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Best Motherboards
Best Motherboards For Gaming, AMD Ryzen, and Intel processors in 2022
A computer’s processor, graphics card, and system memory are all critical components for its operation; nevertheless, the motherboard serves as the structural backbone that holds everything together.
You can easily make the wrong choice when selecting a motherboard, which is why we’ve put together this list of the finest motherboards to help you make the right choice.
What are the best motherboards for AMD and Intel?
The processor you use (AMD or Intel) has a significant impact on the motherboard you choose. The search for a new one is made easier if you already have one installed on a computer that you wish to upgrade from. They both have chipsets that can only be used with chips from the same manufacturer as the other. It is not possible to use an Intel processor on an AMD motherboard, and vice versa. Generally speaking, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II for AMD or the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi II for Intel will be stable and quick, allowing your PC to operate at peak performance.
People who have a lot of money and high expectations will benefit from the ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS or ASUS TUF Gaming H570-PRO WiFi since they will be able to save money on their purchases. Additionally, certain chipsets from Intel and AMD are available that are exclusively compatible with specific processors. Chipsets are what these chipsets are referred to as. If you have an AMD Ryzen 5000 or 3000 series processor, the X570 is the best option. It is possible to use Intel’s Z690 to run 12th Generation processors on it. Visit our complete list of the finest motherboards to find out which one is the greatest fit for your upcoming PC build.
Best Motherboards For Gaming Review
#1. ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II: Best overall motherboard for AMD PCs
High-quality components, some serious heatsinks for the VRMs, and the best chipset from AMD make the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II one of the best motherboards available for AMD PCs in terms of value. Admittedly, it doesn’t deliver all the features you’d find in enthusiast-grade boards, but this is about as good as you can get for a desktop motherboard.
Socket: AM4 | Maximum RAM: 4x 32GB (128GB) | Chipset: AMD X570 | Size: ATX | Features: 2.5Gb LAN, PCIe 4.0, ASUS Aura, M.2 heatsinks, 14+2 phases VRM
While the motherboard is critical, it is also difficult to get wrong as long as you get one that is compatible with the CPU you intend to install. For AMD fans, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II strikes a careful balance between performance and price. AMD’s Ryzen processor generation is outperforming Intel, and ASUS’s best motherboard is an ideal match. This is not the most capable AMD motherboard, but you are unlikely to require all of the extra features found on more expensive motherboards. AMD has used the AM4 architecture since the release of Ryzen in 2017, and the X570 is the company’s most recent high-end chipset.
This platform will not only support Ryzen 3000 processors, but also the upcoming 5000 Series. It is possible to install up to 128GB of RAM using the four DIMM slots provided, though it is unlikely that you will need more than 32GB, as only intensive workstations that handle massive files (such as video editing) require such large amounts. The high-quality components used throughout the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II are its most notable feature. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a motherboard and a dependable power delivery arrangement.
To ensure greater dependability and overclocking support, capacitors and other high-performance components should be part of a premium batch. Furthermore, the back port options for 2022 are quite strong. DisplayPort and HDMI (for Ryzen CPUs with integrated graphics), optical S/PDIF out, 2.5Gb LAN, and Wi-Fi are all included, as are seven USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports and one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port. All of your favourite gaming peripherals, as well as others, can be quickly connected. There are also RGB connectors, water-cooling pump headers, two M.2 slots, plenty of SATA, and enough PCI slots to accommodate all of your favourite sound cards. While this is not a low-cost motherboard, it does provide excellent value. Furthermore, because it is based on AMD’s most recent chipset, it will support PCIe 4.0.
ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II
The ASUS ROG Strix X570-E is a fantastic motherboard for any Ryzen 5000 series CPU, thanks to its fantastic chipset. You can install a lot of RAM and benefit from the excellent stability and build quality.
When buying a motherboard, you need consider a few factors. The first thing to consider is platform: Intel or AMD? Then the chipset. These dictate the motherboard’s characteristics and price. AMD recommends the X570 and Z590. For example, the B550 is a wonderful chip for those on a budget. When discussing value, one must consider price.
A motherboard should be reasonably priced, thus you should acquire one. Quality materials and good cooling for the voltage regulator modules (VRM) are important, especially if you plan to overclock the system. Vendors must chose high-quality electronics for a more stable motherboard from the parts they sell, such as VRMs. Your processor choice is also vital. It will overtax an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X.
