AMD Ryzen 5 1500X socket: AM4
The AMD Ryzen 5 1500X uses the AM4 socket on 300, 400 and 500 series boards. It is a 65 W quad core with full L3 cache and the largest XFR step in the family.
- Socket
- AM4
- Launched
- April 11, 2017
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Default TDP
- 65 W
- Codename
- Summit Ridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Ryzen 5
- Clocks
- 3.5 / 3.7 GHz
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Zen (Summit Ridge) |
| Clocks | 3.5 GHz base, up to 3.7 GHz boost, plus 200 MHz XFR |
| Cache | 16 MB L3 and 2 MB L2 (18 MB total) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 14 nm |
| Memory support | DDR4-2667, two channels, up to 64 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 16 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | None. A graphics card is required |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| ECC memory | Yes, with board support |
| Package | AM4 (PGA, 1331 contacts) |
| Cooler in the box | Wraith Spire (no LED) |
| Launch price | $189 (AMD SEP) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
AMD Ryzen 5 1500X needs a motherboard with a AM4 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 300 series | X370, B350, A320 | Works out of the box Summit Ridge launched with the 300 series in 2017 and runs with the shipping BIOS. |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for AM4.
AM4 at a glance
| Type | PGA, 1,331 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | 2016 |
| Memory | DDR4 only |
| Cooler mounting holes | 54 × 90 mm |
What the Ryzen 5 1500X is
The Ryzen 5 1500X is a four core, eight thread desktop processor with a 3.5 GHz base and up to 3.7 GHz boost. It carries 2 MB of L2 with the full 16 MB of L3 and a 65 W TDP on the 14 nm process. Extended range adds 200 MHz on top, the largest XFR step in the family.
Full cache and higher clocks separate it from the cut down 1400 for cache sensitive games. Four cores with multithreading cover play beside creation at 1080p. The multiplier is unlocked for tuning on B350 and X370 boards.
There is no integrated graphics, so a separate card is required. The launch price was $189 AMD SEP. A Wraith Spire without LED ships in the box.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 1500X fits AM4 on 300, 400 and 500 series boards. B350 boards suit tuning with the unlocked multiplier, while A320 boards run stock clocks. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide lists board support by series.
A mid range card of its era pairs well for high refresh 1080p play. Faster DDR4 through profiles lifts Ryzen 1000 gaming visibly. The AMD Ryzen 5 1600 is the six core step up on the same boards for threaded work.
Installation follows the usual AM4 routine. Lift the retention lever, line up the marked corner, let the chip settle by its own weight and close the lever.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
The memory controller supports DDR4-2667 in two channels up to 64 GB on launch BIOS, board dependent. DDR4-2933 through profiles was the common pick for keeping the fabric clock in step. ECC unbuffered DIMMs work where the board wires them.
PCI Express arrives as version 3.0 with 16 lanes from the CPU for graphics and storage. A single card and an NVMe drive fit the lane budget of a gaming tower. The boxed Wraith Spire covers stock clocks on the AM4 pattern.
Upgrade paths
On the same socket the step up is a six core Ryzen 5 such as the AMD Ryzen 5 1600 where threads matter, keeping the board and DDR4. The 1500X keeps its place where cache and clocks beat core count for play.
Moving past AM4 to AM5 needs a new board and DDR5 memory. Gamers on this chip usually upgrade the graphics card before the processor.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Ryzen 5 1500X use?
It uses AM4 on 300, 400 and 500 series boards. B350 and X370 boards allow tuning.
How many cores does the 1500X have?
Four cores with multithreading give eight threads at 3.5 GHz base with up to 3.7 GHz boost plus XFR, at 65 W.
Does the 1500X come with a cooler?
Yes, a Wraith Spire without LED ships in the box. Tuners fit a larger tower.
How does the 1500X differ from the 1400?
Full 16 MB L3 with higher clocks and 200 MHz XFR against cut down 8 MB L3 on the 1400.
What memory does the 1500X support?
DDR4-2667 in two channels up to 64 GB on launch BIOS, with ECC where the board supports it.
Sources and verification
- AMD Ryzen 5 1500X specs (TechPowerUp CPU database)
- AMD Ryzen 5 worldwide release (AMD, April 11 2017)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .