What is the key element of any computer, holding and connecting all essential hardware? A right choice of a PC motherboard will let you set up a computer of your dream for the best gaming experience. Select one of the best motherboards and reach a new level in your PC performance!
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
SOCKET / SUPPORTED PROCESSORS
FORM FACTOR
INTERFACES
PCI SLOTS
MEMORY SLOTS / MAX MEMORY
MEMORY TYPE
NATIVE AUDIO
POWER CONNECTORS
PROS
The MSI X99A was created for gamers. It is the best motherboard to withstand a continuous load. It has adjustable lighting and it supports game streaming software.
CONS
Supports only newest 6th Gen Intel Core i7 CPUs
OUR VERDICT
The best gaming motherboard for those who appreciate high efficiency and operational reliability of their PC. This cutting-edge motherboard supports extreme editions of the flagship processors, has a built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. And you can pick your favorite colors for the lighting.
SOCKET / SUPPORTED PROCESSORS
LGA 2011-3 Socket /
Haswell-E CPUs
FORM FACTOR
EATX (Extended ATX)
INTERFACES
1 x PS/2 keyboard/ mouse combo port
2 x USB 2.0
4 x USB 3.0
2x USB 3.1
1 x Clear CMOS Button
2 x LAN (RJ-45)
2 x Wi-Fi Connectors
1 x 6.3 mm audio
5 x 3.5mm audio
PCI SLOTS
5 x PCI-E 3.0 x16
MEMORY SLOTS / MAX MEMORY
8 / 128 GB total
MEMORY TYPE
Up to DDR4-3400 (OC)
NATIVE AUDIO
Realtek ALC1150
7.1-Channel
POWER CONNECTORS
1 x 24-pin ATX
1 x 8-pin ATX 12 V
1 x 4-pin ATX 12 V
PROS
The Asus ATX motherboard features an automatic performance optimization and you can safely overclock it yourself.
CONS
It may be hard to reach SATA ports if you install a large-format graphic card.
OUR VERDICT
The Asus ATX AMD motherboard is the perfect choice for those who appreciate overclocking to get the highest performance with energy efficiency. The TPU (TurboV Processing Unit) chip offers the highest speed, while the EPU (Energy Processing Unit) chip controls the energy efficiency.
SOCKET / SUPPORTED PROCESSORS
AM3+ Socket / AM3+ 32nm CPUs
FORM FACTOR
ATX
INTERFACES
1 x PS/2 keyboard (purple)
1 x PS/2 mouse (green)
1 x eSATA
1 x LAN (RJ45)
2 x USB 3.0
8 x USB 2.0 (one port can be switched to USB BIOS Flashback)
1 x Optical S/PDIF out
6 x 3.5 mm audio
PCI SLOTS
1 x PCI
1 x PCI-E 2.x x1
2 x PCI-E 2.x x16 (x4)
2 x PCI-E 2.x x16
MEMORY SLOTS / MAX MEMORY
4 / 32 GB total
MEMORY TYPE
Up to DDR3 2133
NATIVE AUDIO
Realtek ALC892
8-Channel
POWER CONNECTORS
1 x 24-pin EATX
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V
PROS
The Asus AM3+ motherboard features both high performance and low heat build-up. The device is equipped with a high-speed system bus.
CONS
Needs an additional cooling for installing a DDR3 higher than 1866 MHz.
OUR VERDICT
A wonderful gaming motherboard with an ROG Connect. It will let you monitor your desktop PC status and adjust its parameters real-time via your laptop through a USB cable.
SOCKET / SUPPORTED PROCESSORS
AM3+ Socket / AM3+ 32nm CPUs
FORM FACTOR
АТХ
INTERFACES
1 x PS/2 keyboard/ mouse combo port
2 x eSATA 6 GB/s
1 x LAN (RJ45) port
4 x USB 3.0
8 x USB 2.0
1 x Optical S/PDIF out
6 x 3.5mm audio
1 x Clear CMOS button
1 x ROG Connect on/off switch
PCI SLOTS
2 x PCI-E 2.x x1
3 x PCI-E 2.x x16
1 x PCI-E 2.x x16 (x4)
MEMORY SLOTS / MAX MEMORY
4 / 32 GB total
MEMORY TYPE
Up to DDR3 2400 (OC)
NATIVE AUDIO
SupremeFX III built-in
8-Channel
POWER CONNECTORS
1 x 24-pin EATX
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V
PROS
You can easily optimize the device to use several graphic cards. The MSI ATX motherboard supports 4K UHD.
