No, AMD Desktop APUs are still available and functional.
No, AMD Desktop APUs are still available and functional.
They remain alive, especially in 2020 when the Ryzen 3200G and 3400G were still in high demand, with the 3200G even selling out temporarily. You can also find the AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 4350G available as a tray for building a strong APU. Additionally, the latest Apple M1 supports great APUs, a topic Linus discussed in his videos. I believe APUs are still very much around for some time to come.
The issue with a shoebox-sized build often comes from thermal problems. For scientific projects, reliably managing heat is crucial. The Thermaltak Core V1 was chosen because it’s compact yet large enough to allow air cooling without stifling airflow. It also supports basic water cooling if required. I prefer upgrading my case rather than purchasing a new one—it feels unnecessary. The 3200G performs decently in Linux environments, offering a pleasant break from gaming. An AMD APU would be ideal for a smooth Linux experience. Nvidia isn’t particularly compatible with Linux, which makes this another point against using APUs in desktops. That’s why the idea of a good APU might be fading.
You already have a compact case designed for the Core V1, yet you're still choosing an APU. This is because your GPU space offers plenty of room—up to 280-300mm depending on fan settings—and thermal management is manageable with today’s advanced coolers. The issue isn’t the APU itself; it’s that you’re missing the full system fit in a shoebox build.