The motherboard is the vital component of your computer that ties everything else together. We have tested boards on popular chipsets to choose the best ones and present you with our rating.
It is the motherboard that dictates to the gamer which ones he can use. In addition, it limits the use of data storage devices and. With our help, with our test results of all the best boards from Asus, Gigabyte, MSI and ASRock, you'll be able to decide what to end up choosing for your PC.
During this kind of selection, a gamer usually has to consider many options, but the most important choice, of course, is the need to decide on a processor that will breathe life into your new computer: will be either Intel. Over the past year, the red team has launched the Ryzen platform and a new line of AM4 motherboards, making it hard to choose.
We love very much motherboards from Asus, and ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming is a great option for those who want to build on the basis of any of latest processors Intel. Overclocking is easy with a simple yet comprehensive BIOS. In addition, the device offers an impressive level of connectivity.
We also really like the Asus ROG Strix X470-F - this motherboard is great for PCs with AMD processors. We chose the X470 over the X570 version simply because of the huge price premium for a PCIe 4.0 link and the lack of a measurable performance difference.
However, there are plenty of other options on the market, and MSI and Gigabyte have a lot to offer…
Chipset: Z390 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form-factor: ATX | Multi GPU:
Average price: 17,470 rubles
The Asus ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming marks the entry level in the high-end ROG range. Despite this high-end heritage, the peripheral is quite well suited for hardcore gamers and users who like to overclock their system. The Z390-E packs enough ROG features without going overboard.
The Z390 chipset doesn't offer as many features as the Z370 predecessor, but AI overclocking and a few repeated updates to a proven formula make the Z390 a worthy improvement.
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Chipset: Z390 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form-factor: ATX | Multi GPU: 2x Nvidia SLI, 3x AMD CrossFire
Average price: 14 820 rubles
There is quite a bit of difference between the MSI Z390 and the quality STRIX board above. Asus really only wins because its product doesn't need any custom tweaking to get the processor to perform at its best, and memory overclocking is just a matter of setting the XMP switch in the BIOS. MSI Gaming The Pro Carbon AC is still more than capable of matching CPU and gaming performance, easily hitting the same 5.2GHz overclock with the i7-8700K.
The "AC" version has a discrete 802.11ac WiFi card, reinforced PCIe slots, and two M.2 connectors. One of them has an M.2 heatsink to help keep the NVMe drive cool. The device also features more easily accessible USB ports on the back of the board and a nice RGB color scheme.
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Chipset: Z390 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form factor: ATX | MultiGPU: 2x Nvidia SLI, 2x AMD CrossFire
Average price: 12,870 rubles
The Asus TUF board delivers Coffee Lake performance at a much lower cost than MSI or Asus STRIX. The feature set is slightly smaller - protection is only in one PCIe slot, and printed circuit board more fragile - but it still has excellent overclocking features, as well as Asus' multi-core expansion.
This makes the board fast when working with any K-series processor. It also means you have gaming performance without the need for any tweaks other than keeping the RAM running at XMP settings.
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Chipset: Z390 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form-factor: Mini-ITX
Average price: 16,060 rubles
Mini-ITX motherboards are amazing. However, if the form factor alone isn't enough to convince you, the Asus ROG Strix Z390-I Gaming also has an excellent set of functionality on a compact motherboard. You get 8 cores and 16 threads, which will make even the weakest PC much more powerful.
The peripherals have some serious functionality despite their tiny size. While the chipset has little to offer over its Z370 predecessor, Asus has added a lot additional features to make the next generation worthy. As for the small eight-core ones, the Z390-I is what you need.
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Chipset: X470 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Yes (with BIOS update)
Average price: 10 850 rubles
We still recommend pairing the Asus ROG Strix X470-F Gaming with your favorite Ryzen processors. This is because while AMD released the X570 chipset for the 7nm Ryzen 3000 series processors, backwards compatibility has been maintained and this motherboard has proven itself when it comes to performance.
The device also delivers higher base overclocking performance than other X470 boards and even matches almost exactly the latest X570. While the peripherals are expensive, they are cheaper than newer alternatives and incredibly feature rich.
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Chipset: X570 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes
Average price: 17,060 rubles
Even the “budget” X570 is a significant investment. After all, the board was actually made for the most ardent gamers. However, the cheaper motherboards in the lineup today offer the best combination of performance, features and affordability if you absolutely must have the latest technology.
Asus TUF Gaming X570-Plus (Wi-Fi) is the cheapest motherboard from the X570 line we tested and therefore makes it the most cost-effective entry point into the PCIe 4.0 ecosystem. The device will still cost a lot more money than previous AM4 TUF Gaming motherboards required, but if you can't settle for anything less then the more than capable TUF is the way to go.
