Which Motherboards Support DDR5 RAM?

Which Motherboards Support DDR5 RAM

We’ve all heard about the new DDR5 RAMs in the market!

It’s a lot better than the previous DDR5 RAM because it can transfer data much faster. In order to fully utilize it, a motherboard capable of functioning with DDR5 RAM is required.

DDR5 RAM modules cannot be used on DDR4 motherboards due to their incompatibility. That’s why we’re listing the motherboards that can use DDR5 RAM in this article.

Rather than examining every motherboard model, it is simpler to concentrate on the chipset that is compatible with DDR5 RAM 🙂

If a certain motherboard chipset supports DDR5, then all of its motherboard models can use DDR5 RAM, no matter what brand or price they are.

Let’s talk about the motherboards that support DDR5 RAM. Continue reading to get all the details. 

Which Motherboards Support DDR5 RAM?

It’s easier to check which motherboard chipsets can work with DDR5 RAM rather than going through each specific model.

As of 2023, the only chipsets that can use DDR5 RAM are the Intel 600 series which means chipsets like Z690, H610, and B660 can handle DDR5 RAM.

This table gives more information about which chipsets support DDR5 RAM:

 

Chipset Socket/CPU Common Example Remarks
Intel B660 12th Generation

LGA 1,700

Asus TUF GAMING B660M-PLUS WIFI Motherboards are mid-ranges
Intel Z690 12th Generation

LGA 1,700

Asus ROG STRIX Z690-E GAMING WIFI Motherboards are high-end
Intel H610 12th Generation

LGA 1,700

Asus Pro H610M-C-CSM Motherboards are low-end

 

Understanding the distinctions between a high-end and a low-end chipset is crucial.

A high-end chipset, such as the Z690, provides additional modern USB ports, supports overclocking, offers more PCIe lanes (resulting in more expansion slots), and features superior VRM and phase power design.

In simpler terms, any motherboard equipped with an Intel 600 series chipset from the Z, B, and H lines can utilize DDR5 RAM.

Your Personal Computer Will Need To Undergo a Complete Upgrade to Be Able to Support DDR5 RAM

If you want to use DDR5 RAM, you’ll need to upgrade your whole computer. DDR5 RAM doesn’t work with older motherboards made for DDR4 RAM.

This implies that a new motherboard designed to function with DDR5 RAM must be purchased. And that means you’ll also need a new CPU.

The latest chipsets that are compatible with DDR5 RAM, such as the Intel Z690, Intel B660, and Intel H610, feature a distinct CPU socket named LGA1700. So, you can’t use your old LGA1200-based 10th and 11th Gen Intel CPUs on the new motherboards.

So, before you upgrade, think about whether DDR5 RAM is really worth it. If your computer is already pretty good, upgrading might not be worth the cost.

But if you’re building a whole new computer set, it might make sense to use DDR5 RAM since it’s the latest and greatest.

How Much Do DDR5 Motherboards Cost?

Just like every other type of motherboard, the cost of the latest models that work with DDR5 memory varies based on how fast they are.

For example, in the Intel 600 series, the H610 motherboards are the least expensive, the B660 ones are in the middle, and the Z690 ones are the priciest.

Check out the table below for more details.

Chipset Price range Remarks
Intel Z690 $160 – $1900 Costliest chipsets
Intel B660 $95 – $635 Chipsets with Mid-range prices
Intel H610 $80 – $171 Chipsets with lowest prices

Motherboards that work with DDR5 memory have prices that are similar to other new motherboards in their group. 

You could make a computer that is pretty cheap using a H610 motherboard for around $80, or you could make a really expensive computer using a Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme Waterforce motherboard that costs $1900!

However, the truth is that DDR5 motherboards don’t have much of a price difference. Especially compared to the older generation motherboards.

In What Form Can You Find DDR5 Motherboards?

DDR5 compatible motherboards come in different sizes to suit your preference. These include:

Mini ITX: the smallest at 6.7 x 6.7 inches

  • Micro ATX: the most common size for budget motherboards at 9.6 x 9.6 inches
  • ATX: the preferred size for enthusiasts, professionals, and gamers at 12 x 9.6 inches
  • EATX: a larger size at 12 x 13 inches for very expensive motherboards.

You can find DDR5 motherboards from popular brands. These include ASUS, Gigabyte, MSI, and ASRock. You can also find them with lesser-known brands like Biostar and Maxsun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Motherboards Can Handle DDR5?

Currently, only the Intel 600 series motherboards, specifically the Z690, B660, and H610 chipsets, can handle DDR5 RAM. AMD is currently working on new motherboards that will be able to support DDR5 RAM soon.

What Sizes Do DDR5 Motherboards Come In?

DDR5 motherboards come in different sizes, from mini ITX to EATX, to suit various preferences. Popular brands like ASUS, Gigabyte, and MSI offer DDR5 motherboards, as well as lesser-known brands like Biostar and Maxsun.

Can Every Motherboard That Can Handle DDR4 RAM Be Compatible With DDR5 RAM As Well?

DDR5 RAM is a newer technology that necessitates a suitable motherboard specially designed to support it, not all motherboards that can accommodate DDR4 RAM will also be compatible with DDR5 RAM.

Conclusion

DDR5 RAM is the latest and greatest type of RAM available in the market, and it requires a compatible motherboard to function properly. 

Upgrading to DDR5 RAM means upgrading your entire computer since it requires a new motherboard and CPU. The cost of DDR5 motherboards varies based on the chipset. The Z690 being the most expensive and the H610 being the least expensive.

Overall, if you’re building a new computer or looking to upgrade, DDR5 RAM is a worthy investment due to its faster data transfer capabilities. However, if your current computer is already sufficient, upgrading may not be worth the cost.

Author:
I am a computer engineer holding a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, complemented by a Master's in Business Administration from University of Strathclyde, Scotland. I currently work as a Senior IT Consultant in Melbourne, Australia. With over 15 years of...