CONS
Poor audio card.
OUR VERDICT
The manufacturer of this motherboard provides an easy access to BIOS for monitoring a full-service graphical interface. MSI's Command Center software allows you to adjust the system's parameters, such as cooling or stability, with a user-friendly interface.
SOCKET / SUPPORTED PROCESSORS
LGA 1150 Socket /
Broadwell, Haswell, Haswell Refresh CPUs
FORM FACTOR
АТХ
INTERFACES
1 х PS/2 mouse
1 х PS/2 keyboard
4 х USB 2.0
2 х USB 3.0
1 х VGA
1 x DVI-D
1 x HDMI
1 х LAN (RJ45)
3 х 3.5mm audio
PCI SLOTS
2 x PCI
2 x PCI-E 2.x x1
1 x PCI-E 2.x x16 (x4)
1 x PCI-E 3.0 x16
MEMORY SLOTS / MAX MEMORY
4 / 32 GB total
MEMORY TYPE
Up to DDR3 3000 (OC)
NATIVE AUDIO
Realtek ALC887
8-Channel
POWER CONNECTORS
1 x 24-pin ATX
1 x 8-pin ATX 12V
PROS
The Gigabyte mATX motherboard has an HDMI 1.4 and D-Sub ports for concurrent connection and operation of several monitors.
CONS
It has only 2 memory slots.
OUR VERDICT
This reliable Gigabyte mATX motherboard is great for your home or office PC's common use. The device may have lower efficiency compared to other models but assures a comfortable Web surfing. And the price is very reasonable.
SOCKET / SUPPORTED PROCESSORS
FM2+ Socket /
AMD FM2 & FM2+ CPUs
FORM FACTOR
Micro ATX
INTERFACES
1 x PS/2 keyboard/ mouse port
6 x USB ports (2 x USB 3.0/2.0 ports on the back panel)
1 x S/PDIF out
1 x D-Sub port
1 x HDMI port
1 x Ethernet port
3 x 3.5mm audio
PCI SLOTS
1 x PCI-E x16
1 x PCI-E x1
1 x PCI
MEMORY SLOTS / MAX MEMORY
2 / 64 GB total
MEMORY TYPE
Up to DDR3 2400 (OC)
NATIVE AUDIO
Realtek ALC887
7.1-Channel
POWER CONNECTORS
1 x 24-pin ATX
1 x 4-pin ATX 12V
X
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MSI X99A
Supported Processors
This innovative computer motherboard supports Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition processor through LGA 2011-3 socket. This processor is one of the best on the today's market, it will be an excellent addition to the MSI X99A GODLIKE GAMING motherboard. This combination will provide you with a perfect performance. Any up-to-date game will work with the best settings and maximum FPS quantity even if you are streaming your gameplay online.
Form-Factor
This gaming motherboard has eight slots for a RAM installation. The maximum memory you can install is 128 GB DDR4. With this RAM capacity, you will forget what a slow download is. You will definitely enjoy your computer multitasking with the MSI X99A motherboard! The device also has 5 PCI-Express slots that can be used to connect additional graphic cards, an external audio card, and an additional network card.
Interfaces
The MSI X99A motherboard has the following interfaces: 1xPS/2 keyboard and mouse combo port, 1xUSB 3.1, 2xUSB 2.0, 4xUSB 3.1 for external devices connection. 4 x USB 3.1 Type-A (5 Gb/s), 1 x USB 3.1 Type-A (10 Gb/s), 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C (10 Gb/s) will provide a swift data exchange with your smartphone or graphic tablet. The 2 x LAN (RJ-45) will provide a wired Internet connection. There are also two Wi-Fi connectors, a 6.3 mm golden headphone out, an optical S/PDIF out, 5 HD audio jacks, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectors. The audio card assures a studio-grade sound. The motherboard has a 7.1-Channel Realtek HDA Codec. Using various utility programs, you will be able to make accurate equalizer adjustments. You will surely appreciate the incredible sound output. You can enjoy a crystal-clear sound through the studio-grade high-resistance headphones.
Extras
This innovative motherboard has a Guard-PRO feature. It provides an effective protection from humidity, high temperature, electrical discharge, electromagnetic emission, and also an electrical circuit protection. Mystic Light will let you adjust the color palette to your liking. You can choose either blazing flame or cold light for the body frame. Whatever color suits your design! Just renew your color space with Mystic Light APP on your PC, smartphone, or tablet.
