AM4 and AM5 are the two latest socket designs for AMD processors. Introduced in late 2022, AM5 is the latest revision and seemingly future socket for all upcoming Ryzen processors on their roadmap. But how do AM4 vs AM5 compare?

AMD sockets – a little history

The CPU socket is the physical connection between the motherboard and the processor, basically defining how the CPU communicates with the rest of the system components and how power is supplied to the processor. While Intel is known to refresh its CPU sockets every 2-3 processor generations, AMD takes a much more stable approach, using a longer lifecycle, focusing on major feature and performance updates. What has been done? Here is a short diagram of the rear socket.

What is AM5?

AM5 is AMD's first consumer desktop socket refresh since AM4 in 2016. It supports the latest Ryzen 7000 series processors and X670 chipsets. Although at the time of this writing it is currently relegated more to the enthusiast segment, it is poised to become AMD's new socket standard as AM4 is phased out.

AM4 vs AM5 – How do the features compare?

From a consumer perspective, there are two very notable new features that AM5 offers that are worth considering, and one additional feature that will affect the performance of future top-end CPUs.

1. DDR5 Support – AM5 is the first AMD socket to support DDR5. Unlike Intel's new Z690 and Z790 chipsetsthe AM5 socket will not have a DDR4 option.
2. PCIe – Like Intel's new chipsets, the AM5 now supports PCIe Gen 5 in expansion slots as well as M.2 ports, meaning more throughput for next-gen graphics and support for Gen 5 NVMe storage (when they are available).
3. High TDP Support – This feature does not directly affect the performance of additional components or peripherals, but does affect the total performance headroom available for future AM5 processors. Supporting up to 230W total power delivery, AM5 processors can potentially offer significantly higher frequencies and total core counts than their predecessors.

Here's a full breakdown of AM4 vs AM5 specs and features:

AM4 vs AM5 – Which to Choose?

Which platform is right for you depends on what type of PC you're in the market for. If top-end performance, support for the latest technology, and an upgrade path are the priority, the AM5 with Ryzen 7000 is the obvious choice. But if price is a priority, you can still find some deals on Ryzen 5000 and AM4-based systems, though we expect supplies to dry up soon.

Set yours. AM5 based Z95A here.

“The Raptor Z95 is a high-performance desktop ideal for those who want the best in terms of components and performance.” – Tech Radar

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Josh has been with Velocity Micro since 2007 in various marketing, PR, and sales related roles. As Director of Sales and Marketing, he is responsible for all direct and retail sales as well as marketing activities. They enjoy Seinfeld reruns, Atlanta Braves, and Beatles songs written by John, Paul, or George. Sorry, Ringo.