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Chipset: X470 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes (with BIOS update)
Average price: 11,400 rubles
MSI's Gaming Pro Carbon is one of the most affordable X470s out there, but don't think this board isn't packed with features. Apart from LED backlight RGB inspired by the Fast & Furious franchise, MSI also made sure the device had all the basic specs while still looking aesthetically pleasing.
Chipset: X570 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes
Average price: 23,400 rubles
All in all, it's hard to recommend the high-end X570 motherboard. This investment won't bring much performance, and many of the bonus features included with these motherboards are of no use to all but the most hardcore processor enthusiasts. However, if you really need to have the best in everything, MSI MEG X570 Ace is what you need.
The board has a powerful feature set, with reinforced slots, Killer network support, and three SSM NVMe ports. In addition, there is built-in RGB LED lighting, which looks quite aesthetically pleasing. All this is not exclusive to Ace, but when combined with PCIe 4.0 support, the scales tilt in its favor.
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Chipset: X570 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes
Average price: 22,230 rubles
The Strix X570-E is certainly an attractive proposition. When you're shopping for components for your gaming PC, part of you will always want to splurge on a motherboard, and the X570-E is the perfect buy with tons of USB ports, superb style, and great performance.
The Strix X570-E is actually quite comparable to the Crosshair below, though more suited to the hardcore enthusiast. However, even without the absurd features, which are mostly about pushing prices to the stratosphere, the X570 chipset is still expensive, and even the Strix X570-E can't avoid it. So this product best considered if you are less concerned about spending all your hard-earned money.
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Chipset: X570 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes
Average price: 29,840 rubles
The Republic of Gamers brand from Asus is always a top-notch product. The Strix X470 beats the Crosshair VIII at the top of the charts for its bargain price, but if money isn't an issue, the Crosshair VIII takes all the glory for itself.
It all depends on the build quality and feature set of the ROG board. This is the most USB-enhanced motherboard of all, and if you really spend so much on peripherals, then it should be just that!
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Chipset: B350 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: ATX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes (with BIOS update)
Average price: 6 800 rubles
Gigabyte's B350 board is a device we'd love to pair with Ryzen (even Ryzen 3000). Peripherals are not too expensive, and with correct settings it is one of the most powerful of all AM4 boards. The downside is that it heats up at peak and idle temperatures, and this is confirmed by the fact that it also consumes the most energy when running at full power.
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Chipset: X470 | Socket: AM4 | Form factor: Mini-ITX | Support for 3rd generation Ryzen: Yes (with BIOS update)
Average price: 15,799 rubles
Size doesn't matter, does it? IN this case this is absolutely true, since Asus X470-I cannot be judged only by volume. This tiny motherboard manages to combine a lot of features and sufficient performance.
Inevitably, the board has some dips in general indicators performance compared to other top-end products, but given what features Asus has managed to put in here, it's a marvel.
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Chipset: Z370 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form factor: ATX | mGPU: 2x SLI, 3x CF
Average price:16 840 rubles
An intermediate link between the power of MSI Z370 and the quality of STRIX. Asus ranks higher only because it does not require any effort from the user to overclock the processor and memory, you only need to enable XMP in the BIOS. But the MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon AC is more capable of competing with the STRIX, pushing the i7-8700K to 5.2GHz with a little tweaking of frequencies. After all, if you have a K-series processor, it's stupid not to overclock it, right?
"AC" means discrete 802.11ac Wi-Fi, reinforced PCIe slots, and two M.2 connectors. One of these connectors is covered with a special shield that acts as a heatsink for NVME drive, but not as hard as in MSI X299 or Asus Z370. The MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon AC has more accessible rear USB ports and more RGB LEDs if you like them. And it's also cheaper.
Chipset: Z370 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form factor: ATX | mGPU: 2x SLI, 2x CF
Average price:10 990 rubles
The inexpensive (for top-end) Asus TUF board squeezes much less out of Coffee Lake processors than the more expensive MSI and Asus STRIX. It has only one reinforced PCIe slot, and the PCB itself is slightly thinner than the rest, but, nevertheless, the Asus TUF Z370-Pro Gaming has all the proprietary overclocking potential that allows you to ignore the limitations set by Intel.
She is, as they say, short on all K-series processors, and can overclock them without having to wander around. BIOS settings except, of course, the inclusion XMP Profile.
Chipset: B360 | Socket: LGA 1151v2 | Form factor: ATX | mGPU: Quad CF/2xSLI
Average price:7 269 rubles
Boards based on the B360 chipset are the best choice for budget gaming PCs. The H370s are often too expensive, not to mention the Z370s, which, however, offer much more features.
The MSI B360M Mortar has more overall performance, is cheaper, smaller and more versatile, but Gigabyte's board has wireless capability. Yes, MSI is the best choice, but Aorus is a great option too.
