Do I need a new motherboard for my CPU? This question is one that many people ask when they are building their computers. The answer to this question is not always straightforward, but it is important to know for future reference. For instance, if you purchase an Intel Core i3-8100 and want to upgrade in the future with an Intel Core i7-8700K then you will need a Z370 motherboard with 8+2 power phases. If you only plan on purchasing the lower end of processors (i5 or less) then any mainstream board can work for your needs until you decide to upgrade again in the future.
Do I Need a New Motherboard for a New CPU
The key thing here is knowing what kind of processor you want in your system now and also in the future. There are three types of processors on the market today: budget, mainstream, and high-end. Budget processors are for those who are not too interested in performance and are looking to save money. Mainstream processors are what most people use currently because they offer good performance at a reasonable price. Finally, high-end processors are for those who want the best performance and do not mind paying a premium for it.
If you currently have a budget processor, we recommend that the majority of people looking to upgrade right now should purchase a mainstream or high-end processor as this will likely provide them with the highest return on their investment. Although you may not need an upgrade immediately after purchasing your new system.
How to choose a new CPU
The main thing you should focus on while buying your CPU or building your computer in general, are what types of connectors are required by your components. There are two main types of connection types used by CPUs, which are referred to as LGA (Land Grid Array) or Socket type designations. Depending on how old your motherboard is, it will also come with either an AM2 socket or an AM3 socket. It isn’t advisable to mix these different types of connections, so if your motherboard is an AM2 socket and the CPU you want to buy does not have an LGA-type connection, it will be a waste of time and money. The other thing you should pay attention to while choosing your new processor is what generation of AMD or Intel product it belongs to. This can be found by reading the part number of the CPU and is usually also printed on the top of the chip.
The different generations are as follows:
– 1st Generation: Pre-Pentium 4 processors
– 2nd Generation: Pentium 4 processors
– 3rd Generation: Core 2 Duo, Quad, and Extreme processors
Conclusion
We have some up some of the key points you should consider before purchasing a new motherboard and CPU. If you have an older motherboard, it is important to make sure that the new CPU you want to buy has a compatible socket type. Additionally, you should check what generation of AMD or Intel processor your new CPU belongs to in order to ensure compatibility with your current hardware.