Whether you have equipped your computer with the most powerful processor or the most powerful graphics card, you will not enjoy all their benefits if you do not have the motherboard that will connect everything and provide good performance to your hardware. In our comparison, you will learn how to select high-performance gamer motherboards, according to your needs and expectations. The first criterion to take into account is the socket, which is the receptacle of your processor.
The socket establishes a communication between the components of the computer, including the processor, the hard disk, the graphics card. It also manages the interconnection with ancillary connections such as USB and other audio or video ports, Ethernet.
You must choose a motherboard whose socket is suitable for your processor. There are the models 1151, 2011-3, 1155 and many more, which you will find in the motherboards gamer. The most common is the socket 1151, also a good price /performance ratio. The 2011-3 socket is a very high-end model that is not necessary for simple gaming.
Also, consider the chipset, which is the second most important selection criterion that determines the performance of your machine. It is indeed a component integrated into the motherboard, used to control the connections between the memory, the processor and the other ports of extension.
If you use your PC for gaming, opt for the ATX format, more reliable for overclocking. With this format, you can easily add components, and thus evolve your PC.
Best Gaming Motherboards in 2018
10. ASRock X-Series X299 TAICHI
ASRock X-Series X299 TAICHI is a motherboard that allows you to take advantage of Intel Core processors Skylake, the 6 th generation. This motherboard includes supports for 16x PCI-Express 3.0 graphics cards, 6Gb / s SATA hard drives, and 64GB max DDR4 RAM. It also has USB 3.1 ports, meeting the needs of seasoned gamers.
Thanks to the ASRock X-Series X299 TAICHI, you get the latest graphics technology to enjoy the latest games. Thanks to its wider system BUS, its chipset makes it possible to optimize data transmission. So you get more performance and responsiveness. You can add an optional SSD to speed up the startup of your machine, as well as large data loads. You will then have the opportunity to increase the performance of your PC.
Referencing consumer reviews is important to know which motherboard gamer to choose or which one would be best for you. For a high-quality audiovisual return, the ASRock X-Series X299 TAICHI is for you.
- High-level configuration: It allows you to install the latest generation of graphics cards to better enjoy the latest games.
- Good compatibility: You can use an SSD hard drive on this model so that your PC can start faster and run much more smoothly. You can even use a sixth-generation Intel Core Skylake processor.
- Limited Connectivity:This gaming motherboard has only two USB 2.0 ports.
9. MSI X299 XPower Gaming AC
The MSI X299 XPower Gaming AC is a motherboard that ships a northbridge with a 970 chipset, and a southbridge with an AMD SB 950 chipset. It is compatible with all multi-core processors. With its Sound Blaster Cinema 2 audio chip, you’ll experience an amazing sound experience with more than satisfying surround sound that immerses you in your game. The SDX Studio Pro technology embedded in the chip will allow you to be more responsive, thanks to the sound that positions you in space.
With the Military Class 4, your machine will remain stable, even in the most extreme gaming conditions. The MSI X299 XPower Gaming AC uses a HI-C CAP tantalum, a metal known for its self-regenerating properties, which guarantees resistance to overheating. This is the ideal motherboard for extreme overclocking. The comparison chose this product for its great reliability, essential quality for a PC gamer, often subject to heavy use.
If you are looking for the best brand of reasonably priced gamers motherboards, go for the MSI X299 XPower Gaming AC. If you want to compare the price-quality ratio of this specimen to others, you will notice a clear difference. The reference is ranked the cheapest on the market compared to models with the same performance.
- Ultra-compatibility : You can use it with all types of multi-core processors.
- High quality sound card : It has a Sound Blaster Cinema 2 audio chip and therefore offers an exceptional surround sound to better appreciate the sounds and effects of your games.
- Military Class 4 : This component is ideal for allowing the computer to run stably, even when pushed in extreme gaming conditions.
- High resistance to overheating : The HI-C CAP tantalum core has been tested to ensure the best performance for extreme overclocking.
- Power absorbed by the processor : It is important not to exceed the TDP limit to avoid grilling. The threshold is only 200 W.
8. ASRock AB350M Pro4
ASRock AB350M Pro4 supports the latest generation of Intel Core i7, i5, i3 processors with a socket for the processor supporting Socket 1151. The motherboard is equipped with two-channel DDR4 memory supporting up to 64 GB.
The board allows you to connect 6 SATA disks with RAID support. There are also 2 SATA Express ports, as well as the M.2 port. Asrock Z170 also has an integrated Gigabyte Killer E2400 Series network card and an integrated Realtek ALC-1150 sound card on board.
The disc has Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 technology. thanks to which it has support for combining many Nvidia Quad SLI graphics cards and AMD Quad CrossfireX graphics cards. We also have built-in DVI-D and HDMI outputs. Stability, even at extreme load, is ensured by aluminum heat sinks. For external communication, the board has 5 USB 3.0 sockets, 2 USB 2.0 sockets, and the FATALITY-USB3.0 mouse port.
On the other hand, there are 2 PCIe slots and 3 mini-PCIe slots for expansion cards. Users in their reviews write that this is a good motherboard, but UEFI BIOS is not for the layman.
