AMD introduces Mendocino - A 4-core Zen 2 APU with RDNA 2 GPU, targeting mainstream laptops.

Buzz

In addition to the Ryzen 7000 series for desktops, AMD has unveiled a new line of processors for laptops, notably featuring only 4 cores and 8 threads, utilizing the Zen 2 architecture introduced in 2019 under the name Mendocino.Currently, AMD offers a variety of processor options for laptops, with the latest being the Ryzen 6000 series featuring H models for high performance laptops and U models for thin and light laptops. Not to mention, the Ryzen 5000 series is still very popular in the laptop market. Apart from some variants of the U series of the Ryzen 5000 series (5300U/5500U/5700U - Lucienne) using Zen 2 architecture, the Ryzen 5000/6000 series processors, including Cezanne and Rembrandt, all use the newer Zen 3/Zen 3+ architecture. Therefore, the appearance of Mendocino using Zen 2 architecture at this time is quite unusual.

The Mendocino processors are equipped with only 4 cores and 8 threads, similar to the Ryzen 3 4300U/5300. However, they boast an RDNA 2 GPU, akin to the APUs in the Ryzen 6000 series. The amalgamation of Zen 2 and RDNA 2 renders Mendocino reminiscent of the Van Gogh APU used in the Stream Deck gaming PC, differing only in the manufacturing process. Mendocino is fabricated on a 6nm process instead of TSMC's 7nm. TSMC's 6nm process offers 18% higher semiconductor density than 7nm, with comparable power consumption and performance. Leveraging Zen 2 cores ensures that Mendocino's IPC performance is on par with Reinor (Ryzen 4000 series) or Lucienne, but its employment of a more advanced process may confer a clock speed advantage.In terms of graphics performance, the RDNA 2 architecture delivers significantly superior graphics performance compared to Vega with GCN 5.0 architecture. However, Mendocino may not be equipped with up to 12 CUs like the Radeon 680M version in the Ryzen 6000 series (Rembrandt); it's likely to feature 6 or 8 CUs.Furthermore, Mendocino will support LPDDR5 memory. This generation of LPDDR5 continues to increase data transfer speeds up to 6400 MT/s, while operating at significantly lower voltage than LPDDR4x. AMD estimates that laptops powered by Mendocino processors could achieve battery life exceeding 10 hours under multitasking usage.

Mendocino aims to target mainstream laptops in the price range of 399 - 699 USD. AMD has ambitious plans to expand its presence across various laptop segments. The company is set to unveil over 60 models for business purposes, 50 high-performance models, and 90 slim and lightweight designs running on AMD in the latter half of 2022. Mendocino-powered laptops are expected to hit the shelves in the fourth quarter of this year, including models running ChromeOS.Source: Tom's Hardware

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of AMD's Mendocino processors for laptops?

AMD's Mendocino processors, designed for laptops, feature 4 cores and 8 threads using Zen 2 architecture. They are equipped with RDNA 2 GPUs, offering superior graphics performance compared to previous generations. Built on a 6nm process, Mendocino achieves higher density than older 7nm chips, providing a potential clock speed advantage. Additionally, these processors support LPDDR5 memory, enhancing data transfer speeds while ensuring efficient power consumption.

How does the performance of Mendocino processors compare to Ryzen 6000 series?

While Mendocino processors utilize Zen 2 architecture, they are designed for mainstream laptops and differ significantly from the Ryzen 6000 series, which employs the more advanced Zen 3 architecture. Despite this, Mendocino offers competitive IPC performance comparable to Ryzen 4000 and Lucienne series, alongside impressive graphics performance thanks to RDNA 2 architecture. However, the Ryzen 6000 series generally provides better overall performance and efficiency.

What types of laptops will feature Mendocino processors and their pricing?

Mendocino processors will power mainstream laptops priced between 399 and 699 USD. AMD plans to release a wide range of models, including over 60 for business, 50 high-performance laptops, and 90 slim designs. These models are expected to debut in the fourth quarter of 2022, including some running ChromeOS, showcasing AMD's commitment to expanding its laptop presence.

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