Why you should think twice before buying a laptop with AMD Ryzen 7000 series

Saying this doesn't mean AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors for laptops are not good. AMD is not deceiving you; it's just that AMD has introduced too many different choices, which can lead to confusion. After reading this article, you'll surely avoid confusion when buying a new laptop running on AMD Ryzen 7000 series.

There are up to 5 different variants of Ryzen 7000 Mobile

They not only differ in segments and performance but also in core architecture and manufacturing process. As you may know, Ryzen generations have gone through various architectures from Zen, Zen 2, Zen 3, Zen 3+, to the latest Zen 4. Usually, after each generation, the CPU lineup undergoes significant changes.

The upcoming AMD Ryzen 7000 Mobile series will feature new architecture and manufacturing processes, contrary to common expectations.

AMD Ryzen 7000 Mobile Series includes CPUs with Zen 2, Zen 3, Zen 3+, and Zen 4 architectures, as well as 4nm, 5nm, 6nm, and 7nm manufacturing processes. Specifically, it breaks down as follows:

• AMD Ryzen 7045 “Dragon Range” series adopts Zen 4 architecture, produced on a 5nm process for the highest performance, up to 16 cores, designed for top-tier gaming and creators. This series will include Ryzen 5/7/9.

• AMD Ryzen 7040 “Phoenix” series also utilizes Zen 4 architecture but is manufactured on a newer 4nm process. It offers slightly lower performance than the 7045 series but boasts better cooling and energy efficiency. This series targets high-performance gaming and thin, lightweight laptops with long battery life. It will feature Ryzen 3/5/7/9 processors.

• AMD Ryzen 7035 “Rembrant - R” series employs Zen 3+ architecture, with a 6nm process similar to the Ryzen 6000 Mobile series, nicknamed Rembrant - Refresh. This series is designed for thin and light, high-performance laptops but falls into a lower segment than the Ryzen 7040 “Phoenix.” It will include Ryzen 3/5/7/9 processors.
• AMD Ryzen 7030 “Bracelo - R” series features Zen 3 architecture, on a 7nm process, resembling the Ryzen 5025U. Named Bracelo - Refresh, this series targets mid-range, slim laptops. The VivoBook S 14 Flip TN3402YA-LZ026W in Vietnam is one example. It will offer Ryzen 3/5/7 processors, and laptops with this CPU will be priced around 15 - 20 million VND.
• AMD Ryzen 7020 “Medocino” series utilizes Zen 2 architecture, with a maximum of 4 cores, but it is manufactured on a 6nm process. This series includes Athlon and Ryzen 3/5 processors. Laptops equipped with this chip will typically be priced below 10 million VND.

You can find more details in the image below:

It might sound a bit convoluted at first, but understanding the naming principle makes it quite discernible. The product name consists of four digits, with the first digit being 7 - representing the 7000 series. The second digit indicates whether it belongs to Ryzen 3/5/7 or 9. The third digit reveals the core architecture, and combined with the last digit, it signifies the segment. A '5' at the end suggests more potency than a '0'. It's as simple as that:

So, even though they fall under the AMD Ryzen 7000 series umbrella, there will be significant differences in performance, architecture, and manufacturing processes. Additionally, they vary considerably in integrated graphics, with the Ryzen 7040 series featuring a new AI processing unit promising competition with Silicon processors.

Which processor to choose?

Looking at the product hierarchy above, it's evident that AMD distinctly categorizes each product line, specifying the target audience for each code.

will cater to. Therefore, they will reside in different segments, catering to diverse user demographics. Simply put, instead of maintaining old CPU lines for budget sales, AMD rebranded all to 7000 for a marketing advantage.

If you're considering laptops with AMD Ryzen 7035/7030/7020, it's worth weighing the option of choosing a laptop equipped with Ryzen 5000 or 6000 series. Despite similar price ranges, Ryzen 5000 laptops have been on the market for a while, meaning potential discounts and sales opportunities.

Of course, if laptops with AMD Ryzen 7035/7030/7020 offer good prices, new features, and meet your needs, feel free to go ahead. Since the Zen 2 architecture, things have been quite stable for office and study requirements. With Zen 3 architecture, namely Ryzen 5000 Mobile series, stability extends to both work and gaming needs.

However, if you seek the best performance, numerous enhancements, upgrades, and new features, consider waiting for laptops equipped with Ryzen 7040/7045 CPUs. However, production challenges may affect their availability due to the high demand for 4-5nm manufacturing from TSMC. The quantity of high-performance laptops will likely be limited, especially in Vietnam, requiring considerable waiting.

Currently, even AMD Ryzen 7035/7030/7020 laptops are sporadically appearing, and if you need a high-end, powerful laptop right now, your best bet may be choosing laptops running on Intel Gen 12 or Gen 13.

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