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The Ryzen 5 2400G is the better of these two APUs for CPU-heavy work and gaming on integrated graphics; the Ryzen 3 2200G is the lower-cost option if four CPU threads and its smaller Vega GPU are enough. Both launched in 2018 as 65 W AM4 processors with graphics built in, so either can produce a display without a separate graphics card. Their shared-platform costs—motherboard and DDR4 memory—also matter when comparing them, and the 2400G’s stronger graphics cannot make up for slow or single-channel RAM.
What AMD launched with Raven Ridge
AMD released the Ryzen 5 2400G and Ryzen 3 2200G worldwide on February 12, 2018. They were its first Ryzen desktop APUs to combine Zen CPU cores and Radeon Vega graphics on one chip. AMD’s suggested launch prices were $169 for the 2400G and $99 for the 2200G; these are historical launch figures, not current used-market prices or a statement of present availability.
Both processors use the AM4 desktop platform and have integrated graphics, allowing a compatible system to display video without a discrete graphics card. That makes them useful to compare as complete entry-level builds, not just as CPUs: the motherboard, memory configuration, and any later graphics-card upgrade are part of the decision.
Ryzen 5 2400G vs. Ryzen 3 2200G specifications
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2400G | Ryzen 3 2200G |
|---|---|---|
| CPU cores / threads | 4 / 8 | 4 / 4 |
| Base / boost clock | 3.6 / 3.9 GHz | 3.5 / 3.7 GHz |
| Integrated graphics | Radeon Vega 11 | Radeon Vega 8 |
| GPU stream processors | 704 | 512 |
| GPU clock | 1,250 MHz | 1,100 MHz |
| L3 cache | 4 MB | 4 MB |
| Processor TDP | 65 W | 65 W |
| Official memory support | DDR4-2933 | DDR4-2933 |
| Suggested launch price | $169 (AMD, February 2018) | $99 (AMD, February 2018) |
The specifications are from AnandTech’s Raven Ridge comparison. The main differences are the 2400G’s simultaneous multithreading (SMT), which gives it eight CPU threads, and its larger Vega 11 graphics unit. The 2200G has four CPU threads and Vega 8. Both have four CPU cores, the same listed L3 cache, memory support, and TDP.
#1 Best Overall
- Built-in Radeon Vega RX 11 graphics
- 4 Cores/8 Threads UNLOCKED
- Frequency: 3.9 GHz Max Boost. Supported technologies: AMD sensemi technology, AMD VR Ready processors, AMD Ryzen master utility, enmotus fuzedrive for AMD Ryzen, Radeon software, Radeon free Sync technology
- Socket Type: AM4. Default TDP/ TDP: 65W
- Thermal solution: Wraith Stealth cooler
How the two APUs compare in practice
CPU work and multitasking
The 2400G’s eight threads give it more room for workloads that can use several threads at once, such as heavier multitasking and some content-creation tasks. The 2200G is the simpler choice for lighter everyday work where its four threads are adequate. In TechSpot’s 2018 POV-Ray test, the 2200G was 8% faster than the Ryzen 3 1300X, while the 2400G was 1% faster than the Ryzen 5 1500X. Those are results from that review’s test platform and workload, not guaranteed differences in other applications or systems.
Integrated graphics and gaming
Vega 11 gives the 2400G more graphics resources than Vega 8 in the 2200G, so it is the stronger of the two for gaming without a discrete graphics card. Neither model requires a separate card for basic display output. Actual game performance depends on the game, resolution, quality settings, memory speed, and whether the system uses one or two memory channels. The available review findings here do not establish a reliable frame-rate target for particular games, so a buyer should not treat either APU as a guarantee of a specific resolution or settings level.
Rank #2
- Can deliver fast 100 plus FPS performance in the world's most popular games, discrete graphics card required
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 4.2 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 19 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform
Power and platform comparisons
Both chips carry an official 65 W TDP rating. In Tom’s Hardware’s 2018 test, the 2200G averaged 32 W during a 15-minute run and spiked as high as 62 W. That is measured behavior under that test, not a replacement for the processor’s rated TDP or a complete estimate of system power.
AnandTech reviewed AMD’s comparisons with Intel alternatives in the launch period. AMD claimed the 2200G scored 13% higher than the Core i3-8100 in PCMark 10. AMD also said a Core i5-8400 paired with a GT 1030 could match the 2400G in 3DMark Time Spy while costing $290 versus $169 and drawing 30 W more. These are AMD’s stated comparisons as discussed in the review context; they are not universal results for every system or a current-price comparison.
Rank #3
- Pure gaming performance with smooth 100+ FPS in the world's most popular games
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, based on AMD "Zen 5" architecture
- 5.4 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 38 MB cache, DDR5-5600 support
- For the state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform, can support PCIe 5.0 on select motherboards
- Cooler not included
Memory and motherboard requirements
Use dual-channel DDR4
The integrated Vega graphics use system memory rather than dedicated video memory. A dual-channel DDR4 configuration is therefore an important build choice: it gives the graphics processor more memory bandwidth than a single-channel arrangement. AMD officially lists support up to DDR4-2933 for both APUs. A suitably matched dual-channel kit is a more sensible starting point than relying on one memory module, and memory performance can affect integrated-graphics results.
Check AM4 BIOS compatibility
Both APUs use AM4, but the socket alone does not guarantee that every AM4 motherboard will boot them. Before buying a board—especially legacy or used stock—verify that its manufacturer lists the exact processor as supported and that the installed BIOS version is compatible. If the board needs a BIOS update, check whether it can be updated without an already-supported CPU or arrange the update before assembling the system.
Rank #4
- AMD's fastest 6 core processor for mainstream desktop, with 12 processing threads. System Memory Type: DDR4
- Can deliver elite 100+ FPS performance in the world's most popular games
- Bundled with the quiet, capable AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 35 MB of cache, DDR-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform, can support PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards
Which processor should you choose?
Choose the Ryzen 5 2400G if
- You want the stronger integrated GPU of these two and do not plan to install a graphics card immediately.
- Your CPU workloads can benefit from eight threads, such as heavier multitasking or suitably parallel applications.
- The price difference between available units is acceptable after accounting for the same motherboard and memory costs.
Choose the Ryzen 3 2200G if
- You want the less expensive entry point and can work within four CPU threads and Vega 8 graphics.
- Your use is mostly lighter everyday computing, or you expect to add a discrete graphics card and do not need the 2400G’s larger integrated GPU.
- You find a compatible, tested unit at a better total-build cost. The launch-price gap is historical; current used prices, warranty coverage, and stock vary.
If you intend to add a discrete graphics card later, weigh that plan against what you need from the integrated GPU now. The 2400G’s extra graphics resources are most valuable while relying on the APU graphics; the CPU-thread difference remains relevant after adding a card. Either way, verify board BIOS support and budget for dual-channel DDR4 rather than comparing processor prices alone.
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