The Motherboard, also known as motherboard or main board is a printed circuit card to which the components that make up the computer are connected. In this comparison of the best motherboards we are going to see which are the best value for money.
It is a fundamental part to assemble any desktop or laptop personal computer. It has a series of integrated circuits installed, among which is the auxiliary integrated circuit (chipset), which serves as the connection center between the microprocessor (CPU), random access memory (RAM), expansion slots and other devices.
At a Glance:
Best Gaming Motherboard
Asus ROG STRIX Z490-E
- AI overclocking and AI cooling
- PCIe 4.0 (not yet usable)
- Wi-Fi 6 port and 2.5 Gbps
Mini-ITX Motherboard
MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Plus
- Very good RAM frequency
- Excellent temperatures
- Wi-Fi 6 port and 2.5 Gbps
ProSeries ATX Motherboard
MSI Z490-A PRO
- There is a good quality price relation
- 2.5Gbps network port
- PCIe 4.0 (not yet usable)
It is installed inside a case or cabinet that is usually made of sheet metal and has a panel for connecting external devices and many internal connectors and sockets for installing internal components.
The motherboard also includes a firmware called BIOS, which allows you to perform basic functionalities, such as device tests, video and keyboard operation, device recognition and loading of the operating system.
The true control center of your PC, the motherboard, is an element that is often neglected by users who want to build a new machine or develop an existing configuration.
Playing a decisive role in the stability of your machine, the choice of your motherboard will also have an impact on the overall performance of your setup and its future evolution. In fact, depending on the selected model, you can connect more or fewer components and peripherals, but you can also try overclocking by increasing the frequencies of your processor or your RAM.
The problem is that it is often difficult to navigate between the many models available. There are many parameters to consider during your research, starting with compatibility with your processor.
To help you see more clearly, you will find on this page a selection of the best motherboards based on current main processors, as well as a complete buying guide that explains how to choose your motherboard.
Our Recommendation for Best Motherboards
| Award | Design | Retailer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Gaming Motherboard | Best Pick | Check Price | |
| Mini-ITX Motherboard | Staff Pick | Check Price | |
| ProSeries ATX Motherboard | Budget Pick | Check Price | |
| Mini-ITX for small PC |  | Check Price | |
| Tomahawk Gaming Motherboard |  | Check Price | |
| MAG B550 Tomahawk |  | Check Price | |
| Gaming AMD AM4 |  | Check Price | |
| ProSeries Motherboard |  | Check Price | |
| AMD Ryzen AM4 |  | Check Price | |
| Best Cheap Motherboard |  | Check Price | |
| Best AMD X570 Motherboard |  | Check Price | |
| AM4 Zen 3 Ryzen |  | Check Price | |
| Gaming Plus Motherboard |  | Check Price | |
| Gigabyte Aorus |  | Check Price | |
| AORUS Pro Wi-Fi |  | Check Price | |
| AMD Ryzen 5000 |  | Check Price |
The Best Intel Motherboards
Asus ROG STRIX Z490-E
Best PickSpecification:
Brand ASUS
CPU Socket LGA 1155
Compatible Devices Gaming Console, Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Chipset Type Intel Z490
Memory Speed 4600 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Series ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB
We went to Intel with its favorite chipset, the Z490, but above all with a very high-quality best motherboard model, the ROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING from Asus. It has many advantages, starting with its AI Overclocking and AI Cooling software, which are used respectively to optimize overclocking on its own, as well as ventilation over the temperature / noise ratio that the fans emit. So while they are not really usable today with the Intel 10000 series, it is the presence of PCIe 4.0 connectors (which can therefore be used in 3.0 today) that already heralds the future. The network part is well supplied with the presence of Wi-Fi, but especially Wi-Fi 6, as well as a 2.5 Gbps network port. Finally, if you need USB ports, ten USB 3.2 gen 1 and 2, Type C and 2.0 connectors are served.
