The current Intel processors of the twelfth generation already support DDR5 RAM, but can also be operated with DDR RAM. AMD, on the other hand, will switch completely to DDR5 with Ryzen 7000. Intel is granting its fans a grace period – because the upcoming Raptor Lake generation will also be running on two tracks in terms of RAM technology.
DDR4 + DDR5: New Intel processors support old & new RAM
Since the twelfth Core i generation, Intel processors have supported DDR5 memory in addition to DDR4 RAM. The new memory generation offers some interesting features and higher transfer rates, is currently significantly more expensive compared to the old bars – and therefore unattractive for many PC users.
This does not seem to have escaped Intel and the mainboard manufacturers either. Because now the first information indicates that Raptor Lake, too, so Intel’s upcoming chip generation, still supporting DDR4 bars (Source: VideoCardz).
This step will please many users, but some may have expected it. After all, it was already known that the new chips are based on the same architecture of the current generation and even use the same socket (LGA1700). But not every motherboard with a Z790 and H770 chipset will support DDR4 bars. In fact, there seem to be specific models tailored for this. So if you want to upgrade but keep your RAM, you should look twice when buying a motherboard.
We assume that, that Intel’s new processors will be launched between the third and fourth quarters of 2022.
And what else happened in the gaming and tech world? We will tell you briefly and concisely in the GIGA Insights:
AMD Ryzen 7000: Team Red relies exclusively on DDR5
AMD, on the other hand, is pursuing a different strategy. With the jump to Ryzen 7000, AMD fans not only have to replace their motherboard but also their RAM – because the new chips from Team Rot only support DDR5 bars.
Moving to an AM5 system is therefore inevitably associated with additional costs. Whether that could potentially drive some AMD users into the rival’s arms remains to be seen. However, it is quite possible that this cost factor plays an important role.
Ryzen 7000, like the new Intel generation, should start this year. A market launch is currently expected in the third quarter of 2022.
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