AMD Extends Socket AM5 Support Through 2029, Keeps AM4 Alive

["One of the perks of building an AMD PC has long been the company's commitment to supporting its processor sockets for longer than Intel. This allows users to upgrade their CPUs without having to replace their motherboard or RAM. At Computex, AMD made two announcements that will help extend the life of its current sockets: new chips for AM5 and a surprise revival of the aging AM4 socket.

AMD is re-launching the Ryzen 7 5800X3D, a 3D V-Cache processor first released in 2022. Dubbed the '10th Anniversary Edition,' this re-release is a nod to the longevity of Socket AM4. The 5800X3D is designed for gamers, boasting 64MB of extra L3 cache that can help alleviate performance bottlenecks when paired with a high-end GPU.

While it may not be the best choice for general productivity tasks, its unique benefits make it an attractive option for gamers on a budget. The 5800X3D will be available on June 25 with a suggested retail price of $349, which is lower than its current second-hand price. For those with more recent systems, AMD also made an important announcement regarding Socket AM5.

The company officially extended its support for the socket through at least 2029. Originally planned to last until 2025, and then until '2027+,' this new commitment adds between two and four years of support, depending on how you count. This move will undoubtedly be a relief for those who have invested in the AM5 ecosystem and want to upgrade their CPUs without incurring significant costs.

These announcements reflect the growing expense of building a new PC or performing a major upgrade. By extending support for its sockets and releasing new compatible chips, AMD is helping to make PC building more accessible and affordable for users."]