If you put an AMD Ryzen 9 5950X on a B550 motherboard, you can’t overclock the CPU and other parts, such RAM, may not work properly. So long as your processor can keep up, motherboards are still useful. So long as you don’t need to replace the CPU, you can keep your motherboard and upgrade the RAM, storage, and graphics card. When it comes to buying a motherboard, our top or enthusiast selections provide you plenty of opportunity to expand in the future.
2. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi: Best overall motherboard for Intel PCs
This ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi is the Intel equivalent to the AMD best selection, and it is compatible with the latest 12th Gen processors from Team Blue, just as the AMD best pick is.
Aside from that, it includes high-quality components and all of the standard features you’d expect from a mid-tier motherboard, such as support for up to 128GB of RAM and ASUS RGB lighting. It also has support for pumps and the ability to overclock.
Socket: LGA1700 | Maximum RAM: 4x 32GB (128GB) | Chipset: Z690 | Size: ATX | Features: 2.5Gb LAN, ASUS Aura, M.2 heatsinks, 18+1 phases VRM
It’s superb, like our top ASUS AMD selection. In addition to a PCB with high-end components, you’ll also get practically all the expansion you need for a powerful PC. With 18+1 phase power delivery, you may confidently push this motherboard to its maximum. You may use Intel’s latest high-performance CPUs, as well as PCIe 5.0 M with 12th Gen Intel processor support. 2 NVMe storage discs and 128GB RAM for Minecraft.
The Z690-E Gaming WiFi is a solid value platform option for a premium PC built with an Intel Core i9-12900K. One USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 (two USB-A and one USB-C), four USB 2.0, and two DisplayPort are included. Plus optical S/PDIF, WiFi and all the audio plugs you need. ASUS made sure there were enough USB headers for any extra components that needed one. The ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi has water-cooling headers, making it a capable motherboard. With a great BIOS and overclocking capability, this is one of the greatest Team Blue motherboards.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi
3. Gigabyte TRX40 AORUS Master: Best AMD motherboard for enthusiasts
Socket: AM4 | Maximum RAM: 8x 32GB (256GB) | Chipset: TRX40 | Size: ATX | Features: 8x DIMM slots, unbuffered RAM support, huge heatsinks, 16+3 phase VRM
Budgets can readily be exhausted in this area. This motherboard is comparable to a complete PC. For AMD’s latest Threadripper processors with up to 64 physical cores. There are also eight DIMM slots for expanded RAM capacity, among other useful features.
We’ve heard you’re building a PC on a budget. The best motherboard for AMD Threadripper is this one. Because these powerful CPUs are too big to fit on a conventional motherboard, the TRX40 platform was devised. The Gigabyte TRX40 AORUS Master comes with almost everything you need to build a powerful setup. There are eight DDR DIMM slots for quad-channel RAM, server-class power distribution for dependable overclocking, and even an ESS 9118 Sabre DAC for audio. But, why not, this gadget can support up to four GPUs.
This is irrelevant for designing enthusiast machines. It’s all about finding the best deal, and this motherboard will enable you build a monster AMD PC. However, if you’re planning on getting a Threadripper CPU, the price shouldn’t be an issue. The Gigabyte TRX40 AORUS Master is also less expensive than top AMD and Intel rivals. Consider.
Gigabyte TRX40 AORUS Master motherboard
The TRX40 is reserved for those who require incredible computing performance. You can install up to 256GB of RAM, as well as up to an AMD Threadripper 3990X with 64 cores.
4. ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Formula: Best Intel motherboard for enthusiasts
Socket: LGA1700 | Maximum RAM: 4x 32GB (128GB) | Chipset: Z690 | Size: ATX | Features: Wi-Fi 6, 10Gb LAN, ASUS Aura, 20+1 phase VRM
Asus ROG Maximus Z690 Formula is a superb platform for overclocking with many benefits over the competition. You’ll also get integrated VRM water-cooling, 10Gb LAN, plenty of USB ports, and a decent BIOS.
ASUS, like GIGABYTE, makes enthusiast-grade motherboards. A Z690 chipset motherboard like the ROG Maximus Z690 Formula is ideal for designing your dream PC. Want to try the new Intel Core i9-12900K? Go for it; this motherboard will gladly join you. The pricing reflects the seriousness of this board. The VRMs can be water-cooled, and they are premium components. This allows one to overclock their processor and system without compromising system stability. Aside from HDMI and Thunderbolt 4, ASUS chose to include six USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a single USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, three USB-A 2.0 ports, Optical S/PDIF, Wi-Fi, and all the audio jacks. But it’s not cheap. Check the specs and decide if you truly need such a platform for your PC.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Formula
A motherboard like this ASUS choice would perform well with high-end Intel processors if you have the money to spare. The 10Gb LAN on this motherboard is just one of many important features.
5. ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS: Best budget AMD motherboard
Socket: AM4 | Maximum RAM: 4x 32GB (128GB) | Chipset: B550 | Size: ATX | Features: 2.5Gb LAN, ATX, AMD Quad CrossFireX, 8+2 phase VRM
The ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS motherboard is a great choice for people who are on a tight budget. Even though the B550M chipset isn’t as powerful as other AMD motherboards, it’s still more than enough for most PCs.
B550 is what AMD made to replace the old B450 chipset, and it’s what they did. For Ryzen 3000 series processors, PCIe 4.0 for GPUs and SSDs, and dual-GPU configurations, the most important changes are for these processors. The ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS is a great example of a computer with a B550 chipset that has a lot of great features. Putting in a Ryzen 9 5950X would be easy, and it would work just fine. There’s no room for overclocking because it’s not meant for people who want to use liquid nitrogen to cool their computers.
If you have enough money, you can still run an enthusiast-grade system on a small, low-cost base. When ASUS built this computer, they also added 2.5Gb LAN for fast data transfers across your network, and the VRMs have enough airflow to keep them cool. If you buy this motherboard, you’ll get an 8+2 power phase design, which means it can handle more power-hungry CPUs and some overclocking. If you want a lot of ports, you’ll want HDMI and DisplayPort. You’ll also want Optical S/PDIF, two USB 2.0, two USB 3.1 Gen 2 (one of them is Type-C), and four USB 3.1 Gen 1. In terms of networking, you have a single 2.5Gb LAN port. It’s a good way to move from Intel to AMD without having to spend too much money at the same time.
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ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS
Take a look at the price and don’t let that make you think this motherboard isn’t worth considering for cheap builds. It runs on the AMD B550 chipset and has a lot to offer.
6. MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi: Best budget Intel motherboard
With the B660 chipset, you can use many more features in your PC build. This is an interesting budget-friendly motherboard because it has the B660 chipset, which lets you use many more features in your PC build. Here, you get a lot for your money even though this board isn’t the cheapest for Intel CPUs.
Socket: LGA1700 | Maximum RAM: 4x 32GB (128GB) | Chipset: B660 | Size: ATX | Features: 2.5Gb LAN, 3x M.2 slots, 12+2 phase VRM
Moving down from Intel’s top-of-the-line Z690 chipset, we’re going with the MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi, which is just below it. We don’t have PCIe 5.0, DDR5 and better power delivery, which are some of the features we don’t have on more expensive Intel motherboards. We have full support for 12th-generation Intel processors, but we don’t have the high price tag that comes with our top Intel motherboard.
Even though this is a motherboard made by MSI, we’re still looking at a great BIOS that lets you change a lot of things without having to start up Windows. A lot of things are going on with the board on the back, too. It has a 2.5Gb LAN port, HDMI 2.0, DP1.4, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2, four USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and 4x USB-A 2.0 ports.
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MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi
They come in all shapes and sizes, but cheaper motherboards can be just as good and have the same important features without having to cut back on important features. This board, which is powered by a B660, has a lot to offer at a good price.
7. Gigabyte X570 I AORUS Pro WIFI: Best compact AMD motherboard
You need not need a full-sized ATX motherboard to create your own PC. To create a more compact PC, you might use the GIGABYTE X570 I AORUS Pro WIFI motherboard as the foundation.
Socket: AM4 | Maximum RAM: 2x 32GB (64GB) | Chipset: X570 | Size: Mini-ITX | Features: 1Gb LAN, 2x DIMM slots, Intel Wi-Fi, M.2 slots, 8 phase VRM
You don’t need the biggest motherboard to build a decent PC. A Mini-ITX motherboard allows you to use smaller form factor enclosures, which is beneficial for building a compact PC. Using a super-compact Mini-ITX container, you can build a PC that is slightly larger than your favourite gaming console. With two M.2 SSDs, up to 64GB of RAM, and the latest Ryzen 5000 CPUs, the X570 I AORUS Pro WIFI from Gigabyte is smaller than ATX or microATX motherboards.
That sounds decent enough on its own, but the price is also affordable. And I said Ryzen 5000 Series processors. That’s right, you can put a Ryzen 9 5950X on this board and get 16 cores and 32 threads. With built-in Intel Wi-Fi, you can place a PC almost anywhere in the house. Notably absent from this list are two USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports (one is USB-C), four USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, and one 1Gb LAN port. Its single PCIe x16 slot and lack of VRM heatsinks may turn off certain users. It gets hot, and you don’t want to overclock your processor.