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B014VITZPM |
VIDEO
MSI X99A GODLIKE Gaming - RGB Lighting on a motherboard is here!
What customers say about this product
Key Specs
If I was building this today I would use a Xeon but I got the i7 at a crazy good sale price.
Memory
Memory slots, PCI-e slots are reinforced with metal plates.
Connectivity
Two internal USB 3.0 jacks, one parallel and one perpendicular: awesome feature. The parallel one allows for a streamlined setup if you only need to use one. And it is nicely tucked behind the video card.
Features
For the first time, it supports Doubleshot X3 for teaming up two two LAN connections AND the WiFi connection for zero-lag gaming.
Power
The onboard power/reset/OC buttons on the board are a nice touch at the price point.
MSI X99A
ASUS M5A99FX PRO R2.0
Supported Processors
The Asus ATX motherboard is compatible with AMD AM3+ FX, Athlon II, Phenom II, Sempron 100 series processors (via AM3+ socket). And you can enhance their efficiency with a safe overclocking. There are two special chips, a TurboV Processing Unit (TPU) and an Energy Processing Unit (EPU). The TurboV will allow you the most convenient and safe overclocking without the need to reboot your computer. Besides, you can save your settings to use them afterward. The Energy Processing is an all-digital feed control system.
Form-Factor
This innovative motherboard has four ports for DDR3 Random Access Memory connection (maximum memory is 32 Gb). This is more than enough for an effective personal computer performance. It will suffice to assure a high efficiency of all your software. The manufacturer has equipped this motherboard with four PCI slots so that you could connect an additional graphic card, a television tuner, or an external network card.
Interfaces
The Asus ATX motherboard has a PS/2 keyboard (purple), a PS/2 mouse (green) interfaces. An eSATA suits for an external HDD connection. There is a LAN (RJ45) port for the Internet and 2 х USB 3.0 ports for external devices connection. One of 8 х USB 2.0 ports can be switched to USB BIOS Flashback. Besides, there is an Optical S/PDIF out and 6 x 3.5 mm Audio jacks. An 8-Channel sound with a Realtek ALC892 HDA Codec will let you enjoy the perfect audio output while listening to music or watching movies. This Asus motherboard supports high-quality sound systems and studio headphones.
Extras
This up-to-date motherboard has two special chips to provide the best performance of your PC (TurboV Processing Unit – TPU and Energy Processing Unit – EPU for an efficient energy usage control). A simple user-friendly interface allows an easy BIOS settings adjustment. This feature of the innovative Asus ATX motherboard will help you overclock the system and achieve its absolute highest performance.
| Last updated price | $149.98 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B008B6ONXK |
VIDEO
ASUS M5A99FX Pro R2.0 Motherboard Unboxing + Overview + Benchmarks
What customers say about this product
Key Specs
I put an AMD FX 9570 which is a 240 watt CPU. This motherboard handles it.
Memory
I am very pleased with the motherboard. Works great with 16GB of storage.
Connectivity
This mobo comes with plenty of USB ports, SATA 6 ports, and numerous fan plugins. Amazing board.
Features
Convenient organizer clip for accessory connections.
Power
Power - EVGA SuperNOVA 1300G2 ATX12V / EPS12V 1300W .
ASUS M5A99FX PRO R2.0
ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z
Supported Processors
The Asus AM3+ AMD motherboard is compatible with AMD AM3+ FX, Phenom II, Athlon II and Sempron 100 series processors (TDP up to 140 Watts). The AM3+ socket also fits the newest octa-core processors manufactured using a 32 nm technology. This up-to-date motherboard also supports an AMD Turbo CORE Technology 2.0 and uses a high-speed HyperTransport 3.0 system. This technology will result in an efficient, safe and fast PC performance.
Form-Factor
This gaming motherboard has four RAM slots for DDR3 memory type and a maximum capacity of 32 GB. This will be enough for a convenient use of your personal computer. You will be able to play the newest computer games, use photo-editing and graphics programs, proceed video editing. The Asus AM3+ AMD has four PCI slots for an additional graphic card, network equipment, and even television tuner equipment.
