LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700: All Differences

Feb 05, 2024

To help you understand the difference between LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700, we are going to discuss everything there is to know about them.

As most customers know, Intel is infamous for introducing a new chipset design with almost every generation of its processors. For that reason, we find multiple motherboards which may or may not be compatible with a certain processor. To cater to new PC enthusiasts, we will look at the LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700 sockets today.

However, it’s important to note that many more sockets are a part of Intel, unlike AMD. To explain, four generations of AMD processors support the AM4 socket. So, you can fit a Ryzen 1000 series processor to a Ryzen 5000 series processor on a single X570 motherboard.

Key Takeaways

The LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets are two of the latest motherboard sockets for Intel processors. Because Intel usually changes its socket once every two generations, a myriad of sockets are available in the market. Also, the plethora of sockets comes with even more motherboards. So, to differentiate between both sockets, we’re going to dive deeper into the characteristics of the sockets.

In any case, the LGA 1200 socket supports Intel 10th and 11th gen processors. On the other hand, the LGA 1700 socket supports the Intel 12th and 13th gen processors. So, if you’re planning to buy a processor from the said generations, the following article will be helpful.

As it stands, even slight differences between a socket disallow it to be compatible with certain processors. Therefore, consumers must know certain differences between recent sockets to know which processors are compatible. So, let’s discuss a few distinctive features of the LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets.

Firstly, starting with the socket size, we must understand what “LGA” means. In brief, LGA stands for Land Grid Array. To explain, with Intel processors, the pins are on the motherboard rather than the processor. Not only does this method pose less harm, but it also provides a more efficient power draw.

In any case, as the name suggests, the LGA “1200” socket has 1200 pins on the motherboard. On the other hand, the LGA “1700” socket has 1700 pins on the motherboard. So, the LGA 1700 socket has 500 more pins than the LGA 1200 socket.

Additionally, as the image shows, the LGA 1700 socket has an entirely different shape. For example, while the LGA 1200 has a square shape, the LGA 1700 has a rectangular shape. Furthermore, the LGA 1700 socket is ~7.5mm longer than the LGA 1200 socket. Also, the increase in pin density allows the LGA 1700 socket to work more efficiently and perform better.

Also Read: LGA Vs PGA Sockets.

Secondly, because the socket size is different, CPU coolers for the LGA 1200 are incompatible with the LGA 1700 socket. Due to the socket size changing, the cooler bracket mounting holes have shifted. The following has caused cooler compatibility issues, and new coolers need to be produced for the LGA 1700 socket.

However, using certain retention brackets, it’s possible to fit an LGA 1200 socket cooler in an LGA 1700 socket processor. Although, doing so will not provide consumers with ideal cooling due to the difference in the Z-axis height. Therefore, we recommend users buy separate coolers for whichever socket they buy. If you’re buying an LGA 1700 socket processor, we recommend you read through this best LGA 1700 CPU Coolers article!

There are, of course, differences in the socket keying mechanisms of the LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets. In brief, a socket-keying mechanism holds a processor in place when put inside the socket. While most sockets have different retention systems, a few might have similar keying mechanisms. However, the LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700 sockets have different mechanisms.

For example, the above image shows that the LGA 1700 socket has four keys. It is important to note that when inserting the CPU, you match the keys with the holes. Furthermore, the holes are located on the top and bottom parts of the bracket, two on each side.

On the other hand, reviewing the LGA 1200 socket, we see that the keying mechanism is completely different. In brief, the CPU only has two keys that fit with the two holes on the bracket. To clarify, the holes on the bracket are present on the top left and right corners. Similarly, ensure that the keys align with the holes when placing the CPU.

While keying mechanisms ensure that a CPU is locked on the bracket properly, pin indicators show consumers how to place the processor. To explain, every processor and motherboard has a small arrow pointing toward one side. Of course, you only need to match the arrows while placing the CPU in the bracket. However, it’s important to note that every socket and chipset has different pin indicators at any four corners.

The image shows that the pin indicators of the LGA 1700 socket and the bracket on the motherboard are on the top right side. It’s important to note that the arrows align with each other; otherwise, you could break a pin or two. Also, both LGA and PGA sockets have similar pin indicators at either end.

Moreover, by analyzing the LGA 1200 socket, it’s apparent that the pin indicator is on the opposite end. While different pin indicators don’t technically mean an increment in performance, manufacturers try to create unique products. Therefore, we see differences between the LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets.

LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700 Processor Compatibility

After looking at most of the differences between the two Intel sockets, let’s look at processor compatibility. As shown above, Intel changes its socket design in almost every generation. Thus, new processors might not be compatible with older motherboards and vice versa. However, in recent times, Intel has kept checking not to update its sockets for at least two generations.

In brief, the LGA 1200 socket supports two generations of Intel processors. That is to say; they are the Comet Lake (10th gen) and Rocket Lake (11th gen) processors. So, when buying a 10th or 11th gen Intel processor, keep note of the motherboard you buy.

On the other hand, the LGA 1700 socket supports the latest Intel processors. Of course, we’re talking about the Intel Alder Lake (12th gen) and Intel Raptor Lake (13th gen) processors. To that end, all 12th and 13th gen Intel processors are compatible with any LGA 1700-compatible motherboard.

After examining the processor compatibility, it’s time to examine the motherboard compatibility. However, more motherboards support each socket than processors. So, we shall be summarizing each chipset separately.

Let’s start with motherboard chipsets compatible with the LGA 1200 socket. Although there are more chipsets, these chipsets are commonly found in today’s PC builds.

Firstly, the B460 chipset supports all the 10th and 11th gen Intel processors. Furthermore, let’s look at the Asus Prime B460 motherboard. Although not the latest, the Asus Prime B460 packs quite the punch with its features.