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What should I look for when buying motherboards? The first is its size. Currently, the most common form factors are Mini-ITX (17x17cm), Micro-ATX (24.4x24.4cm), and ATX (30.5x24.4cm). Ideally, the form factor of the motherboard should match the dimensions of the case, but quite often larger cases are used to provide better cooling of components.
The second thing to keep in mind when choosing a motherboard is compatibility with your central processing unit. For chips manufactured by Intel and AMD, as well as for different generations of these processors, there are different sockets (sockets) into which they are inserted.
For current Intel chips, two sockets are currently used - LGA 1151 and LGA 2011-v3, for AMD - FM2+ and AM3+. At the same time, it must be taken into account that we are talking not only that the processor must be physically compatible with the socket. Before buying, be sure to make sure that the BIOS / UEFI of the motherboard also supports the processor you have chosen.
If you want to equip your PC with more random access memory, pay attention to the number of corresponding slots - there should be four of them on the motherboard. There are models in which you cannot insert more than two slats. Among other important specifications Things to look out for are USB 3.0 ports, an M.2 SSD slot, and RAID support. CHIP editors have selected some great motherboards for Intel and AMD processors.
Asus ROG Maximus VIII Extreme Gaming: luxury equipment at the right price. For processors of the Skylake family, Intel has shipped the LGA 1151 socket. On motherboards, it is combined with various chipsets. Cheap models - with a B150 chipset or an even more “stripped down” H110. In this case, functionality such as USB 3.1 and RAID is missing.
In addition, you will have to manage with only two slots for RAM. Nevertheless, the basic equipment of boards with these sockets is quite solid - SATA 6 Gb / s, USB 3.0 and a gigabit LAN port. Examples of such motherboards are or ASUS B150I-Pro Gaming.
A completely different matter is the Z170 chipset, which is the recommended choice for gamers, enthusiasts, and Skylake overclockers. He can be found on ASUS ROG Maximus VIII Extreme Gaming. The cost of this motherboard is extremely high, but the list of equipment has everything that can be currently: 4 USB port 3.1, SATA 6 Gb/s RAID, M.2 SSD support and 4 DDR4 RAM slots.
ASRock X99M Extreme4: motherboards with X99 chipset are relatively expensive, but equipped very well. The LGA 2011-v3 socket belongs to the top segment and is compatible with powerful expensive processors of the Haswell-E family manufactured by Intel. It can work with both Core processors for desktop computers, which contain up to 8 cores, and with Xeon server processors, which can have up to 18 cores. At the same time, Intel gives you the opportunity to choose between two chipsets - X99 and C612.
For those who do not plan to build a server based on Xeon processors, it would be more correct to choose the X99 chipset. But be careful: these things are expensive. A model like ASRock X99M Extreme4 costs about 15,000 rubles, but her equipment is quite generous. In particular, you can install up to 128 GB of RAM into your computer.
In addition, there are 10 SATA 6Gb / s interfaces, RAID and a fast M.2 slot for SSD drives. Get even more options with ASUS X99-E: in particular, we note the presence of 2 USB 3.1 ports, 14 USB 3.0 ports, 2 gigabit Ethernet ports and 8 slots for RAM.
MSI H81M-P33 Plus A: A very affordable motherboard. The LGA 1150 socket for Intel Haswell and Broadwell processors (4th and 5th generation Core) is no longer relevant. Its official successor is LGA 1151 for Skylake processors. However, it is still worth taking a look at motherboards with this connector, as there are currently very profitable offers, an example of which is MSI H81M-P33 Plus worth less than 4000 rubles. Of course, such an advantageous purchase entails compromises: there are only 2 slots for RAM and the number of USB and SATA ports is very limited.
Caution is always needed when choosing a chipset. For example, C222 is intended for server solutions and is used in GigaByte GA-6LASL. The top desktop socket is the Z97, which is installed in MSI Z97A Gaming 6. Among the main equipment features of this motherboard are USB 3.1 and Type-C ports, M.2 slots and RAID support.
ASRock FM2A68M-HD+: AMD-systems are well suited primarily for low-cost projects. Intel dominates the processor market, but AMD should by no means be written off. The rival of sockets 1150 and 1151 from the AMD camp is FM2+. At the same time, in technical terms, the AMD representative is not in the most advantageous position: for example, only DDR3 RAM is supported, the processor can have no more than 4 cores, and the maximum USB port standard is 3.0. On the other hand, the integrated graphics are good, and a motherboard with such a chipset is very attractive in terms of price. One example is ASRock FM2A68M-HD+.
