AMD FX-4100
AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores
AMD FX-4100 Specifications
FX-4100 Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The AMD FX-4100 features 4 physical cores and 4 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.
FX-4100 Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in FX-4100 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 FX-4100 by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
AMD's FX-4100 Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the FX-4100 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 FX-4100's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Bulldozer Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The AMD FX-4100 is built on AMD's 32 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 FX-4100 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Bulldozer Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The FX-4100 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.
FX-4100 Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The AMD FX-4100 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95W, 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.
AMD Socket AM3+ Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The FX-4100 uses the AMD Socket AM3+ 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.
AMD Socket AM3+ Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the FX-4100 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 FX-4100 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.
AMD's FX-4100 Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The AMD FX-4100 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 FX-4100 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.
FX-4100 Product Information
Release and pricing details
The AMD FX-4100 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 FX-4100 by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.
FX-4100 Benchmark Scores
No benchmark data available for this CPU.
About AMD FX-4100
The AMD FX-4100 is built on a 32 nm manufacturing process and features a quad-core, quad-thread configuration based on the Zambezi architecture, designed for Socket AM3+. With a base clock of 3.60 GHz and a turbo frequency of up to 3.80 GHz, the FX-4100 delivers moderate single-threaded performance while relying on its shared 8 MB L3 cache to improve data access efficiency. Its 95W TDP reflects a balance between performance and thermal output, making it suitable for budget-oriented desktop builds of its era. The lack of simultaneous multithreading (SMT) limits multitasking efficiency compared to modern CPUs, but the straightforward chip design of the AMD FX-4100 emphasizes clock-driven performance over parallelism. As part of the FX series, it targets users seeking a no-frills, entry-level CPU for basic computing tasks and light gaming. The AM3+ socket compatibility allows integration with existing DDR3 memory platforms, though upgrades are constrained by aging chipset support. Despite its age, the AMD FX-4100 remains a reference point for early Bulldozer-based processor design.
A comprehensive score overview for the AMD FX-4100 cannot be established due to the absence of available benchmark data across modern testing platforms. However, historical performance trends suggest it aligns with entry-level desktop processors from the early 2010s, particularly in single-threaded applications. Multi-core performance is limited by the lack of SMT and relatively narrow execution pipeline per module. As a result, the AMD FX-4100 typically underperforms compared to contemporary quad-core offerings from competing architectures. Its 8 MB of shared L3 cache provides some advantage in cache-sensitive workloads, but memory latency and bandwidth limitations cap scalability. Without current benchmark validation, real-world performance estimates rely on legacy data and user-reported experiences. The FX-4100's score profile reflects its positioning as a budget-conscious option rather than a performance contender. For modern software demands, its computational throughput is insufficient for sustained high-intensity tasks.
The AMD FX-4100 serves the entry-level desktop market segment, aimed at budget builders and OEM systems during its 2011 release window. It competes in a segment focused on affordability and basic multitasking rather than high-end gaming or content creation. With a launch price of $115, the FX-4100 offered a low-cost entry into the FX processor family, appealing to users upgrading aging AM3 systems. Its performance envelope suits office applications, web browsing, and legacy gaming at modest settings. As a product of its time, the FX-4100 reflects AMD's strategy to counter Intel's mid-range offerings with higher clock speeds and multi-core marketing. However, power efficiency and per-core performance lag behind contemporary Intel CPUs, limiting long-term viability. Today, the AMD FX-4100 remains relevant primarily for retro builds or system repairs where component compatibility is critical.
When considering an upgrade from or to the AMD FX-4100, several factors must be evaluated to ensure meaningful performance gains. First, the AM3+ platform restricts CPU upgrades to other FX-series processors, capping maximum potential even with newer Bulldozer or Piledriver chips. Second, system bottlenecks often arise from DDR3 memory limits and PCIe 2.0 bandwidth, especially when pairing with modern GPUs. Third, the lack of integrated graphics means a dedicated GPU is mandatory, increasing overall upgrade cost. Fourth, power efficiency and thermal output may necessitate improved cooling solutions, particularly under sustained loads. Finally, transitioning beyond the FX-4100 typically requires a full platform shift to modern sockets and chipsets for significant gains.
- Architecture based on AMD's Bulldozer module design with 4 cores and 4 threads
- Operates at a base frequency of 3.60 GHz, boosting up to 3.80 GHz under load
- Manufactured on a 32 nm process with 8 MB of shared L3 cache
- 95W TDP designed for Socket AM3+ motherboards, supporting DDR3 memory
- Released on October 12, 2011, with a launch price of $115 as part of the FX series
The Intel Equivalent of FX-4100
Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i5-2430M offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.
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