Pros
- AI overclocking and AI cooling
- PCIe 4.0 (not yet usable)
- Wi-Fi 6 port and 2.5 Gbps
Cons
- Expensive
MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Plus
Staff PickSpecification:
Brand MSI
CPU Socket LGA 1200
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors Intel Celeron, Intel Pentium Gold
Memory Speed 4800 MHz
Platform Windows 10
CPU Model Pentium
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB RAM
Memory Maximum Size 64 GB
If you need a mini-ITX motherboard on the Intel side for a small tower, MSI will satisfy you with its MPG Z490I Gaming Plus. It already offers two RAM slots that can go up to 64 GB, but especially up to 5000 MHz in frequency. Behind it is also PCIe 4.0 that can be used with the next generations of Intel processors. Also, Wi-Fi is present with Wi-Fi 6, but also a network connector that supports up to 2.5 Gbps of bandwidth. And don’t forget the VRM temperatures, which are great for a mini-ITX. It’s hard to find fault, except perhaps for the annoying presence of USB 2.0 ports on a board that looks so up-to-date.
Pros
- Very good RAM frequency
- Excellent temperatures
- Wi-Fi 6 port and 2.5 Gbps
Cons
- More USB 2.0
MSI Z490-A PRO
Budget PickSpecification:
Brand MSI
CPU Socket LGA 1200
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors Intel Celeron, Intel Pentium Gold
Memory Speed 4800 MHz
Platform Windows 10
CPU Model Pentium
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB RAM
Memory Maximum Size 128 GB
MSI has always been able to offer a solid entry level for high-end chipsets, and the manufacturer is no exception to the rule with the Z490-A PRO. This motherboard is already being future-proofed, with a PCIe 4.0 port, waiting for the next generations of Intel CPUs to support it. In the same vein of modern enhancements, there is also a 2.5 Gbps LAN port, useful for fiber optic enhancements now and to come. The maximum RAM capacity is also interesting, since the four slots can support up to 128 GB, as well as a frequency of 4800 MHz. This motherboard is presented as very complete, despite being entry-level, with a very high price.
Pros
- There is a good quality price relation
- 2.5Gbps network port
- PCIe 4.0 (not yet usable)
Cons
- It lacks a bit of USB ports
ASUS ROG Strix B460-I
Specification:
Brand ASUS
CPU Socket LGA 1200
Compatible Devices Gaming Console
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Chipset Type Intel B460
Memory Speed 2666 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Series ROG STRIX B460-I GAMING
Memory Storage Capacity 64 GB RAM
Memory Maximum Size 64 GB
If you need solid quality mini-ITX for a small PC, here is the Asus ROG STRIX B460-I GAMING. By itself, this B460 motherboard offers everything most users need, with good performance; a nice little bundle of USB ports, with a total of eight different ones on the back; the rest of the necessary connectors; WiFi 6; and even RGB that can be synchronized with Asus Aura Sync. It’s hard to fault it apart from the RAM frequency being capped at 2666 MHz, but this is mainly down to the chipset on the card itself.
Pros
- Plenty of USB for mini-ITX
- WiFi 6
- RGB
Cons
- Low RAM frequency (chipset)
MSI MAG B460
Specification:
Brand MSI
CPU Socket LGA 1200
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors Intel Celeron, Intel Pentium
Chipset Type Intel B460
Memory Speed 2933 MHz
Platform Windows 10
CPU Model Pentium
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB
For a budget B460 motherboard, MSI’s MAG B460 Tomahawk does the job perfectly. It has what you’d expect from a motherboard, but still allows for nice little additions, even at its price, like two network ports, one of which offers up to 2.5 Gbps of bandwidth. Many recent USB ports are present, but unfortunately, there is always a small USB 2.0 port, which we hope will be replaced as soon as possible by a minimum of 3.0. Also, the MSI motherboard is RGB and supports their Mystic Light software. In short, a well-made card at an advantageous price, which still offers little extras.