Interfaces
This motherboard has the following attachment interfaces: 1 x PS/2 keyboard and mouse combo port, 2 x eSATA 6 GB/s for an SSD connection, 1 x LAN (RJ45) port for the Internet and LAN connection, 4 x USB 3.0 and 8 x USB 2.0 to connect external devices, an Optical S/PDIF out and 6 x Audio jacks for a sound system connection. The SupremeFX III audio card will let you dip into the game. The manufacturer made the perfect sound performance possible with gold-plated audio jacks and high-quality capacitors. The EAX 5.0 and OpenAL assure the hardware acceleration for 3D-games performance. Their best quality is confirmed with THX TruStudio Pro certification.
Extras
The Asus AM3+ AMD motherboard has an ROG Connect for monitoring your computer condition and adjusting its parameters via your laptop in real-time mode. You can connect the laptop to your PC via a USB cable. The manufacturer has used up-to-date technologies for you to enjoy a wonderful sound output. This cutting-edge motherboard has a unique audio card that will let you lose yourself in the game world.
| Last updated price | $329.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B00906DHLE |
VIDEO
ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z AM3+ AMD 990FX SATA Motherboard
What customers say about this product
Key Specs
Bios was easy and straight forward. Maybe it's just because I went with all AMD chipsets that made it so smooth.
Memory
Great motherboard ddr3 2400mhz is cool. love the red l.e.d.
Features
Easy to build a system with this board. Indicator lights flash red to show what is causing your board not to post. You can turn off pci-express lanes to see which graphics card is giving you problems.
Connectivity
Plenty of USB Ports. Lots of hookups. Easy to connect.
Power
Powered up without any issues the first time.
ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z
MSI Z97 PC MATE
Supported Processors
The MSI ATX motherboard can hold a wide range of processors: Intel Core i7 / i5 / i3, Pentium, and Celeron 5, 4 Gen (LGA 1150 socket). An OC Genie is a pre-installed software technology for the system overclocking. With this technology, you get the overclocking done in a second. As a result, the MSI motherboard manufacturer provides you with the highest performance. You can increase your PC efficiency with just a press of a button. This technology increases your processor's productivity, memory, and graphics by 20%.
Form-Factor
The MSI ATX motherboard has four RAM slots (DDR3 type, up to 32 GB). You do not have to use all the slots; you can even use one (the recommended minimum is 4 GB). This will be enough in case you are going to use your PC for a Web surfing only. If you want to use this MSI motherboard to the fullest, add a couple of RAMs. The device has four PCI slots. Two of them can be used to install graphic cards, the other two are for a network equipment or a TV tuner connection.
Interfaces
The device has the following connectors: 1 х PS/2 for a mouse, 1 х PS/2 for a keyboard, 4 х USB 2.0 and 2 х USB 3.0 for external devices, 1 x VGA–an analog video display connection, 1 x DVI-D – a digital display, 1 x HDMI – a digital display connection plus a sound transmission option and definition over 1080p. There are also 1 х LAN (RJ45) and 3 х Audio jacks. The sound card and 8-channel HDA codec Realtek ALC887 have moderate characteristics, but if you use a standard inexpensive sound system, there will be no difference in audio output.
Extras
You will be able to enjoy the best video performance with a 4K UHD support. And the MSI ATX motherboard does have an HDMI slot for this newest 4K UHD 2160p ultra-high definition video reproduction! A Click BIOS 4 is an up-to-date fully functional graphical interface enabling both special and traditional BIOS features adjustment. It reacts quicker and assures a faster performance in comparison with the old hardware providing the highest efficiency of this computer motherboard.
| Last updated price | $179.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B00K23BW70 |
VIDEO
UNBOXING: MSI Z97 PC Mate Motherboard | Why I Got It |
What customers say about this product
Key Specs
Good looking MOBO, BIOS is pretty simple, best price for Z97 chipset.
Memory
I need to fill all memory banks but so far so good. It is, as any working motherboard, doing its job.
Connectivity
I like the large variety of ports on the IO, although it could have used more USB ports in my opinion, but that's no reason to knock it down a star as I have yet to overpopulate them.
Features
The audio boost is awesome for headphones plugged into the front of your case. You get higher quality sound and more clean tones at higher volumes.
Power
I've had multiple power failures and my old PSU even exploded, and this motherboard protected all the components.
MSI Z97 PC MATE
Gigabyte GA-F2A68HM-H
Supported Processors
The Gigabyte motherboard supports the following AMD processors: A10, A8, A6; Athlon X4, Athlon X2 (through FM2+ socket). These processors have a reasonable price, but their technical characteristics are still high enough to accomplish basic tasks. This computer motherboard assures that you surf the Web, create and edit documents, etc. comfortably. You can also watch your favorite movies and listen to audio files.