Another option from AMD is socket AM3+. Soon it should be replaced so that we can talk about the same level with Intel. Available purchases with AM3+ currently include ASUS M5A97 Evo R2.0 or ASUS M5A78L-M. It is important to remember that a bus is used here. PCI Express 2.0, which can be compared to a brake integrated into the system.
We present you five top motherboards of 2017 from leading manufacturers. All models are designed to create the most powerful gaming systems, equipped with the latest electronics.
Our choice is subjective, the main selection criteria are reliability, good overclocking potential and all the necessary connectors and functions for advanced users. We also included one motherboard for mining in 2017.
This 2017 motherboard model has excellent overclocking potential and is equipped with “thermal armor”, as it is called, or Thermal Armor. This is an advanced innovative cooling system designed for extreme loads. The model is designed for gamers, enthusiasts and modders who need to work around the clock.
The Intel X299 chipset allows you to install the most powerful processors X-series with Socket 2066. These can be i5-7640X, i7-7820X or the top-end i9-7980XE Extreme Edition, which provide unsurpassed performance.
As for other features, the motherboard has a very accurate hardware control monitoring ASUS TUF ICe, which allows you to get comprehensive information from sensors about the operation of all system components (fans, temperature, etc.).
The Pro Clock II clock generator and T-shaped topology allow for maximum memory overclocking and better results. The overclocking potential of DDR4 RAM slots is up to 4133 MHz. The maximum volume is 64 GB.
In addition, there is support for connecting up to 3 video cards in SLI/CrossFireX mode via PCI Express 3.0 slots. You can connect up to 8 drives via SATA 12 Gb/s, and there is also an M.2 connector and an optional expansion of this function.
Of the external connectors, there are: two gigabit LAN, four USB 3.1 Type-A and one USB 3.1 Type-C. Also, the model is equipped with super reliable and durable capacitors, cool sound, advanced software center for fine tuning and backlight. Price — from $340 ( 20 000 rub.).
Great 2017 gaming motherboard with support for the latest AMD processors Ryzen and the entire line of 7th generation processors AMD Athlon running on AMD B350 chipset and sAM4 socket. The standout feature of the model is customizable RGB FUSION lighting that can create stunning color shows. It is configured using an application on a smartphone thanks to a Wi-Fi connection.
Further interesting is the Smart Fan 5 function, which provides control over all fans, creating optimal conditions for overclocking and the best cooling. You can install up to 3 graphics cards on PCI Express 3.0 slots and connect them in AMD CrossFire mode. You can also implement up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM with a maximum overclocking potential of up to 3200 MHz.
An improved BIOS interface gives you access to more advanced hardware settings for managing power, cooling, and other motherboard systems. Let's highlight the ALC 1220 headphone audio codec, which provides an excellent signal / noise level of up to 120 dB. The amplifier has an intellectual component. It also uses audio capacitors from the Japanese company Nichicon.
Otherwise, there are 6 SATA 6 Gb / s connectors, 4 USB 3.1 ports and 5 USB 2.0 ports, gigabit LAN, as well as S / PDIF and HDMI. We also highlight the USB DAC-UP 2 technology for connecting external devices such as headsets virtual reality, powerful audio caps, external HDD and SDD drives that require reliable power and fast data transfers. Price — $150 ( 10 000 rub).
Excellent 2017 motherboard based on Intel X99 chip, which allows you to use Intel processors Core i7 and Xeon on the LGA 2011 socket. The capabilities of the model allow it to be used to create powerful computer for every need. It doesn't matter what you do - 3D graphics development, architecture or just playing modern games.
Four PCI Express 3.0 video card slots allow you to create powerful graphics systems like NVIDIA Quadro and AMD FirePro. Also, the motherboard is equipped with 18 SATA3 ports, where 10 ports work with the X99 chipset and 8 more ports with the LSI SAS 3008 controller. The total bandwidth is 6.1 Gb / s. There is also a pair of Ultra M.2 connectors with a total bandwidth of 32 GB/s.
In addition, the motherboard supports 12 Power Phase power technology, which provides high reliability at maximum load and, as a result, excellent overclocking potential. The components are cooled by an XXL aluminum heatsink that covers all the important elements and ensures efficient heat dissipation.
The latest Premium 60A Power Choke and Premium Alloy Choke memory chokes deliver better voltage and are immune to EMI. Eight DDR4 sockets with overclocking up to 3200 MHz allow you to install up to 128 GB of RAM. Also, the model has excellent 7.1 system sound, gigabit internet, four USB 3.1 and two USB 2.0. The motherboard is very expensive - $ 800 ( 48 000 rub.).
