (3)

The term, APU, was coined by AMD a few years ago when it launched its ‘Llano’ processors back in 2011, but the idea itself is quite old. It is worth noting that many of Intel’s low-end and mid-range CPUs also come with Integrated Graphics Processors (IGP). That said, the AMD APUs are much better at handling graphics-intensive workloads than those Intel chips.

What are the Benefits of an APU?

Integrating the graphics processor on the same chip as the application processor has multiple benefits pertaining to costs, power efficiency, easier setups, less driver updates, and more.

  • Cost: AMD’s APU chips are often a cheaper alternative for elaborate setups with separate CPU and GPUs chips with comparable performance, making them the perfect choice for folks on a budget.
  • Efficiency: APUs are more power-efficient than dedicated graphics cards. The relatively low power consumption not only makes them easier on the pocket, but also better for the environment in the long run.
  • Easier Setups and less Driver Updates: Dedicated GPUs often require additional hardware, including GPU coolers, which add to the cost of the setup. They also require frequent driver updates to work as intended. APUs are catch-all solutions that can be installed like any standard CPU, and generally don’t need to be updated as frequently as standalone graphics cards.

What are the Drawbacks of an APU?

As we mentioned already, an APU may work well for gamer on a shoestring budget, but will leave power users clamoring for more. To put is simply, here are the reasons why you might want to stay away from an all-in-one solution for your PC:

  • Lack of Raw Graphics Processing Power: As you’d have guessed by now, APUs do offer a great option for gamers on a budget, but cannot match the raw grunt of dedicated GPUs.
  • More Expensive the regular AMD or Intel processors: Those looking to build basic PCs might find it cheaper to buy or build computers with entry-level CPUs from either AMD or Intel. If you don’t require graphics prowess, and Intel processor with integrated graphics might be a better option for the price.

APU vs GPU: Which is Better in Terms of Value?

While APUs are more power efficient and are often significantly cheaper than setups that include separate CPUs and GPUs, they just don’t measure up to dedicated graphics cards in terms of gaming or 3D rendering operations. That said, APUs are still a good compromise for most regular users, including casual gamers, who don’t need to perform graphics-intensive tasks on a regular basis.

For serious gamers and professional CAD designers, high-end gaming PCs or workstations with dedicated graphics cards remain the best option. APUs offer much better gaming performance than integrated graphics found on Intel chips or the low-powered graphics solutions found on third-party motherboards, so you’re still likely to see a significant jump in performance by upgrading to these chips.

Latest AMD APUs

AMD’s current Ryzen APU lineup includes the Ryzen 3 3200G with Vega 8 graphics and the Ryzen 5 3400G with Vega 11 graphics. The company has also announced Ryzen 4000-series APUs that are said to be even better at gaming, but they are only available for OEMs and not for DIY enthusiasts. Be that as it may, you can check out the key tech specs of the 3000-series chips in the table below:

Ryzen APUCore/ThreadClock Speed (Stock / Boost)SocketGraphics
Ryzen 3 3200G4 / 83.6GHz / 4GHzAM4Vega 8
Ryzen 5 3400G4 / 83.7GHz / 4.2GHzAM4Vega 11

Similarly, we have also added separate list of CPUs and GPUs below for reference.

