AMD Ryzen 5 2400G Buyer's Guide
Positioning and generation
The AMD Ryzen 5 2400G is a desktop processor from the Ryzen 2000G generation, built on the Zen architecture. On our current tier scale it sits in the older mainstream band, in the same general position as the Intel Core i3-8100 and Core i5-7500.
Its most distinctive feature is the integrated graphics. You do not need a separate graphics card to get a picture, which makes it attractive for entry-level builds or a machine used for office work and light gaming. It is still an entry to mid-range chip, though, and it is not a good fit for demanding new games.
If you already own a capable dedicated graphics card, the integrated graphics will go unused, but the processor itself still handles everyday game requirements well.
Key specs explained
This processor has 4 cores and 8 threads. Core count decides how much work can run at once. For most games, 4 cores with 8 threads is enough for everyday play, though it can feel strained when many background tasks or programs run at the same time.
The Zen architecture gives it reasonable per-core efficiency for its generation. The integrated graphics are its clearest difference from similar chips. They suit low-resolution light games and older titles. For newer games with heavy visual demands, pairing it with a dedicated graphics card is recommended.
Our data does not list other specifications such as clock speeds, cache sizes or power draw, so this guide only covers core and thread counts, the architecture and the integrated graphics.
Suitable games and resolutions
Across the 439 catalogue games with official requirements, this processor can be assessed for 416. Of those, 146 meet the recommended requirements, 110 are well above the recommended level, 105 meet only the minimum, and 55 fall below the minimum. Most games will run on it, but mostly at minimum or recommended level rather than with plenty of headroom.
In practice, titles such as Microsoft Flight Simulator (2020) 40th Anniversary Edition, Timberborn, Farthest Frontier and SCUM meet the recommended requirements. Big Ambitions, Yet Another Zombie Survivors and Fields of Mistria meet only the minimum. Big Walk, Palworld and Gothic 1 Remake fall below the minimum, so they will need stronger hardware.
For resolution, 1080p is the sensible target. This chip is not suited to high resolutions with high visual settings. Pushing to higher resolutions would require a stronger graphics card and more processor headroom than this chip offers.
Compared with similar hardware
On our tier scale it sits level with the Intel Core i3-8100 and Core i5-7500. All three are older mainstream desktop processors, so on tier alone the gap is small. Choose based on your motherboard platform, price and whether you need integrated graphics.
One step up is the AMD Ryzen 5 1600. If your budget allows, it has a slight edge on tier and suits anyone wanting more margin.
One step down are the Intel Core i5-6600K, Core i7-4790K and Core i5-7400. These are a little weaker on our scale. The gap is not large, and the integrated graphics are the main point of difference for the 2400G.
Buying new or used
This processor uses the AM4 socket. When buying, make sure the motherboard is also AM4 and check that its chipset and BIOS version support this chip. Our data records no extra BIOS or chipset requirements, so follow the motherboard maker's compatibility list.
The pins sit on the CPU itself, so handle it carefully during installation and shipping to avoid bending them.
The boxed version includes a basic cooler, and our data confirms that this model is sold with one. Check before buying whether you are getting the boxed or tray version. A tray unit has no cooler, so you would need to buy one separately. The multiplier is locked, so overclocking should not be a main consideration.
If buying used, inspect the pins and the condition of the chip, and prefer sellers who offer a warranty or returns. New units normally come with a manufacturer warranty, which offers more protection.
Upgrade advice
If you are using this processor and find it too slow, an upgrade may be worthwhile. Based on our data, sensible targets include the Intel Core i7-7700K, AMD Ryzen 5 2600 and Intel Core i3-10100F. These sit clearly above the 2400G on our tier scale and are the same or a newer generation.
When upgrading the processor, also consider the graphics card and memory. A weak graphics card limits the benefit of a faster processor, and too little memory hurts smoothness in games. Plan the processor, graphics card and RAM together so that one part does not become a bottleneck.
If you only play less demanding games, your current setup may already be enough, and an immediate upgrade is not necessary.