AMD Athlon X4 870K socket: Socket FM2+
The AMD Athlon X4 870K uses the Socket FM2+ socket on FM2+ boards. It is a quad core Godavari part at 3.9 GHz and 95 W without graphics for budget towers with DDR3.
- Socket
- Socket FM2+
- Launched
- December 2015
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Default TDP
- 95 W
- Codename
- Godavari
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- AMD Athlon
- Clocks
- 3.9 / 4.1 GHz
AMD Athlon X4 870K specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Steamroller (Godavari) cores on 28 nm |
| Clocks | 3.9 GHz base, up to 4.1 GHz |
| Cache | 4 MB L2 (no L3) |
| Default TDP | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 28 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-2133, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 16 lanes (CPU only) |
| Integrated graphics | None (discrete GPU required) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | Socket FM2+ (PGA, 906 contacts) |
Motherboard compatibility
AMD Athlon X4 870K needs a motherboard with a Socket FM2+ socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket FM2+ chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
Socket FM2+ at a glance
| Type | PGA, 906 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 40 mm |
| Introduced | 2014 |
| Memory | DDR3-2133, two channels, ECC not supported |
| Cooler mounting holes | 48 × 96 mm |
What the Athlon X4 870K is
The Athlon X4 870K brings Godavari to FM2+ for budget towers that already carry a graphics card. It launched in December 2015 with a 3.9 GHz base and up to 4.1 GHz boost at 95 W. AMD targets gamers who need four fast cores at a low price.
Four megabytes of L2 carry games and multitasking without L3. The high base clock keeps frame pacing steady. Four threads cover play plus background tasks.
There is no integrated GPU, so a discrete card is required. The process is 28 nm. The multiplier is unlocked for tuning where boards allow it. DDR3-2133 in two channels supports capable boards.
Shops value the part for refresh jobs where an FM2+ board must stay in service. The 95 W rating fits existing towers. A stock cooler option keeps costs down for system builders.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Athlon X4 870K fits Socket FM2+ on FM2+ boards only. A88X and A78 boards list the chip with DDR3 slots and PCIe slots for discrete graphics. Makers add Godavari IDs with late 2015 BIOS builds.
Early FM2+ stock may need an update before posting. FM2 boards lack support for this part. AM4 boards cannot take this PGA chip. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide details matching.
Single socket desktops are the deployment. Growth means another FM2+ quad core on the same board. Display choice stays with the discrete card.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR3-2133 in two channels covers budget gaming builds with a discrete card. Dual channel operation lifts minimum frame rates. Start with 8 GB for play.
PCIe 3.0 with 16 lanes from the CPU allows a discrete GPU plus board devices. Most builds pair a mid range card for 1080p. Chipset lanes add storage and USB.
Cooling follows the 48 by 96 mm FM2+ pattern in the CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide. A 95 W tower or stock cooler suffices with airflow. Keep filters clean.
Upgrade paths
On the same socket, the AMD Athlon X4 850 drops to 3.2 GHz base at 65 W for cooler towers. The AMD Athlon X4 880K lifts to 4.0 GHz base for top FM2+ builds. Both share FM2+ boards and DDR3.
A8-7670K adds R7 graphics where integrated display matters. It needs board display outputs.
Past FM2+ budget towers use AM4. The Athlon X4 870K covers late 2015 builds where four fast cores must deploy without graphics.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the AMD Athlon X4 870K use?
It uses Socket FM2+ on FM2+ boards with DDR3.
How many cores does the Athlon X4 870K have?
Four cores and four threads, with 3.9 GHz base and up to 4.1 GHz boost.
Which graphics does the Athlon X4 870K include?
None. A discrete graphics card is required.
What memory does the Athlon X4 870K support?
DDR3-2133 in two channels.
When did the Athlon X4 870K launch?
December 2015 with Godavari desktop parts.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .