## Best Motherboards for Every Budget: A Comprehensive Guide for 2024
The motherboard might not be the flashiest component in your PC build, but it’s the backbone of your entire system. A good motherboard can unlock incredible performance, while a poor one can hold you back with limited features and connectivity. In 2024, the world of motherboards is packed with exciting new technologies like PCIe 5.0, Wi-Fi 7, and USB4, offering incredible speeds and capabilities for gamers, creators, and everyday users alike.
Choosing the right motherboard can feel overwhelming, with so many options available from different manufacturers. To help you navigate this complex landscape, we’ve compiled a list of the best motherboards for different budgets and needs. Whether you’re building a high-end gaming machine, an affordable workstation, or something in between, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the best motherboards you can buy in 2024!
### Top Picks for AMD Ryzen CPUs
1. Asus ROG Strix X870E-E: The Ultimate AM5 Experience
Why You Should Buy This:
The Asus ROG Strix X870E-E is the gold standard for AMD AM5 motherboards, offering the pinnacle of performance and features. If you’re looking to pair a new Ryzen 7000 or 9000 CPU with a motherboard that can truly unleash its full potential, this is the board for you.Who’s It For:
Gamers and enthusiasts who demand peak performance and the latest features from their motherboard.Why We Picked It:
This motherboard boasts phenomenal VRMs, ensuring incredible stability even when pushing your CPU to its overclocking limits. Whether you prefer automated overclocking or manual tweaking, the X870E-E will help you squeeze every ounce of performance from your processor. Beyond its powerful performance, it also features a wealth of cutting-edge features like Wi-Fi 7 and 5Gbps Ethernet for blazing-fast connectivity. You’ll also find a generous array of USB ports, including fast-charging USB4 for your high-speed devices, and PCIe 5.0 support for the fastest GPUs and storage drives. While this motherboard doesn’t necessarily offer a noticeable performance boost in gaming compared to other X800 boards, if you’re looking for the absolute best, this is the undisputed champion.2. ASRock X870 Pro RS: Exceptional Performance at a Great Price
Why You Should Buy This:
The ASRock X870 Pro RS offers a fantastic combination of high-end performance and affordability, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts. This motherboard is a great option for gamers, creators, and even office workers who want to boost their productivity with a powerful new machine.Who’s It For:
Gamers and enthusiasts who want great performance without breaking the bank.Why We Picked It:
This motherboard excels with its strong support for the latest Ryzen 7000 and 9000 CPUs, delivering exceptional stability and performance. It also features capable VRMs that make overclocking a viable option for squeezing extra performance from your CPU. With support for high memory speeds, USB4, and 2.5Gbps Ethernet, the X870 Pro RS is loaded with features. While it doesn’t come with built-in Wi-Fi, you can easily upgrade to a Wi-Fi version or add an adapter later if needed. It also boasts a striking paint job and impressive RGB lighting, adding a touch of style to your build.### Top Picks for Intel Core CPUs
3. MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk Max: The Intel Champion for LGA 1700 CPUs
Why You Should Buy This:
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk Max is the ideal motherboard for maximizing performance with Intel’s 12th, 13th, and 14th generation CPUs. It offers exceptional stability and an impressive feature set at a reasonable price point.Who’s It For:
Gamers and enthusiasts who want the best Intel performance from older CPUs.Why We Picked It:
This motherboard stands out with its incredibly stable VRMs, making it perfect for intensive overclocking. The feature list is equally impressive, with built-in Wi-Fi 7 and 2.5Gbps Ethernet for fast connectivity. You’ll also find a wealth of USB ports, including a 20Gbps USB-C port. While it lacks Thunderbolt 4 support, which is a minor drawback, it’s a feature found on higher-end boards. If storage space is a priority, this motherboard is a dream come true. It boasts four high-speed M.2 slots and eight SATA connectors, providing ample storage space for all your needs.4. MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk Wi-Fi: Best Performing B660 Board for Value
Why You Should Buy This:
The MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk Wi-Fi is a fantastic value proposition for anyone building a system with Intel’s 12th, 13th, or 14th generation CPUs. It delivers strong performance at a reasonable price without compromising on essential features.Who’s It For:
