How to Find Out the Socket Type of Your Motherboard and CPU

Knowing the socket type of your motherboard and CPU is crucial when upgrading or replacing parts of your computer. A mismatched CPU and motherboard will simply not work together, so understanding this information can help you avoid potential issues. Let's explore how you can check the socket type.

Method 1: Check the Technical Documentation

The easiest way to find out the socket type is by looking at the technical documentation for your motherboard or CPU. The socket type is usually listed in the user manual or on the box. For instance, it might say Socket AM4 (for AMD) or LGA 1700 (for Intel).

Method 2: Use the CPU-Z Software

One of the quickest ways is to use the free software CPU-Z. Download and install the software, then open it and go to the CPU tab. Here, you’ll find detailed information about your CPU, including the model and socket type (e.g., LGA1151 or AM5).

Method 3: Using a Windows Command

You can use the command wmic baseboard get product,Manufacturer in the Windows Command Prompt. This will show the model of your motherboard, after which you can look up the socket type on the manufacturer’s website by entering the model number.

Method 4: Visual Inspection

If you can open your computer case, you can usually find the motherboard model and socket type written near the CPU socket. However, this method may be inconvenient, especially for laptops or if the case is difficult to open.