Pros
- A quality B460 at a good price
- Two network ports
- RGB
Cons
- Always USB 2.0
MSI MAG B550
Specification:
Brand MSI
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD B550
Memory Speed 4866 MHz
Platform Windows
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB RAM
Memory Maximum Size 128 GB
B550 motherboards can fit many different uses, from simple office automation to more demanding tasks, while being less expensive than the X570. The MAG B550 Tomahawk is a good example of the quality that can be produced on this chipset. It includes one PCIe 4.0 port, two Ethernet ports, one of which can support up to 2.5Gbps of bandwidth, four RAM slots that can go up to 128GB total, for an incredible 4866MHz frequency, or two slots M. 2 ports for NVME SSDs. The VRM temperatures shown are very good, so the motherboard can be pushed a bit. On the back, there’s USB 3.1, 3.0, 2.0, and Type-C, but a smaller USB Type-A port or two wouldn’t have hurt.
Pros
- Two network ports
- Very good RAM capacity
- PCI Express 4.0
Cons
- It lacks a bit of USB type A
ASUS ROG Strix B550-I
Specification:
Brand ASUS
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD B550
Memory Speed 3200 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Series ROG STRIX B550-I GAMING
Memory Storage Capacity 64 GB
Asus produces a mini-ITX motherboard here that does not have much to envy to the ATX models. One of the notable points is, first of all, its thermal efficiency that allows you to use high-end CPUs without worries, reaching very correct temperatures for a small format. The other quite impressive point is that it is possible to overclock the RAM (limited to 64 GB) up to 5100 MHz. Obviously equipped with Wi-Fi as a mini-itx, it is always appreciable to find a Wi-Fi 6 standard. This motherboard offers everything you need in general, but nevertheless we would have liked to see a few more USB ports, which are all in 3.2 for which there are.
Pros
- Very high RAM frequency possible
- Thermal efficiency
- WiFi 6
Cons
- Lack of USB ports
MSI B550-A
Specification:
Brand MSI
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD B550
Memory Speed 4400 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB RAM
Memory Maximum Size 128 GB
One of the objectives of the B550 chipset is to offer motherboards at a fairly affordable price, and MSI has not forgotten that with its B550-A Pro. Through good value for money, the brand offers us here a piece that includes a bit of everything you need to be able to use it correctly, in particular things that are always nice to see in this price range with usb 3.2 Gen 2 in type A and C, PCIe 4.0 and above all an excellent VRM system that has nothing to envy the motherboard model known as Gamer. However, the negative reaction to its advantageous price is felt elsewhere, such as the lack of a network port that can support 2.5 Gbps of bandwidth, or the presence of an inferior audio chip that will still allow sound. 7.1. However, that doesn’t stop the B550 motherboard from being solid considering its price. For information, the motherboard may not recognize your CPU directly. Then it will be necessary to flash the card using a usb key.
Pros
- Good value for money
- USB 3.2 type C
- PCI Express 4.0
- VRM at the top for this price
Cons
- No 2.5 Gbps network port
- Audio chip below MSI gaming models
Gigabyte B450M DS3H
Specification:
Brand Gigabyte
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 2nd Gerenration Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD B450
Memory Speed 3600 MHz
Platform Windows 7, Windows 10
Memory Storage Capacity 1000 TB
Graphics Card Interface PCI-E
This is a perfect motherboard for entry-level gaming PCs. This Gigabyte B450M costs just $77 and offers all the standard features of a motherboard. The latter offers an AM4 socket and will therefore be used to repair AMD Ryzen processors. On the back, we will find no less than 6 USB ports and an Ethernet port to connect your computer to the Internet.
