AMD is making a significant push into the channel with its EPYC 4005 processors, aimed at providing small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) improved utilization and performance-per-dollar compared to Intel’s Xeon processors for low-cost servers. The EPYC 4005 series, characterized as the entry-level tier in AMD’s server CPU lineup, offers key advantages: up to twice the cores, five times the cache, 40% more I/O lanes, and 50% higher maximum memory—all at a lower cost per core relative to Intel’s Xeon E-2400 and Xeon 6300P processors.
Launched recently, the EPYC 4005 chips boast a complete 512-bit data path with AVX-512 support, making them efficient for AI workloads. Supported by major OEMs like Lenovo and Supermicro, as well as cloud service providers such as Vultr and Scaleway, the chips target a variety of applications including general-purpose computing, content creation, and AI-enhanced workloads.
Price points for the six single-socket EPYC 4005 CPUs range from $239 to $699, with cost-per-core estimates between $40 and $44, significantly undercutting Intel’s pricing which falls in the $53 to $84 range. Performance comparisons reveal that the 6-core EPYC 4245P outperforms the 8-core Xeon 6369P by an average of 16%, while the 8-core EPYC 4345P surpasses it by 38%. Notably, the EPYC series also includes models exceeding Intel’s core limits, with 12 and 16 core variants available, further amplifying AMD’s competitive edge.
AMD is keenly focused on expanding its channel presence through new tools for tracking sales and enhanced training for partners, as per senior product manager Greg Gibby. This strategic move addresses the SMB market more efficiently and seeks to challenge Intel’s stronghold in data centers. AMD’s recent earnings call emphasized an increased investment in product development and channel strategies to capitalize on growth opportunities.
The introduction of the EPYC 4005 series comes at a time when Windows Server licensing presents a unique opportunity. With Windows Server 2022 and 2025 requiring a minimum of 16 cores for licensing, the EPYC 4005’s offerings align perfectly for customers looking to maximize their server capability while managing costs effectively. AMD views this alignment as a substantial advantage and a key differentiator in the competitive landscape.
Featuring the Zen 5 architecture, the EPYC 4005 processors deliver a minimum base frequency of 3GHz, scaling up to 5.7GHz, and incorporate advanced features including AMD’s Secure Processor and support for high-speed DDR5 memory with error-correcting capabilities. The processors also enhance connectivity with multiple PCIe Gen 5 lanes and modern USB options, ensuring they meet the demands of today’s data-intensive workloads.