PC builders and gamers seeking a great value without sacrificing crucial features.Why We Picked It:
The B660 chipset is a popular choice for budget-conscious builders, and the MAG B660 Tomahawk Wi-Fi excels in this category. While it doesn’t allow CPU overclocking, it does offer memory overclocking, which is a significant benefit at this price point. The board features a sleek all-black design and a robust feature set. It includes three M.2 slots with PCIe Gen 4.0 speeds, a primary PCIe x16 slot with Gen 4 support, and a secondary PCIe x16 slot with Gen 3.0 support. Power delivery is handled by a 12+2 phase VRM system with dual 8-pin power connectors, and there’s ample cooling for the VRMs, chipset, and M.2 slots to ensure stability. In terms of I/O, you’ll find Realtek 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi 6 for fast networking, nine USB ports (including four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports and a 20Gbps USB-C port), a full set of audio ports with S/PDIF, and HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4 ports. Overall, this motherboard offers excellent value for its price.5. Asus Prime H610M-A: The Best Sub-$100 Motherboard for Intel CPUs
Why You Should Buy This:
If you’re building an entry-level Intel system with older 12th or 13th generation CPUs, the Asus Prime H610M-A is the perfect budget-friendly choice.Who’s It For:
Those building an entry-level Intel system with older CPUs.Why We Picked It:
Priced under $100, the H610M-A provides a solid foundation for building a basic system with CPUs like the Core i3-12100 or i3-12300, and it can handle Core i5s as well. Keep in mind that the H610 chipset doesn’t allow overclocking, so this motherboard is ideal for entry-level builds. The motherboard includes onboard heatsinks and thermal pads for cooling the VRMs and chipset, along with fan headers and temperature sensors to ensure system stability. It supports up to 64GB of DDR4 3200 memory with XMP profiles for enhanced performance. For storage, it offers two M.2 slots and four SATA 6Gb/s ports, and the PCIe 4.0 x16 slot supports modern graphics cards and other add-on cards. The rear I/O includes a variety of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, USB 2.0 ports, DisplayPort, HDMI, D-Sub port, Intel 1Gb Ethernet port, and a full set of audio jacks. It also features addressable RGB headers for adding a bit of flair to your build.### Choosing the Right Motherboard: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important motherboard features to consider?
When choosing a motherboard, several key features deserve your attention:
*
CPU Socket:
This determines which CPU you can use. Make sure the motherboard supports the CPU you have chosen.*
Chipset:
The chipset dictates the motherboard’s capabilities, including features like overclocking, PCIe versions, and USB port types.*
VRMs:
Voltage Regulator Modules (VRMs) handle power delivery to the CPU. Look for motherboards with robust VRMs for better stability and overclocking potential.*
Memory Support:
The motherboard’s memory support determines the types of RAM modules you can use and the maximum capacity.*
Storage:
Consider the number and types of storage slots, including M.2 slots and SATA ports.*
Connectivity:
Look for features like built-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet speeds (2.5Gbps or 1Gbps), and a variety of USB ports, including USB-C and USB4.How much should I spend on a motherboard?
The cost of a motherboard can range significantly. Entry-level motherboards for budget builds can be found under $100, while high-end motherboards packed with advanced features can exceed $500. Consider your budget and the specific features you need to determine the appropriate price point for your motherboard.
Is overclocking worth it?
Overclocking can boost your CPU’s performance, but it requires a motherboard with stable VRMs and adequate cooling. It’s not necessary for all users, but if you want to squeeze every ounce of performance from your CPU, it can be a worthwhile endeavor.
What motherboard is right for me?
The best motherboard for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider the following factors:
*
Your CPU choice:
Choose a motherboard that supports the CPU you’ve selected.*
Your budget:
Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a motherboard based on its features and performance.*
Your needs:
Consider the specific features you require, such as Wi-Fi, high-speed Ethernet, or specific storage configurations.By taking these factors into account, you can find the perfect motherboard for your PC build and unleash the full potential of your hardware.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions and find the ideal motherboard for your needs. Happy building!