In case you need a reference that offers all the essentials for a Ryzen, all for a solid price/performance ratio, the MSI B450 GAMING PLUS MAX does the job perfectly. Like the B450 motherboard, it is compatible with the future Ryzen 4000 and its previous series. It offers solid performance in a decent design, with what you need in terms of connectivity. Up to 64 GB and 4133 MHz of RAM, six USB ports, audio and video connectors, etc. In itself, it is unremarkable and minimalist, but given the price it is quite understandable.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Compatible with Ryzen 4000
- What is needed is there
Cons
- Minimalist
Gigabyte B450 Aorus
Specification:
Brand Gigabyte
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Gaming Console
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 2nd Gerenration Ryzen
Chipset Type Intel B450
Memory Speed 3600 MHz
Platform Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 10
Memory Storage Capacity 1000 TB
Graphics Card Interface PCI-E
Let’s go straight to the top rank. Here is the Gigabyte B450, an ATX format motherboard from the Gigabyte brand, which offers an excellent quality / price ratio. In terms of features, this motherboard is quite interesting as it offers a large number of USB and audio ports. Also, the Gigabyte-supplied BIOS is relatively easy to use, and the RGB adds a real edge to the component’s design. However, we regret the lack of a FAN socket, which allows fans to be connected. In fact, the motherboard only adds 3.
Pros
- Supports AMD 1st & 2nd G
- PCIe Gen3 M.2 NVMe
- USB 3.1 Gen 2
Cons
- No clear option for the cpu
TUF GAMING X570-PLUS
Specification:
Brand ASUS
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices AMD AM4 Socket 3rd and 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen/3rd, 2nd and 1st Gen AMD Ryzen with Radeon Graphics ProcessorsAMD AM4 Socket 3rd and 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen/3rd, 2nd and 1st Gen AMD Ryzen with Radeon Graphics Processors See more
RAM Memory Technology DIMM
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD 570X
Memory Speed 4400 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Series TUF GAMING X570-PLUS (Wi-Fi)
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB
Asus is a leader in the motherboard market, and with good reason. The TUF GAMING X570-PLUS is a good example of the quality that the brand can offer. It brings together much of what the X570 is capable of offering, that is, PCI Express 4.0, a maximum RAM capacity of 128 GB for a frequency of up to 4400 MHz in overclock, a good connector package for external devices that includes exclusively USB ports 3.2 Gen 1 & 2, USB Type-C, full set of audio connectors, Display Port, HDMI 1.4B, etc. Also where the X570 motherboard shines, it’s all about the VRM temperatures which are excellent for this price range. We can only object to the lack of USB Type-C to be able to integrate into the front facade of the tower, but given the good quality / price ratio it offers, we can still be very satisfied.
Pros
- USB3.2
- USB type c
- Excellent VRM temperatures
Cons
- No front USB 3.1 Type-C header
ASUS Prime X570-Pro
Specification:
Brand ASUS
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DIMM
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD 570X
Memory Speed 2133 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Series PRIME X570-PRO
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB
This Asus Prime X570 motherboard is made for the latest generations of AMD Ryzen processors. Capable of adapting to the most demanding overclocking, this motherboard will meet the expectations of all gamers. In terms of pure features, this motherboard offers an ethernet port, USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, as well as the ability to install up to 64GB of RAM.
Pros
- AMD AM4 Socket and PCIe 4. 0
- 5-Way Optimization
- Asus Optic-MEM
Cons
- Only 2 SATA Cables
MSI MPG X570
Specification:
Brand MSI
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Gaming Console
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD 570X
Memory Speed 2666 MHz
Platform Windows 10
Series X570GAMINGPLUS
CPU Model Ryzen 3 1300X
This motherboard is part of the latest card versions for AMD sockets. In fact, its X570 chipset allows this MSI X570 Gaming Plus to be compatible with the third and latest generation of Ryzen processors. The design of this motherboard is quite sober, with mainly dark colors. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-end motherboard for your AMD Ryzen processor, then you couldn’t dream of better than this.