The next model is a mining motherboard of 2017, which is equipped with 11 PCI-E x1 slots and 1 PCI-E x16 slot, which allows you to hook up the appropriate number of graphics cards to it and create a very profitable farm for 24/7 cryptocurrencies (from one motherboard to 250 Mh\s for 79 days). Uses the Intel B250 chipset, allowing you to connect processors Intel Core entire series with LGA 1151 socket.
Otherwise, the model received a pair of DDR4 RAM slots (2400 MHz), six SATA 6 Gb / s connectors, Realtek ALC887 8-channel audio, four USB 3.0, a pair of USB 2.0, DVI-D, audio and gigabit LAN.
The capabilities of the motherboard allow you to immediately mine on six AMD RX 470 and six NVIDIA GTX 1060, as the manufacturer himself claims. Proper setup and connection of all video cards will provide even very good mining. In this regard, the model deserves special attention, so we included it in the review.
To ensure the stable operation of the entire 12 graphics card system, the motherboard is equipped with the most reliable and durable components. As well as a system that optimizes power supply and a software set of utilities for monitoring the operation of cooling, voltage and other parameters. The TB250-BTC PRO is surprisingly not very expensive - about $120 ( 7500 rub.).
The best motherboard of 2017 for building a gaming PC based on modern processors AMD RYZEN or latest 7th generation Athlon family on socket AM4. The model is positioned as a bulletproof gaming device with the latest components and features to ensure unsurpassed performance.
Supports 4 slots for DDR4 RAM with overclocking potential up to 3200 MHz. The Steel Armor system gives an even greater boost to RAM performance. The motherboard allows you to connect up to 3 video cards via PCI Express 3.0 slots in AMD CrossFire modes.
Also, the model is sharpened for virtual reality and supports all possible extensions for this - VR Ready and VR Boost. You can enjoy the game without brakes in a virtual reality helmet. Still have backlight Mystic Light Extension and Mystic Light Sync that adds style to your gaming PC.
In addition, the MSI X370 XPOWER is equipped with advanced cooling and a corresponding advanced utility software package for fine-tuning and monitoring the entire system. The Nahimic 2 chip is responsible for the sound, which provides a HI-Fi level of sound. It is simply impossible to briefly list all the possibilities, but we assure you that the model is very worthwhile. The price is also rather big and averages $350 ( 21 000 rub.).
Motherboard, motherboard or in the common people "board" - a complex and basic basic component in assembling a computer, which serves to accommodate all the elements to start the system. The main materials of execution are textolite and getinax, created using special printing technologies. Motherboards are available in several main form factors:
Mini-ATXs are used to build entry level systems or mini builds to save space and budget. Their main disadvantage is the lack of enough space to upgrade and install powerful components. Micro-ATX is installed in mid-range systems and allows you to place both low-budget and some top-end components. ATX are used when assembling top-end systems that require not only a lot of space for the component base (for example, video cards or cooling systems), but also quality materials the board itself to withstand heavy loads.
We've rounded up the top 15 best motherboards to build. gaming computers on the most popular and relevant sockets in 2019.
AM4 is designed to replace the obsolete platform with AM3 +, depriving it of its shortcomings and at the same time compete with the now popular LGA1151. Its main innovations include:
The main disadvantage was the partial incompatibility of boards with previous sockets - only a few models have support for them.
The best cheap board on the market for AM4
Country: China
Average price: 6237 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
The board has 3 reinforced power phases and 3 regular ones, albeit in the lower arm and containing a pair of mosfets. Both VRM zones are covered with heatsinks modest size, but thanks to the cuts, they have an increased dissipation area for better heat dissipation. 6 cores will be hard to overclock, but it will not work on the bus, since not a single “board” on a 450 chipset has such functions.
Traditionally, the board has a curve for ASRock BIOS. Buyers in their reviews praise the many ports. By default, there are 5 slots for connecting coolers or water cooling systems. In order not to take a steam bath once again and not burn the system, it is recommended to have a well-ventilated case or purchase additional turntables. Given the price, it turned out to be an excellent product, with the exception of a random masfette, which changes from delivery to delivery.
The coldest motherboard
Country: China
Average price: 9000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
The power system holds the overclocking of any six-core machine and is quite capable of pulling the Ryzen 2700 at 4 GHz without any overlays. This is the coldest B450 board on the market thanks to its sturdy power supply and horse-sized heatsink.
The only hot spot is the controller. There is no offset here, but there is the possibility of offline BIOS flashing. "Tomahawk" has 4 slots for high-frequency RAM with a maximum rate of 3466 MHz. Supports Ryzen processors first and second generation. MSI did a great job and if it was still possible to get to the bottom of the B350 chipset, then TOMAHAWK will withstand any criticism and give a big head start to competitors, despite not the best sound and network, which is justified by the manufacturer's desire to stuff the power supply to the maximum.
