AMD AM6 Socket to Feature 2100 Pins, Delivering 22% Higher Density Without Increasing Socket Size
In a strategic evolution of its desktop platform, AMD is reportedly preparing the AM6 socket for launch alongside the Zen 7 CPU lineup in 2028, marking the end of AM5’s lifecycle after a solid multi-generation run. According to a new report from Bits and Chips, AM6 will feature an impressive 2100 pins, up from 1718 on AM5, a 22% increase in pin count all while retaining the same physical socket size.
The anticipated jump in pin density is expected to benefit power delivery and I/O bandwidth, further preparing AMD's mainstream desktop platform for the demands of future computing workloads. A recent AMD patent (US20250149248) hints at these advancements, suggesting a significant boost in potential, including support for higher sustained power, possibly exceeding 200W TDP, and expanded PCIe lane availability which could open the door to PCIe Gen 6.0 integration earlier than expected.
Despite this leap in electrical capability, the retention of AM5’s form factor means that existing AM5 coolers will remain compatible with AM6, ensuring better upgradability for users. In fact, even many AM4-compatible coolers may continue to be supported, although manufacturers might still introduce updated brackets or cooling solutions tailored to Zen 7's chiplet arrangements and power envelopes.
While the diagram referenced by Bits and Chips may actually resemble AMD’s SP5 socket used in EPYC platforms and not AM6 directly, the suggestion of increased pin count within the same socket footprint appears aligned with AMD’s current design philosophy: maximize platform longevity while steadily scaling performance.
The AM5 socket debuted in 2022 with Zen 4 and is expected to support CPUs through at least Zen 6, giving builders a rare multi-generation upgrade path. With AM6, AMD seems poised to carry forward this modular philosophy while pushing technical boundaries for future desktop computing.
Do you think retaining socket compatibility for coolers is the right move by AMD? Will AM6’s high pin density push desktop performance to new levels? Let us know in the comments below!
