Best AM3+ CPUs

AMD released AM3+ sockets in 2011, and they quickly became famous among their rivals. Until the present day, AMD processors never lost their crown of glory.

Those CPUs that are compatible with the AM3+ socket are compatible with the AM3 socket. This guide will help you choose the most exemplary AM3+ CPU for your needs.

We have compiled some CPUs that you may want to look into buying. The socket has been designed from the ground up to provide the most incredible and fastest computing experience possible. Additionally, the AM3+ socket has many powerful capabilities, so it is popular.

Most enthusiasts and die-hard gamers have wished for AMD’s arrival. Gamers may use the AM3+ socket to add any AMD FX series CPU and instantly have a fast and responsive gaming PC.

AMD has produced AM3 and AM3+ CPUs, and people often favor the latter since it provides the high-end performance and top-notch speed that one is searching for in a CPU.

AMD has been on the wishlist of many people into PC stuff, mainly enthusiasts and passionate gamers. AM3+ socket is compatible with all the AMD FX series; gamers can install one series processor with the AMD socket, and voila, they have a speedy and smooth-running gaming system.

AMD has manufactured AM3 and AM3+ CPUs; users usually prefer the latter because it gives the high-end performance and the top-notch speed one is looking for in a CPU. The availability of AM3+CPUs is so much in the market that one gets confused while buying, but worry not, we have listed a few of the best ones in the market from popular brands.

Let’s see what things you should keep in mind before purchasing an AM3+ CPU or CPU.

Quick Shopping Tips:

Thread & Cores: CPU performance depends on these two things; threads are the tasks in plural handled by the CPU. In contrast, cores speed up the work done. More cores mean more speed to run any software. AMD and Intel use different techniques to create a thread; for multitasking, more threads are needed. A good CPU has almost eight cores; the rule says two threads per core. Gamers need at least a four-core CPU for better gaming. One can, however, level up to eight.

IPC & Clock: IPC in the computer is an inter-process communication that manages data shared to the CPU. IPC can also be instructions per cycle in CPU. For every clock cycle, a CPU can accomplish a few instructions. Higher IPC tends to increase CPU efficiency; 64 IPC is the maximum. CPU clock is measured in MHz and GHz, telling users how fast their computer is running. For fast-working, you need to look for a CPU with a higher Clock speed as well.

Size: The size within the CPU is referred to as ‘word size.’ The multiples of this size are address bus size, sound sample size, system bus size, and color depth. The term word size is the size of bits a computer can process and evaluate in one cycle. The size differs from WORD, DWORD, QWORD; 16,32,64 bits, respectively. Modern computers now come with 32, 64 bits. More word size means more speed as the possibility to transfer data increases.

Overclocking: The effort to increase the CPU speed is overclocking; when you grow the designated speed clock of a CPU, it overclocks. With that process, one can improve their CPU’s overall performance until they are willing to do so. For that process, a person will need a CPU that is going to support the overclocking. Usually, gamers who want to step up their gaming choose their PC components for overclocking. Both Intel and AMD allow overclocking in their PC components.

TDP: Thermal Design power tells you how much the installed process is dissipating heat. If it generates more heat, it means the overall TDP would be more. Hence one needs to save the system from thermal throttling by installing a better cooling option. TDP also refers to total power consumption by the system. Higher TDP comes with benefits and demerits, and it overbeats lower TDP. For high ending performance, you need to look for a CPU with a higher TDP.

Best AM3+ CPUS at a glance:

  1. AMD FX-8350 Black Edition
  2. AMD FX-8300 Black Edition
  3. AMD FX-4300 Black Edition
  4. AMD FX-4350 Black Edition
  5. AMD FX 8150 Black Edition
  6. AMD Fx 4130 Black Edition
  7. AMD FX-9370 Black Edition
  8. AMD FX-6300 Black Edition

The Best AM3+ CPUS You Can Buy Today

AMD FX-8350 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX-8350 Black Edition

Best AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Bulldozar | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 8/8 | Base Frequency: 4.0 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz | TDP: 125 W

REASONS TO BUY

Supports virtualization technology

Comes with an AMD Wraith Stealth cooler

High performance at low-temperature

REASONS TO AVOID

No integrated graphics

Higher TDP than similar CPUs

In terms of gaming performance, the AMD FX-8350 Black Edition has been a welcome addition to the computing world, offering a fluid gaming experience free of stutter. Multi-thread applications are no problem for this product.

This product is the most excellent AM3+ CPU because of its elegant design. There is a cooler included with this purchase, unlike other AMD CPUs, which is a nice perk.

