AMD

AMD A9-9420 SoC

AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores

2
Cores
2
Threads
3.6
GHz Boost
15W
TDP
🖥️Integrated GPU

AMD A9-9420 SoC Specifications

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A9-9420 SoC Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The AMD A9-9420 SoC features 2 physical cores and 2 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.

Cores
2
Threads
2
SMP CPUs
1
⏱️

A9-9420 SoC Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in A9-9420 SoC benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The A9-9420 SoC by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
3 GHz
Boost Clock
3.6 GHz
Multiplier
30x
💾

AMD's A9-9420 SoC Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the A9-9420 SoC processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The A9-9420 SoC's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
160 KB
L2 Cache
1 MB (shared)
🏗️

Excavator Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The AMD A9-9420 SoC is built on AMD's 28 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in A9-9420 SoC incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
Excavator
Codename
Stoney Ridge
Process Node
28 nm
Foundry
GlobalFoundries
Transistors
1,200 million
Die Size
125 mm²
Generation
A9 (Stoney Ridge)
🔢

Excavator Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The A9-9420 SoC by AMD supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
SSSE3
SSE4A
SSE4.1
SSE4.2
AES
AVX
AVX2
FMA3
BMI1
BMI2
SHA
AMD64
AMD-V
🔌

A9-9420 SoC Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The AMD A9-9420 SoC has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 15W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.

TDP
15W
Tj Max
90°C
Configurable TDP
10 W
🔧

AMD Socket FT4 Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The A9-9420 SoC uses the AMD Socket FT4 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.

Socket
AMD Socket FT4
PCIe
Gen 3, 8 Lanes(CPU only)
Package
BGA
DDR5

AMD Socket FT4 Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the A9-9420 SoC define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the A9-9420 SoC determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.

Memory Type
DDR4
Memory Bus
Single-channel
Memory Bandwidth
17.1 GB/s
🖥️

AMD's A9-9420 SoC Integrated Graphics

Built-in GPU specifications

The AMD A9-9420 SoC includes integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in basic computing scenarios. Integrated graphics are ideal for office productivity, video playback, and light gaming. While not designed for demanding GPU benchmarks, the iGPU in the A9-9420 SoC provides hardware video encoding and decoding capabilities. This makes the processor suitable for compact builds, HTPCs, and systems where power efficiency is prioritized over gaming performance.

iGPU
Radeon R5 3CU
Graphics Model
Radeon R5 3CU
📦

A9-9420 SoC Product Information

Release and pricing details

The AMD A9-9420 SoC is manufactured by AMD and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the A9-9420 SoC by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.

Manufacturer
AMD
Release Date
May 2016
Market
Mobile
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
AM9420AYN23AC

A9-9420 SoC Benchmark Scores

📊

No benchmark data available for this CPU.

About AMD A9-9420 SoC

The AMD A9-9420 SoC, part of the Stoney Ridge lineup released in May 2016, is a dual-core, dual-thread processor built on a 28 nm process, offering a base clock of 3.00 GHz and boosting up to 3.60 GHz. With a modest 15W TDP, this chip is designed for energy-efficient notebooks and compact systems where thermal headroom is limited. For everyday computing tasks such as web browsing, document editing, media streaming, and light multitasking, the AMD A9-9420 SoC delivers adequate responsiveness, especially when paired with sufficient RAM and an SSD. Its integrated Radeon R5 graphics help handle basic display workloads, making it suitable for office environments or students needing a reliable machine for routine use. However, due to its limited core count and lack of simultaneous multithreading, performance may bottleneck under heavier multitasking or CPU-intensive applications. While not designed as a gaming solution, the AMD A9-9420 SoC with Radeon R5 graphics can manage older or less demanding titles at low settings and reduced resolutions. Titles like Minecraft or League of Legends may run acceptably in optimized configurations, but modern AAA games are generally out of reach. The value proposition of this SoC lies in affordability and low power consumption, making it a budget-friendly option for entry-level laptops and educational devices. Systems based on the AMD A9-9420 require the Socket FT4 platform and are typically found in compact or ultra-portable form factors. Although benchmark data is unavailable, real-world usage suggests it fits best in scenarios where cost and efficiency outweigh performance demands.

The Intel Equivalent of A9-9420 SoC

Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i5-6350HQ offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.

Intel Core i5-6350HQ

Intel • 4 Cores

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