What Is a CPU Socket? A Basic Definition
Intel and AMD CPU sockets explained
A CPU socket uses a series of pins to connect a CPU’s processor to the PC’s motherboard. If a CPU is connected via a CPU socket, it is not soldered and can therefore be replaced. CPU sockets are more common with desktop gaming PCs than they are on laptops.
When buying a motherboard, finding the best motherboard isn't just about making sure it has the features you want. Step one is making sure the motherboard has the right CPU socket (and a supported chipset) for your CPU model.
Even if you have the best CPU, it won't work with just any CPU socket. Intel has different socket types for its mainstream CPUs versus its high-end desktop (HEDT) ones, as does AMD.
Intel and AMD CPU Sockets
Below we break down the consumer CPU sockets for current and prior generation Intel and AMD desktop CPUs.
| CPU Brand | CPU Socket Name | CPU | Compatible Chipsets | Market |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel | LGA 2066 | 10th Gen Core | X299 | HEDT |
| Intel | LGA 1700 | 12th Gen Core | Z690, H670, B660, H610 | Mainstream |
| Intel | LGA 1200 | 11th Gen Core, 10th Gen Core | Z490, H470, B460, H410 | Mainstream |
| Intel | LGA 1151 | 9th Gen Core, 8th Gen Core | Z390, Z370, Z370, Q370, H370, B365, B360, H310 | Mainstream |
| AMD | sTRX4 | Ryzen Threadripper 3000 | TRX40 | HEDT |
| AMD | TR4 | Ryzen Threadripper 2000 and 1000 | X399 | HEDT |
| AMD | AM4 | Ryzen 5000, 3000, 2000 and 1000 | X570, X470, X370, B550, B450, B350, B450, A320, X300, A300 | Mainstream |
Intel users can also figure out which CPU socket their chip uses with Intel's directions on this page and use Intel’s Product Compatibility Tool to see which motherboard fits your CPU.
This article is part of the Tom's Hardware Glossary.
Further reading:
Get Tom's Hardware's best news and in-depth reviews, straight to your inbox.
- Dissecting the Modern Motherboard: Connectors, Ports & Chipsets Explained
- How to Choose a Motherboard
- Best Motherboards
- Best CPUs
- CPU Benchmarks Hierarchy
Scharon Harding has over a decade of experience reporting on technology with a special affinity for gaming peripherals (especially monitors), laptops, and virtual reality. Previously, she covered business technology, including hardware, software, cyber security, cloud, and other IT happenings, at Channelnomics, with bylines at CRN UK.
-
archfrog A bit too brief, perhaps :)Reply
I was looking forward to a treatise of how modern CPU's use their many, many pins, and got only a teaser that told me nothing new.