The Piledriver architecture may achieve up to eight cores and a maximum boost frequency of 4.2 GHz. However, AMD does not provide integrated graphics in their devices, but one may still get a reasonable cost CPU and other computer accessories.

Many gamers choose this CPU because of its overclocking capabilities. It also has a decent PassMark score, operates well on multi-thread testing, and supports DDR3-1666.

The CPU’s technology is a little outdated but be assured that there will be no reduction in performance. To put it simply, the product earns 25 3DMark points per watt.

Those who like playing games that need a lot of cores and a lot of multitasking will find the FX-8350 an excellent choice for their needs.

AMD FX-8300 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX-8300 Black Edition

Best Flagship AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Vishera | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 8/8 | Base Frequency: 3.3 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz | TDP: 95 W

REASONS TO BUY

Octa-Core processor

Unlocked for overclocking

28 3DMark Score per watt

REASONS TO AVOID

BSOD error sometimes

No bundled CPU cooler

If you are looking for a CPU that gives you the best overclocking experience, AMD FX-8300 Black Edition is the best you can get. The product can boost up the frequency to 4.3 GHz, which will be great for overclocking. The manufacturers are proud of this product because it is the best flagship AM3+ CPU, and after looking at the specs and performance scores, you would not regret buying this. The company gave this CPU a lot of upgrades as compared to the previous series. It provides 1,483 MOps/Sec in single-threaded operation and up to 70 degrees maximum operating temperature.

FX-8300 is an eight-core process and supports 64 bit. The product also supports AMD Virtualization (AMD-V™) and Fused Multiply Add. Overclocking enabled gives off the best option to optimize the current CPU speed for an effortless computing experience. Due to its relatively good services, the CPU is listed within the best AM3+ CPU list and rated within the top ten common Desktop CPUs. Even though the cooler is absent, the FX-8300 is popular among the FX series of AMD. The involvement of the CPU in the tech world since 2012 has been proven excellent for users.

AMD FX-4300 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX-4300 Black Edition

Best Overall AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Vishera | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 4/4 | Base Frequency: 3.8 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 4.0 GHz | TDP: 95 W

REASONS TO BUY

Dual memory channel

DDR3-1866 memory support

Premium speed for the base clock

REASONS TO AVOID

No AMD PRO Security

No support for high-end technologies

The product is a prestigious addition to the quad-core series of AMD, coming with many spicy features. AMD FX-4300 Black Edition is a PC compatible with 4 GHz max turbo speed. The primer feature of the product is dual graphics with the switchable graphics mode and is said to be the best overall AM3+ CPU. AMD has added AMD Enduro Technology within the respective CPU; the particular feature allows it to spend almost no power when idle. The features also control the dual graphics that come within the product. FX-4300 also shares the Vulkan API Support and AMD PowerTune Technology, adding more to its goodness.

The product supports DDR3-1866 memory with dual memory channels and up to 29.9 GB/s Maximum memory bandwidth. Supporting 64-bit data width, the CPU shows commendable performance for gaming and other complex computing tasks. It offers an above-average PassMark result making its way in the list of best AM3+ CPU. Enhanced Virus protection is an additional feature involved in the CPU. FX-4300 shows strengthened performance for single-threaded operations, unlike multi-threading. Despite that, the product shows a tremendous amount of consistency under critical conditions. We would recommend this to the users looking for the best CPU at a reasonable price.

AMD FX-4350 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX-4350 Black Edition

Best Budget AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Vishera | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 4/4 | Base Frequency: 4.2 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 4.3 GHz | TDP: 125 W

REASONS TO BUY

NRIP save support

Higher memory bandwidth

Debugging extensions included

REASONS TO AVOID

No HMP usage

No big.LITTLE technology

If you are looking for a high-speed CPU that offers adequate overlocking with multiple premium features? If yes, then AMD FX-4350 Black Edition is the product you are looking for in your system. The integrated features include three cache memory levels, a quad-core processor with memory controllers, and much more. The product gives high-end performance and gentler on your wallet and is the best budget AM3+ CPU in the market. The manufacturers introduced HyperTransport technology within the CPU to connect gaming peripherals and other communication systems faster. The product does not support ECC memory but comes with 21 GB/s memory bandwidth.

FX-4350 was released in 2013, using Vishera core with thermal design power up to 125 W. The CPU shows tremendous outcomes in PassMark results and is one of the best AM3+ CPU. For multimedia tasks such as a picture or video editing, FX-4350 has an SSE version, which helps improve quality outcomes. It offers Data Encryption up to 925.3 MBytes/Sec and Data compression up to 51.8 MBytes/Sec. These features makeup to the safe data hiding from third parties and reducing the size of your data. We recommend this AMD FX 4-Core Black Edition processor to users with minimal computing and less advanced gaming. This kind of good CPU is within a reasonable budget.

