⚡ AM5 vs. LGA 1851: Motherboard Showdown in Q3 2024

In September of this year, Intel unveiled its 14th generation Core processors, designed to be compatible with the existing Intel 600/700 series motherboards. However, motherboard manufacturers have crafted new 700 series motherboards specifically tailored for these processors. This series also represents the last generation of motherboards to support the Core I series, as the next generation will transition to the new Core Ultra series, supported by the LGA 1851 socket. Meanwhile, AMD has been refining its Ryzen 7000 series CPUs and 600 series motherboards. Some time has passed since their initial launch, indicating it might be time for an upgrade.

Recently, according to the latest news from boardchannels, the next generation of AMD 700 series and Intel 800 series motherboards are set to be released in the third quarter of 2024.

Previously, AMD expressed a desire to maintain the AM5 platform for an extended period. They are sticking to their statement of continuing post-2025 and planning a significant update in 2024. Consequently, the AMD 700 series motherboards will not alter their socket specifications, maintaining compatibility with the current Ryzen 7000 series CPUs while preparing for future advancements. The current AMD 600 series motherboards, particularly the high-end models, have adopted a dual PCH design to enhance platform expandability. The AMD 700 series may shift towards a single PCH design, aiming to reduce chip power consumption and heat generation while preserving or enhancing expandability and introducing features like Wi-Fi 7.

On Intel’s front, the 800 series motherboards represent a significant shift, supporting the new Core Ultra series and transitioning to the LGA 1851 socket, fully embracing the DDR5 era. Traditionally, the Intel 800 series will include standard models like Z890, H860, B860, and H810, along with W880/Q870 chipsets aimed at workstations and commercial use.

As reported by wccftech, the Intel Z890 motherboard is expected to feature up to 60 HSIO lanes (26 from the CPU and 34 from the PCH), while the B860 and H810 will offer 44 and 32 HSIO lanes, respectively. Additionally, the Intel 800 series motherboards will natively support DDR5-6400 memory, with a maximum capacity of 48GB per slot. Several motherboard manufacturers have announced support for 64GB per slot, and it’s anticipated that Intel 800 series motherboards will follow suit. Furthermore, the inclusion of WiFi 7 and 5G Ethernet is highly probable.