Step 1: the socket
The socket is the base on the motherboard that the processor fits into. An AMD Ryzen 7000 does not fit a socket for Ryzen 5000, and an Intel processor never fits an AMD board. The socket is in the name and specifications of every motherboard and every processor.
The table below shows the common sockets, the processors that fit them, the memory type and some common chipsets.
| Socket | Processors | Memory | Chipsets (among others) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM4 | AMD Ryzen 1000 to 5000 | DDR4 | A520, B450, B550, X570 |
| AM5 | AMD Ryzen 7000, 8000 and 9000 | DDR5 | A620, B650, X670, B840, B850, X870 |
| LGA1700 | Intel Core 12th, 13th and 14th generation | DDR4 or DDR5, depending on the motherboard | H610, B660, B760, Z690, Z790 |
| LGA1851 | Intel Core Ultra 200S | DDR5 | B860, Z890 |
Step 2: the chipset
The chipset decides which features the motherboard has, such as the number of USB ports, M.2 slots and PCIe lanes, and whether you can overclock the processor. The chipset does not say everything about compatibility, though: a B650 board suits an AM5 processor, but which generations exactly are supported is in the maker's list.
Step 3: the BIOS version
A newer processor on an older motherboard sometimes needs a BIOS update. A board from an early production run may then not recognise the new processor. This applies, for example, to 13th and 14th generation Intel processors on a board with a 600-series chipset, and to Ryzen 5000 on some older AM4 boards.
So check the list of supported processors (CPU support list) on the motherboard maker's website, which shows the minimum BIOS version for each processor. Some boards can update the BIOS without a processor installed; the manual explains whether yours can.
Step 4: the memory
AM4 uses DDR4, and AM5 and LGA1851 use DDR5. With LGA1700 it depends on the motherboard: there are boards for DDR4 and boards for DDR5, never for both. DDR4 and DDR5 do not fit each other's slot. See our memory and choose the type that suits your board.
Two more things to check
- Cooler: many coolers for AM4 also fit AM5, and coolers for LGA1700 are often suitable for LGA1851 too. Still, always check in the cooler's specifications which sockets are supported and whether it fits your case. You find them under air cooling and liquid cooling.
- Integrated graphics: an Intel processor with an F in its name, such as a Core i5-14400F, has no built-in graphics. You then need a separate graphics card to get a picture.
Which processor is in my PC?
On Windows, open Task Manager, choose Performance and then CPU: the name of your processor is at the top. Look up that name on the AMD or Intel website to find the socket. The name of your motherboard is in System Information (search for msinfo32 in the Start menu).
Check your combination in the PC Builder
In the PC Builder you first choose a processor or a motherboard, and then you only see parts that are compatible with it. So you do not have to check the socket, the memory type and the rest yourself. Prefer a ready-made PC? See our gaming PCs. More on the choice in our guide build your own PC or buy a ready-made one.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Ryzen 5000 processor fit an AM5 motherboard?
No. Ryzen 5000 uses socket AM4 and only fits an AM4 motherboard. AM5 is for Ryzen 7000 and newer.
Can I use DDR4 memory on an AM5 motherboard?
No. AM5 motherboards use DDR5. DDR4 and DDR5 do not fit each other's slot.
Does a 14th generation Intel processor fit a 12th generation LGA1700 board?
Often yes, after a BIOS update. Check the motherboard maker's list of supported processors for the BIOS version you need.
What does the F in an Intel processor mean?
A processor with an F, such as the Core i5-14400F, has no built-in graphics. You then need a separate graphics card.
How do I make sure my combination is right?
Check the socket, the motherboard's list of supported processors and the memory type. In the PC Builder you do not have to do that yourself: it only shows compatible parts.
Read also
Sources
The official figures come from these pages of the makers, read on 8 November 2026. Check there for the latest version.
- AMD: Socket AM5 Chipset (amd.com)
- AMD: Socket AM4 Chipset (amd.com)