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The Ryzen 7 8700G was AMD’s fastest desktop APU for gaming without a graphics card in 2024. But for most budget builders, the Ryzen 5 8600G was the better-value buy: it costs less and still handles esports, indie games, and older titles well when paired with fast, dual-channel DDR5 memory.
That verdict is specifically about gaming on integrated graphics. If you want demanding modern games at high settings—or already plan to install a graphics card—an APU is usually not the best gaming-value choice.
Quick verdict
| What you need | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Fastest AMD desktop APU gaming graphics in the 2024 lineup | Ryzen 7 8700G |
| Best balance of price and GPU-free gaming | Ryzen 5 8600G |
| Cheapest 8000G option worth considering | Ryzen 5 8500G, if it is substantially cheaper than the 8600G |
| High-setting 1080p or 1440p gaming | A conventional CPU paired with a discrete graphics card |
| You already own a discrete graphics card | Usually a standard Ryzen CPU rather than an 8700G or 8600G |
The 8700G wins the APU performance contest, not every gaming-value contest. A complete build’s cost matters more than the processor’s label: add the motherboard and DDR5 memory, then compare the total with a less expensive CPU and a discrete GPU.
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An APU combines CPU cores and graphics hardware in one processor. Unlike a graphics card, the 8700G’s Radeon 780M does not have its own pool of video memory; it uses system DDR5. That keeps a build simpler and can avoid a separate GPU purchase, but it also makes memory configuration especially important.
#1 Best Overall
- GAME WITH THE FASTEST PC PROCESSOR GRAPHICS IN THE WORLD
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads, with advanced AMD "Zen 4" architecture
- 5.1 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, DDR5 support
- For the state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform, upgradable for years to come
- Premium AMD Wraith Spire Cooler Included
The 8700G pairs eight Zen 4 CPU cores and 16 threads with a Radeon 780M integrated GPU built on RDNA 3, with 12 compute units and a graphics frequency of up to 2.9 GHz. It has a 4.2 GHz base clock, boost up to 5.1 GHz, 24 MB of total cache, and a 65 W default TDP. It uses the AM5 socket and supports DDR5. AMD’s launch announcement listed a $329 suggested price, with DIY availability beginning January 31, 2024. AMD’s launch details and specifications describe the Radeon 780M as its fastest desktop integrated graphics at launch.
Independent testing supported the 8700G’s position at the top of the desktop APU class, while also showing the key limitation: even the best integrated graphics are far behind a capable discrete GPU in demanding games. TechSpot’s review also highlights why the 8700G can be difficult to justify when a separate graphics card fits the budget.
Choose it when you need the strongest graphics you can get from an AMD desktop processor without a separate GPU—for example, in a compact system, a GPU-free build while you save for a card, or a living-room PC for lighter gaming. Its eight CPU cores are useful for multitasking and productivity too, but the main reason to pay more than you would for the 8600G is the faster integrated graphics.
Why the Ryzen 5 8600G is the better value for most
The 8600G has six Zen 4 cores and 12 threads, boost up to 5.0 GHz, 22 MB of total cache, and the same 65 W default TDP and AM5/DDR5 platform. Its Radeon 760M has eight RDNA 3 compute units and a graphics frequency up to 2.8 GHz. AMD listed a $229 launch suggested price, $100 below the 8700G, and includes a Wraith Stealth cooler. AMD’s 8600G specifications confirm its core, graphics, and platform details.
Rank #2
- Processor Manufacturer: AMD
- Processor Core: Octa-core (8 Core)
- Clock Speed: 4.20 GHz
- Overclocking Speed: 5.10 GHz
- L2 Cache: 8 MB
The 8600G gives up two CPU cores and four GPU compute units. It is slower in integrated-graphics gaming and heavily threaded work, but the lower launch price makes it easier to build around. Tom’s Hardware judged it a stronger deal than the 8700G for buyers prioritizing value. The right choice still depends on local prices and the cost of the complete AM5 system, not launch pricing alone. Tom’s Hardware’s 8600G review discusses the performance and value trade-off.
