CPU Universe

Compatibility

The most important thing about choosing a CPU? Making sure it actually works with your motherboard. Here's everything you need to know about sockets, chipsets, and pairing.

Key Compatibility Rules

Socket ≠ Chipset Compatibility

Just because a CPU fits a socket doesn't mean it works with every chipset on that socket. Always check the motherboard manufacturer's CPU support list.

BIOS Updates Matter

Newer CPUs on an existing socket often require a BIOS update. Some motherboards have BIOS flashback (update without a CPU) — a lifesaver for new builds.

Memory Compatibility

AM5 and LGA 1700/1851 support DDR5. AM4 and LGA 1200 use DDR4. Some LGA 1700 boards support both — but not simultaneously. Check before buying.

PCIe Generations

Newer CPUs support PCIe 5.0 for SSDs and GPUs. Older CPUs max out at PCIe 3.0 or 4.0. The CPU, chipset, and device all need to support the same generation for full speed.

Socket & Chipset Reference

Intel (Desktop)

SocketCodenameCPUsChipsetsYears
LGA 1851Arrow LakeCore Ultra 200S seriesZ890, B860, H8102024–present
LGA 1700Alder/Raptor Lake12th–14th Gen CoreZ690/Z790, B660/B760, H610/H7702021–2024
LGA 1200Comet/Rocket Lake10th–11th Gen CoreZ490/Z590, B460/B5602020–2021
LGA 1151 v2Coffee Lake8th–9th Gen CoreZ370/Z390, B360/B3652017–2019

AMD (Desktop)

SocketCodenameCPUsChipsetsYears
AM5Zen 4/5Ryzen 7000/9000 seriesX670E, X670, B650E, B650, A6202022–present
AM4Zen/Zen 2/Zen 3Ryzen 1000–5000 seriesX570, B550, X470, B450, A5202017–2022
TR5ThreadripperThreadripper 7000TRX50, WRX902023–present

Intel (Server)

SocketCodenameCPUsChipsetsYears
LGA 4677Sapphire/Emerald RapidsXeon Scalable 4th/5th GenC741 (single-chip)2023–present
LGA 4189Ice Lake-SPXeon Scalable 3rd GenC621A2021–2023

AMD (Server)

SocketCodenameCPUsChipsetsYears
SP5Zen 4 EPYCEPYC 9004 seriesIntegrated2022–present
SP3Zen 1–3 EPYCEPYC 7001/7002/7003Integrated2017–2022