If you want to upgrade the central processing unit of your computer, it’s crucial to determine its socket type that can match the motherboard. However, many users struggle to find the correct CPU socket type for their computer motherboard.
To find the CPU socket type, open the Control Panel on your PC. Click “System” and find the processor type of your computer written next to “Processor”. Next, go to a CPU Database website and find the CPU socket type for your PC’s processor.
We have put together a detailed guide for you on how to find CPU socket type. We will also discuss finding the motherboard socket type on your PC using easy-to-implement methods.
Finding the CPU Socket Type
If you’re wondering how to find the CPU socket type, our 2 step-by-step methods will help you accomplish this task without much hassle.
Method #1: Without Opening the PC
Here are the steps you need to follow to find the CPU socket type on your PC without opening it.
- Type “Control Panel” in the search bar on your Windows PC and open it.
- Click “System” and find the processor type of your PC next to the “Processor”. On Windows 11 PC, you need to navigate to “System and Security” > “System” in the Control Panel.
- Note down the name and model number of your computer’s processor.
Method #2: By Opening the PC
With these steps, you can also find the CPU socket type by opening your PC.
- Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord from the back and power source.
- Remove the case from the computer and turn it to the side.
- Locate the CPU near the heat sink and fan.
The socket type is written underneath the CPU socket installed on the motherboard.
Finding the Motherboard Socket Type
Once you determine the CPU socket type, you must match it with the motherboard socket type to install it correctly. Here are 5 step-by-step methods that will help you see if both are compatible.
Method #1: Using the Spec Sheet
The technical spec sheet is the simplest method to check the motherboard socket type. For this, you need to know the type of motherboard you own. Once you determine the model of your motherboard, look it up online.
For example, if your motherboard is Gigabyte GA-P67A-UD3, search for it online and find its socket type under the “CPU” section.
Method #2: Using the Motherboard Manual
It is also possible to check your motherboard socket type using the motherboard manual. For this, go to the Motherboard Layout page on the manual. You will find the socket type, its model, and other necessary information.
Method #3: Via Labels on the Motherboard
You can find the motherboard socket type by checking its physical labels. Motherboards usually feature clear labels on different parts, making it easier for the users to determine their slots, ports, and components.
So, a simple physical inspection of the motherboard will tell you your exact motherboard socket type, which you can match with the CPU socket afterward.
Method #4: Using Third-Party Software
Third-party software can also help you figure out the correct motherboard socket type. We will take the example of CPU-Z in this case.
- Download and install the CPU-Z software on your computer.
- Run the software and choose the “CPU” tab from the top.
- Look for the field named “Package”.
- The information next to “Package” is your motherboard socket type.
The above method only applies to running systems and won’t help if you’re building your PC from scratch.
Method #5: Using the CPU Spec Sheet
If you already have a CPU installed on your PC, you can use its spec sheet to find the motherboard socket type with these steps.
- Open PC Settings.
- Go to the “System” tab, scroll down, and select “About”.
- Note the information next to “Processor” and search for its specifications online.
You will find the motherboard socket next to the “Sockets Supported” section.
Summary
This guide has looked into how to find the CPU socket type on your PC. We have also discussed methods for finding the motherboard socket type to match the CPU socket.
We hope one of these methods has worked for you, and you can now replace your CPU without worrying about compatibility issues with the motherboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are multiple types of CPU sockets, including a pin grid array (PGA) that comes with rows of holes around the square socket, a staggered pin grid array (SPGA) featuring staggered holes, a plastic pin grid array (PPGA), flip chip ball grid array (FCBGA), land grid array (LGA), and micro pin grid array (µPGA).
Generally, it’s impossible to replace broken pins on the CPU socket. But if the pins that broke are needed for the normal functioning of your PC, the only solution is to replace the entire motherboard.
You cannot possibly turn on your PC without a CPU. It’s because the CPU is needed for booting up the system, reaching the RAM, and operating the drivers like hard drives and graphics cards. You cannot even access the BIOS or UEFI without a CPU. All these components are needed for starting up your PC.
Yes, if some pins on the CPU socket are bent, they can disable the video as they might be the path for the video files to come out of the CPU.