Pros
- Supports ddr4 memory
- Supports 2nd and 3rd G
- Audio boost 4 technology
Cons
- There is a chipset fan
GA-AX370-Gaming K5
Specification:
Brand Gigabyte
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD A-Series, AMD Athlon
Chipset Type AMD X370
Platform Not Machine Specific
Series GA-AX370-Gaming K5
CPU Model Athlon
Memory Storage Capacity 64 GB
For the most demanding gamers, the Gigabyte AORUS Gaming 5 is clearly one of the best AM4 motherboards around. As efficient as it is elegant, it offers particularly comprehensive connectivity and is perfectly suited to overclocking. As in the MSI model, there are 4 DDR4 slots (OC up to 3200 Mhz) and 3 PCI-Express 3.0 ports, but also 8 SATA 6 Gb / s ports. That you will be able to connect almost everything that goes through your head.
Pros
- Exceptional onboard audio
- Feels very solid
- Realtek ALC1220 codec
Cons
- q-flash failed
Gigabyte X570 I
Specification:
Brand Gigabyte
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Personal Computer
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen, AMD 2nd Gerenration Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD X570
Memory Speed 2666 MHz
Platform Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 10
Series X570 I AORUS PRO WIFI
Memory Storage Capacity 64 GB
In the X570, the mini-ITX is not far behind, and it is Gigabyte who demonstrates it with its X570 I AORUS PRO WIFI. Its purpose is to target people who want a mini PC, while also wanting high performance, and this motherboard serves its purpose well. Despite its small size, it manages to offer enough connectors to satisfy most uses, through its PCI Express 4.0 port or its two RAM slots that can reach up to 64 GB, with a maximum frequency of 4400 MHz. Only we can regret that there are only two SYS FAN connectors for ventilation. On the back we find USB 3.0, 3.1 and type C, the Wi-Fi connectors that offer 802.11ax (that is, Wi-Fi 6), or specifically three different video ports, through a DisplayPort and two HDMI.
Pros
- Full
- WiFi 6
- Lots of recent video connectors
Cons
- Lack of connectors for fans
Gigabyte X570 UD
Specification:
Brand Gigabyte
CPU Socket Socket AM4
Compatible Devices Gaming Console
RAM Memory Technology DDR4
Compatible Processors AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen, AMD 2nd Gerenration Ryzen
Chipset Type AMD 570X
Memory Speed 2666 MHz
Platform Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 10
Series X570 UD
Memory Storage Capacity 128 GB
Although X570 motherboards are known to be a bit expensive, given the high-end usage, some references are made to make them more affordable, such as Gigabyte’s X570 UD. It offers what is needed with good performance.; enough internal and external connectors, such as PCIe 4.0 ports; four RAM slots with a maximum capacity and frequency of 128 GB and 4000 MHz respectively; six USB ports, four of which are 3.0; etc On the other hand, but this is not surprising, the space is still limited to the minimum of the X570, especially with the absence of USB 3.1, 3.2 or type C ports, and only three SYS FAN connectors for, therefore, three fans. To compensate for this part, the software supplied by Gigabyte makes it easy to intervene in the BIOS and control temperatures through so-called fans.
Pros
- An X570 at a low price
- Good performance
- Good software for BIOS and fans
Cons
- Connectivity a bit reduced to the minimum
- Few connectors for fans
How to choose a motherboard? BUYING GUIDE!
Choosing components is never easy, but when it comes to the motherboard, things get even more complicated. Between the various formats and multiple compatibility options (socket, chipset, SLI…), newbies don’t know where to turn.
To follow our selection of the best models, we take stock of the different criteria to consider when buying your motherboard.
COMPATIBILITY WITH YOUR PROCESSOR
This may seem obvious, but the first thing to consider is the compatibility between your motherboard and your processor. In fact, not all processors are compatible with all motherboards, and AMD and Intel models require specific cards.
Simply put, you cannot use an Intel processor with an AMD motherboard and vice versa.