Excellent VRM equipment
Country: China
Average price: 11800 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
The board has 4 + 2 reinforced power phases, each of which has acquired a double set of components. In the latest generation, MSI gave up under a flurry of criticism and stopped buying second-rate elements, catching up with ASUS in quality. For the money, it has the best VRM equipment, even taking into account fewer phases than the famous ASUS Prime. In general, it is also heated, but it costs less.
Among the shortcomings, there is the impossibility of overclocking on the bus and the traditionally good overclocking potential of the memory. There is no clock generator and voltage offset. The ability to overclock the APU's integrated graphics has also been cut out. Thus, the board became an example of how you can save on minor things for the sake of more important things. Mediocre sound and network are compensated by a high efficiency power supply, which is also not without heating under load.
Motherboards for office or study
Motherboards for work purposes are much cheaper than gaming counterparts. They have a weak component base, they may lack protection against voltage surges, and there will be few power circuits in general. They can also be limited by the frequencies of the supported RAM, its volume. The BIOS is severely limited in functionality.
Gaming Motherboards
Here is the complete opposite. For a good gaming board, you need 4 slots for RAM with a capacity of 16 GB or more. In this case, it is recommended to use a RAM with frequencies from 1866 MHz and higher. An excellent option would be a model with powerful cooling radiators and at least 5 power circuits, so that in the event of overclocking, the “board” does not burn out. It is worth noting that there are game boards on sale without overclocking, but you need to use them very carefully. The BIOS of a good board will have an interface for overclocking the bus and other PC components.
The best combination of characteristics
Country: China
Average price: 16106 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
The Gaming PRO version has 1 more power phase, which has a positive effect on temperatures and the behavior of the board as a whole. As a result, MSI engineers managed to make a top power supply among pre-top motherboards. It is characterized by excellent memory overclocking, a simple and understandable BIOS with fast navigation. A conveniently located reset button on the I / O panel will also please the owner who decides to play around with the settings.
This board opened a new era for MSI by stopping voltage drops during overclocking. This feature does not have the best effect on temperatures and power consumption in idle, but oddly enough, it fully complies with AMD specifications. Not suitable for APU overclocking due to missing BIOS settings. The maximum amount of supported RAM is 64 GB with a frequency of up to 3466 MHz.
The LGA 1150 socket has replaced the LGA 1155 and is designed for most modern processors. If you don't care about overclocking, get boards from MSI or GIGYBITE. Want to save money on an external sound card? Then pay attention to the "boards" with a built-in of at least Realtek 1150. The combination of all of the above will give you a quality base for the assembly inexpensive computer for both work and play.
Choice of buyers and miners
Country: China
Average price: 3430 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.1
Among eminent competitors, the board from Esonic was lost. This is a rather modest "board", created exclusively for office purposes and to drive simple browser toys without any hint of serious games or pumping.
2 slots for DDR3 RAM, a total of 4 power phases and an abundance of USB slots indicate that the place for this board is only in the office - to print documents or just watch movies. Of the benefits - there are Japanese capacitors. There are 4 SATA extensions, which will allow miners to attach 6 video cards to the board at once.
Best price. One of the best selling socket 1150 motherboards
Country: China
Average price: 4940 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6
The third place rightfully went to the mother ASUS board B85M-G. It can be attributed to the best-selling models that are equipped with an Intel LGA1150 socket. The cost of the device is quite low, so it is very popular. Perfect option for those who want to save money, and at the same time collect good system multimedia for home or office computer.
All external interfaces have reliable protection, the panel is made of steel, which does not corrode. The model is especially relevant for the office, as the manufacturer has equipped it with COM and LTP ports. In the presented motherboard, the cooling system is based on high-quality solid-type capacitors, which guarantee durability even at critical temperature conditions (up to 105 degrees).
Job USB interfaces 3.0 accelerates up to 170% when interacting with any compatible peripherals, as they support the UASP protocol. As for the management and settings, even a beginner will figure it out. Software Al Suite 3 is characterized by simplicity and wide functionality.
For entry-level overclocking
Country: China
Average price: 5879 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
With recent BIOS versions, the board is capable of delivering up to 1.35 volts to the processor, although this is not the maximum that is needed. However, these indicators are quite enough for most users who want to have 4.6-4.7 GHz in overclocking.
Outwardly, it seems quite simple and has only 2 external USB 3.0 ports, plus two ordinary ones - laughter, and nothing more. built-in sound card also doesn't stand out. However, the abundance of PCIe slots captivates. There are only 2 slots for RAM with a total capacity of no more than 16 GB and a frequency of 1866 MHz. Buyers in their reviews note that this model can be safely used for mining, it has excellent compatibility with GTX1080 Ti video cards and is characterized by a good cooling system. Please note that there is another port above the video card slot, which makes it possible to install any overall cooler to provide vertical blowing.