Form-Factor
This computer motherboard has only two slots for a DDR3 memory type and a maximum memory capacity of 64 GB. One might think that there is a lack of slots, but look at the maximum memory index of this motherboard! You can install up to 64 GB RAM to achieve the maximum efficiency of the office programs and the best Internet applications performance. There are two PCI slots, for a graphic card and a network equipment connection.
Interfaces
The Gigabyte motherboard has the following connection interfaces: 2 x USB 3.0/2.0 (rear panel), 8 x USB 2.0/1.1 (4 on the rear panel, 4 available via internal USB headers), an S/PDIF, a D-Sub, and an HDMI port for a video display connection, an Ethernet port, 1 x PS/2 keyboard and mouse port. This computer motherboard features a 7.1-Channel HDA Codec (Realtek ALC887) native audio. This sound card does not boast of the best characteristics but is enough for common home and office use.
Extras
You can connect two video displays at a time which greatly broadens the field of use of this Gigabyte motherboard. It is a nice choice for those who work with graphic design applications; it will also help you with surveillance cameras arrangement. Besides, you can use an HDMI interface of the Gigabyte mATX AMD motherboard to connect your television set. This will let you hold a presentation or enjoy watching a slideshow.
| Last updated price | $148.68 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B01JKO3QI4 |
VIDEO
Gigabyte AMD FM2+ A68H Unboxing (F2A68HM-H)
What customers say about this product
Power
Great motherboard-small scale has alot of power.
Key Specs
Great little motherboard. Perfect for my build. Easy install.
Connectivity
Bought this mobo. I really like connectivity options on this one.
Features
Lot of features and build quality at a decent price.
Gigabyte GA-F2A68HM-H
What is a Motherboard
No wonder that the most important part of any computer is called a motherboard. Like a real mother, it cares for her “children”, holds and connects all the other electronic components of a system, such as a processor, memory, graphic card, hard disk, and other hardware. An adequate choice of the motherboard is essential for a comfortable use of a computer. There is a wide variety of PC motherboards designed for different purposes. If you are going to surf the web, a mid-range motherboard will do the job. However, if you are assembling a play station for the best gaming performance, streaming, photo- and video editing, you should consider purchasing a gaming motherboard. We have selected 5 best motherboards for you to choose the suitable device. You should also keep in mind other integral parts of your PC such as CPU processors and graphic cards.
Best Motherboards 2017
What Features to Compare
A motherboard is one of the essential components of any PC. It does not affect the FPS quantity of your games, or video coding speed the way your graphics processor or adapter does. However, the motherboard defines a system's functionality and capability and sometimes provides an additional overclocking option. That is why you should put an increased focus on a motherboard selection when setting up your new computer.
Nowadays there are plenty of motherboard chipsets, memory slots and form factors. The right choice is a challenge even for seasoned users let alone those setting up their first computer. The first tip for a motherboard selection is Supported Processors. It may be either Intel or AMD. You should put your attention to the socket of your motherboard to select an appropriate hardware. Each new processor put on the market requires a new socket. That is why you should choose a motherboard to fit your processor and vice versa.
The Form Factor defines a motherboard size, attaching point, interfaces location, processor socket, memory slots, and power connectors’ types.
The next important characteristic is External Connectors. You should consider the hardware you are going to plug into your motherboard's slots. You may need to connect several monitors, USB 3.0, or use several local connections. A built-in audio is an important part of your computer motherboard as well. It is essential for a high-quality audio output or connecting a Hi-Fi home theater system. You can enjoy an awesome 7.1 or 8-channel output. The motherboards with a studio-grade sound card will grant you a perfect audio and video output and allow dipping into the game.
A few slots for several graphic cards will greatly increase PC's efficiency. Please, note that in this case you should use graphic cards of the same modification. You can also install a number of video cards for a CCTV monitoring with an optional connection of several different monitor displays (depending on the number of graphic cards). You should also keep in mind the power connectors' type and voltage. Motherboards have plenty of different slots to plug various hardware such as graphic cards, RAM, and other. They all should fit the motherboard's slots. One more tip to look at is RAM Type. Nowadays, there are two different types: DDR3 and DDR4. This important feature defines a multitasking and processing speed of your PC. Please, look through the RAM type and max memory of each motherboard in our review.
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