The recent resurgence of AMD has been truly remarkable, as it has provided consumers with a variety of laptop and desktop processor options. However, akin to Intel, the organisation’s nomenclature has failed to impress with its perplexing designations and numerical values.
Moreover, due to AMD’s inconsistent nomenclature conventions for its desktop and laptop processors, the average user is required to devote a substantial amount of time to research. Consequently, the following is comprehensive information regarding AMD’s nomenclature scheme.
Mobile Processors from AMD for Laptops
To provide a more comprehensive illustration of the nomenclature scheme, let us examine the AMD Ryzen 5 7640U. Upon initial examination, the sequence of numerals may seem daunting; however, every individual letter possesses a distinct significance.
Scheme of Naming for AMD Ryzen 5 7640U
The branding of AMD is comparatively uncomplicated, whereby higher numerical values signify superior performance. An example of performance disparity is between the Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 series, and so forth.
Year Model 2.
The model year of the laptop is associated with the initial digit of the processor. The model number “7” denotes the Ryzen 5 7640U in our example, thereby signifying the processor’s introduction in 2023. As a result, notable cohorts will be represented by the numerals eight in 2024 and nine in 2025.
Segment 3.
The segment denoted by the second digit of the name, which in this instance is “6,” functions similarly to brand modifiers. Nevertheless, this number encompasses a vast array of processors manufactured by AMD, from Athlon Silver and Gold to the Ryzen series. Additional digits in the series consist of:
- The number 1 denotes the Athlon Silver series.
- The indicator of the Athlon Gold series is 2.
- The numbers 3 and 4 represent the Ryzen 3 series.
- Ryzen 5 is denoted by the numbers 5 and 6.
- The number 7 denotes the Ryzen 7 series.
- The number 8 denotes the Ryzen 8 series.
- The number 9 denotes the Ryzen 9 series.
- Architecture 4.
AMD laptop processor configuration
Possibly the most significant characteristic, the architecture of the semiconductor, is denoted by the third digit. However, you may be wondering why architecture is significant. Efficient operation and performance are the key factors. The architecture of an AMD processor is indicative of its manufacturing process. The 7000 series, for example, utilises the most recent 5nm process from TSMC, which allows it to operate approximately 30% quicker than its predecessor.
The digit that follows the market segment in the name represents the Zen microarchitecture version, which ranges from 1 to 5. The inclusion of the letter “4” in the Ryzen 5 7640U indicates that it utilises the most recent Zen 4 architecture.
- One represents Zen 1 or Zen+.
- 2 denotes Zen 2, while 3 signifies Zen 3 or Zen 3+.
- Zen is denoted by 4.
Separation of Features
Although less critical, the concluding digit of the processor’s designation signifies supplementary characteristics such as compatibility with Thunderbolt or USB variants. It is essential to note, however, that these characteristics rarely have a substantial effect on daily processor utilisation.
Desktop processors from AMD
In contrast to AMD’s laptop chips, which feature distinct meanings for each number in the name, the comprehension of the organization’s desktop processors is comparatively more straightforward. Prior to further elaboration, it is crucial to classify AMD’s desktop processors into three distinct SKUs. One example of an entry-level CPU designed for routine duties is Athlon, whereas Ryzen is designed to accommodate users who prioritise performance. Finally, AMD Threadripper processors are optimised for server-oriented operations and have the capability to incorporate more than one hundred cores.
However, in order to comprehend the nomenclature scheme, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D serves as an illustration. What the appellation consists of:
Brand Modifier 1.
Similar to the laptop processors, AMD’s desktop chips are categorised by number, with a higher number signifying a superior chip.
Architecture and Generation of CPU
As stated earlier, the generation of the CPU is one of its most critical components. Fortunately, that is precisely what the initial digit of the name signifies. Nonetheless, generational nomenclature for processors differs marginally from that of laptop chips. The initial digit of desktop processors signifies both the generation and architecture of the respective chip. At this time, “7” signifies the most recent iteration, which corresponds to the Zen 4 architecture.
SKU
SKUs are denoted by the final three numerals of a chip’s name. In order to enhance comprehension of their respective importance, we shall juxtapose the Ryzen 9 7950X3D and the Ryzen 9 7900X3D. In contrast to laptop CPUs, the last three numerals of processor prices do not denote specific qualities; rather, a higher value merely signifies a more powerful processor. Consequently, with regard to efficacy, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D surpasses the Ryzen 9 7900X3D.
SKU suffix 4.
It is not a mystery that AMD provides multiple processor iterations, each of which is optimised for a particular workflow. However, users who are less knowledgeable about technology may find it difficult to select the ideal processor. The importance of the final letter in the chip’s designation arises at this juncture, as it designates the specific form of chip. SKU suffixes consist of:
- During previous incarnations of Ryzen CPUs, the letter ‘G’ denoted the presence of a dedicated graphics processor, given that numerous processors lacked integrated graphics. Nevertheless, in contemporary incarnations, integrated graphics are standard on all CPUs, rendering the ‘G’ designation superfluous.
- F: The 7000 series of CPUs, which the company recently branded with a new suffix, denotes models devoid of an integrated GPU.
- X: This symbol represents a CPU that is marginally superior in terms of both clock speed and operational temperature.
- AMD introduced the X3D technology in the Ryzen 5000 series, which consists of an auxiliary cache stacked atop the CPU. By essentially doubling the L3 cache, performance levels are significantly improved.