Despite the undisputed leadership of ASUS in the market of motherboards, their products for socket 1150 are pure overpayment. They are not distinguished by textolite, not by overclocking capabilities, not by components, but the manufacturer asks for his creations on average more than others. Even rather disputable mainboards from MSI look more solid than ASUS with a round piece.
No overclocking restrictions
Country: China
Average price: 5925 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
The board has no overclocking restrictions, for which it has become one of the most popular and relatively inexpensive options. It supports many processors, the list of which is as follows:
The BIOS has built-in protection and an emergency recovery system in case of overheating or critical errors. The maximum amount of supported RAM is 32 GB of DDR3 format with a frequency of no more than 1600 MHz. There is support for the CrossFire system.
The LGA 1150 socket has replaced the LGA 1155 and is designed for most modern processors. If you don't care about overclocking, get boards from MSI or GIGYBITE. Want to save money on an external sound card? Then pay attention to the "boards" with a built-in not lower than Realtek 1150 and not worse. The combination of all of the above will give you a quality base for building an inexpensive computer for both work and play.
Best price
Country: China
Average price: 3400 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
This model, unlike ASUS MAXIMUS VIII HERO, allows you to deploy a full-fledged gaming system with a relatively modest investment. The main trump card of the H110M PRO-VD is a large number of connectors: for devices with USB support 3.1, there are 8 of them here, and for SATA - as many as 6 (the bandwidth of each is up to 6 Gb / s). It is possible to install DDR4 RAM with a frequency of 2133 to 3600 MHz. For this, there are 4 slots, which makes it possible to equip your PC with up to 64 GB of high-speed and energy-efficient RAM.
The built-in sound chip from Realtek can also be added to the list of pluses - many manufacturers of expensive motherboards do not consider it necessary to add it to their solutions. In general, the H110M PRO-VD is not much inferior in terms of hardware capabilities to ASUS MAXIMUS VIII HERO, giving the latter a 30% head start in price. The reason for this is passive cooling: maximum loads PC based ASUS MAXIMUS VIII HERO performance drop will be more noticeable.
Great choice of ATX format
Country: China
Average price: 7949 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Not everyone will like the fact that the radiators here are only on the left side and there are only 6 standard external USBs. But in this case, given that the case will be for ATX and there are 7 expansion slots, you can remove the memory sticks with external USB ports. There is a Z370M Pro4 variant on the market - the same, only Micro ATX and with the same problems. Although, in games there is no difference whether there are radiators around the socket or not - the 5 GHz frequency will be stable.
The maximum supported amount of RAM is 64 GB, in total 4 slots are available with support for DDR4 up to high-frequency 4266 MHz. Buyers in their reviews praise the convenient BIOS, good overclocking capabilities and the lack of ready-made profiles for overclocking. And advice: do not buy identical models on the H chipset - they are more expensive and there are no heatsinks on the socket. Be careful when buying - many manufacturers indicate support for SLI, but given function available only on single versions.
Cool board with great features
Country: China
Average price: 12690 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Powerful heatsinks, a cool sound card, the ability to print additional accessories on a 3D printer - this is just a small part of all the possibilities that Z370 KRAIT GAMING can provide you. For lovers of pleasant appearance backlight available. There is also SLI, but only 4000 MHz memory is officially supported. Therefore, there may be a feeling that everything is cool, but something is missing. Enjoy high-quality sound Audio Boost 4 with Nahimic 2+ technology will help. It will help give your headset a studio-quality touch without noise or interference.
In case of problems, the built-in EZ Debug debugging system will help you, and of course the convenient Click BIOS 5. 2 slots for M.2 will help you easily install a pair additional modules to expand functionality. The only catch is a small overpayment for a strange design, which you can safely do without.
For overclocking to 4.9 GHz on the bus
Country: China
Average price: 6740 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
The board is perfect for those who want to build a computer with high processor frequencies. With it, you can overclock the i7-6700 processor to 4.9 GHz on the bus or up to 5 GHz on the multiplier in the case of the i7-7700K. 4 slots for RAM with a frequency of 3400 MHz and up to 64 GB is an excellent indicator for its category. What pleases is the simultaneous support for SLI and CrossFireX technologies.
The board is made in a simple and effective design without frills, the cooling of the power phases is just on top. New drivers are released on the site approximately every 1-2 months. CPU Installation Tool is better not to use, but to install the processor in the old fashioned way, so as not to break anything. The BIOS has many settings and the average user will have to read the manual and watch the guides to get comfortable with the controls.
