Surface mount technologies (SMT) specify how a processor will connect with the motherboard.
Among different SMT, the LGA and PGA are the most prevailing.
Market leading AMD and Intel use the PGA and LGA sockets consecutively.
Tech enthusiasts are debating for a decade on which CPU socket is the best.
This article will provide a comprehensive comparison between LGA and PGA CPU sockets.
Moreover, I will also discuss which socket you should choose.
So, lets get started!
What is a CPU Socket?
It uses a series of pins to connect.
CPU sockets act like a central hub to link the microprocessor with all the different motherboard parts.
If the processor is connected via a CPU socket, it is not welded.
Therefore, you’re able to detach the CPU from the motherboard.
CPU sockets are mostly used on desktops rather than laptops.
While buying a new motherboard, you must ensure it has the right CPU socket for your CPU model.
Unless, you will not be able to connect the CPU to your new motherboard.
This article will mainly cover the LGA and PGA sockets details and comparisons.
What is LGA Land Grid Array?
The acronym LGA stands for Land Grid Array.
This socket is mainly used byIntel.
Land Grid Array (LGA) is a surface mounting packaging for Integrated Circuits.
It has the contact pin on the motherboard rather than the CUP itself.
And the chipset has a metal pad also known aslands.
Check out themost suitable CPU coolers for LGA 1200.
AMD is also using the LGA sockets for its new workstation and server-grade CPUs.
Ryzen Threadripper and Ryzen Epyc CPUs use the sTRX4 and the SP3 sockets, which are actually LGA4094 sockets.
What is PGA Pin Grid Array?
The acronym PGA stands for Pin Grid Array.
This socket is exclusively used by AMD.
This socket technology is the exact opposite of the LGA socket.
On PGA sockets, the pins are strong enough to resist any damage.
However, they can still receive damages if you dont handle it with care.
While installing the PGA CPUs, avoid placing them into the wrong sockets.
Go through the following section to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of using PGA sockets.
What is the Difference Between LGA and PGA?
The main difference between the LGA and PGA is durability.
LGA sockets have contact pins on the motherboard that makes the CPU more durable.
On the other hand, PGA sockets have contact pins on the CPU that makes the motherboard more durable.
Consider the subsequent table for a better understanding of the differences between the LGA and PGA sockets.
The comparison table above clears the different aspects of the LGA and PGA sockets.
Also, check out thedifferences between LGA and BGA.
How Many CPU Sockets are Available?
These two types of sockets are mainly used by Intel and AMD.
Go through the following discussion for more information about different types of CPU sockets.
LGA
Land Grid Array or LGA socket has contact pins on the motherboard rather than the CPU.
Installing the LGA CPUs is much quicker and more efficient.
LGA sockets are more durable compared to PGA sockets.
PGA
Pin Grid Array or PGA socket has connector pins on the CPU rather than the motherboard.
These types of CPUs are more fragile and get damaged if not handled with care.
BGA
Ball Grid Array or BGA sockets have copper pads soldering.
These types of sockets are less fragile and dont receive damage easily.
This architecture also helps to send data faster to the motherboard compared to other sockets.
PGA sockets can be referred to as ZIF sockets.
Using this socket, you’re able to reduce the probability of damaging the pins.
Which CPU Socket is Better?
If your concern is durability, the best choice is the Land Grid Array or LGA sockets.
However, breaking the CPU pins can cost far more than breaking the motherboard pins.
Every model has its own benefits and drawbacks that are worth considering.
Many people choose PGA over LGA because it is easy to realign the pins with the motherboard.
Despite that, you should also consider that the LGA pin count and power delivery are rapidly increasing.
Several manufacturers like AMD are also using the LGA sockets for their latest CPUs.
Intel 10th Gen and 11th Gen desktop processors use the LGA1200 socket.
And the 9th Gen, 8th Gen, 7th Gen, and 6th Gen desktop processors use LGA1151 socket.
All these models offer you a more durable CPU that is safer than any other CPU sockets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sockets should a CPU have?
Usually, a computer only has one socket.
But the servers can support 1/2/4/8/16/32 CPU sockets.
What is the most common CPU socket?
Why is AMD switching to LGA?
AMD is using the PGA sockets for a long time.
However, the contact pins of the PGA sockets are often bent or broken.
This encourages AMD to switch from PGA to LGA sockets.
Wrap Up
The main difference between the LGA and PGA is the position of the pins.