List of Latest CPUs

Graphics Card NamesCUDA Cores / Stream processorsGame Clock / Boost ClockVRAMTDPArchitectureGPUManufacturing Process
AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT80Up to 2250 MHz16GB300 WRDNA 2.0Navi 217 nm
AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT72Up to 2250 MHz16GB300 WRDNA 2.0Navi 217 nm
AMD Radeon RX 680060Up to 2105 MHz16GB250 WRDNA 2.0Navi 217 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT 50th Anniversary40Up to 1980 MHz8GB235 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT40Up to 1905 MHz8GB225 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon VII60Up to 1750 MHz16GB300 WGCN 5.1Vega 207 nm
AMD Radeon RX 570036Up to 1725 MHz8GB180 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT36Up to 1560 MHz6GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 560032Up to 1560 MHz6GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT22Up to 1845 MHz8GB130 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5700M36Up to 1720 MHz8GB180 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5600M36Up to 1265 MHz6GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 550022Up to 1845 MHz4GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
AMD Radeon RX 530022Up to 1645 MHz3GB100 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5500M22Up to 1645 MHz4GB85 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
Radeon RX Vega 64 Liquid Cooled64Up to 1677 MHz8GB345 WGCN 5.0Vega 1014 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5300M22Up to 1445 MHz3GB85 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
Radeon RX Vega 6464Up to 1546 MHz8GB295 WGCN 5.0Vega 1014 nm
Radeon RX Vega 5656Up to 1471 MHz8GB210 WGCN 5.0Vega 1014 nm
Radeon RX 59036Up to 1545 MHz8GB175 WGCN 4.0Polaris 3012 nm
Radeon RX 58036Up to 1340 MHz8GB185 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 580 (OEM)361266-1340 MHz8GB185 WGCN 4.0Ellesmere14 nm
Radeon RX 6408/ 10Up to 1287 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2314 nm
Radeon RX 580X36Up to 1340 MHz8GB185 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 57032Up to 1244 MHz8GB150 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 570 (OEM)1206-1244 MHz8GB150 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon 6308Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2314 nm
Radeon RX 570X32Up to 1244 MHz8GB150 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 560 (OEM)14/161200-1275 MHz4GB60-80 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2114 nm
Radeon 6256Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Polaris 2428 nm
Radeon RX 56014/16Up to 1275 MHz4GB60-80 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2114 nm
Radeon RX 560X14/16Up to 1275 MHz4GB75 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2114 nm
Radeon 6206Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Polaris 2428 nm
Radeon RX 550Up to 1183 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon RX 550X8/ 10Up to 1287 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon RX 5408Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 6105Up to 1030 MHz4GB50 WGCN 1.0Banks28 nm
Radeon RX 540X8Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2314 nm
Radeon 550X08/10/2021Up to 1287 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 5408Up to 1124 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 540X8Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 5356Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Polaris 2428 nm
Radeon 5306Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Weston28 nm
Radeon 5205Up to 1030 MHz4GB50 WGCN 1.0Banks28 nm
AMD Radeon RX 48036Up to 1266 MHz4GB150 WGCN 4.0Ellesmere14 nm
Radeon RX 47032Up to 1206 MHz4GB120 WGCN 4.0Ellesmere14 nm
Radeon RX 46014Up to 1200 MHz2GB70 WGCN 4.0Baffin14 nm
GeForce GT 10102561253 MHz2 GB30 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce RTX 305023041750 MHz4 GB90 WAmpereGA1078 nm
GeForce RTX 306035841875 MHz12 GB170 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q30721375 MHz6 GB60 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Mobile30721750 MHz6 GB80 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Max-Q51201250 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Mobile51201500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Ti74241188 MHz10 GB200 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Max-Q61441500 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Mobile61441500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Ti104961219 MHz20 GB350 WAmpereGA1028 nm
RTX A40107521812 MHz48 GB300 WAmpereGA1028 nm
RTX A400061442000 MHz16 GB150 WAmpereGA1048 nm
RTX A500081922000 MHz24 GB230 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce GT 10102561253 MHz2 GB30 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 TU1168961500 MHz4 GB80 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 TU1068961500 MHz4 GB90 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Mobile10241500 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile10241500 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q10241250 MHz4 GB30 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Max-Q10241250 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Mobile10241500 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 68961500 MHz4 GB75 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 SUPER12801500 MHz4 GB100 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER14081750 MHz6 GB125 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q10241751 MHz4 GB30 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Max-Q15361500 MHz6 GB60 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile15361500 MHz6 GB80 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile10242001 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 16508962001 MHz4 GB75 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 166014082001 MHz6 GB120 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti15361500 MHz6 