CHECK THE SOCKET ON THE BASEPLATE
The socket represents the base where we will place your processor. Central part of the motherboard, it can differ according to the CPU brands (AMD or Intel) but also according to the different generations of processors. So when you buy a new processor, it’s not uncommon to also have to invest in a new motherboard.
At present, the market is segmented around four main outlets:
LGA 1151 socket: Supports Intel Coffee Lake * / Kaby Lake / Skylake processors
LGA 2066 socket: Supports Intel Skylake X / KabyLake X processors
AM4 socket: Compatible with AMD Ryzen 3 / Ryzen 5 / Ryzen 7 processors
Socket TR4: Compatible with AMD Ryzen 9 / Thread ripper processors
* 8th Generation Intel Coffee Lake processors require specific LGA 1151 motherboards and are therefore not compatible with older models designed for Kaby Lake and Skylake.
WHICH CHIPSET FOR MY MOTHERBOARD?
In addition to multi-sockets, motherboards also include a set of chips that can vary across ranges and models. Without necessarily going into too much detail, a chipset comes in the form of a chip that has the interface between the processor, the memory, and the different elements connected to your motherboard.
Its function is to manage data streams from PCI, SATA, USB ports or your graphics card, but it will also affect your CPU’s overclocking capabilities.
In general, each generation of motherboards comes with one or more chipsets, providing more or less advantages in terms of connectivity and performance.
Intel 1151 socket chipset
As explained above, Intel socket 1151 is now divided into two categories, with Coffee Lake compatible motherboards (Intel 8th Gen CPU) and Kaby Lake and Skylake compatible motherboards (Intel CPU) on the one hand 6th and 7th generation).
Coffee Lake chipsets
Currently, motherboards that support Coffee Lake processors come with a single chipset, the Intel Z370. It is the most complete Intel chipset and is very well suited to overclockable processors.
Kaby Lake / Skylake Chipsets
For previous generation Intel motherboards, there are three different chipsets today: B250, H720, and Z270.
The Intel Z270 chipset is primarily designed for gamers who want to set up a muscle setup and try to overclock. It is the one that offers the most PCI-E lanes or USB 3.0 ports.
Motherboards equipped with the H270 chipset are generally located in the mid-range. They are ideal for most gamers, as they offer very similar technical specifications to the Z270 cards. In practice, they are recommended for gamers who do not intend to overclock their processor.
At the entry level, motherboards typically include an Intel B250 chipset. It is intended for gamers who do not necessarily want to overclock their processor and who are also limited to a single graphics card. Otherwise, everything most gamers might need remains up to the task.
Our advice: go for a B250 card if you’re on a tight budget and overclocking doesn’t interest you. For others, opt for a Z270 model.
AM4 motherboard chipsets
With the arrival of Ryzen processors and AM4 motherboards, today we find three main chipsets: A320, A350 and X370. As for Intel, these chipsets cover most gamers’ needs, but some go a bit further in terms of performance, including being able to overclock your processor or configure an SLI graphics card.
THE FORMAT OF YOUR BASEPLATE
What format for my motherboard?
Once the motherboards are sorted by socket, then the chipset, it remains to select their format. The cards come in three main formats and not all of them will necessarily fit in your PC case.
The standard ATX form factor is the one found in most configurations. Fits most medium to large cabinets and usually offers a full connection for your various components.
The Micro-ATX format incorporates the main features of the ATX, but in a slightly more compact square format. Therefore, it is much better suited to compact cases and other “mini-towers”.
Finally, the Mini-ITX format makes it possible to obtain even more compact motherboards, but whose specificities are often revised downwards. A Mini-ITX is generally limited to two slots for your RAM and it is not possible to combine multiple GPUs.
Remember to check the different formats accepted by your box. As a general rule, “Mid-Tower” cases fit all three main motherboard formats, although fitting a Mini-ITX card won’t necessarily be very aesthetically pleasing.
THE PORTS ON YOUR MOTHERBOARD
In addition to the tech specs already listed, it’s best to check the details of your future motherboard to make sure it can plug in and connect all your current and future components.
