
Ryzen 5 2500U
AMD
PassMark
6,494
MSRP
$349
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Ryzen 5 2500U is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 26 October 2017 (8 years ago). It is based on the Raven Ridge (2017−2019) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 3.6 GHz. L3 cache: 4 MB (total). L2 cache: 512 kB (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FP5. Thermal design power (TDP): 15 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-2400. Passmark benchmark score: 6,494 points. Launch price was $149.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Ryzen 5 2500U
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Ryzen 5 2500U across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Counter-Strike 2

League of Legends

Path of Exile 2

Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Ryzen 5 2500U specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Ryzen 5 2500U is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Raven Ridge (2017−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.6 GHz from a base frequency of 2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 4 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 512 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 96 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 6,494, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 818, while multi-core reaches 2,310.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500U |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.6 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Raven Ridge (2017−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 4 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 96 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 210 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 4,950 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 6,494 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 818 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 2,310 |
Memory & Platform
The Ryzen 5 2500U fits into the FP5 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 12 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4-2400 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Radeon Vega 8 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500U |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | AMD Ryzen 5 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | FP5 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 12 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 32 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Radeon Vega 8 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | FP5 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
The Ryzen 5 2500U is primarily designed for Mainstream Laptop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500U |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Mainstream Laptop |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | AMD-V |
Power & Cooling
The Ryzen 5 2500U has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 15 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Laptop Cooling.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500U |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 15 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | None |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Laptop Cooling |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $349, the Ryzen 5 2500U delivers 19 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1654 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500U |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $349 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1654 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 26 October 2017 (8 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
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