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There’s no hiding it: navigating AMD’s laptop CPU naming scheme is a confusing mess of numbers and letters. If you’re like me—utterly bemused but in need of a new laptop—here’s a breakdown to help you understand AMD’s laptop CPUs.
Breakdown of AMD’s CPU Naming Scheme
AMD’s new laptop CPU naming scheme details considerable information regarding each processor’s features and capabilities.
This new naming structure consists of several parts:
With that absolute mess sorted out, here are some practical examples to illustrate the naming scheme.
Example 1: Ryzen 5 7530U
Digit/Letter
Description
Generation Indicator
2023 Model
Market Segment
Architecture Code
Feature Isolation
Older Zen 3
Form Factor/TDP
Ultra-low power (15-28W)
Example 2: Ryzen 9 7845HX
Upper Zen 4
High performance/Extreme (above 55W)
Comparison With AMD’s Previous Laptop CPU Naming Scheme
Previously, AMD’s naming convention was simpler—but less informative. The model names primarily indicated the performance tier and generation but lacked detailed insights into architecture and features. For instance, a Ryzen 9 5900HX followed the Ryzen 9 4900HX but didn’t provide specific information about architecture improvements or TDP variations.
Old Naming Example
New Naming Example
Ryzen 9 5900HX
Ryzen 9, 5th Gen, High Performance
Ryzen 9 7945HX
2023, Ryzen 9, Zen 4, Max Performance
In contrast, while more complex, the new naming scheme offers a clearer picture of each processor’s specifications and intended use case. For example, the old naming did not distinguish between original and newer architectures within the same generation, which the new system does effectively.
5 Problems With AMD’s Laptop CPU Naming Scheme
Despite its intentions, AMD’s new naming scheme may have introduced some confusion in the following areas:
AMD’s new laptop CPU naming scheme aims to provide detailed and transparent information about its processors. While it clarifies the architecture and performance details, the complexity is daunting. As with all new name schemes, it will become more intuitive in time, especially for those who keep up with the latest CPU tech.
However, for casual buyers, AMD’s laptop CPU naming scheme will likely remain impenetrable.