Please check the following connectors:
Memory slots: to place the DDR4 memory modules
SATA connectors: for storage (HDD/SSD) and your optical drives
PCI-Express Ports: For your graphics card, sound card, or SSM M.2 SSD
USB connectors and I/O connectors
Memory slots
Nothing complicated here because it is simply the number of slots allocated for your RAM modules. All current motherboards are compatible with DDR4 memory, and we will generally find 2 or 4 slots depending on the different models and formats.
Keep in mind that the maximum frequency of your RAM can vary from motherboard to motherboard, and more specifically from one chipset to another. So understand that if you buy DDR4 3200 Mhz and put it on an AMD B350 or Intel B250 motherboard, you will not be able to reach such frequencies.
SATA ports
SATA connectors allow you to connect your hard drives, SSDs and other optical drives. If for most players 4 connectors should be enough, some users will prefer motherboards with 6 or 8 SATA connectors to take advantage of more storage space (for example, interesting for video editing or large movie consumers).
PCI-Express ports
PCI-Express (or PCIe) ports allow you to connect some components to your motherboard, such as a sound card, a WiFi card, but especially a graphics card.
For gamers, we must be particularly attentive to the presence of PCI-Express 16x ports, since it is in these that we can connect the GPUs. Entry-level motherboards typically include a single PCIe 16x port, but you can upgrade to cards with two or three PCI-Express 16x ports to combine multiple graphics cards (via CrossFireX or SLI technologies).
Simply put, the more PCIe ports your motherboard has, the more components you can connect. So choose according to your current and future needs.
USB connectors and input/output panels
For USB connectors. If you’re used to connecting a variety of peripherals to your machine, choose a card with a sufficient number of USB ports (front and back).
In fact, in addition to the directly visible USB ports on the back of your motherboard, you’ll usually find internal USB connectors that plug into the front of your case.
Also make sure to check the different versions of the USB ports on the motherboard. Ideally, it should have USB 3.0 ports and a USB 3.1 Type-C port.
Conclusion
Finally, keep in mind that the internal USB ports can sometimes be used by some cooling systems, including AIO water cooling kits with RGB lighting. We shared all best motherboard for gaming pc best seller in 2021 and now in 2022. Hope you will get benefits of this article to buy a motherboard for your pc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many fan headers are on the board?
Ans: 6 fan headers (CPU_FAN, CPU_OPT, CHA_FAN1, CHA_FAN2, CHA_FAN3, AIO_PUMP). All 6 @1A 12W.
Q: I would like to know if it supports a Ryzen 7 5800x and what maximum speed do the m2 disk ports support?
Ans: Yes it supports the Ryzen 7 5800x but you must update the BIOS since it comes from the factory with version 2607 adapted to the Ryzen 3000. The M2 ports use the NVMe PCI-e 4.0 format. so they support the fastest drives currently on the market.
Q: Which version of this asus tuf x570 board is better or more complete, the Pro or Plus version?
The truth is not much of a difference, but if you have contemplated using an SSD compatible with PCIe 4.0 I recommend the pro and for the Bios Flash button keep in mind that the processor you use must be compatible with PCIe 4.0 otherwise it will not work for you that technology and better uses the x570 plus with the difference that it is not PCIe 3.0 and it does not have a Bios Flash button.
NOTE 1: My brother has the X570 plus motherboard and I have the X570 Pro both in WI-FI version
NOTE 2: The Pro version supports up to 128Gb RAM and frequencies up to 5100MHz OC while the Plus supports up to 128GB and frequencies up to 4400MHz .
Q: Can it be mounted on a micro atx chassis?
Ans: I do not recommend it. This board is full size. And if you are going to mount a graphic you would not have space. I do not recommend such a small chassis.
Q: I am from Latin America, will there be a problem with the language of the bios?
Ans: In the bios you select the language you want, in this case you put it in Spanish.