8700G vs. 8600G at a glance
| Specification | Ryzen 7 8700G | Ryzen 5 8600G |
|---|---|---|
| CPU cores / threads | 8 / 16 | 6 / 12 |
| Integrated graphics | Radeon 780M, 12 RDNA 3 compute units | Radeon 760M, 8 RDNA 3 compute units |
| Maximum graphics frequency | Up to 2.9 GHz | Up to 2.8 GHz |
| Maximum CPU boost | Up to 5.1 GHz | Up to 5.0 GHz |
| Total cache | 24 MB | 22 MB |
| Default TDP | 65 W | 65 W |
| Included cooler | Wraith Spire | Wraith Stealth |
| Launch suggested price | $329 | $229 |
| Best fit | Maximum GPU-free performance | Value-conscious GPU-free gaming |
Both are Zen 4 desktop processors made on TSMC’s 4 nm process, use AM5, support dual-channel DDR5, and provide integrated graphics far more capable than the small display-oriented graphics units found in many standard Ryzen desktop CPUs. They are monolithic designs rather than the chiplet layout used by processors such as the Ryzen 7 7700. That design gives the 8000G chips substantial integrated graphics capability, though they have less L3 cache than some chiplet-based alternatives.
What games can an 8000G APU run?
Think in terms of game type, resolution, and settings—not a blanket promise of “1080p gaming.” Performance varies by game, memory, drivers, and configuration.
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- Good targets: esports games, indie titles, older games, older emulated consoles, and strategy or simulation games with sensible graphics settings. Many will be comfortable at 720p, 900p, or 1080p, depending on the game and desired frame rate.
- Possible with compromises: modern AAA games may be playable at 1080p with low settings, reduced textures, upscaling, and variable frame rates. Some titles may call for lower rendering resolutions or a modest frame-rate target.
- Poor targets: high-refresh-rate AAA play, high or ultra presets, ray tracing, native 1440p or 4K, and demanding games where consistently high minimum frame rates matter.
AMD’s launch-era game figures were produced on a defined test system using Windows 11 Pro, 32 GB of high-speed DDR5-6400 memory, and low-detail 1080p settings. They are not a guarantee of what every build will achieve. AMD’s test methodology is useful context when evaluating those claims. Tom’s Hardware likewise describes the chips as better suited to 720p and limited 1080p gaming than to uncompromised modern AAA play. Read its 8700G review for independent testing and qualifications.
Rank #3
- Play some of the most popular games at 1080p with the fastest processor graphics in the world, no graphics card required
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 20 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform. Maximum Operating Temperature (Tjmax)-95°C
Resolution scaling and driver features can help in supported games, but they cannot turn an integrated GPU into a discrete card. AMD features such as Radeon Super Resolution or AMD Fluid Motion Frames depend on game, driver, and settings support. Frame generation can make motion look smoother, but it does not provide the same responsiveness or image quality as rendering more frames natively.
Build it with the right memory
The integrated GPU shares system memory, so bandwidth is part of graphics performance. Use two matching DDR5 modules so the memory runs in dual-channel mode. A single stick may reduce available bandwidth and hurt frame rates or smoothness; saving a little on one module can undermine the main reason to buy an APU.
A 2×16 GB kit (32 GB total) with an EXPO profile is a sensible target for a gaming system. Sixteen gigabytes can work for a basic build, but memory is shared by Windows, games, applications, and the GPU, so 32 GB gives more room. Enable the EXPO profile in the motherboard firmware if you want to run the kit at its rated profile; confirm stability and compatibility rather than assuming every setting works automatically. AMD’s official supported memory speeds vary with module rank and the number of installed DIMMs, while EXPO and other overclocked configurations depend on the memory kit, motherboard, and system setup. AMD’s 8700G specifications provide the official memory details.
AM5 platform cost and upgrade path
Budget for more than the APU: an AM5 motherboard, DDR5 memory, storage, power supply, case, and—if needed—an operating system. The 8600G’s lower processor price does not automatically make it the cheapest route to gaming. Price the complete system, then compare it with a less expensive conventional CPU plus a discrete GPU.
Rank #4
- The world’s fastest gaming processor, built on AMD ‘Zen5’ technology and Next Gen 3D V-Cache.
