Unboxing and Reviewing AMD Raven Ridge APUs
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Overview of Ryzen Raven Ridge
2.1 Vega Graphics in the CPU
2.2 Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 CPUs
- Unboxing the Reviewers Kit
3.1 The MSI B350I Pro AC Mini ITX Motherboard
3.2 G.Skill Flare X RAM
3.3 AMD USB Drive
3.4 The Ryzen 3 APU
3.5 The Ryzen 5 APU
- The Cooling Solution: Wraith Stealth Cooler
4.1 Benefits of the Stock Cooler
- Expected Performance and Price
- testing and Benchmarking
- Gaming Performance
- Applications and Use Cases for Raven Ridge APUs
8.1 HTPC Build
8.2 Buffer for High Graphics Card Prices
- Pros and Cons of Ryzen Raven Ridge
- Conclusion
Unboxing and Reviewing Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs
Are you ready for the next generation of Ryzen processors? Well, look no further than the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs. In this article, we will be unboxing and reviewing the much-anticipated Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs, which promise to deliver excellent performance with Vega graphics right inside the CPU. So, without wasting any more time, let's dive right in!
1. Introduction
The Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs are set to make a Splash in the market with their unique combination of powerful CPU performance and integrated Vega graphics. The APUs are aimed at gamers and enthusiasts who are looking for a budget-friendly solution that doesn't compromise on performance. With Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 options, these APUs offer a range of choices depending on your needs and budget.
2. Overview of Ryzen Raven Ridge
2.1 Vega Graphics in the CPU
One of the standout features of the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs is the inclusion of Vega graphics right inside the CPU. This means that you don't need a separate graphics card to enjoy smooth visuals and immersive gaming experiences. The APUs feature either Vega 8 or Vega 11 graphics, depending on the model, which offer impressive performance for integrated graphics.
2.2 Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 CPUs
The Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs come in two CPU options: Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3. The Ryzen 5 APU is equipped with 11 compute units and offers the added benefit of Hyper-threading, making it ideal for users who require high-performance multitasking capabilities. On the other HAND, the Ryzen 3 APU comes with 8 compute units and does not feature hyper-threading, but it is still a capable option for budget-conscious users.
3. Unboxing the Reviewers Kit
Let's take a closer look at the reviewers kit that AMD sent out for testing purposes. Inside the box, we find not only the APUs but also a motherboard and RAM, which are included to ensure that reviewers have everything they need for testing.
3.1 The MSI B350I Pro AC Mini ITX Motherboard
The kit includes the MSI B350I Pro AC Mini ITX motherboard, which is a perfect fit for small form-factor builds. While I won't be using this particular motherboard for testing, I plan to use it for a small form-factor HTPC build in the future. The inclusion of a motherboard in the kit is a thoughtful gesture, as it allows reviewers to have a complete setup for testing purposes.
3.2 G.Skill Flare X RAM
To complement the motherboard, AMD has also included G.Skill Flare X RAM. This DDR4 3200MHz RAM is perfect for maximizing performance, especially when using integrated graphics. The fast RAM speed and low CAS latency ensure a seamless experience when using the APUs.
3.3 AMD USB Drive
Another welcome inclusion in the kit is the AMD USB drive. This drive will come in handy for reviewers, as it can be used for installing BIOS updates and other software. Having a dedicated USB drive for these tasks saves time and eliminates the need for using larger USB 3 drives.
3.4 The Ryzen 3 APU
Let's move on to the star of the show – the Ryzen 3 APU. This quad-core CPU is the more budget-friendly option, perfect for users who want an affordable yet capable CPU. With 8 compute units and no hyper-threading, the Ryzen 3 APU provides sufficient power for everyday tasks and light gaming. The inclusion of the Wraith Stealth cooler is a bonus, as it means users don't have to spend extra money on a separate cooler.
3.5 The Ryzen 5 APU
Next up, we have the Ryzen 5 APU. With 11 compute units and the added benefit of hyper-threading, this CPU offers a significant performance boost over the Ryzen 3 APU. Priced slightly higher, the Ryzen 5 APU is ideal for users who require more power and multitasking capabilities. The Wraith Stealth cooler is also included with this CPU, ensuring efficient cooling without any additional expenses.
4. The Cooling Solution: Wraith Stealth Cooler
The Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs come bundled with the Wraith Stealth cooler, which is a capable cooling solution for these CPUs. The Wraith Stealth cooler is made specifically for CPUs with a 65W TDP, making it a perfect fit for the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs. The inclusion of the cooler means that users don't have to worry about buying an aftermarket cooler, as the stock cooler is more than sufficient for cooling these CPUs under normal operating conditions.
