ASRock 970 Extreme3 motherboard CPU suggestions
ASRock 970 Extreme3 motherboard CPU suggestions
You're looking to upgrade your CPU in an ASRock Extreme 3 motherboard with a Phenom 2 chipset. Since it uses the AM3+ socket, check if the new CPU matches that socket type and has a compatible speed. Consider checking reviews or compatibility lists for Phenom 2 models before making a purchase.
Consider investing in an AM4 CPU and motherboard for better performance.
These FX chips generate a lot of heat, so it's important to have a reliable cooling solution in place.
I own the Asrock Extreme 990xf board (same power delivery and CPU support) – it should handle an FX 8-core without trouble. It’s been running an 8300 @4.5ghz all-core for four years, so solid cooling is essential. It’s only 4-phase and the LLC needs to be set high to keep voltage stable. You’ll want a fast low-speed DDR3 and a CPU overclock to unlock more performance from the FX platform. The 990fx chipset also offers quicker north/southbridge speeds. Even with these specs, it doesn’t scream for praise – consider saving up if you’re planning an upgrade, or look for a CPU under $80 to make the switch worthwhile.