AMD FM2 vs FM2+ | What’s the Difference Between Two Sockets?

Among various sockets for CPUs and GPUs, AMD FM2 and FM2+ are very popular. But most people don’t know which socket to pick because the difference between these sockets is unknown to them.

To start, both FM2 and FM2+ sockets have a set of chipsets and coolers. Don’t worry, here in this article, we’ll go into more detail about what the FM2 and FM2+ sockets are and also show you the difference between them.

What Are AMD FM2 and FM2+ Sockets?

As stated before, these sockets are for the CPU and GPU. You can also install coolers on it. The AMD FM2 is an upgraded version of the FM1 socket. FM2 socket ditched the previous processors FM1 used to use and now connects to Richland Apus and AMD Trinity to the motherboard. Athlon X2 and Athlon X4 can also be connected to the FM2 Socket.

FM2+ socket is as the name suggests, the upgraded version of the FM2 socket. It has more pins than the FM2 socket and supports different APUs. The FSB protocol of the FM2+ socket is UMI/ports and the chip-form factor is PGA (Pin grid array).

What Are the Differences Between AMD FM2 and FM2+ Sockets?

Here are the differences between FM2 and FM2+ sockets –

Features	FM2	FM2+
Pins	904	906
Processors	Richland APUs, AMD Trinity, Athlon X2, Athlon X4	Kaveri APUs Godavari APUs
FSB Protocol	UMI	UMI/ports
Type	PGA-ZIF	µPGA-ZIF
Chip Form Factors	PGA	PGA
Predecessor	FM1	FM2
Successor	FM2+	–

The above charts show all the differences between these two sockets. Now we will discuss these features in a bit more detail so you have a better understanding of which socket is better.

1. Pins

Because of the 2 extra pins in the FM2+ socket, it has a lower clock frequency than the FM2 socket. This doesn’t necessarily mean the FM2+ socket is worse because it depends on what you want to do with your computer.

2. Processors

The processors supported by FM2 are older than the processors FM2+ supports and these are upgraded and faster processors.

3. FSB Protocol

The FSB protocol UMI/ports of FM2+ sockets is slightly better to go for than just UMI of the FM2 sockets.

Our Verdict: AMD FM2 or FM2+

From looking at the differences, it is our understanding that FM2+ would be a better choice to go for when picking up a motherboard. However, it also depends on what you want to do with your computer. So, choose the one that fits your build.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use FM2+ CPU/APU in the FM2 socket?

No, you cannot use an FM2+ CPU or APU in the FM2 socket. It is because of the difference in pins. The extra 2 pins of FM2+ supported CPU/APU don’t let you use it on FM2 sockets.

Can the FM2 cooler fit FM2+?

Yes, the coolers are fully compatible with any sockets including FM2 and FM2+ sockets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both FM2, and FM2+ sockets are good to use. It only depends on what you want to do with your build. But still, it is better to go with an upgraded version because it’s more futureproof. And now you know the difference to help you choose better. If you need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us in the comment box.