GB120 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Mobile 3 GB7681752 MHz3 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 8 GB 5X12801001 MHz8 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB 5X12801001 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GT 1030 GK1073841250 MHz2 GB65 WKeplerGK10728 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 10 GB32001376 MHz10 GB250 WPascalGP10216 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 3 GB7681752 MHz3 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GT 1030 DDR43841050 MHz2 GB20 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB GP10412802002 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB Rev. 212802002 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q7681752 MHz4 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q6401752 MHz4 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 5 GB12802002 MHz5 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1070 Ti24322002 MHz8 GB180 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GT 720 OEM192891 MHz1024 MB50 WKeplerGK10728 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 Max-Q12802002 MHz6 GB80 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 Max-Q25601251 MHz8 GB150 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q20482002 MHz8 GB115 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GT 10303841502 MHz2 GB30 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB 9Gbps12802257 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 11Gbps25601376 MHz8 GB180 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 Ti35841376 MHz11 GB250 WPascalGP10216 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile7681752 MHz2 GB75 WPascalGP10614 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Mobile6401752 MHz2 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB GP10411522002 MHz3 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 760 OEM13441650 MHz2 GB130 WKeplerGK10428 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti7681752 MHz4 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 10506401752 MHz2 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB11522002 MHz3 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile12802002 MHz6 GB80 WPascalGP10616 nm
RTX A500081922000 MHz24 GB230 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Ti74241188 MHz10 GB200 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Ti104961219 MHz20 GB350 WAmpereGA1028 nm
RTX A400061442000 MHz16 GB150 WAmpereGA1048 nm
RTX A40107521812 MHz48 GB300 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GeForce RTX 305023041750 MHz4 GB90 WAmpereGA1078 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Mobile30721750 MHz6 GB80 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Max-Q61441500 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q30721375 MHz6 GB60 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Mobile51201500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Max-Q51201250 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Mobile61441500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 306035841875 MHz12 GB170 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Ti48641750 MHz8 GB200 WAmpereGA1048 nm
RTX A6000107521750 MHz48 GB300 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GeForce RTX 307058881750 MHz8 GB220 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3090104961219 MHz24 GB350 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GeForce RTX 308087041188 MHz10 GB320 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GRID RTX T10-1646081575 MHz16 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
GRID RTX T10-846081750 MHz8 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
GRID RTX T10-446081750 MHz4 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
Quadro RTX 6000 Mobile46081750 MHz24 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
Quadro RTX 5000 Mobile Refresh30721750 MHz16 GB110 WTuringTU104B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER Max-Q30721375 MHz8 GB80 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER Max-Q25601375 MHz8 GB90 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER Mobile25601750 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER Mobile30721750 MHz8 GB150 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q Refresh23041375 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile Refresh23041375 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q19201375 MHz6 GB65 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 TU10419201750 MHz6 GB160 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER30721937 MHz8 GB250 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER21761750 MHz8 GB175 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER25601750 MHz8 GB215 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 3000 Mobile Refresh19201750 MHz6 GB80 WTuringTU10612 nm
Quadro RTX 5000 Max-Q30721750 MHz16 GB80 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 5000 Mobile30721750 MHz16 GB110 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 4000 Mobile25601750 MHz8 GB110 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 3000 Max-Q19201500 MHz6 GB60 WTuringTU10612 nm
Quadro RTX 3000 Mobile19201750 MHz6 GB80 WTuringTU10612 nm
Quadro RTX 4000 Max-Q25601625 MHz8 GB80 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q Refresh19201353 MHz6 GB115 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile Refresh19201375 MHz6 GB65 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q23041500 MHz8 GB90 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q29441500 MHz8 GB90 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile23041750 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile19201750 MHz6 GB115 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile29441750 MHz8 GB150 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 206019201750 MHz6 GB160 WTuringTU10612 nm
TITAN RTX46081750 MHz24 GB280 WTuringTU10212 nm

