Intel i7: Which socket should it be? We clarify

Processors always demand a certain socket on the motherboard. With so many CPUs and even more type designations, it can be easy to get confused. We help out and show which socket Intel's i7 CPUs require.

Generic statements are not possible: i7 processors require completely different sockets.

When buying a motherboard and socket, it is important that they fit together. Otherwise, the parts are not compatible at all.

Intel i7: Which socket is needed?

Unfortunately, there is no way around the details when it comes to the assignment. After all, the i7 series consists of so many generations that there is no single socket for all processors. What is important is which i7 model you own. Here are some examples:

• The current generation ("Kaby Lake") with representatives like the i7-7700K relies on socket 1151. The popular i7-8700K also fits on the same socket.
• More current i7 products also rely on socket 1151. For example, the Core i7 9700K can be installed on it.
• Significantly less common are i7 processors with socket 2066. These include the i7-7820X and the i7-7740X.
• For older CPUs, many of which are still in use today, the motherboard must in turn have a different socket.

Tips for buying

If you assemble your computer yourself, you should therefore definitely make sure that all components are compatible with each other. The socket on the mainboard for the CPU is one of the critical places. If you are unsure about the assembly, you can find online stores where you can assemble components and check them for compatibility. An example of this is Alternate.