Intel is preparing another batch of desktop processors for the LGA 1700 socket, and Gigabyte has already begun readying its motherboards for them. Engadget reports that the chips, expected in early 2027, will keep DDR4 memory support alive while DDR5 prices stay high.
Intel hasn’t announced the processors. The strongest evidence so far is a Gigabyte release, which Tom’s Hardware covered. The motherboard maker says it is rolling out BIOS updates across its entire Intel B760 and H610 range, covering both DDR4 and DDR5 variants, so owners can flash the update and drop in the new CPUs without replacing their boards. Gigabyte says it is the first board maker to offer this across both lineups.
What’s covered, and what isn’t
The announcement leaves out the Z690, Z790 and B660 chipsets, which share the same socket. Gigabyte hasn’t named any processors, specifications or prices.
Notebookcheck links the timing to a rumoured Core 2000 “Raptor Lake Next” refresh, with earlier reports pointing to a late January 2027 launch. Those reports suggest a 125 W, 16-core model (eight Performance and eight Efficient cores) and a 65 W, 20-core part (eight Performance and 12 Efficient cores). Intel has not confirmed any of this.
Why DDR4 is the point
LGA 1700 launched in 2021 and supports both DDR4 and DDR5, depending on the motherboard. Memory costs explain the interest: Engadget prices a 32GB DDR4 kit at around $210, compared with more than $480 for 32GB of DDR5. That gap is a large share of a mid-range build.
Intel’s Robert Hallock, vice president and general manager of its enthusiast channel business, told Tom’s Hardware Premium in August: “LGA 1700 is still a good socket. Lots of people are still interested in DDR4, so we’ll keep offering, and you’ll see pricing smooth out over time.” Intel has also said it will sell Raptor Lake chips for years to come.
The performance trade-off is modest for gaming. Engadget cites testing that shows DDR5 delivering a 1 to 10 percent frame-rate gain, depending on resolution and graphics card.
What to watch
Intel hasn’t confirmed names, core counts, pricing or availability, including for the UAE and Saudi Arabia. If you own a B760 or H610 board from another brand, check your maker’s support page, as Gigabyte is so far the only one confirmed. Anyone on Z790 or B660 should wait for compatibility details.
Will my current motherboard support the new Intel chips?
Only Gigabyte’s B760 and H610 boards are confirmed so far, via a BIOS update available from its support site. The announcement didn’t include Z690, Z790, or B660 boards.
Do the new chips need DDR5?
Not on boards that support DDR4. LGA 1700 supports either memory type, and DDR4-based boards should keep working with the new processors.
When will the processors launch?
Gigabyte’s timing and reports point to early 2027. Intel hasn’t confirmed a date.
