Intel is reportedly preparing new processors for the LGA 1700 socket, a platform introduced in 2021. Motherboard maker Gigabyte is cited as the source. The move would keep the older socket alive with refreshed Raptor Lake and Alder Lake chips that can be configured to use DDR4 memory.
The likely reason is cost. Memory prices have surged amid AI-driven demand, making DDR4 significantly cheaper than DDR5. The report cites a 32GB DDR4 kit at around $210, compared to upwards of $480 for DDR5. That gap makes the older memory standard attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
Intel has not confirmed the plan, but VP Robert Hallock recently said Raptor Lake chips would stick around for "years to come" and suggested DDR4 integration is a key reason. "LGA 1700 is still a good socket. Lots of people are still interested in DDR4, so we'll keep offering," he said. The performance tradeoff is modest for gamers: DDR5 typically delivers only 1-10% higher frame rates, depending on resolution and GPU.