List of Latest GPUs

Graphics Card NamesCUDA Cores / Stream processorsGame Clock / Boost ClockVRAMTDPArchitectureGPUManufacturing Process
AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT80Up to 2250 MHz16GB300 WRDNA 2.0Navi 217 nm
AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT72Up to 2250 MHz16GB300 WRDNA 2.0Navi 217 nm
AMD Radeon RX 680060Up to 2105 MHz16GB250 WRDNA 2.0Navi 217 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT 50th Anniversary40Up to 1980 MHz8GB235 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT40Up to 1905 MHz8GB225 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon VII60Up to 1750 MHz16GB300 WGCN 5.1Vega 207 nm
AMD Radeon RX 570036Up to 1725 MHz8GB180 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT36Up to 1560 MHz6GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 560032Up to 1560 MHz6GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT22Up to 1845 MHz8GB130 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5700M36Up to 1720 MHz8GB180 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5600M36Up to 1265 MHz6GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 107 nm
AMD Radeon RX 550022Up to 1845 MHz4GB150 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
AMD Radeon RX 530022Up to 1645 MHz3GB100 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5500M22Up to 1645 MHz4GB85 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
Radeon RX Vega 64 Liquid Cooled64Up to 1677 MHz8GB345 WGCN 5.0Vega 1014 nm
AMD Radeon RX 5300M22Up to 1445 MHz3GB85 WRDNA 1.0Navi 147 nm
Radeon RX Vega 6464Up to 1546 MHz8GB295 WGCN 5.0Vega 1014 nm
Radeon RX Vega 5656Up to 1471 MHz8GB210 WGCN 5.0Vega 1014 nm
Radeon RX 59036Up to 1545 MHz8GB175 WGCN 4.0Polaris 3012 nm
Radeon RX 58036Up to 1340 MHz8GB185 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 580 (OEM)361266-1340 MHz8GB185 WGCN 4.0Ellesmere14 nm
Radeon RX 6408/ 10Up to 1287 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2314 nm
Radeon RX 580X36Up to 1340 MHz8GB185 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 57032Up to 1244 MHz8GB150 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 570 (OEM)1206-1244 MHz8GB150 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon 6308Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2314 nm
Radeon RX 570X32Up to 1244 MHz8GB150 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2014 nm
Radeon RX 560 (OEM)14/161200-1275 MHz4GB60-80 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2114 nm
Radeon 6256Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Polaris 2428 nm
Radeon RX 56014/16Up to 1275 MHz4GB60-80 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2114 nm
Radeon RX 560X14/16Up to 1275 MHz4GB75 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2114 nm
Radeon 6206Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Polaris 2428 nm
Radeon RX 550Up to 1183 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon RX 550X8/ 10Up to 1287 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon RX 5408Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 6105Up to 1030 MHz4GB50 WGCN 1.0Banks28 nm
Radeon RX 540X8Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Polaris 2314 nm
Radeon 550X08/10/2021Up to 1287 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 5408Up to 1124 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 540X8Up to 1219 MHz4GB50 WGCN 4.0Lexa14 nm
Radeon 5356Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Polaris 2428 nm
Radeon 5306Up to 1024 MHz4GB50 WGCN 3.0Weston28 nm
Radeon 5205Up to 1030 MHz4GB50 WGCN 1.0Banks28 nm
AMD Radeon RX 48036Up to 1266 MHz4GB150 WGCN 4.0Ellesmere14 nm
Radeon RX 47032Up to 1206 MHz4GB120 WGCN 4.0Ellesmere14 nm
Radeon RX 46014Up to 1200 MHz2GB70 WGCN 4.0Baffin14 nm
GeForce GT 10102561253 MHz2 GB30 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce RTX 305023041750 MHz4 GB90 WAmpereGA1078 nm
GeForce RTX 306035841875 MHz12 GB170 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q30721375 MHz6 GB60 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Mobile30721750 MHz6 GB80 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Max-Q51201250 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Mobile51201500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Ti74241188 MHz10 GB200 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Max-Q61441500 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Mobile61441500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Ti104961219 MHz20 GB350 WAmpereGA1028 nm
RTX A40107521812 MHz48 GB300 WAmpereGA1028 nm
RTX A400061442000 MHz16 GB150 WAmpereGA1048 nm
RTX A500081922000 MHz24 GB230 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce GT 10102561253 MHz2 GB30 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 TU1168961500 MHz4 GB80 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 TU1068961500 MHz4 GB90 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Mobile10241500 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile10241500 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q10241250 MHz4 GB30 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Max-Q10241250 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Mobile10241500 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 68961500 MHz4 GB75 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 SUPER12801500 MHz4 GB100 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER14081750 MHz6 GB125 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Max-Q10241751 MHz4 GB30 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Max-Q15361500 MHz6 GB60 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile15361500 MHz6 GB80 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1650 Mobile10242001 MHz4 GB50 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 16508962001 MHz4 GB75 WTuringTU11712 nm
