New AMD Processors for 2026 Are Zen+ and Zen 2 – Yes, in 2026
AMD has quietly added three new processors to its official product pages, and none of them use modern architectures. The list includes a Ryzen 7 4700LE for desktops (OEM‑only, no integrated graphics) and two mobile chips: Ryzen 5 3501U and Ryzen 3 3100U. The mobile parts are based on the Zen+ architecture (first introduced in 2019), while the desktop chip uses Zen 2 (from 2020).
The additions appear aimed at low‑cost, high‑volume OEM systems where platform maturity and low pricing matter more than raw performance.
Ryzen 7 4700LE: 8‑Core Zen 2 for AM4 Desktops (No iGPU)
The Ryzen 7 4700LE is listed as an OEM‑only desktop processor. It is based on the Renoir design (Zen 2) and features:
- 8 cores, 16 threads
- 3.6 GHz base, up to 4.2 GHz boost
- 8 MB L3 cache
- 65W default TDP (configurable 45‑65W)
- AM4 socket
- No integrated graphics – a discrete GPU is required
This chip will likely appear in pre‑built office or budget gaming desktops. Unlike the consumer Ryzen 7 4700G (which has integrated graphics), the LE variant skips the iGPU.
Ryzen 5 3501U and Ryzen 3 3100U: Zen+ Mobile Chips
The two mobile processors are part of the Ryzen 3000U series and use the Picasso architecture (Zen+), manufactured on a 12nm process. Specifications:
- Ryzen 5 3501U: 4 cores, 8 threads, 2.1 GHz base, up to 3.7 GHz boost, 4 MB L3, 15W TDP.
- Ryzen 3 3100U: 2 cores, 2 threads (dual‑core), 1.9 GHz base, up to 3.2 GHz boost, 4 MB L3, 15W TDP.
Both include Radeon Vega 8 graphics (8 GPU cores, 1200 MHz), support DDR4‑2400 memory, and use the FP5 socket. They are listed with a Q2 2026 launch window. The dual‑core 3100U in particular is a very low‑end part, likely for entry‑level notebooks or education markets.
Why Release Such Old Architectures?
AMD is not marketing these chips to enthusiasts. The move likely serves two purposes:
- Low‑cost OEM contracts: Manufacturers building millions of cheap laptops or desktops for schools, offices, or emerging markets may want stable, proven platforms with low component costs.
- Supply chain continuity: Using older nodes (12nm, 7nm) frees up advanced nodes (4nm, 3nm) for higher‑margin products. It also helps AMD fulfil contracts that require long‑term availability of certain processor families.
These launches are not for gamers or performance users. They are about keeping older production lines active while providing a cheaper alternative to the Ryzen AI or 8000 series chips.
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Pricing and Availability
AMD has not announced pricing. The Ryzen 7 4700LE is OEM‑only, so it will not appear in retail boxes. The mobile chips will likely ship in laptops from brands like Lenovo, HP, and Dell, probably in sub‑$400 systems.
If you are building a PC in 2026, you would almost certainly choose a Ryzen 7000 or 9000 series chip instead. But for a budget office PC that just needs to run a web browser and office suite, a Zen 2 or Zen+ CPU can still get the job done – at a very low cost.