GuidesComparisonsLGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700: Our Recommendation

LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700: Our Recommendation

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

Expert Verified By

LGA 1200

Rated: 6/10

LGA 1700

Rated: 8/10


Pros And Cons

TechnologyProsCons
LGA 1200✅Provides reliable performance❌Uncompatible with newer generations
LGA 1700✅Supports Intel's newest processors
✅Offers the newest technology
❌Higher cost of newer processors
Key Takeaways
  • The LGA 1200 socket supports Intel’s 10th and 11th gen processors with 1200 pins, while the LGA 1700 accommodates 12th and 13th gen processors with 1700 pins.
  • Differences in socket sizes between LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 may lead to CPU cooler compatibility issues, and their keying mechanisms vary, ensuring processor compatibility.
  • While LGA 1200 offers reliable performance for 10th and 11th gen processors at a budget-friendly price, LGA 1700 provides cutting-edge technology for 12th and 13th gen processors, albeit at a higher cost. Consider compatibility and budget when choosing between them.
Why Trust Tech4Gamers
  • Uzair is our comparison expert who has been comparing graphics cards, and processors.
  • 500+ components tested and compared by our team of comparison experts (Tech4Gamers Team).
  • 1000+ hours spent testing different components for our comparisons.
  • Objective testing criteria (See how we compare PC hardware).

At Tech4Gamers, ensuring you get reliable information is our priority. That’s why every comparison undergoes a meticulous review process by our team of experts and editors. Each comparison is carefully examined against our strict editorial guidelines, guaranteeing you trustworthy insights you can depend on.


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.


LGA 1200 And LGA 1700 – Architectural Differences

  1. Processor Compatibility: LGA 1200 caters to Intel’s 10th and 11th gen processors, whereas LGA 1700 supports the latest 12th and 13th gen processors, indicating a generational difference in compatibility.
  2. Memory: Both LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets offer support for DDR4 memory modules, with LGA 1700 having the potential to support DDR5 memory.
  3. PCIe:  In terms of PCIe connectivity, LGA 1200 typically supports PCIe 3.0, while LGA 1700 introduces support for PCIe 4.0 and even PCIe 5.0 recently.
  4. Performance Enhancement: The architectural enhancements in LGA 1700, including additional pins and design improvements, are aimed at providing more efficient and powerful performance compared to LGA 1200.

Motherboard Compatibility

To show the compatibility of motherboards to these sockets, we have compiled a table of compatible motherboards and chipsets. Bear in mind, that there are many more compatible boards for these sockets, so you can do your due diligence to choose the one best for your needs.

If you want a shorthand to see which motherboards have what socket, bear in mind that the Intel 400 series chipsets like the B460, H470, and Z490 chipsets primarily support the LGA 1200 socket, while the 600 series like the Z690 and H670 chipsets support LGA 1700 sockets.


Socket Size

LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700 socket size comparison.
Comparing the sizes of the LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets – Image Credits (Videocardz)

“LGA” stands for Land Grid Array, a design where processor pins are on the motherboard rather than the processor, providing a safer and more efficient power draw. The LGA 1200 socket houses 1200 pins, while the LGA 1700 socket boasts 1700 pins, making it larger and more capable.

Visually, the LGA 1700 socket differs from the LGA 1200’s rectangular shape and larger size. The additional pins and design enhancements make the LGA 1700 socket more efficient and powerful.


CPU Cooler Compatibility

Due to the difference in socket sizes between LGA 1200 and LGA 1700, CPU coolers designed for one socket may not fit the other without additional adapters. Even with adapters, optimal cooling may not be achieved due to variations in Z-axis height. It’s advisable to use separate coolers for each socket to ensure proper compatibility and cooling performance.

If you’re buying an LGA 1700 socket processor, we recommend reading this best LGA 1700 CPU Coolers article!


Socket Keying Mechanism

The LGA 1200 and LGA 1700 sockets feature distinct keying mechanisms that secure the processor. These mechanisms vary among sockets, ensuring compatibility between processors and motherboards.

LGA 1700 keying mechanism.
Keying mechanism of the LGA 1700 socket – Image credits (Intel)

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.

LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700 keying mechanisms.
The keying mechanism for the LGA 1200 socket – Image credits (Intel)

The LGA 1200 socket utilizes a distinct keying mechanism. The CPU has two keys corresponding to holes on the bracket, located at the top left and right corners. Align the keys with these holes when installing the CPU.


What We Recommend

LGA 1200: The LGA 1200 socket suits users seeking reliable performance with Intel’s 10th and 11th gen processors. However, its limited compatibility with newer generations and potential cooling issues due to different Z-axis heights should be noted.

LGA 1700: The LGA 1700 socket offers cutting-edge technology with support for Intel’s latest 12th and 13th gen processors, appealing to those seeking the latest and greatest. However, users should consider potential cooler compatibility issues and the higher cost of newer processors.

At the end of the day, this comparison boils down to the bigger number. The LGA 1700 is a superior platform as it supports superior and newer Intel processors, while the LGA 1200 motherboards are meant for a more budget price bracket in this day and age.


Similar Articles

Was our article helpful? 👨‍💻

Thank you! Please share your positive feedback. 🔋

How could we improve this post? Please Help us. 😔

Gear Up For Latest News

Get exclusive gaming & tech news before it drops. Sign up today!

Related articles

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Vs Ultra 9 285K: We Tested 8 Games

In the Ryzen 7 9800X3D Vs Core Ultra 9 285K comparison, we explore how AMD's excellent new processor does against Intel's new innovations!

Gambit’s Revival: Why This Underrated X-Men Deserves A Spin-Off

Gambit’s revival in the MCU highlights the need for a spin-off to fully explore his rich backstory and charismatic charm.

X870E Vs X670E: What Our Comparison Says

The X870E vs X670E comparison will go over the differences (or lack there of) between the two highest-end AMD chipsets.

Ryzen 9 9900X Vs Ryzen 9 7900X [We Tested Both In 2024]

In the Ryzen 9 9900X Vs Ryzen 9 7900X, you'll discover how well the 9900X variant of the Ryzen 9000s series holds up against the iconic 7900X

How Red Dead Was Almost Never Made

Explore Red Dead Revolver, the precursor to one of Rockstar's most popular game series enjoy by hundreds of thousands of people!

Similar Guides