Gigabyte X570 I AORUS Pro WIFI motherboard
The X570 chipset and Mini-ITX form factor allow you to install this board inside a toaster. It’ll handle even the more powerful processors, including the AMD Ryzen 9.
8. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi: Best compact Intel motherboard
It is recommended that you use Mini-ITX cases and motherboards when building your tiny computer. There is a lot of potential in this fantastic example from ASUS, even without all of the extra baggage. Feel free to cram this board into a compact chassis with a powerful CPU to create a high-performance PC that is easy to forget about. Although the amount of RAM available is limited, at 64GB, you should not have any problems.
Socket: LGA1700 | Maximum RAM: 2x 32GB (64GB) | Chipset: Z690 | Size: Mini-ITX | Features: 2.5Gb LAN, Wi-Fi 6, 2x M.2 slots, 2x DIMM slots, 10+1 phase VRM
Small form factor enclosures typically accommodate Mini-ITX motherboards, which are little in comparison to ATX boards. ASUS crammed a lot of goodies into the ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi, including an abundance of RGB lighting and even two M.2 slots. This compact board supports Intel’s 12th Generation processors. However, don’t let its diminutive size fool you into believing you can’t build a powerful PC with it as the foundation. The full-sized PCIe x16 3.0 slot allows you to install your preferred GPU, and with up to 32GB of RAM, it’s capable of handling the majority of games.
Simply anticipate paying a premium for the privilege of using a smaller platform. 2.5Gb LAN, DisplayPort, HDMI, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports, three USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, two USB-A 2.0 ports, and the Wi-Fi 6 module were all included. That’s quite a range of expansion options, particularly the 2.5Gb LAN, which enables speedier LAN traffic on approved networks.
ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi
Intel processor owners can also create some excellent compact PC builds, and a motherboard like this fine example from ASUS would allow exactly that.
What about all other motherboards?
There are literally hundreds of motherboards available on the market that you could consider for your next PC build. Here are some examples. The AMD Ryzen 9 5950X and Intel Core i7-11700K were among the processors we tested, as were motherboards for specific platforms such Intel-only motherboards. Motherboards are available from a variety of manufacturers, regardless of whether you choose Intel or AMD processors.
You might substitute an alternative product from another vendor and have a comparable experience to each of our recommendations. Generally speaking, motherboards are more or less the same, albeit numerous elements such as power delivery, component type, and functionality can be swapped up to distinguish them from one another..
Best motherboards FAQ
How to choose the best motherboard
Choose the finest motherboard for your PC based on your processor choice. Intel processors require Intel sockets and chipsets. AMD processors require AMD sockets and chipsets. Next, consider price and chipset features. You can acquire a nice motherboard for a reasonable price. Less power is available from the factory on the two best motherboards for each platform.
Most of the time, the motherboard software handles all the work for you. Our inventory also includes goods for folks who like to construct their own PCs or are on a budget. There is a motherboard for practically everybody who wants one. Costlier motherboards usually facilitate reliable overclocking and feature high-quality components.
What you should look for in a new motherboard
There are a few important things to keep in mind when you’re looking for a new motherboard. There are a lot of new Intel and AMD processors that work well with most types of motherboards as long as you don’t buy the cheapest ones. Things to keep in mind:
- Voltage regulator module (VRM) cooling
- Power delivery if you plan to overclock
- The rear port selection
- Form factor (ITX, microATX, ATX)
- Choosing the right chipsets for AMD and Intel
- Matching said chipsets with the correct, supported CPU generation
- RAM support
- Features like M.2 slots
The VRMs and how they are kept cool are both critical. You want clean and stable power to the CPU, especially if you plan on overclocking, which requires a lot of power from the VRMs to give you more room. Power delivery with multiple phases is also ideal. This is typically found only on more expensive motherboards. The rear port configuration determines which ports you and your accessories will be able to use. It’s the least important factor to consider when selecting a motherboard because most of them have the same ports.
The form factor determines the physical size of the motherboard. Chipsets from Intel and AMD are responsible for the additional functionality. The same is true for RAM. You must match these to processors that support them. One motherboard will not work with another. Some processors don’t work well with slower or faster RAM, so check Intel or AMD’s websites for more information on how these things interact. You can leave out extra features like M.2 slots if you don’t want them. You’ll be on the right track if you follow our advice. We compiled a list of the best Intel and AMD processors, as well as options for Mini-ITX, budget, and enthusiast builds.