Socket AM2+ was AMD's answer to the Intel LGA1150. These solutions combine two features: versatility and affordability of motherboards based on them. A bonus for buyers was the AMD AM1 module, which provides compatibility with subsequent generations of processors. AMD's next step was the more productive AM3+, created specifically for the FX processor line and designed for overclocking top systems. Its characteristic features are the lack of integrated graphics, a "hot" northbridge and good overclocking potential. At the same time, the matter is not limited to setting the multiplier - you need to “drive” it along the bus, forgetting about voltage and RAM, the frequency of which for efficient operation should not be less than 1866 MHz.
After an unexpected disclosure, as tech bloggers say, “danced” AM3 +, AMD significantly pressed Intel, finishing off a competitor with a line of budget “stones” of the A4-A10 series.
The best choice for office systems and gaming PCs without overclocking
Country: China
Average price: 4173 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7
This is an entry-level board that is not designed for overclocking due to the 760G chipset, relatively weak cooling system and a small number of power circuits. It is able to “start” RAM with frequencies up to 1866 MHz, but there are only 2 slots for RAM and one dual-channel mode. The maximum amount of RAM is only 16 GB and it is not able to see more.
It is simply not recommended to drive the processor above 4.1 GHz, otherwise you will see reboots and blue screens of death. Solid capacitors do not swell under loads and are made very soundly. From the factory it often comes with the latest or penultimate BIOS version, but it itself is already obsolete. It is not recommended to install processors with a TPD above 95 watts, otherwise the power circuits will warm up and the circuits themselves will melt. Sometimes there are defective versions with luminous sound system at more than 50% volume.
Ideal choice for mid-level builds
Country: China
Average price: 5074 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
Meet the popular favorite, the choice of which fell on the majority of buyers. Using this plan is comparable to playing the Paganini violin - it is very difficult, but if you delve into the nuances, it can give the most vivid sensations from gameplay. The optimal frequencies for FX are from 4.0 to 4.2 GHz, which increases heat dissipation to 125 watts, respectively, the north bridge and power circuits can no longer cope with such a load and require the placement of additional coolers with a diameter of 40 mm, otherwise overheating will occur in 10-15 minutes.
The new BIOS shows itself well, now configurable not only with the keyboard but also with the mouse. The board has a slot for USB connections 3.0, as well as 8 ports on the rear panel, 6 of which are USB 2.0. Realtek 7.1 is responsible for the sound, and the maximum supported frequency of RAM reaches 2000 MHz with a volume of up to 32 GB. Users in their reviews recommend not to get involved in overclocking without additional airflow, otherwise about system unit you can safely warm your hands.
Best overclocking board for AM3+
Country: China
Average price: 10770 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0
This is the best and currently available motherboard for FX, Phenom, Athlon 2, Sempron 100 processors. And at the same time the most expensive one. It is not distinguished by the number of slots for RAM - there are 4 of them according to the classics. But the main trump card is the increased frequency of the OP - up to 2133 MHz. The maximum volume is 32 GB, which is enough for the eyes for all possible operations. On the periphery of the case, powerful bridge radiators for passive cooling with heat pipes are installed.
An important element is the many 4-pin connectors for connecting fans, as additional turntables are often required to improve air circulation. The presence of 8 power phases at once is also pleasing, because of which you don’t have to worry about protecting the board from “burning out”. With a full and proper upgrade, the board can handle 5.1 GHz of the FX8300 processor without any problems. The main material of execution is a strong hardboard for increased loads and heavy "tower" cooling systems.
How to choose a motherboard?
When choosing motherboards, rely on the following aspects:
For Socket LGA1151, motherboards based on Intel 100 chipsets are available today, which has received a number of advantages over its predecessor. Intel switched to a DMI (Direct Media Interface) interface between the CPU and the third generation chipset. This reduces the likelihood of a bottleneck compared to the second generation.
Also at Intel chipsets 100 increased the number of PCI Express lanes. We get 20 PCIe Gen3 lanes on the flagship Z170-PCH, motherboard manufacturers use this abundance to connect various built-in functions. For example, an M.2 interface with an M-key can now easily connect four PCIe 3.0 lanes, which gives a theoretical throughput 32 Gbps. As for the SATA ports, we still get six 6 Gb / s interfaces. Many motherboard manufacturers provide two ports per SATA interface Express (10 Gbps).
The Intel X99 chipset for the enthusiast platform seems a little dated. The X99 PCH is essentially based on the Z97 chipset for the Socket LGA1150 platform with DMI Gen2 support, with a maximum of ten SATA 6Gb/s ports. But only eight PCIe Gen2 lanes are available for additional controllers, which limits the possibilities compared to Skylake chipsets. But LGA2011 v3 processors offer up to 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
We tested , which allowed us to score a decent test board. Out of 31 motherboards, we chose five each. best models LGA1151 and LGA2011v3 which we recommend for purchase.
