AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G

AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G: Review of a Business APU based on Zen 3 Architecture

In the world of desktop processors, the AMD Ryzen PRO lineup combines corporate-level performance with security and reliability features. The Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G is one such solution, offering four cores based on the Zen 3 architecture and integrated graphics in an energy-efficient package. This processor is designed for scenarios where stability and a full suite of capabilities without a discrete graphics card are critical.

1. Key Architectural Features and Performance

Architecture and Process Technology
The AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G is built on the Zen 3 microarchitecture, manufactured using TSMC's 7nm process technology. The codename for the chip is Cezanne. This is a significant improvement over the previous generation Zen 2, primarily due to the unified 8MB L3 cache, which is accessible to all four cores. This reduces latencies and enhances efficiency in applications.

• Core and Thread Count: 4 cores and 8 threads thanks to Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT) support.
• Clock Frequencies: The base frequency is 4.0 GHz, with the potential for automatic boost up to 4.2 GHz in Max Turbo mode.
• Cache Memory: Cache configuration consists of 64KB L1 and 512KB L2 per core, plus a shared 8MB L3 cache across all cores.
• Graphics Core: Integrated Radeon Vega 6 graphics. It includes 6 compute units (CUs), providing basic performance for interface tasks, multimedia, and light gaming.

Key Technologies
In addition to its hardware foundation, the processor includes a set of technologies typical of the PRO lineup:

• AMD Memory Protection: Support for Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory. This is a critical feature for workstations and servers where data integrity is a priority.
• Security Technologies: The AMD PRO Security feature set, including multi-layer threat protection built into the firmware.
• Remote Management: Support for DASH management standards for simplified hardware management.
• Stability: Guaranteed availability and long supply cycles, which are important for corporate clients.

Performance, according to the synthetic PassMark test, is around 14,033 points in multi-threaded mode and 3,096 in single-threaded mode. This ensures comfortable performance in office suites, browsers with multiple tabs, and light creative tasks.

2. Compatible Motherboards: Choosing the Foundation

Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G uses the AM4 socket. This allows a wide range of boards from an extensive pool of models released over many years.

Suitable Chipsets:

• A520: A budget option. Suitable for basic office systems where extensive overclocking capabilities or numerous PCIe 4.0 ports are not required.
• B550: The most balanced and recommended choice. Offers PCIe 4.0 support for drives (while the processor uses PCIe 3.0), improved power delivery, and more ports.
• X570: An overkill option for this processor. Justified only in cases of planned future upgrades to a more powerful CPU or the need for the maximum number of high-speed ports.

Important Considerations When Choosing:

1. BIOS Update: The motherboard may require a firmware (BIOS/UEFI) update to support Cezanne series processors (5000G). Many modern boards offer BIOS updating without a CPU installed. Check at purchase whether the required BIOS version is already installed.
2. Power System (VRM): For a 65-watt 4-core processor, a motherboard with an extremely powerful power subsystem is not required. However, it's advisable to avoid the cheapest models with minimal power phases, especially in compact cases with poor ventilation.
3. ECC Support: If using error-correcting memory, verify that the specific motherboard model supports unbuffered ECC memory. ECC support varies by manufacturer and model.

3. Supported Memory

The processor features a dual-channel memory controller and officially supports the DDR4-3200 standard. This is the optimal choice for balancing performance and cost.

• Maximum Bandwidth: Up to 51.2 GB/s in dual-channel mode with DDR4-3200 memory.
• Configuration: It is highly recommended to install two memory modules (e.g., 2x8 GB) to activate dual-channel mode. This yields a significant performance boost for both the CPU and integrated Radeon Vega graphics.
• Specifics: For APU, memory speed directly affects graphics core performance, as Vega 6 does not have its own video memory (VRAM) and uses part of the system RAM. Hence, installing DDR4-3200 or higher frequency modules (with manual tuning in BIOS) can enhance gaming performance.
• ECC: As noted, the processor supports error-correcting memory. This is not essential for everyday users but is a mandatory feature for error-sensitive systems.

4. Power Supply Recommendations

The official TDP (thermal design power) of the processor is 65W.

