In the world of computer processors, the Intel LGA 1150 CPU holds a significant place, offering a balance of performance, compatibility, and affordability. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the realm of PC building, understanding the ins and outs of this platform is essential. In this detailed guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about the LGA 1150 CPU, from its specifications and features to comparisons with its successor, the LGA 1151 socket. Let’s embark on this journey to demystify the LGA 1150 CPU and empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
Specifications and Features of the LGA 1150
The LGA 1150 CPU socket, also known as Socket H3, was introduced by Intel in 2013 as part of the Haswell and Haswell Refresh processor families. Here are some key specifications and features of the LGA 1150 platform:
1. Socket Type: LGA 1150 (Land Grid Array 1150 pins)
LGA 1150 refers to the physical socket design used to connect the CPU to the motherboard. It consists of 1,150 pins that make contact with the CPU, providing a secure and reliable connection.
2. Chipset Compatibility: Intel 8 and 9 series chipsets
The LGA 1150 socket is compatible with Intel 8 and 9 series chipsets, which are designed to work with 4th generation Intel Core processors. These chipsets provide various features such as SATA ports and USB ports for connecting peripherals and expansion cards.
3. Processor Compatibility
The LGA 1150 socket supports 4th generation Intel Core processors, including Core i3, i5, and i7 CPUs. These processors offer different levels of performance and features to suit various computing needs, from everyday tasks to gaming and content creation.
4. Maximum RAM Support: Up to 32GB DDR3 memory
LGA 1150 motherboards support DDR3 memory modules, with a maximum capacity of up to 32GB. DDR3 memory offers decent performance and is widely available, making it suitable for most computing tasks.
5. PCI Express Version
The LGA 1150 platform features PCIe 3.0 support, allowing for high-speed data transfer between the CPU, GPU, and other expansion cards. PCIe 3.0 offers increased bandwidth compared to previous generations, improving overall system performance.
6. Power Efficiency
The LGA 1150 platform incorporates enhanced power management features to improve energy efficiency and reduce power consumption. These features help optimize performance while minimizing power usage, resulting in better overall system efficiency and lower operating costs over time.
7. Overclocking Support
Overclocking refers to increasing the clock speed of the CPU beyond its default specifications to achieve higher performance. The LGA 1150 platform supports overclocking but it is limited to select K-series processors (unlocked) and Z-series motherboards. This allows enthusiasts to push their hardware to higher performance levels, but it’s important to note that overclocking may void warranties and require additional cooling solutions.
Comparison between the LGA 1150 and LGA 1151
| Feature | LGA 1150 | LGA 1151 |
| Socket Type | LGA 1150 | LGA 1151 |
| Chipset Support | Intel 8 and 9 series chipsets | Intel 100 and 200 series chipsets |
| Processor | 4th generation Intel Core processors | 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th generation Intel Core processors |
| RAM Support | Up to 32GB DDR3 memory | Up to 64GB DDR4 memory |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 3.0 | PCIe 3.0/4.0 |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel HD Graphics (select models) | Intel UHD Graphics |
Where to buy the LGA 1150 CPU
1. Amazon
Prices on Amazon can vary depending on the seller and product availability. Generally, you can expect to find LGA 1150 CPUs ranging from $50 to $300 or more, depending on the specific model and condition (new or used).
2. Newegg
Newegg offers competitive prices on computer hardware, including LGA 1150 CPUs. Prices typically range from $50 to $300 or more, with occasional discounts and promotions available.
3. Best Buy
Best Buy is known for its wide selection of electronics, including computer components like CPUs. LGA 1150 CPUs at Best Buy may range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on the brand and model.
4. Micro Center
Micro Center often offers competitive prices on computer components, with occasional in-store discounts and bundle deals. LGA 1150 CPUs at Micro Center may range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on availability and demand.
5. B&H Photo Video
B&H Photo Video carries a variety of computer hardware, including LGA 1150 CPUs. Prices typically range from $50 to $300 or more, depending on factors such as brand, model, and availability.
List of the Best LGA 1150 CPUs
1. Intel Core i7-4790K: Known for its excellent performance and overclocking capabilities, the i7-4790K is a top choice for gaming and multitasking.
2. Intel Core i5-4690K: Offering a balance of performance and affordability, the i5-4690K is popular among gamers and content creators.
3. Intel Core i3-4370: Ideal for budget builds, the i3-4370 provides solid performance for everyday computing tasks and light gaming.
4. Intel Celeron G1840: The Celeron G1840 is a budget-friendly CPU suitable for basic computing tasks such as web browsing, office applications, and light multitasking. While not as powerful as the Core i-series processors, it offers decent performance for everyday use.
5. Intel Xeon E3-1231 v3: The Xeon E3-1231 v3 is a workstation-class CPU designed for professional applications such as CAD/CAM, rendering, and server tasks. It offers quad-core performance with hyper-threading, making it suitable for multitasking and demanding workloads.
Conclusion
In summary, the Intel LGA 1150 CPU platform offers a comprehensive lineup of processors tailored to meet diverse computing requirements. From the powerhouse performance of the Intel Core i7-4790K to the budget-friendly options like the Intel Celeron G1840, there’s a CPU suited for every need and budget within this ecosystem.
With its compatibility with a wide range of motherboards and options for overclocking, the LGA 1150 platform provides enthusiasts and casual users alike with the flexibility to build custom PCs that deliver the performance they desire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally speaking, about 32GB. Any processor that fits in socket 1150 will have an integrated memory controller, and that is the part that determines the maximum amount of memory the motherboard can support.
The Intel LGA1150 motherboard supports dual-channel DDR3 memory, 1333/1600/1866MHz frequency type, the maximum memory capacity is 32GB (4*8GB).
As a prevention the CPU also won’t fit. And even if you fit the CPU somehow, it won’t be compatible, especially due to the fact that LGA 1150 Haswell CPUs have internal memory controller for DDR3, while Skylake and Kaby Lake have an integrated memory controller for DDR4.
In the case of say 1150 vs 1155, even if you could get the CPU to fit, the functions of the pins have been switched around with LGA1150 because according to Intel, it improved efficiency. Because the functions of the pins are different on LGA1150 versus 1155, you would end up with a dead CPU.
LGA 1150. Socket LGA 1150 is designed to accommodate the Haswell (fourth-gen Intel Core) processors. This socket also supports the handful of fifth-gen Core desktop chips that came to market. Like other Intel sockets, it can be found on six different chipsets; H81, B85, Q85, Q87, H87, and Z87.
The closest you can get are the fastest LGA 1150 CPUs – the Core i7-4790K or the i7 5775c. The difference between the two is minimal. They’ll both still bottleneck the GTX 1660 Super. Either one will do fine (even i5s from the same generation will do)
The only real change from LGA 1150 to 1151 was in the arrangements of the contact points on the chip, the actual socket is exactly the same size.
