As technology has advanced, so has the development of CPU socket types. These socket types play a critical role in determining which processors can be used with a specific motherboard. Understanding these different socket types is crucial for computer enthusiasts and builders. In this article, we will explore the most common CPU socket types, from Socket 5 to BGA.

Socket 5

Socket 5 was introduced in 1994 and was used by Intel for its Pentium processors. However, it was short-lived as it was soon replaced by Socket 7. Socket 5 is now considered outdated and is no longer in use.

Socket 7

Socket 7 was introduced in 1995 and was used for both AMD and Intel processors. This socket type was popular in the mid-1990s and supported processors ranging from the Intel Pentium to the AMD K6. However, it became obsolete in the late 1990s and is no longer in use.

Socket 370

Socket 370 was introduced in 1999 and was used for Intel’s Celeron and Pentium III processors. It was also compatible with Intel’s Tualatin Pentium III CPUs. However, Socket 370 is now considered outdated and is no longer in use.

Socket 478

Socket 478 was introduced in 2000 and was used for the Pentium 4 and Pentium 4 Extreme Edition processors. It was also compatible with some Celeron and Pentium 4 processors. Socket 478 is now outdated and is no longer in use.

LGA 775

LGA 775, also known as Socket T, was introduced in 2004 and was used for Intel’s Pentium 4 and Pentium D processors. It was also compatible with Intel’s Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad processors. LGA 775 was popular until it was replaced by LGA 1156.

LGA 1156

LGA 1156, also known as Socket H, was introduced in 2009 and was used for Intel’s Core i5 and Core i7 processors. LGA 1156 was popular until it was replaced by LGA 1155.

LGA 1155

LGA 1155, also known as Socket H2, was introduced in 2011 and was used for Intel’s Ivy Bridge and Sandy Bridge processors. It was also compatible with some Pentium and Celeron processors. However, LGA 1155 is now outdated and is no longer in use.

LGA 1150

LGA 1150, also known as Socket H3, was introduced in 2013 and was used for Intel’s Haswell and Broadwell processors. It was also compatible with some Pentium and Celeron processors. LGA 1150 was popular until it was replaced by LGA 1151.

LGA 1151

LGA 1151, also known as Socket H4, was introduced in 2015 and is still in use. It is used for Intel’s Skylake, Kaby Lake, Coffee Lake, and Cannon Lake processors. It is also compatible with some Pentium and Celeron processors.

BGA

BGA, or Ball Grid Array, is a type of CPU socket in which the CPU is directly soldered onto the motherboard. This means that it cannot be replaced like traditional CPU sockets. BGA is commonly used in laptops and smartphones due to its compact size and low power consumption.

In conclusion, understanding the different CPU socket types is important for anyone interested in building or upgrading a PC. While some of the older socket types are no longer in use, the evolution of technology has led to more advanced and efficient sockets such as LGA 1151 and BGA. Keep in mind that choosing the appropriate CPU socket type for your processor and motherboard is crucial for ensuring proper compatibility and performance.