AMD released the AM5 socket alongside the Ryzen 7000 Series desktop CPUs in August 2022.

What Is AM5?

Before discussing whether you should upgrade to AM5, we must determine what it is.

AM5 Socket on blurred background

Previously, AMD used the AM4 socket, which used a Pin Grid Array (PGA).

However, the new AM5 transitions to a Land Grid Array (LGA) design, similar to Intel.

This makes the processors more resistant to damage while allowing AMD to increase its AM5-compatible CPUs' pin density.

AMD AM5 Socket from AMD Presentation

Image Credit:AMD

Which CPUs Use AM5?

Since AMD developed the AM5 socket for its latest CPUs, you might only useRyzen 7000-Series chips.

This includes the Ryzen 5 7600X, Ryzen 7 7700X, and Ryzen 9 7900X and 7950X.

AMD Ryzen 7000 Series announcement screenshot from CES 2022

Image Credit:AMD

Which Chipsets Are AM5-Compatible?

Currently, four chipsets support the AM5 socketX670E, X670, B650E, and B650.

With all these options, deciding which chipset you should choose can be difficult.

Dr Lisa Su at CESS 2022 announcing AMD Socket AM5

Image Credit:AMD

When Did the AM5 Socket Launch?

We first heard of the AM5 socket from AMD at CES 2022 in January 2022.

The company then released more details about it at Computex in May 2022.

AMD fan with RGB RAM

However, it was in August 2022 that the AM5 socket launched alongside the Ryzen 7000 processors.

After all, it’s possible for you to’t use the new Ryzen 7000 processors without it.

What Advantages Does the AM5 Have Over AM4?

amd ryzen cpu feature

This includes greater power capacity and the ability to fit more contact pads on a smaller surface.

Furthermore, the AM5 socket supports DDR5 andPCIe 5.0technologies, allowing it to utilize the faster speeds these bring.

You should also note that the AM5 socket is backward compatible with AM4 coolers.

amd ryzen cpu on pink background

If you want more detail, check out howthe AMD AM5 is better than AM4.

How Long Will the AM5 Socket Last?

If you plan to upgrade your box every so often, you should be concerned about future compatibility.

Thankfully, AMD has a good track record regarding this.

For example, the AM5’s predecessor, the AM4, came with guaranteed support until 2020.

Should You Upgrade to AM5?

If you’re an AMD fan, upgrading to AM5 is not a question of if but of when.