Back in November 2019, the American semiconductor company AMD unveiled the Athlon 3000G, a budget-friendly dual-core Zen generation hybrid processor featuring integrated Radeon Vega 3 graphics and constructed on GlobalFoundries’ 14nm process technology. Now, four years post-launch, AMD remains committed to this model, introducing it to the retail market once again with a refreshed packaging strategy.
Revamping 14nm Athlon 3000G Processors for New Packaging
Originally built on the 14nm process node, the Athlon 3000G, a 35W processor, boasts a dual-core, quad-thread design with a steady 3.5 GHz base clock. It has remained on the market despite being an entry-level device, with two varieties identified by orderable product numbers (OPNs): YD3000C6FBBOX and YD3000C6FHBOX. The former uses the more affordable Dali die, and the latter sticks to Raven Ridge’s original design.
The specifications of both models are the same, guaranteeing consistent performance. But there’s an interesting difference when it comes to Windows 11 compatibility: only the Dali version (YD3000C6FHBOX) works with Microsoft’s most recent OS. Users are confused during the update procedure as a result of this disparity.
This version, which has a new OPN (YD3000C6FHSBX) and a new look, has already been seen in retail channels worldwide, even though it is not listed on AMD’s official website. The former Athlon and Zen logos have been replaced by a big AMD logo on the understated package. The sleek design of the black-and-white theme with orange accents subdues the Radeon Vega graphics logo. The updated Wraith Stealth stock cooler, which is an improvement over the original cooler, is another feature of the new edition.
AMD’s Refresh Amid Zen 4 Focus
Considering that AMD is currently focusing on the cutting-edge Zen 4 architecture, it is surprising that the company decided to redesign the packaging for an outdated 14nm processor. This unconventional approach is justified, nevertheless, by the Athlon 3000G’s affordability and ongoing significance in the entry-level market sector.
Despite possible variances from third-party sellers, the processor’s steady pricing, which has been around the $49 level since its inception, further confirms its position. The long-lasting Athlon 3000G demonstrates AMD’s strategic dedication to catering to a wide range of customers. Even in the face of changing architectures and technologies, AMD is committed to satisfying the demands of entry-level consumers by offering a balance between performance and price.