GeForce GTX 166014082001 MHz6 GB120 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1660 Ti15361500 MHz6 GB120 WTuringTU11612 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Mobile 3 GB7681752 MHz3 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 8 GB 5X12801001 MHz8 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB 5X12801001 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GT 1030 GK1073841250 MHz2 GB65 WKeplerGK10728 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 Ti 10 GB32001376 MHz10 GB250 WPascalGP10216 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 3 GB7681752 MHz3 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GT 1030 DDR43841050 MHz2 GB20 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB GP10412802002 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB Rev. 212802002 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Max-Q7681752 MHz4 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Max-Q6401752 MHz4 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 5 GB12802002 MHz5 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1070 Ti24322002 MHz8 GB180 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GT 720 OEM192891 MHz1024 MB50 WKeplerGK10728 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 Max-Q12802002 MHz6 GB80 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 Max-Q25601251 MHz8 GB150 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1070 Max-Q20482002 MHz8 GB115 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GT 10303841502 MHz2 GB30 WPascalGP10814 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB 9Gbps12802257 MHz6 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 11Gbps25601376 MHz8 GB180 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 1080 Ti35841376 MHz11 GB250 WPascalGP10216 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile7681752 MHz2 GB75 WPascalGP10614 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Mobile6401752 MHz2 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB GP10411522002 MHz3 GB120 WPascalGP10416 nm
GeForce GTX 760 OEM13441650 MHz2 GB130 WKeplerGK10428 nm
GeForce GTX 1050 Ti7681752 MHz4 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 10506401752 MHz2 GB75 WPascalGP10714 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 3 GB11522002 MHz3 GB120 WPascalGP10616 nm
GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile12802002 MHz6 GB80 WPascalGP10616 nm
RTX A500081922000 MHz24 GB230 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Ti74241188 MHz10 GB200 WAmpereGA1038 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Ti104961219 MHz20 GB350 WAmpereGA1028 nm
RTX A400061442000 MHz16 GB150 WAmpereGA1048 nm
RTX A40107521812 MHz48 GB300 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GeForce RTX 305023041750 MHz4 GB90 WAmpereGA1078 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Mobile30721750 MHz6 GB80 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Max-Q61441500 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Max-Q30721375 MHz6 GB60 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Mobile51201500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3070 Max-Q51201250 MHz8 GB80 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3080 Mobile61441500 MHz8 GB115 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 306035841875 MHz12 GB170 WAmpereGA1068 nm
GeForce RTX 3060 Ti48641750 MHz8 GB200 WAmpereGA1048 nm
RTX A6000107521750 MHz48 GB300 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GeForce RTX 307058881750 MHz8 GB220 WAmpereGA1048 nm
GeForce RTX 3090104961219 MHz24 GB350 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GeForce RTX 308087041188 MHz10 GB320 WAmpereGA1028 nm
GRID RTX T10-1646081575 MHz16 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
GRID RTX T10-846081750 MHz8 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
GRID RTX T10-446081750 MHz4 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
Quadro RTX 6000 Mobile46081750 MHz24 GB260 WTuringTU10212 nm
Quadro RTX 5000 Mobile Refresh30721750 MHz16 GB110 WTuringTU104B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER Max-Q30721375 MHz8 GB80 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER Max-Q25601375 MHz8 GB90 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER Mobile25601750 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER Mobile30721750 MHz8 GB150 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q Refresh23041375 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile Refresh23041375 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q19201375 MHz6 GB65 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 TU10419201750 MHz6 GB160 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER30721937 MHz8 GB250 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER21761750 MHz8 GB175 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER25601750 MHz8 GB215 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 3000 Mobile Refresh19201750 MHz6 GB80 WTuringTU10612 nm
Quadro RTX 5000 Max-Q30721750 MHz16 GB80 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 5000 Mobile30721750 MHz16 GB110 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 4000 Mobile25601750 MHz8 GB110 WTuringTU10412 nm
Quadro RTX 3000 Max-Q19201500 MHz6 GB60 WTuringTU10612 nm
Quadro RTX 3000 Mobile19201750 MHz6 GB80 WTuringTU10612 nm
Quadro RTX 4000 Max-Q25601625 MHz8 GB80 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q Refresh19201353 MHz6 GB115 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile Refresh19201375 MHz6 GB65 WTuringTU106B12 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q23041500 MHz8 GB90 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 Max-Q29441500 MHz8 GB90 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 2070 Mobile23041750 MHz8 GB115 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2060 Mobile19201750 MHz6 GB115 WTuringTU10612 nm
GeForce RTX 2080 Mobile29441750 MHz8 GB150 WTuringTU10412 nm
GeForce RTX 206019201750 MHz6 GB160 WTuringTU10612 nm
TITAN RTX46081750 MHz24 GB280 WTuringTU10212 nm