Subsequently, looking at the price, the Asus Prime B460 currently costs ~$98. Due to its affordable price, consumers under any economic condition can afford the motherboard. Also, looking at the features, the Asus Prime B460 supports a front USB 3.2 Gen 1 port. Subsequently, it also supports DDR4 RAM and 4 x SATA cables at 6Gb/s.

Lastly, due to its smaller size, you can fit the motherboard in almost any case without any problems.

Secondly, initially supporting only the 10th gen Intel processors, we have the Gigabyte Z490 Aorus Pro Elite. Although it is better than the B460 chipset we looked at, the price difference is extremely high.

To explain, while the Asus B460 cost ~$98, the Gigabyte Z490 Aorus Pro Elite costs ~$229. Although, in terms of features, the Gigabyte Z490 allows up to 5000 MHz 128 GB of DDR4 RAM.

Furthermore, with the Gigabyte Z490 Aorus Pro Elite, you get a 2.5 GbE LAN that is unavailable in the B460. So, till now, we recommend going with the B460 chipset unless you need the 2.5 GbE LAN.

In any case, moving towards the B560 chipset, it supports the LGA 1200 socket. For that reason, we’re looking at the Asus Prime B560 motherboard. Because the number of chipsets is starting to increase that support LGA 1200, the price ranges are starting to vary. For example, the Asus Prime B560 motherboard currently costs ~$111.

So, while the Asus Prime B560 costs more than the Asus Prime B460, it costs less than the Gigabyte Aorus Z490. In any case, looking at the features, the Asus B560 motherboard supports RAM overclocking up to 5000 MHz.

Also, its eight power stages allow for stable power delivery. Thus, the Asus Prime B560 has the same features as the Gigabyte Z490 motherboard.

Looking at the higher-end LGA 1200 chipset, we have the ROG Strix Z590 motherboard. Surprisingly, the ROG Strix Z590 is slightly more expensive than the Gigabyte Aorus Z490 motherboard.

In summary, the ROG Strix Z590 costs ~$238. On the other hand, the Gigabyte Aorus Z490 costs ~$229. Seeing how the Z590 chipset is newer and has more features, the Z490 chipset is negligible.

In any case, talking about features, the ROG Strix Z590 motherboard supports up to 5333 MHz 128 GB DDR4 RAM. Not only that, but the Z590 motherboard also comes with 14 + 2 power stages, ensuring better power efficiency. Lastly, the ROG Strix Z590 motherboard features a 2.5 Gb ethernet too.

Also read: Z590 Vs B560

After looking at the LGA 1200 compatible motherboards, let’s move toward the LGA 1700 compatible motherboards. While more chipsets support the LGA 1700 socket, we shall look at ones that are popularly found in today’s PCs.

Moving from the LGA 1200 socket to the LGA 1700 socket, we have the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX motherboard. With a cost of ~$160, we already see a price increase. However, the B660 chipset provides more features than the Z590 or the B460 chipsets.

In any case, looking at the features, the Gigabyte B660 motherboard provides support for 5600 MHz 128 GB DDR5 RAM. But it also supports DDR4 RAM, making it a better motherboard overall.

Also, the Gigabyte B660 motherboard has a great thermal design with multiple thermal pads. Lastly, the motherboard also supports a single USB 3.2 port.

For the next LGA 1700 socket, we have the Z690, and we’re looking at the Gigabyte Z690 Aero G motherboard. Because the Gigabyte Z690 Aero G does not come with many innovations, its current price is ~$260. Although it is more expensive than the Gigabyte B660 motherboard, feature-wise, both motherboards go head-to-head.

In brief, the Gigabyte Z690 Aero G motherboard offers PCIe 5.0 lanes, DDR5 compatibility, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. But, looking at the DDR4 RAM, the Z690 Aero G only supports up to 2133 MHz RAM.

Meanwhile, we also see 4 NVMe M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots for storage. Lastly, the Z690 Aero G motherboard also showcases a 2.5G LAN network. If you still can’t decide whether the B660 or Z690 chipset, refer to our Z690 Vs B660 Vs H670 chipset comparison!

Because Intel has yet to release a B760 chipset, the final chipset on our agenda is the Z790. Moreover, we’re looking at the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero motherboard, one of the best Z790 motherboards in the market.

Be that as it may, the Asus ROG Z790 motherboard is the most expensive on our list, costing ~$630. Unless you have a lot of money to spend, we don’t recommend buying such an expensive motherboard. On the other hand, you could spend the money you save on the motherboard by buying a better graphics card or upgrading your processor.

Even so, looking at the features of the Z790 motherboard, it is compatible with DDR5 RAM at ~7800+ MHz speeds. Also, there are plenty of USB ports and PCIe 5.0 lanes. However, nothing else in the motherboard itself may justify its price.

In conclusion, if you’re buying a 12th or 13th gen Intel processor, the Z690 and B660 chipsets are amazing. Although if you’re looking for DDR5-compatible motherboards, the price point rises exponentially. If you want more Z790 motherboards, don’t hesitate to check out our Best Z790 Motherboards article!

In brief, the LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700 sockets article is for consumers who are confused about which motherboard they should buy. Because Intel changes its socket once every two generations, figuring out which processor supports which chipset is a hassle.

Firstly, we studied key differences between the LGA 1200 and 1700 sockets. Moreover, these differences include socket size, CPU cooler compatibility, socket keying mechanism, and pin indicators.

Secondly, we looked at the processor compatibility of both sockets and which generations support each chipset. Not only will that make it easier for consumers to understand which processor supports which socket, but they can create potential upgrade paths too.

Finally, we reviewed supported chipsets for both sockets and analyzed one motherboard each. If consumers want to buy a motherboard, the basic rundown will help them choose the chipset of their liking!

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