- 8 cores and 16 threads, delivering +~16% IPC uplift and great power efficiency
- 96MB L3 cache with better thermal performance vs. previous gen and allowing higher clock speeds, up to 5.2GHz
- Drop-in ready for proven Socket AM5 infrastructure
- Cooler not included
The 8700G and 8600G support PCIe 4.0 and provide 20 total PCIe lanes, with 16 usable lanes listed by AMD. You can add a graphics card later, which makes either APU useful when you need a working PC now but intend to upgrade. That is a practical path, not a promise that an 8000G processor will be the ideal CPU for every future high-end GPU or configuration.
Before buying a motherboard, check that its CPU-support list includes your exact APU and that its BIOS version can boot it. Older board stock may need a BIOS update. Also check that the board has the display outputs you need, suits your case size, and offers the connectivity you want. AMD lists AM5 chipset families including A620, B650/B650E, X670/X670E, X870/X870E, B840, and B850; feature support varies by board, so confirm the individual model’s specifications.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When a CPU plus graphics card is the better buy
If you want strong 1080p gaming at high settings, 1440p or 4K, ray tracing, or higher minimum frame rates in demanding games, plan on a discrete graphics card. If you already own one or will buy one immediately, an 8700G or 8600G is usually the wrong starting point: their integrated graphics add little value in that build, and their lower cache can make conventional Ryzen CPUs a better fit for some discrete-GPU systems.
Compare full builds, not isolated CPU prices:
- Price the 8700G or 8600G.
- Add an AM5 motherboard and a dual-channel DDR5 kit—ideally 32 GB.
- Add the remaining parts your system needs, including storage, case, and power supply.
- Compare that total with a standard Ryzen CPU and an entry-level or used graphics card, if a used card suits your needs.
There is no universal price at which one route wins: component prices, stock, region, and the games you play all matter. The central trade-off is straightforward. An APU avoids the initial graphics-card purchase and works well for lighter gaming; a discrete GPU costs more but is the meaningful route to demanding modern-game performance.
Best Value
- Processor provides dependable and fast execution of tasks with maximum efficiency.Graphics Frequency : 2200 MHZ.Number of CPU Cores : 8. Maximum Operating Temperature (Tjmax) : 89°C.
- Ryzen 7 product line processor for better usability and increased efficiency
- 5 nm process technology for reliable performance with maximum productivity
- Octa-core (8 Core) processor core allows multitasking with great reliability and fast processing speed
- 8 MB L2 plus 96 MB L3 cache memory provides excellent hit rate in short access time enabling improved system performance
Other AMD APU options
Ryzen 5 8500G: This six-core, 12-thread chip launched with Radeon 740M graphics and a $179 suggested price. Its weaker graphics make it a poor gaming-first choice unless it is substantially cheaper than the 8600G. AMD’s 2024 8000G lineup announcement lists its specifications and launch pricing alongside the higher models.
Ryzen 3 8300G: A four-core, eight-thread option with Radeon 740M graphics, announced without a standard suggested retail price and mainly associated with OEM or system-builder availability. It is not the obvious DIY gaming recommendation.
Ryzen 5 5600G and Ryzen 7 5700G: These older AM4 options can make sense for a particularly inexpensive upgrade or build, but their Vega integrated graphics are older and weaker than the RDNA 3 graphics in the 8000G lineup. Compare the complete AM4 platform cost and actual local availability before choosing them on processor price alone.
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Which one should you buy?
Buy the Ryzen 7 8700G if you need the strongest integrated graphics in AMD’s 2024 desktop APU lineup, will be without a GPU for a while, and accept reduced settings in demanding games. Its premium is most defensible in a compact or GPU-free build where every bit of integrated performance matters.
Buy the Ryzen 5 8600G if value matters more than maximum APU performance, six CPU cores are enough, and you’re targeting esports, older games, or modern games at reduced settings. For most budget GPU-free gaming builds, it is the more balanced recommendation.
Choose a conventional CPU and a discrete GPU instead if strong modern-game performance is the goal or a graphics card is already part of the plan. The 8700G is the 2024 APU performance leader; it is not automatically the best gaming processor or best-value gaming system for everyone.
Quick Recap
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