AMD Ryzen 7 8700G Review and Gaming Test
The AMD Ryzen 7 8700G is one of the most powerful APUs available today, offering an impressive balance of CPU and GPU performance in a single package. With 8 cores, 16 threads, and integrated Radeon 780M graphics, it is marketed as a solution capable of running modern AAA titles at playable frame rates without needing a dedicated GPU. But does it truly live up to the hype? Let’s dive into its specifications, gaming performance, productivity benchmarks, thermals, power efficiency, and real-world usability in a more detailed analysis.
AMD Ryzen 7 8700G: Detailed Specifications
1. CPU Performance
The Ryzen 7 8700G features Zen 4 architecture, providing a solid performance boost over previous APU generations. With a base clock of 4.2 GHz and a boost clock of 5.1 GHz, it ensures snappy responsiveness in gaming and multitasking. With 8 cores and 16 threads, it excels in multi-threaded workloads such as:
- Video editing
- 3D rendering
- Content creation
- Software development
- AI and machine learning applications
2. Integrated GPU – Radeon 780M
Built on the RDNA 3 architecture, the Radeon 780M GPU is a significant step up from older Vega-based iGPUs. Featuring 12 compute units and a clock speed of up to 2.9 GHz, it brings desktop-level integrated graphics capabilities, making it one of the best in its class. It supports:
- DirectX 12 and Vulkan APIs
- Hardware-accelerated ray tracing (limited scope)
- AV1 video encoding for superior streaming quality
- AMD FSR support for upscaling performance in demanding games
3. Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Cores / Threads | 8 Cores / 16 Threads |
| Base Clock | 4.2 GHz |
| Boost Clock | Up to 5.1 GHz |
| Cache | 24MB |
| TDP | 65W |
| Memory Support | DDR5 (Dual Channel) (Up to 6000MHz+) |
| PCIe Support | PCIe Gen 4 |
| Integrated GPU | Radeon 780M (RDNA 3) |
| Socket | AM5 |
| AI Acceleration | Yes |
| AV1 Encoding | Supported |
4. Memory Optimization
With Radeon 780M graphics, the Ryzen 7 8700G delivers substantial integrated GPU performance. To maximize its potential, using high-speed DDR5 RAM (6000MHz+ CL30 or lower) is highly recommended. Dual-channel memory configuration significantly boosts FPS in gaming.
Gaming Performance and Benchmarks
We tested the Ryzen 7 8700G across various AAA and esports titles at 1080p resolution with medium to low settings. Here are the benchmark results:
| Game | Resolution & Settings | Average FPS | 1% Low FPS |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p, Low Settings | 35-45 FPS | 28 FPS |
| Hogwarts Legacy | 1080p, Low Settings | 30-40 FPS | 25 FPS |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p, Low Settings | 40-50 FPS | 33 FPS |
| Call of Duty: Warzone | 1080p, Medium Settings | 50-60 FPS | 42 FPS |
| CS2 | 1080p, Medium Settings | 100-120 FPS | 85 FPS |
| Valorant | 1080p, High Settings | 120-140 FPS | 110 FPS |
| GTA V | 1080p, Normal Settings | 55-65 FPS | 48 FPS |
| Elden Ring | 1080p, Low Settings | 45-55 FPS | 37 FPS |
| Forza Horizon 5 | 1080p, Medium Settings | 50-60 FPS | 40 FPS |
| The Witcher 3 | 1080p, Low Settings | 40-50 FPS | 32 FPS |
Gaming Verdict:
- AAA titles run at playable frame rates, but some games require FSR upscaling for a smoother experience.
- Esports games like CS2 and Valorant perform exceptionally well, hitting high frame rates.
- High-speed RAM is critical for maximizing FPS in demanding games.
Productivity & Software Performance
Beyond gaming, the Ryzen 7 8700G is an excellent performer for professional tasks:
| Software | Performance |
| Adobe Premiere Pro | Smooth 1080p editing, 4K rendering feasible with longer processing times |
| Adobe Photoshop | Handles high-resolution projects with ease |
| DaVinci Resolve | Good for 1080p video editing, struggles with 4K |
| Blender (CPU Render) | 7-8 min for a medium complexity scene |
| Microsoft Office Suite | Excellent for multitasking |
| Google Chrome (Multi-tab browsing) | Handles 20+ tabs without lag |
| Visual Studio Code | Great for coding and software development |
Power Efficiency & Thermals
The Ryzen 7 8700G is designed to run efficiently with a 65W TDP, making it ideal for compact builds. Under gaming workloads, it maintains temperatures around 70-75°C with stock cooling, though better cooling solutions can further improve thermals.
Comparison: Ryzen 7 8700G vs CPU + GPU Combos
| Setup | Gaming Performance | Power Efficiency | Cost-Effectiveness |
| Ryzen 7 8700G (iGPU) | Playable (40-50 FPS in AAA) | High (65W TDP) | Best for budget builds |
| Ryzen 5 7600 + RTX 4060 | Great (80-100 FPS in AAA) | Moderate (160W TDP) | Higher cost, better FPS |
| Ryzen 7 7800X3D + RTX 4070 | Best (120+ FPS in AAA) | Higher (250W TDP) | Expensive but ideal for high FPS gaming |
Key Takeaways:
- For a budget or compact build, the 8700G is unbeatable.
- If high FPS in AAA gaming is the goal, pairing a mid-range CPU with a discrete GPU is the better choice.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Ryzen 7 8700G?
✅ Pros:
- Best integrated GPU in an APU
- Ideal for budget gaming PCs
- Great for content creation & multitasking
- Low power consumption (65W TDP)
- Future-proof with DDR5 and PCIe Gen 4 support
- Compact and power-efficient, ideal for SFF builds
❌ Cons:
- Struggles in some AAA games
- Not as powerful as a dedicated GPU setup
- Limited upgrade path without adding a GPU
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For ₹32,000 – ₹35,000 ($380-$420), the Ryzen 7 8700G is a well-rounded APU, perfect for budget gamers, compact PC builds, and light content creation. Would you choose the Ryzen 7 8700G, or do you prefer a dedicated GPU setup? Let us know in the comments!