AMD APUs vs Dedicated GPUs: And the Winner is …

As mentioned already, whether you want to buy a PC with a dedicated graphics card or try out a cheaper alternative powered by an APU will depend on your budget and usage. If you’re a hardcore gamer, graphics designer or video editor, you’ll be better served by a high-end gaming PC or workstation with a standalone GPU. For most other users, a decent APU is all you’ll need in your computer to do all the basic everyday tasks and even indulge in some casual gaming without any issues.

Of course, the all-in-one solutions will never quite make for the most powerful setup, but they should let you build a good entry-level gaming PC without breaking the bank. Besides, you can upgrade your APU-powered desktop by adding a dedicated GPU any time you want. So now that you know about AMD APUs and the kind of usage they are suited for, we hope that you’re better equipped to make that call before putting down your hard-earned cash.

What is an APU? Difference Between CPU, GPU and APU - Explained! (2024)

FAQs

What is an APU? Difference Between CPU, GPU and APU - Explained!? ›

An APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) is a type of processor that combines both a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) onto a single chip. A CPU, on the other hand, is a standalone processor that is responsible for performing most of the computations and data processing in a computer.

Can I use a APU as a CPU? ›

No, APUs and CPUs are designed for different purposes and cannot be used interchangeably. APUs are specifically designed to provide both CPU and GPU functionality in a single chip, while CPUs are designed to provide only CPU functionality.

How to compare APU to GPU? ›

GPUs improve video performance by offloading graphics tasks from the CPU, which is especially important for gaming and video playback. APUs combine CPU and GPU on a single chip to improve efficiency, while NPUs are special chips for AI and ML workloads.

Is APU a GPU? ›

An APU is a type of microprocessor that combines traditional central processing unit (CPU) capabilities with graphics processing unit (GPU) functionality on a single chip.