AMD FX 8150 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX 8150 Black Edition

Best Performance AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Bulldozer Microarchitecture | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 8/8 | Base Frequency: 3.6 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz | TDP: 125 W

REASONS TO BUY

Supports NVIDIA SLI

Supports 4GHzplus speed

AMD Turbo Core Technology

REASONS TO AVOID

Static single-core performance

No Machine Learning technology

AMD FX 8150 Black Edition is a magnificent product that has been said to break the world record for overclocking and is considered the first octa-core FX series of AMD. The product has been bombarded with all the advanced technologies of AMD, which makes it the best performance AM3+ CPU among competitors. FX-8150 is mainly known for its multi-threading operation, giving off a user the ability to run many programs at once without any computing hindrance. The respective CPU has four Bulldozer microarchitecture modules and a maximum boost speed that can exceed 4.3 GHz. AMD developed Bulldozer microarchitecture in FX 8150 for the first time and the Llano processor for high-end performance and better outcomes.

The product is based on the 32nm manufacturing process and supports eight cores. The promising features of this CPU have led to it being part of the best AM3+ CPU in the competitor market. PowerNow! Technology and HyperTransport technologies have been introduced in the CPU. The former technology is installed within for the power save up to give up degrading noise and heat levels, while the latter technology is for the speedy data transfer. The product also comes with the AMD Turbo Core Technology, which helps the system work as the wind. However, the lack of single-thread readily affects the FX-8150, but despite that, it is a great CPU, and we would recommend it because of the quality service it gives.

AMD Fx 4130 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Fx 4130 Black Edition

Best Mid-Range AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Vishera | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 4/4 | Base Frequency: 3.8 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 3.9 GHz | TDP: 125 W

REASONS TO BUY

Two DIMMs per channel

AES technologies support

Fast multi-threaded performance

REASONS TO AVOID

Lower L3 cache

No ECC memory support

AMD Fx 4130 Black Edition comes with many evolved features along with a gain in performance. The installation of 32nm bulldozer architecture and unlocked multiplier for overclocking promises a great service along with an excellent computing experience. The product is a bit old, but it is the best mid-range AM3+ CPU, having almost all the new features. It starts working from the base frequency of 3.8 GHz, and the product can boost the max frequency to 3.9 GHz. It comes with memory controllers and memory support up to DDR3 1866. The cooler that comes with the CPU has an adequate number of fins per inch for maximum cooling; it also comes with heat pipes to take away the heat dissipated by the system.

Fx-413o passes the Benchmark test very efficiently, as compared to other fellow members of the same series. This CPU shows quite a performance in regards to gaming and can operate the complex game smoothly. With all these spicy features, we could say that it is one of the best CPUs available in the market. The overclocking properties of the CPU are much better than its sibling FX series. However, the absence of an L3 cache somehow diminishes the CPU performance; its addition would make this CPU more powerful. The gamers who want to experience quality games and are eager to try out trending games on a good budget CPU should give FX-4130 a try.

AMD FX-9370 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX-9370 Black Edition

Best Choice AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Vishera | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 8/8 | Base Frequency: 4.4 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 4.7 GHz | TDP: 220 W

REASONS TO BUY

Higher L3 Cache memory

MMX technology support

A cool and smooth performer

REASONS TO AVOID

No Blockchain Technology

Low Multi-thread PassMark results

AMD FX-9370 Black Edition is one of the top-notch products of AMD, providing maximum output to the users. This octa-core process supports new AMD memory optimizing technology and keeps new low voltage memories. To feed with more cores, the CPU has memory controllers. A product with upgraded features should be the best choice AM3+ CPU for you. Unlike any other series member, the CPU comes with a balanced and advanced AMD cache and supports the L3 cache to save the CPU from slow performance. HyperTransport comes with evolution in this product, almost 8.0 GB/s bandwidth, providing the CPU with the quickest time to achieve the goal. Pre-fetcher improvements have also been made in the CPU for betterment.

The input-output memory management unit has been set in the CPU to save your data and memory from third-party attacking devices; also, it does memory sharing without allotting the physical memory. FX-9370 has many features that can enhance the overall performance, and undoubtedly it is the best AM3+ CPU. Moreover, the CPU has few attributes like application support, providing more protection to the system. Cool’n’Quiet™ Technology also adds benefits to the service of CPU, giving control of processor parts to the users. Users in search of efficient performance with the AMD FX series should look for this product.

