The Tool Desk
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What the Ryzen 5 2400G was
AMD launched the Ryzen 5 2400G on February 12, 2018, at a suggested price of $169. It was an APU: a processor that combined conventional CPU cores with a substantially capable integrated GPU, rather than adding a token display adapter to a normal desktop CPU.
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The product joined four Zen CPU cores and eight threads with Radeon RX Vega 11 graphics. AMD called the generation Raven Ridge. Zen supplied the general-purpose processing; Vega rendered graphics using the computer’s shared DDR4 memory. That combination removed the need for a discrete graphics card in many inexpensive builds.
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It was not simply an eight-core Ryzen 2000 desktop design with graphics bolted on. Raven Ridge used a smaller 4 MB L3 cache and an integrated GPU, with a PCIe 3.0 x8 connection. The processor fits the AM4 socket, but motherboard BIOS and display-output support still determine whether a particular board will work.
#1 Best Overall
- Can deliver fast 100 plus FPS performance in the world's most popular games, discrete graphics card required
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 4.2 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 19 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform
AMD’s official specifications are available on its Ryzen 5 2400G support page.
Specifications
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2400G |
|---|---|
| Launch | February 12, 2018; $169 suggested price |
| CPU | 4 cores / 8 threads, Zen architecture |
| Clock | 3.6 GHz base; up to 3.9 GHz boost |
| Cache | 4 MB L3 |
| Graphics | Radeon RX Vega 11, 11 compute units, 704 stream processors, 1250 MHz maximum GPU clock |
| Memory | Dual-channel DDR4, officially up to 2933 MT/s |
| Power | 65 W default TDP; configurable 46–65 W |
| Socket and PCIe | AM4; PCIe 3.0 x8 |
| Process | 14 nm FinFET |
| Cooler and multiplier | Wraith Stealth boxed cooler listed; unlocked multiplier |
How it compared at launch
The companion Ryzen 3 2200G cost $99 and used four cores without simultaneous multithreading, plus Vega 8 graphics with eight compute units and a 1100 MHz maximum GPU clock. The 2400G’s extra threads and larger, faster GPU made it better for CPU-heavy games, multitasking, compiling and content work, although the cheaper model delivered much of the same basic integrated-graphics experience.
AMD positioned the 2400G against Intel processors whose integrated graphics were far weaker. Its launch material also compared a $169 2400G with an approximately $290 Core i5-8400 plus GeForce GT 1030 configuration. That was AMD’s manufacturer comparison, not a universal promise: the advantage depended on the game, settings, memory configuration and whether the buyer needed a graphics card at all. AnandTech’s contemporary testing provides independent launch-era context in its competition analysis.
CPU performance: capable, but limited by four cores
Four Zen cores with eight threads were unusually versatile for a budget chip in 2018. Office applications, browsing, media playback, light photo work, emulation and basic encoding all fit comfortably. Multithreaded workloads such as compilation could benefit from the eight threads; AnandTech even recorded a multithreaded test in which the 2400G beat Intel’s Core i5-8400, while Intel led in other workloads through stronger single-thread performance or more physical cores. See the CPU system testing.
Rank #2
- Built-in Radeon Vega RX 11 graphics
- 4 Cores/8 Threads UNLOCKED
- Frequency: 3.9 GHz Max Boost. Supported technologies: AMD sensemi technology, AMD VR Ready processors, AMD Ryzen master utility, enmotus fuzedrive for AMD Ryzen, Radeon software, Radeon free Sync technology
- Socket Type: AM4. Default TDP/ TDP: 65W
- Thermal solution: Wraith Stealth cooler
That result describes its launch position, not a 2026 benchmark. Modern games and production applications increasingly use more cores, and the 2400G’s four physical cores and small cache can become constraints. Its CPU is now dated even where the desktop remains perfectly usable.
What Vega 11 gaming was really like
Vega 11 was the reason to buy the chip. Compared with contemporary Intel integrated graphics, AnandTech found the AMD APU substantially faster, and some games approached or exceeded the performance of entry-level discrete graphics such as the GT 1030. Results varied substantially by title, driver, settings and memory.
The practical target was esports software, older AAA releases and less demanding games at reduced quality settings. Selected games could run at 1080p, but that does not mean high presets or a locked 60 frames per second. Newer, demanding games can fall below a comfortable frame rate. Average FPS alone also hides hitching: 99th-percentile frame rates, time below 30 FPS and frame-time consistency determine whether a game feels smooth. The original graphics testing shows the historical envelope rather than a guarantee for current releases.
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Rank #3
- Includes Wraith Stealth Cooler
- Prosumers, Enthusiasts, and Mainstream Users
- Power through heavy workloads like photo & video editing with ultimate performance
- Featuring True Machine Intelligence to optimize responsiveness every millisecond
Memory is a performance requirement
Install two matched DIMMs whenever possible. A 2 × 8 GB kit in dual-channel mode supplies far more bandwidth than a single 16 GB module, directly helping the integrated GPU and also benefiting the processor’s memory fabric.
- Use the motherboard’s recommended paired slots and verify that dual-channel mode is active.
- Enable the board’s XMP, DOCP or equivalent memory profile only if it is stable.
