Is This the Ultimate Budget Gaming Machine? Testing the Ryzen 7 5825U & Vega 8 Combo

When it comes to budget gaming, striking the perfect balance between performance and affordability is always a challenge. The AMD Ryzen 7 5825U, paired with the integrated Radeon Vega 8 graphics, is an intriguing option for gamers on a tight budget. But does this combination truly deliver a smooth gaming experience? Let's find out.

Ryzen 7 5825U: An Overview

The Ryzen 7 5825U is an 8-core, 16-thread processor based on AMD’s Zen 3 architecture. With a base clock of 2.0 GHz and a boost clock of up to 4.5 GHz, this chip is designed primarily for ultra-thin laptops and power-efficient computing. However, its integrated Radeon Vega 8 graphics unit makes it a viable candidate for gaming without a discrete GPU.

Gaming Performance: Can It Handle Modern Titles?

To assess the real-world gaming potential of this setup, we tested a variety of popular games. Here’s how it performed:

• CS:GO – With settings set to medium, the game averaged 85-100 FPS, providing a fluid experience for competitive players.

• GTA V – At 1080p with normal settings, the game ran at a respectable 50-60 FPS, making it playable with some minor tweaks.

• Valorant – A well-optimized title, Valorant performed exceptionally well, averaging 100-120 FPS at medium settings.

• Cyberpunk 2077 – As expected, this demanding game struggled at 20-30 FPS on low settings, making it playable only with significant sacrifices.

• Elden Ring – Managed around 25-35 FPS at low settings, which might not be ideal for action-packed gameplay but is still decent for casual exploration.

Thermals and Power Efficiency

One of the key advantages of the Ryzen 7 5825U is its efficiency. With a TDP of just 15W, the chip runs cool under most gaming scenarios. While extended gaming sessions can push temperatures beyond 75°C, most laptops equipped with this processor maintain stable performance without thermal throttling.

Is Vega 8 Still Viable for Gaming?

The Radeon Vega 8, though aging, still holds up for budget gaming. While it can’t compete with modern dedicated GPUs, it can handle esports and older AAA titles fairly well. However, newer, more demanding games require significant graphical downgrades to be playable.

Who Should Consider This Setup?

This combination is ideal for:

• Casual gamers who play esports titles like CS:GO, Valorant, and League of Legends.

• Students and professionals who need a laptop for both work and light gaming.

• Budget-conscious users who can’t afford a dedicated gaming laptop.

Final Verdict: Worth It or Not?

The Ryzen 7 5825U and Vega 8 combo is not a powerhouse, but it is a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers who need an affordable, power-efficient machine. If you’re looking for a laptop that can handle work and some light gaming, this setup is worth considering. However, for those aiming to play the latest AAA titles at high settings, investing in a laptop with a dedicated GPU would be a better choice.

What are your thoughts on the Ryzen 7 5825U and Vega 8 for budget gaming? Let us know in the comments!