Intel's HAXM equivalent for AMD on Windows OS
Posting a new answer since it is 2019.
TLDR: AMD is now supported on both Windows and Linux via WHPX and yes, Genymotion is faster as it is using x86 architecture virtualization.
From the Android docs (January 2019):
Though we recommend using HAXM on Windows, it is possible to use Windows Hypervisor Platform (WHPX) with the emulator. You should use WHPX with the emulator if you are using an AMD CPU or if you need to use Hyper-V at the same time.
To use WHPX acceleration on Windows, you must enable the Windows Hypervisor Platform option in the Turn Windows features on or off dialog box. For changes to this option to take effect, restart your computer.
Additionally, the following changes must be made in the BIOS settings:
Intel CPU: VT-x must be enabled. AMD CPU: Virtualization or SVM must be enabled.
Diff from 2016:
Virtualization extension requirements
Before attempting to use acceleration, you should first determine if your CPU supports one of the following virtualization extensions technologies:
- Intel Virtualization Technology (VT, VT-x, vmx) extensions
- AMD Virtualization (AMD-V, SVM) extensions
(only supported for Linux)Most modern computers do. If you use an older computer and you're not sure, consult the specifications from the manufacturer of your CPU to determine if it supports virtualization extensions. If your CPU doesn't support one of these virtualization technologies, then you can't use VM acceleration.
Virtualization extensions are typically enabled through your computer BIOS and are frequently turned off by default. Check the documentation for your motherboard to find out how to enable virtualization extensions.
From the Android docs (March 2016):
Before attempting to use this type of acceleration, you should first determine if your development system’s CPU supports one of the following virtualization extensions technologies:
- Intel Virtualization Technology (VT, VT-x, vmx) extensions
- AMD Virtualization (AMD-V, SVM) extensions (only supported for Linux)
The specifications from the manufacturer of your CPU should indicate if it supports virtualization extensions. If your CPU does not support one of these virtualization technologies, then you cannot use virtual machine acceleration.
Note: Virtualization extensions are typically enabled through your computer's BIOS and are frequently turned off by default. Check the documentation for your system's motherboard to find out how to enable virtualization extensions.
Most people talk about Genymotion being faster, and I have never heard anyone say it's slower. I definitely think it's faster, and it will be worth the ~20 minutes it will take to set up just to try it.
You will need to create a virtual device that runs on ARM. Virtual devices running on X86 require an Intel processor. AMD support as specified by Android is only available for Linux systems. If you want a better experience when creating your Virtual Device, use "Store a snapshot for faster startup" instead of the default "Use Host GPU".