AMD FX-6300 Black Edition (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD FX-6300 Black Edition

Best Superb AM3+ CPU

SPECIFICATIONS

Architecture: Vishera | Socket: AM3+ | Cores/Threads: 6/6 | Base Frequency: 3.5 GHz | Top Boost Frequency: 3.8 GHz | TDP: 95 W

REASONS TO BUY

FMA4 instruction set

Supports AVX technology

Adequate Bus Transfer Rate

REASONS TO AVOID

No PCIe 4.0 compatible

Need to unlock for overclocking

One of the last suggested products from the AMD FX series is AMD FX-6300 Black Edition, a splendid product created recently with many pompous features and upgrades. The product is mainly known for its reasonable price, giving the users the benefit of having a properly functional CPU within a reasonable budget. The following CPU is a complete upgrade of the FX-6200 series, with advanced gaming chops and premium overclocking; no wonder it is the best superb AM3+ CPU. The CPU provides an adequate cooling amount; it also supports technologies like AES, AVX, FMA4. FX-6300 comes with L2, L3 cache levels, which will help your system save time looking up the data. The product provides the ECC memory and dual memory channels, and up to DDR3-1866 memory, support comes in handy.

A reasonable price means you can save up your money to install additional components within your system for better computing. The product shows excellent performance for multi-threading operations. One of the other benefits of the following CPU is that it can support other motherboards, proving convenient for the users. You need to keep in mind the workload you will put on your CPU; as for heavy workload, the following CPU is a terrific option. Users looking for a grace price CPU with a tiny bit of cons should give this CPU a try.

Conclusion

We have provided enough information and summed up the best AM3+ CPU hunt for the users. We have listed all the eligible CPUs with advanced technologies and other tasteful features. Mainly we have discussed the AMD FX series in this article; one can select one of them according to their needs and preferences. AMD has designed the FX series for personal computing, so the specs and the performance range are according to that. The company has done a lot in every aspect of CPUs, whether it is exterior manufacturing or advanced features. In series like FX-6300 and FX- 9370, many outstanding and evolved features are added to better the user’s experience.

Few of the stated CPUs in the list comes with a reasonable price range and a premium service, so it is a win-win situation. However, few specs have been missing in a few of the products, which might give the idea of compromising in performance. But let us break the assumption bubble here; AMD is known for its quality performance, and it has been shown in the listed products. Above-average performances have been seen in the products, whether advanced gaming or typical multi-computer tasks. AM3+ socket has gained popularity in the current year because of advanced features, and that is why we have created a guide for the eight best AM3+ CPUs for 2021.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest AM3+ processor?

For a socket like AM3+, a fast processor is needed to better your system. We would say that AMD FX-8350 Black Edition is considered a fast processor from our recommended list. The product comes with an eight-core processor with a maximum boosted frequency of up to 4.2 GHz. Out of many other AMD FX series products, the following CPU provides you with a Wraith Steelth cooler that will help your system to cool down as well. Not only that, but this CPU can also run many advanced and trending games without game lagging and other hindrances.

What CPUs are compatible with AM3+?

The socket AM3+ is mainly manufactured for the CPUs using AMD Bulldozer microarchitecture and is compatible with the respective socket. AMD FX series offers CPUs which are AM3+ compatible. AMD FX-9370 Black Edition is one of the examples of such CPUs. The product comes with a wide range of evolved features such as Advanced AMD balanced cache, developed HyperTransport Technology, and Input-Output memory management, etc. The CPU works tremendously with these attributes and is one of the highly recommended products of the AMD FX series.

Will Ryzen fit in AM3+?

Practically no, Ryzen processors are not compatible with the AM3+ socket and therefore can not fit in. They are also not compatible with every other component and peripheral that supports the respective socket. However, we have a CPU that can support different motherboard AMD FX series, rather than just supporting AM3+. AMD FX-6300 Black Edition is the CPU with this feature. Along with this feature, the product comes up with many spicy features that can severely boost one’s computing experience.

Is Ryzen compatible with AM3+?

No. All Ryzen CPUs utilize AM4 sockets and are not compatible with motherboards that either has the AM3+ socket or the AM3 socket.

Are AM3 and AM3+ the same?

The AM3+ socket is a variation of the AM3 socket. To accommodate the new Bulldozer-based AM3+ CPUs, it has an extra pin. Because AM3+ CPUs do not support DDR2, they were no longer backward compatible with AM2 and AM2+ motherboards.

Can AM4 fit in AM3?

If you were asking if AM4 was backward compatible with AM3+ for any reason, the answer is no. AM4 is not backward compatible with AM3+ since the sockets are physically different.