Will AM3+ Fit AM3 | Does AMD Processors Compatible?

AM3+ is a modification of the AM3 processor and a generation of AMD processors. AM3+ processor is designed to fit into the AM3+ socket of a motherboard. But the question that may arise in your head is whether the AM3+ process will fit in the AM3 socket or not.

Fortunately, which sockets are compatible with AM3+ processors, and what processors can fit AM3 including the reasons are explained in this article. So, let’s take a look.

Will AM3+ Fit AM3 – Difference Between AM3 and AM3+

Before going any further, let’s see the differences between AM3 and AM3+. It will help you to understand the reason for the compatibility of these two processors and slots.

The AM3 and AM3+ processors are almost the same as AM3+ is the modification of Am3. Both support the same components and memories.

1. Size of Pinhole

The main difference between them is the sockets that hold these processors. The pinhole size for AM3+ processor is 0.51 mm whereas it is 0.45 for AM3. As the AM3+ pinhole, it is slightly (11%) bigger, it supports some other processors, but the AM3 sockets cannot support bigger pin into the pinhole.

2. Support

AM3+ provides a faster link between the CPU (Central Processing Unit) and PSU (Power Supply Unit) as it supports 3.4 MHz VID. On the other hand, AM3 supports a 400 kHz link.

AM3+ also supports loadline and provides 11.8% better capacity of power-saving than AM3. It supports 145A current whereas AM3 supports only 110A.

Here is a table to compare:

	Numbers of pin	Pin size	Serial link speed	Maximum current
AM3+	942	0.51 mm	3400 kHz	145 A
AM3	941	0.45mm	400 kHz	110 A

Will the AM3+ processor Fit into AM3 Socket?

Now, let’s see whether the AM3+ processor can fit in the AM3 slot or not. Unfortunately, the answer is “No”.

You already have learned from the previous section that the pin size of an AM3+ processor is bigger than the AM3 processor. So, as the pinoles of the AM3 socket are slightly smaller, the pins of your AM3+ processor won’t fit in it.

Are the AM3 processors Compatible with AM3+ sockets?

The pins of the AM3 processor are slightly smaller than the AM3+ and the design is the same for both processors. So, the AM3 processor can easily fit into the sockets of AM3+. However, the AM3+ has 1 extra pin than AM3. But the question is, will it work properly in that way?

Well, the AM3+ sockets are compatible with backward CPUs. So, fortunately, the AM3 processor will work fine with the motherboard containing AM3+ sockets. But other CPUs such as AM4 or AM2 are incompatible with the AM3+ slot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can AM3 CPU fit in AM4?

The answer is – “Definitely not”. AM3 cannot fit in AM4 because the socket is completely different. However, AM3 can fit in AM3+ motherboards. But normally, processors don’t fit in different sockets.

Does Ryzen Work on AM3+?

Ryzen is not compatible with backward sockets and older boards. So, due to being a backward model, AM3 or AM3+ is unable to hold the Ryzen processor. However, Ryzen processor can fit in an AM4 socket and will work correctly without any problem.

Is AM4 Cooler Compatible with AM3+ CPU?

AMD is manufacturing new CPUs day by day but they are trying to keep the standard mounting holes for all CPUs. This means all the coolers that are manufactured by following the standard will be compatible with all the AMD CPUs. As the AM4 cooler has the standard mounting plugs, it will easily go with AM3 or AM3+ CPU.

Conclusion

If you have an AM3 motherboard and thinking of attaching an AM3+ CPU, then it is just a bad idea because the AM3+ won’t fit in your AM3 motherboard. You can only use AM3 CPUs on the AM3 motherboard.

However, if you have an AM3+ socket, then you can use any CPU as it is fully compatible with AM3+, AM3, Ryzen, and other CPUs similar to these. We hope you’ve found this guide helpful. If you have any queries, then please leave them in our comment box below.