- AMD officially specifies up to DDR4-2933; higher speeds are overclocking or motherboard-dependent, not guaranteed.
- Confirm the actual operating speed in BIOS or the operating system rather than trusting the kit label.
AnandTech tested Zen/Vega APUs from DDR4-2133 through DDR4-3466 and found memory speed was a meaningful variable, not a minor tuning detail. Its memory-scaling analysis explains why faster, stable dual-channel memory can improve gaming more visibly than CPU workloads.
Motherboard, BIOS and display compatibility
AM4 on the box does not guarantee an immediate boot. Older A320, B350 and X370 boards may need a BIOS revision that recognizes Raven Ridge. A board without BIOS Flashback may require an older compatible processor or a retailer’s update service before the 2400G can start.
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- Find the exact motherboard model and revision.
- Check its CPU-support list and required BIOS version for the 2400G.
- Confirm whether BIOS Flashback is available or arrange an update before installing the APU.
- Verify that the rear I/O includes the HDMI or DisplayPort connection you need.
- Connect the monitor to the motherboard output when using Vega graphics.
Display resolution, connector versions and some media features are properties of the motherboard and firmware as well as the processor. A board lacking a suitable video output cannot use the APU’s graphics conveniently, regardless of the chip’s specification.
Rank #4
- Ryzen 5 2400G R5 2400G
Test conditions behind the launch review
AnandTech tested the processor on Windows 10 Pro 64-bit with an MSI B350I Pro AC motherboard, 2 × 8 GB DDR4-3200 operated at DDR4-2933, AMD’s Wraith Stealth cooler, a Corsair AX760i power supply and an open test bench. The review used an APU-specific beta graphics driver; the GT 1030 comparison used NVIDIA driver 388.52. Those details matter: an open bench, launch driver and controlled memory setting do not represent every case, BIOS or current operating system. The complete test setup should be read alongside the results.
Power, thermals and overclocking
The official 65 W TDP, configurable to 46–65 W, suits compact and inexpensive systems, although TDP is not total system power. The boxed Wraith Stealth cooler was adequate for the product’s intended stock configuration. Because CPU cores and Vega share the same thermal and power budget, CPU or GPU overclocking can reduce headroom for the other component. The unlocked multiplier permits experimentation, but memory stability and long-duration workload testing are essential; no universal overclock or temperature should be assumed.
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Existing AM4 upgrade
This is the strongest case. If a compatible board and dual-channel DDR4 already exist, a cheap 2400G can replace a much weaker processor and provide graphics without a discrete card. Check BIOS support before buying.
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It remains suitable for office work, school applications, media playback, light emulation and a small selection of older or competitive games, provided expectations are modest.
Best Value
- Pure gaming performance with smooth 100+ FPS in the world's most popular games
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, based on AMD "Zen 5" architecture
- 5.4 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 38 MB cache, DDR5-5600 support
- For the state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform, can support PCIe 5.0 on select motherboards
- Cooler not included
Home-theater or small-form-factor build
The integrated design reduces component count and the 65 W class simplifies cooling. Confirm the board’s video outputs, desired display resolution, case airflow and codec requirements first.
New gaming PC
Skip it unless the complete platform is exceptionally cheap. A new system should normally use a newer APU or a current platform with stronger integrated graphics and a longer support horizon.
Used-market buying advice
Recent Newegg marketplace results have shown some used, OEM or processor-only 2400G listings around $50–$75, but seller, condition, cooler, warranty and geography can change the price substantially. Treat that range as a volatile marketplace signal, not an MSRP; check the current listings before purchase.
- Confirm the exact Ryzen 5 2400G model rather than Ryzen 5 PRO 2400G or a complete-PC listing.
- Ask whether the Wraith Stealth cooler is included and whether the processor is boxed or tray/OEM.
- Prefer a return policy and evidence that the chip boots.
- Inspect for damaged or bent contacts where applicable.
- Price the motherboard, memory, cooler and operating-system requirements together; a cheap CPU can become an expensive platform.
Alternatives and the upgrade decision
A Ryzen 3 2200G can be sensible when markedly cheaper and the workload is light. A Ryzen 5 5600G-class APU offers a newer Zen 3 CPU, six cores and twelve threads, while a Ryzen 7 5700G-class part adds eight cores and sixteen threads; both require board-specific BIOS support and should be compared at their actual used prices. A conventional CPU plus a used discrete GPU adds dedicated video memory and upgrade flexibility, but also cost, power draw and another failure point. Current entry-level platforms may cost more while delivering substantially newer graphics and media support.
Compare the complete cost of the 2400G, a newer AM4 APU, a CPU-plus-GPU combination and a new platform. Do not pay near-newer-APU money for an old 2400G simply because the listing says “new old stock.”
Quick Recap
Final assessment
| Area | Assessment |
|---|---|
| CPU | Strong budget four-core/eight-thread design for 2018; dated for demanding 2026 workloads |
| Integrated graphics | Exceptional versus launch-era Intel graphics; entry-level and restrictive for modern games |
| Platform | Useful when an AM4 board, compatible BIOS and dual-channel DDR4 are already available |
| 2026 value | Attractive only at a low used price; poor choice for most new gaming builds |
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
