While relatively uncommon today, some budget laptops still come equipped with AMD E1 processors. If you’re working with a very limited budget, you might be considering a laptop featuring this CPU.
However, as an entry-level processor, you may wonder whether the AMD E1 can handle everyday tasks without lag. And what about occasional gaming—will it be up to the challenge?
Here, we’ll explore whether the AMD E1 processor is suitable for everyday tasks and what you can realistically expect in terms of performance. Here’s everything you need to know about the capabilities and limitations of the AMD E1 processor.
How powerful is the AMD E1 processor?
To evaluate the performance of the AMD E1 CPU, we tested it on the Acer Aspire ES 15, which is equipped with an AMD E1-7010 processor. Before assessing its real-world performance, let’s take a closer look at its specifications:
- Cores: 2
- Threads: 2
- Base Clock Speed: 1.5 GHz
- Max Clock Speed: 1.5 GHz
- Default TDP: 10W
- Process Technology: 28nm
- System Memory Type: DDR3L
- Integrated GPU: AMD Radeon R2 Graphics
- GPU Frequency: 400 MHz
From these specifications, it’s evident that the AMD E1 is not designed to be a powerful processor. As an entry-level CPU, it offers only basic performance capabilities.
If you’re wondering how powerful the AMD E1 CPU truly is, it’s important to set your expectations accordingly. This is a budget-friendly processor intended for minimal computing tasks, and it’s unlikely to handle demanding applications or multitasking efficiently.
Is AMD E1 processor good for normal use?
We’ve been using the Acer Aspire ES 15, powered by the AMD E1-7010 CPU, for our daily tasks to test things, and here’s what our typical usage looks like:
- Opening 10 to 13 tabs in Mozilla Firefox
- Switching between all the tabs simultaneously
- Using websites like Canva for basic design tasks
- Watching movies
- Occasionally using Notepad and MS Word
Under this usage pattern, the AMD E1-7010 performs decently, especially after upgrading the RAM to 8GB, which has significantly improved multitasking capabilities.
However, it’s important to note that while the CPU can handle everyday tasks, the overall system response is slow. Booting the system takes around 15 to 20 seconds, and opening applications typically takes about 10 seconds.
Upgrading from an HDD to an SSD would greatly enhance the speed, but not everyone may be ready to replace the hard drive immediately.
Based on our experience, we can conclude that the AMD E1 processor is suitable for light, basic use, such as:
- Running MS Office applications
- Creating text documents in MS Word or Notepad
- Managing multiple browser tabs in Firefox
- Watching videos and other content
For anything beyond these tasks, it would be wise to consider a more powerful CPU.
Is AMD E1 processor good for gaming?
Absolutely not. The AMD E1 processor is not designed for gaming, as it is strictly intended for light usage.
If you’re considering using it for gaming, be aware that most modern games won’t even run on this CPU.
In our testing, we were able to play some basic 2D games like Limbo, and it ran adequately. However, when we attempted to play some 3D games, the performance was severely hampered by significant lag, which made the gaming experience unenjoyable.
In fact, some slightly demanding games failed to launch altogether, underscoring the strict power limitations of the AMD E1 processor.
For gaming, this CPU should be completely ignored.
Also: Are Ryzen laptops good and worth it?
What is the price of a laptop with an AMD E1 processor?
As mentioned earlier, the AMD E1 is an entry-level CPU, so it’s no surprise that laptops equipped with this processor are also entry-level models.
These entry-level laptops typically feature an HD display, 4GB or 8GB of RAM, a 512GB HDD, and a plastic build—components that are generally inexpensive.
Given these specifications, the cost of a laptop with an AMD E1 processor typically ranges from $200 to $230, depending on the specific configuration.
Paying more than this isn’t advisable, as you’ll find significantly more powerful laptops in the $250 and above range.
Can the AMD E1 processor be upgraded?
No, you cannot upgrade the AMD E1 processor. Modern laptops do not allow for processor upgrades.
However, you can replace the HDD with an SSD to achieve faster performance.
Upgrading to an SSD will result in a significant improvement in boot times and application loading speeds.
Should you buy a laptop with an AMD E1 processor?
In our honest opinion, you should avoid buying a laptop with an AMD E1 CPU. Here’s why:
- Outdated Performance: This processor is outdated and struggles to handle modern software efficiently.
- Limited Longevity: Even if it can manage some tasks now, it will likely struggle more as software continues to evolve and become more demanding.
- Inadequate for Gaming: The AMD E1 cannot even support light gaming, making it unsuitable for any form of entertainment beyond basic tasks.
- Basic Use Only: This CPU is best suited for users who are just getting acquainted with how a laptop works, not for those with more advanced needs.
These are the key reasons why an AMD E1 processor laptop is not a wise investment.
If you’re spending money on a laptop, even on a tight budget, it should be capable of performing well for at least two or three years. Given the demands of modern software, the AMD E1 simply won’t be able to meet those expectations efficiently.
The CPU is crucial in determining a laptop’s longevity, so it’s worth investing in a more powerful option, even if your budget is limited.
Also Read: Is Ryzen 5 5500U good for gaming?
Conclusion
While we had a somewhat decent experience with a laptop powered by the AMD E1 processor, we frequently encountered significant lag, which diminished the overall experience.
Given the aging nature of this CPU, it’s advisable to avoid laptops with the AMD E1 processor.
If your budget is very tight, we recommend opting for a Chromebook, which will offer a faster and smoother experience than an entry-level Windows laptop.
However, if you prefer the flexibility of a Windows laptop—since Chromebooks often come with various limitations—consider investing at least $300. This price point is where you start to find good-quality Windows laptops that offer a better user experience.
Also: Are expensive laptops worth it?
FAQs
1. What is the AMD E1 processor, and what is it best suited for?
The AMD E1 processor is an entry-level CPU primarily designed for basic computing tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and simple media consumption. It’s best suited for users with very light computing needs, such as students or individuals just getting acquainted with how laptops work.
2. Can the AMD E1 processor handle modern software and multitasking?
The AMD E1 processor struggles with modern software and multitasking due to its limited processing power. While it can handle very basic applications, it often experiences lag when running more demanding software or multiple tasks simultaneously.
3. How does the AMD E1 processor compare to other budget processors?
Compared to other budget processors, the AMD E1 is on the lower end of the spectrum in terms of performance. It is less powerful than newer budget CPUs from both AMD and Intel, making it less suitable for modern software and multitasking.
4. What are the alternatives to an AMD E1 processor for budget-conscious buyers?
For budget-conscious buyers, alternatives to the AMD E1 processor include newer budget CPUs such as the Intel Celeron, Intel Pentium, or AMD Athlon series. Additionally, Chromebooks with ARM-based processors can offer better performance for basic tasks at a similar or slightly higher price point.
5. How can I improve the performance of a laptop with an AMD E1 processor?
To improve the performance of a laptop with an AMD E1 processor, consider upgrading the RAM (if possible) and replacing the HDD with an SSD. These upgrades can enhance multitasking and reduce load times, though they won’t fully overcome the processor’s inherent limitations.
So, is the AMD E1 processor good? By now, we’re sure you know the answer.
If you still have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments section below. We also welcome your thoughts—whether you agree or disagree with the points we’ve discussed.