4.1 Benefits of the Stock Cooler
Using the stock cooler not only saves money but also ensures that users get reliable and efficient cooling right out of the box. The Wraith Stealth cooler is designed to keep temperatures in check, even during intensive tasks or gaming Sessions. Plus, with the pre-applied thermal paste, there's no need to worry about applying the paste correctly. Simply plug in the CPU and cooler, and you're good to go.
5. Expected Performance and Price
When it comes to performance, the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs are expected to deliver impressive results. With Vega graphics and powerful CPUs, these APUs are suitable for a wide range of tasks, including gaming, content creation, and everyday computing. The pricing for the APUs is also competitive, with the Ryzen 3 APU expected to be priced around $99 and the Ryzen 5 APU around $179, making them an excellent value for money.
6. Testing and Benchmarking
To ensure an accurate assessment of the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs, thorough testing and benchmarking are crucial. As a reviewer, I have carefully planned a testing methodology that covers various aspects of performance, including CPU performance, gaming performance, and multimedia tasks. The results of these tests will provide valuable insights into the capabilities of the APUs and help users make informed decisions.
7. Gaming Performance
Gaming performance is an important aspect to consider when evaluating the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs. These APUs aim to deliver a smooth gaming experience without the need for a dedicated graphics card. To test gaming performance, a range of popular games will be played on different settings to assess the APUs' ability to handle various levels of graphics intensity. The results will provide users with a clear idea of the APUs' gaming capabilities and help them determine whether they meet their gaming needs.
8. Applications and Use Cases for Raven Ridge APUs
The Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs offer versatility beyond just gaming. They are well-suited for various applications and use cases, making them an attractive choice for different types of users.
8.1 HTPC Build
One of the use cases that I will be exploring is building a Home Theater PC (HTPC) using one of the Raven Ridge APUs. With their integrated graphics and low power consumption, these APUs are perfect for media streaming and casual gaming in the living room. The compact size of the MSI B350I Pro AC motherboard makes it an excellent choice for a small form-factor HTPC build.
8.2 Buffer for High Graphics Card Prices
With the current high prices of dedicated graphics cards, the Raven Ridge APUs can serve as an alternative for gamers on a budget. By investing in an APU initially, users can enjoy a decent gaming experience until graphics card prices become more reasonable. This use case is particularly Relevant in the current market situation, where graphics card prices have reached exorbitant levels.
9. Pros and Cons of Ryzen Raven Ridge
Pros:
- Powerful CPU performance with integrated Vega graphics
- Budget-friendly options for both Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 APUs
- Easy installation with included stock cooler
- Versatile use cases, including gaming and media streaming
Cons:
- Limited gaming performance compared to dedicated graphics cards
- Lack of overclocking capabilities
- Availability of Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs may be limited initially
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs offer a compelling combination of powerful CPU performance and integrated Vega graphics. With the convenience of the included stock cooler and the versatility of the Mini ITX motherboard, these APUs are a great choice for budget-conscious users and those looking to build a compact HTPC. While they may not match the performance of dedicated graphics cards, the APUs provide a viable solution for gamers on a budget or those facing sky-high graphics card prices. With their impressive performance and competitive pricing, the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs are certainly worth considering for your next build or upgrade.
Highlights
- Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs offer a unique combination of CPU performance and integrated Vega graphics.
- Mini ITX motherboard and G.Skill Flare X RAM included in the reviewers kit for comprehensive testing.
- Stock Wraith Stealth cooler provides efficient cooling without additional expenses.
- Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 APUs cater to different user needs and budgets.
- Versatile use cases, including HTPC builds and buffer for high graphics card prices.
FAQ
Q: Can the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs handle AAA gaming titles? \
A: While the APUs are capable of running AAA gaming titles, users may need to lower graphical settings to achieve smooth gameplay.
Q: Can I upgrade the stock cooler on the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs? \
A: Yes, users have the option to upgrade the cooler if they require more efficient cooling or plan to overclock the APUs.
Q: Are there any limitations to using integrated Vega graphics compared to dedicated graphics cards? \
A: Integrated graphics may not offer the same level of performance as dedicated graphics cards, especially in graphics-intensive tasks and higher resolutions.
Q: Can the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs be used for content creation? \
A: Yes, the APUs provide sufficient power for content creation tasks, including photo and video editing.
Q: Are there any compatibility issues with the Ryzen Raven Ridge APUs and existing motherboards? \
A: To use the Raven Ridge APUs, existing motherboards may require a BIOS update to ensure compatibility. It's always recommended to check for compatibility before purchasing.
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