• Minimum Adequate Power: A quality power supply rated at 400-450W will be sufficient for a system based on the Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G without a discrete graphics card.
• Future-Proofing: If planning to install a discrete GPU, consider a PSU in the range of 500-650W, depending on the chosen GPU model.
• Quality is Crucial: More important than total wattage is the quality of the PSU components and its certification. Choose models with 80 Plus Bronze, Silver, or Gold ratings from reputable manufacturers. Such a power supply will ensure stable voltage and a long lifespan for components.

5. Pros and Cons of the Processor

Strengths:

• Zen 3 Architecture: High instructions per clock (IPC), large and fast shared L3 cache.
• Integrated Graphics Availability: Radeon Vega 6 allows for a complete system without a graphics card for office or media center use.
• ECC Memory Support: A unique feature for this segment, enhancing reliability.
• Low Power Consumption and Heating: 65W TDP simplifies cooling system selection.
• AM4 Socket: Wide compatibility and availability of motherboards.

Weaknesses:

• Only 4 Cores: This may be insufficient for heavy multi-threaded workloads (rendering, video encoding).
• Support Only PCIe 3.0: While modern storage and graphics cards utilize PCIe 4.0 and 5.0, high-speed NVMe SSDs won't reach their full potential.
• Locked Multiplier: No option for manual overclocking.
• Graphics for Basic Tasks: Vega 6 is suitable only for the least demanding games at low settings.

6. Optimal Usage Scenarios

• Corporate Office PCs and Terminals: An ideal option thanks to PRO Security technologies, remote management, and ECC support.
• Home/Office All-Purpose Computer: For studying, document work, and video viewing.
• Media Center (HTPC): Low thermal output allows for a compact and quiet PC. The built-in GPU supports hardware decoding of modern codecs.
• System for Casual Gaming: Can play popular online or older games at low and medium settings.
• Basic Workstations: For tasks where data accuracy is critical and ECC memory is required, but high multi-threaded performance is not needed.

7. Comparison with Closest Competitors

Within AMD's Range:

• Ryzen 5 5600G: The main competitor. It has 6 cores/12 threads and more powerful Vega 7 graphics. Performance in multi-threaded tasks and gaming on integrated graphics is significantly higher. Choosing the 5355G is justified only when strict PRO features are necessary or if there is a substantial price difference.
• Ryzen 3 5300G: A consumer equivalent without PRO features. Otherwise, it is almost identical.

In Comparison with Intel:

• Intel Core i3-12100 / i3-13100: These processors offer similar or slightly higher performance in games and single-threaded tasks, but their integrated UHD Graphics 730 is significantly weaker than Vega 6. They do not support ECC memory in the desktop segment. Their key advantage is PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, but for basic systems, this is not always critical.

8. Practical Tips for Building a System

1. Cooling: The processor comes with a stock cooler (Wraith Stealth), which is sufficient for operation. For a quieter system, consider a budget tower cooler.
2. Memory is a Priority: Install two identical DDR4-3200 modules to enable dual-channel mode. For non-gaming systems, 16GB (2x8GB) is sufficient.
3. Storage: To avoid a bottleneck, use an NVMe SSD (even with PCIe 3.0) or at least a 2.5-inch SATA SSD.
4. BIOS on First Boot: Be prepared for the need to update the motherboard's BIOS.
5. Graphics Drivers: After installing the operating system, be sure to install the latest Radeon Vega Graphics drivers from AMD’s official website.

9. Final Conclusion: Who and Why?

The AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G is a specialized yet capable processor for specific tasks.

It is perfect for:

• IT specialists and corporate buyers who need to deploy a fleet of reliable, secure, and easily manageable office PCs.
• Enthusiasts building a home server or NAS where ECC memory support is crucial.
• Users looking to build an affordable, modern, and energy-efficient PC for everyday tasks without a graphics card.

It should be avoided if:

• Gaming on integrated graphics is a priority—better to choose the Ryzen 5 5600G.
• Maximum multi-threaded performance is needed.
• You plan to use the latest high-speed NVMe SSDs and want to get the most speed from them.

The Ryzen 3 PRO 5355G finds its niche, offering a unique combination of Zen 3 architecture, integrated graphics, and corporate capabilities, making it an excellent choice for a business environment and responsible home tasks.