Ryzen 5000 processors will be released around November. They are compatible with AMD 500 chipset motherboards. But what about earlier versions such as the AMD 400 series?
AMD 400 chipset motherboards are compatible
MSI has just confirmed via its press release that motherboards with the AMD 400 chipset will be compatible with the new Ryzen 5000 processors. A BIOS update will be required for older motherboards to recognize the new processors based on the Zen 3 architecture . These updates will be available from MSI, and those with 400 series motherboards will be able to use these software upgrades. All MSI motherboards will be supported, while AMD only supports certain families within its 400 series.
The Ryzen 5000 processors will be available starting November 5th. Prices vary depending on the model: the Ryzen 5 5600 will cost €315, the Ryzen 7 5800X €475, and the Ryzen 9 5950X €850. The manufacturer announces a 25% performance increase compared to the Zen 2 generation. These processors are based on the 7nm process. We would have to wait for the Zen 4 architecture to get CPUs built on a 5nm process. The top-of-the-line Ryzen 9 5950X has 16 cores and 32 threads. Its base clock speed is 3.4 GHz, reaching a maximum frequency of 4.9 GHz in boost mode. It has 70 MB of cache and a TDP of 105 watts. As for the Ryzen 7 5800, it has 8 cores and 16 threads. It has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz. It also has 36 MB of cache memory and a TDP of 105 watts.
Owners of 400 chipset motherboards can rejoice, as they will be able to purchase these new processors without worrying about compatibility. A BIOS update is all that's needed.
MSI would produce the necessary updates
MSI has already released BIOS updates for the 500 series. Updates for the 400 series should follow shortly. AMD's updates are expected around January 2021. Currently, AMD does not plan to provide an update for its 300 series motherboards to support the Ryzen 5000 series. MSI, however, has already begun developing a BIOS update to enable the AMD 300 family to also benefit from these new processors.
