If you're building an AMD-based PC in 2026, you face an interesting decision: stick with the mature AM4 platform or invest in the newer AM5 socket. Both have compelling arguments, and the right choice depends on your budget, needs, and upgrade plans. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Understanding the Platforms
AM4: The Proven Veteran
AMD's AM4 platform launched in 2017 and supported five generations of Ryzen processors. It's one of the longest-running consumer CPU sockets in recent history, showcasing AMD's commitment to platform longevity. While AMD no longer releases new AM4 processors, the platform remains excellent value with processors still in production and widespread availability.
AM5: The Future-Forward Choice
AM5 launched in late 2022 alongside the Ryzen 7000 series. It brings DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 support, and AMD's commitment to support the platform through at least 2027. It represents AMD's current and future direction for mainstream desktop processors.
AMD has confirmed AM5 support through 2027 and beyond. If upgrade path matters to you, AM5 offers more future headroom.
Key Technical Differences
Memory Support
AM4: DDR4 memory only. Maximum supported speeds around DDR4-3600 to DDR4-4000 depending on CPU generation. DDR4 is mature, affordable, and widely available.
AM5: DDR5 memory exclusively. No DDR4 support. DDR5 offers higher bandwidth and will improve as the technology matures. Currently more expensive than DDR4 but prices have dropped significantly since launch.
PCIe Generation
AM4: PCIe 4.0 on newer motherboards and CPUs. This provides ample bandwidth for current GPUs and NVMe drives. PCIe 3.0 on older combinations.
AM5: PCIe 5.0 support for both GPU and NVMe slots. While few devices currently utilise PCIe 5.0's full bandwidth, this provides future-proofing for next-generation hardware.
CPU Architecture
AM4: Supports up to Zen 3 architecture (Ryzen 5000 series). Excellent performance that remains competitive for gaming and productivity.
AM5: Launched with Zen 4 (Ryzen 7000) and now hosts Zen 5 (Ryzen 9000). Each generation brings meaningful IPC and efficiency improvements.
AM4 uses DDR4 and PCIe 4.0; AM5 uses DDR5 and PCIe 5.0. For current tasks, both are capable. For future upgrades, AM5 has more headroom.
Cost Comparison
Total platform cost extends beyond just the CPU. Consider motherboards and memory as well.
Budget Build Comparison
AM4 Budget Build:
- Ryzen 5 5600: ~$190 AUD
- B550 motherboard: ~$120-180 AUD
- 32GB DDR4-3600: ~$100 AUD
- Platform total: ~$410-470 AUD
AM5 Budget Build:
- Ryzen 5 9600X: ~$450 AUD
- B650 motherboard: ~$200-280 AUD
- 32GB DDR5-6000: ~$180 AUD
- Platform total: ~$830-910 AUD
The AM5 platform costs roughly $400+ more for an entry-level build. This gap narrows somewhat at higher price points but remains significant.
Performance Comparison
Gaming Performance
In gaming, the Ryzen 5 9600X outperforms the Ryzen 5 5600 by approximately 15-25% at 1080p. At 1440p and 4K, the gap narrows as games become more GPU-limited. For most gamers, both platforms deliver excellent experiences.
Productivity Performance
Multi-threaded workloads show larger generational improvements. Zen 5's architectural enhancements deliver 20-30% better performance in rendering, encoding, and compilation tasks compared to equivalent Zen 3 parts.
Power Efficiency
AM5 processors are notably more efficient. The Ryzen 7 9700X achieves near-equivalent performance to the power-hungry Ryzen 9 5950X while consuming far less power. For users concerned about electricity costs or heat generation, AM5 offers meaningful advantages.
If your primary concern is gaming at 1440p or 4K, the performance difference between platforms is minimal since the GPU becomes the bottleneck.
Upgrade Path Considerations
AM4 Upgrade Potential
AM4 is a mature platform with no new processor releases planned. Your upgrade ceiling is the Ryzen 9 5950X. However, prices for AM4 processors continue to drop, making high-end options increasingly accessible.
If you already own AM4 hardware, upgrading to a Ryzen 5 5600 or Ryzen 7 5700X offers excellent performance for minimal investment.
AM5 Upgrade Potential
AM5 will receive new processor generations through at least 2027. Starting with an entry-level Ryzen 5 9600X today allows future upgrades to whatever flagship processors AMD releases, without changing your motherboard.
If you plan to upgrade your CPU within 2-3 years, AM5's future compatibility provides better long-term value despite higher initial costs.
Making Your Decision
Choose AM4 If:
- You're on a tight budget and need maximum value today
- You're upgrading an existing AM4 system
- You don't plan to upgrade again for 4-5 years
- You primarily game at 1440p or 4K where CPU differences are minimal
- You value proven stability and mature platform support
Choose AM5 If:
- You want the latest technology and best performance
- Future upgrade options are important to you
- You're building a productivity-focused workstation
- Power efficiency is a significant consideration
- You're building a new system from scratch with no existing AM4 hardware
Our Recommendation
For Australian builders in 2026, we generally recommend AM5 for new system builds despite the higher initial cost. The platform's longevity, efficiency improvements, and future upgrade path provide better long-term value.
However, AM4 remains compelling for budget-conscious builders, especially with the Ryzen 5 5600 offering remarkable value. If your budget is under $1500 AUD for the entire system, the savings from AM4 can fund a better graphics card or more storage.
Both platforms are capable of excellent gaming and productivity performance. The "wrong" choice doesn't exist—only the choice that best fits your specific needs and budget.