What does the AMD APU stand for? ›

First coined by AMD, an accelerated processing unit (APU) is a CPU with integrated graphics processing functions. In effect, it is a processor that combines the CPU and GPU into one package. Early APU products were mostly aimed at personal computers, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.

What is the difference between APU GPU and CPU? ›

An APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) is a type of processor that combines both a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) onto a single chip. A CPU, on the other hand, is a standalone processor that is responsible for performing most of the computations and data processing in a computer.

What does an APU do in a PC? ›

An APU is an accelerated processing unit. They're manufactured by AMD as a way to house a CPU and GPU on a central die. This allows for efficient resource sharing between the two components, and it offers great core and thread counts at an affordable price.

How do I choose between GPU and IGPU? ›

The choice between integrated and dedicated graphics depends on your specific needs and budget. While integrated graphics have improved significantly and can handle most everyday tasks, dedicated GPUs remain the go-to choice for high-performance gaming, content creation, and professional applications.

Is APU the same as igpu? ›

AMD Accelerated Processing Unit (APU), formerly known as Fusion, is a series of 64-bit microprocessors from Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), combining a general-purpose AMD64 central processing unit (CPU) and 3D integrated graphics processing unit (IGPU) on a single die.

What GPU is equivalent to 5600G APU? ›

In terms of its graphics card equivalent, the Ryzen 5 5600G can be compared to mid-range options such as the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super or the AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT.

Can you crossfire APU and GPU? ›

You can hybrid crossfire the A8-3850 APU with HD 6670/6570/6450 GPU, depending on your use case it might not be a good idea to triple crossfire, especially in 2023 where multi-GPU setups are not ideal.

Does AMD still make APUs? ›

Expanded APU roster

At CES 2024 today, AMD debuted four new APUs collectively known as the Ryzen 8000G series. The product line is headlined by a chip called Ryzen 7 8700G. It combines an eight-core CPU with what AMD describes as the world's most powerful integrated graphics accelerator.

What is the purpose of the GPU? ›

The graphics processing unit (GPU) in your device helps handle graphics-related work like graphics, effects, and videos. Learn about the different types of GPUs and find the one that meets your needs. Integrated GPUs are built into your PC's motherboard, allowing laptops to be thin, lightweight, and power-efficient.

Can I use an APU and a GPU at the same time? ›

Yes, you can use both an APU and a separate graphics card in the same system. This is known as "dual graphics" and can provide improved graphics performance in some applications. However, not all APUs support dual graphics, so it is important to check the specifications before attempting to use this configuration.

Are AMD APUs worth it? ›

The APUs are capable of running modern AAA titles at 1080p 60FPS very easily. So yes, your favourite Palworld will run easily on these APUs giving you a smoother and top-notch experience.

What CPU has APU? ›

Some popular brands of APUs include AMD's Ryzen series and Intel's Core series with integrated graphics. Some popular brands of CPUs include Intel's Core i7 and i9 series, AMD's Ryzen series, and Intel Xeon processors for server applications.

Is an APU better than a CPU? ›

In terms of power consumption, APUs are more efficient than CPUs. Since they combine both a CPU and a GPU onto a single chip, they require less power to run than a separate CPU and graphics card. This can be especially important in laptops and other portable devices where battery life is a concern.

Can you use an integrated graphics CPU with a GPU? ›

Yes, adding a dedicated graphics card to a system with integrated graphics is possible. However, when adding a dedicated graphics card, the onboard graphics in your CPU will be turned off, replacing your CPU's GPU, not adding to it.

Are Intel CPUs technically APUs? ›

Simply put, marketing. Intel, the company that dominated the processing space for over a decade, has never used the term APU to market its processors even though most of them have integrated graphics. Instead, you may have come across marketing terms like “Intel i5 CPU with Iris Pro graphics”.

Do you need more RAM for APU? ›

The extra memory bandwidth will absolutely help with APU Gaming and the gains will likely be pretty linear. If you do not have power, space, or budget for a standalone GPU and want to get the most out of the APU, then get the fastest ram that fits your budget.

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