AMD Introduces “F” Versions of Ryzen 8000 Series Desktop APUs

AMD has recently revealed new “F” versions of its Ryzen 8000 Series desktop APUs, which come without integrated graphics. The Ryzen 7 8700F and Ryzen 5 8400F were showcased at the Beijing AI PC Innovation Summit in China. These chips have the GPU disabled, essentially turning them into CPUs.

Although details are scarce, it is assumed that the new “F” models are based on the Phoenix APU architecture with the integrated graphics turned off. The Ryzen 7 8700F is expected to feature eight CPU cores, similar to the Ryzen 7 8700G APU. The clock speeds of these new models are likely to be around 5GHz, in line with AMD’s existing desktop 8000 series APUs.

While pricing information has not been disclosed, it is anticipated that the Ryzen 8700F and 8400F will be budget-friendly options. The current Ryzen 7 8700 is priced at $329, making it a potentially attractive alternative if the new “F” chips are priced competitively. The availability of these chips outside of China is uncertain, but AMD has a history of launching products in the Chinese market first before expanding globally.

It is essential to consider the performance trade-offs when opting for the stripped-down “F” versions. The lower clock speeds and reduced cache size of the Phoenix APU may impact overall performance, especially when paired with a discrete GPU. While the appeal of these budget-friendly chips is tied to their affordability, potential buyers should weigh the value proposition against the performance limitations.

The introduction of the Ryzen 8000 Series “F” versions offers a cost-effective option for users looking for budget-friendly desktop APUs. However, the performance trade-offs and availability outside of China raise questions about the overall value of these chips. AMD’s decision to release these cut-down APUs underscores the need to clear existing inventory and cater to different market segments. As consumers evaluate the Ryzen 8700F and 8400F, it is crucial to assess both the price and performance aspects to make an informed purchasing decision.