CPU Socket

• Advantages of LGA socket: More Durable CPU, processors are less likely to be damaged by mishandling and drops due to no fragile pins; More Space Efficient, LGA pins are smaller in physical size, allowing for more pins in the same amount of space
• LGA (Land Grid Array) Socket

  • Used by Intel since Socket J (LGA 771) in 2004
  • All Intel processors from Core i7 to Pentium/Celeron use the same LGA socket
  • Current 7th generation CPUs use LGA 1151 socket with 1151 contact pins
  • All contact pins are on the socket, soldered to the motherboard, with equal numbers of contact pads on the CPU for connection
• Inserting CPUs with LGA package

  Inserted into the socket, latch plate is flipped into position atop the CPU, and the lever is lowered and locked into place
• PGA is mainly used by AMD, starting from the socket G34 in 2010, and the latest Ryzen processors still use PGA with the AM4 socket
• PGA (Pin Grid Array) Socket

  • Integrated circuit packaging standard used in most second through fifth-generation processors
  • Rectangular or square shape with pins arranged in a regular array on the underside of the package
  • Offers a more cost-effective and simplified board design
  • Allows for more pins per integrated circuit than older packages like DIP (Dual In-line Package)
• Processor socket line is generally designed for use with Intel and AMD based microprocessor packages used in desktop PCs, notebooks, and servers
• CPU socket


  Mechanical component that provides mechanical and electrical connections between a microprocessor and a printed circuit board (PCB), allowing the CPU to be placed and replaced without soldering
• CPU socket


  • Made of plastic
  • Comes with a lever or latch
  • Has metal contacts for each of the pins or lands on the CPU
  • Many packages are keyed to ensure proper insertion of the CPU
• Inserting CPUs with PGA package

  Inserted into the socket and latch is closed
• Inserting CPUs with LGA package

  Presses the CPU's contacts firmly against the socket's lands, ensuring a good connection and increased mechanical stability
• PGA socket

  • More Durable Motherboard
  • Slightly Better Repairability