AMD

AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE

AMD processor specifications and benchmark scores

4
Cores
4
Threads
โ€”
GHz Boost
125W
TDP
๐Ÿ”“Unlocked ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธIntegrated GPU

AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE Specifications

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Phenom X4 9850 BE Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE 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.

Cores
4
Threads
4
SMP CPUs
1
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Phenom X4 9850 BE Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Phenom X4 9850 BE 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 Phenom X4 9850 BE by AMD can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
2.5 GHz
Boost Clock
N/A
Multiplier
12.5x ๐Ÿ”“
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AMD's Phenom X4 9850 BE Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the Phenom X4 9850 BE 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 Phenom X4 9850 BE's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
128 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
512 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
2 MB (shared)
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K10 Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE is built on AMD's 65 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 Phenom X4 9850 BE incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
K10
Codename
Agena
Process Node
65 nm
Transistors
450 million
Die Size
285 mmยฒ
Generation
Phenom X4 (Agena)
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K10 Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Phenom X4 9850 BE 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
SSE4A
AMD64
AMD-V
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Phenom X4 9850 BE Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 125W, 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
125W
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AMD Socket AM2+ Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Phenom X4 9850 BE uses the AMD Socket AM2+ 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 AM2+
PCIe
Gen 2
Package
ยตPGA
DDR5

AMD Socket AM2+ Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the Phenom X4 9850 BE 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 Phenom X4 9850 BE 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 Bus
Dual-channel
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AMD's Phenom X4 9850 BE Integrated Graphics

Built-in GPU specifications

The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE 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 Phenom X4 9850 BE 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
On certain motherboards (Chipset feature)
Graphics Model
On certain motherboards (Chipset feature)
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Phenom X4 9850 BE Product Information

Release and pricing details

The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE 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 Phenom X4 9850 BE by AMD offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within AMD's product lineup.

Manufacturer
AMD
Release Date
Mar 2008
Market
Desktop
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
HD985ZXAJ4BGH

Phenom X4 9850 BE Benchmark Scores

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No benchmark data available for this CPU.

About AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE

The AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD represents a pivotal chapter in desktop processor evolution, built on a 65 nm Silicon on Insulator (SOI) process and featuring a quad-core Agena chip design with native four-core integration for improved multitasking efficiency. Each core operates at a base clock of 2.50 GHz, sharing a unified 2 MB L3 cache to reduce latency and enhance data throughput across demanding workloads. Designed for the AMD Socket AM2+ platform, the AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD delivers robust performance for its era, with a 125W TDP reflecting its high-performance orientation and need for solid thermal management. As one of the first budget-friendly quad-core CPUs from AMD, it targeted enthusiasts and power users seeking multi-threaded capabilities without the premium pricing of high-end models. The unlocked multiplier on the "Black Edition" variant gives the AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD added appeal for overclockers and system tuners looking to extract extra performance from compatible motherboards. Despite lacking simultaneous multithreading (SMT), its four physical cores provide genuine parallel processing, a rarity in budget segments at the time of its March 2008 release. Cache coherence and memory bandwidth are managed through an integrated DDR2 memory controller, optimizing access times within the AM2+ ecosystem.

Performance metrics for the AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD place it firmly in late-2000s productivity and gaming contexts, where clock-for-clock efficiency trails modern architectures but still handles legacy applications with competence. While lacking benchmark validation in today's standards, real-world usage positions it as a capable performer for vintage gaming rigs, media centers, and lightweight virtualization tasks. Its market segment bridges budget-conscious builders and retro computing enthusiasts who value historical significance and upgradeability within older platforms. For optimal pairing, motherboards with robust VRMs and support for DDR2-1066 memory maximize stability and bandwidth, while high-efficiency air or liquid cooling solutions help manage sustained loads. Enthusiasts often pair the AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD with discrete GPUs like the Radeon HD 5000 series or GeForce 9000 series to recreate authentic period-accurate builds. Though superseded by modern Ryzen processors, the AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD remains a symbol of AMD's early push into accessible multi-core computing. Its legacy endures in DIY communities focused on preservation, upcycling, and understanding the progression of x86 architecture. For those investigating the roots of multi-core desktop CPUs, the AMD Phenom X4 9850 BE from AMD offers a hands-on window into a transformative era for consumer processors.

The Intel Equivalent of Phenom X4 9850 BE

Looking for a similar processor from Intel? The Intel Core i5-750 offers comparable performance and features in the Intel lineup.

Intel Core i5-750

Intel โ€ข 4 Cores

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