- Latest generation: This is a motherboard specially designed for the latest generation of processors, including the 7th generation Intel Core iX or Intel Kaby Lake.
- Good sound experience: ASRock is probably the best brand of motherboards on the market. This motherboard uses the technologies Audio Boost 4 and Nahimic 2. This association allows to obtain a high quality sound on the multimedia content.
- Value for money: This motherboard is among the most powerful on the market, yet its price is well below that of its main competitors.
- Ports not spaced: Although this motherboard can accommodate 4 bars of RAM, the simultaneous use of 4 slots forces to opt for a smaller fan.
7. ASUS TUF Z270 Mark 2
The Asus TUF Z270 Mark 2 is a motherboard with a USB 3.1 front, and two ports M.2 and USB 3.1 of types A and C, allowing gaming connectivity largely satisfactory. With ROG RGB Armor and I / O cache, you can also enjoy greater gaming durability.
The Asus TUF Z270 Mark 2 also offers you a very good gaming network thanks to Languard and Gamefirst technologies.
In addition, the Asus TUF Z270 Mark 2 has obtained an exclusive code, from a collaboration with Sonic Studio III and Sonic Radar III. This is the SupremeFX.
What the Asus TUF Z270 Mark 2 offers you is a fluid gameplay, a BIOS UEFI system, an efficient, faster, but above all simpler overlclocking, which is done in one click. It also offers other intuitive utilities to optimize your PC gamer.
Knowing where to buy the best motherboard gamer is essential to fully enjoy the latest games on your PC. Having the best reference is necessary to install a high-end graphics card. At the top of the list in any ranking, the ASUS TUF Z270 Mark 2 will meet all your expectations.
- Gaming connectivity : In order to ensure quality usage, this model is designed with two M.2 ports and USB 3.1 inputs of types A and C.
- Great gaming durability : This generation comes with an I / O cache, as well as a ROG RGB Armor, allowing you to play longer.
- Increased Performance: This motherboard is designed to provide smooth gameplay and therefore reduced load time. You can further optimize your PC.
- High price: The cost of buying this motherboard is usually the gamers problem because it is quite high.
6. GIGABYTE GA-AX370 Gaming K3
You can enjoy a good deal by purchasing the Gigabyte GA-AX370 Gaming K3, especially if you are looking for a cheap motherboard, but can provide you with all the performance you need. Do you want to play the latest PC video games? Would you like to retouch or customize the content of your videos? Want to watch your movies with a sound and a picture of a high quality? This is the motherboard you need.
It is specifically designed to accommodate Intel Core 7 / 6th generation processors (Intel Core i7, Intel Core i5, Intel Core i3, etc.). Compatible with Celeron, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7 and Pentium processors, this motherboard supports DDR4-SDRAM type memory. It allows you to assemble a multimedia or office configuration at an affordable price.
As for its connections, the Gigabyte H110M-S2H motherboard has connectors for fans, USB ports (USB 2.0 and USB 3.0), 3 3.5 mm jack Stereo Female, 2 MiniDin 6 Female (PS / 2), 1 RJ45 Female, 1 Female DVI, 1 Female HDMI, 1 VGA (D-sub 15 Female) and many more.
You want to get a new motherboard but your budget is quite limited? Try this Gigabyte GA-AX370 Gaming K3 which may very well interest you because this model is the cheapest in the list.
- Recent generations: This is a motherboard that perfectly supports Intel Core 6th and 7th generation processors. This allows you to benefit from the latest technologies to increase the performance of the computer.
- Rich connectivity: This motherboard has most of the necessary connectivity for comfortable office and multimedia use. It even allows to enjoy some video games.
- Ram slots: This motherboard has only two slots of RAM. It is thus necessary to opt for larger memory modules if one wishes to obtain more power.
5. MSI Z270 M5
The MSI Z270 M5 motherboard is available in ATX, ATX with RGB lighting and Mini ITX, so you can choose the variant according to your needs. In terms of price, the MSI Z270 M5 gaming motherboard for Intel processors is in the upper midfield, but the features are convincing.
Thus, the GameFirst III technology ensures stable and fast LAN connections, the USB 3.1 ports provide a very good performance for external media and thanks to M.2 interface, SSD disks can be controlled very quickly. The ability to overclock the DDR4 memory offers additional potential for memory speed, and even the 6th-generation Intel processors can be comfortably overclocked up to 400MHz with the board. Thanks to the TurboV Processing Unit, this is also quite easy for laymen.
The disadvantage, however, in the test was that the board boots relatively slowly and there were driver problems here and there with the USB 3.1 port. Also, the RAM compatibility list is not very advantageous, because the listed there RAM modules are sometimes difficult to get, which is almost forced to use unofficial tested Ram. However, sometimes the automatic settings in the BIOS do not work properly when overclocking.
- Latest generation: This is a motherboard specially designed for the latest generation of processors, including the 7th generation Intel Core iX.
- Good sound experience: MSI is probably the best brand of motherboards on the market. This motherboard uses the technologies
- Value for money: This motherboard is among the most powerful on the market, yet its price is well below that of its main competitors.
- Ports not spaced: Although this motherboard can accommodate 4 bars of RAM, the simultaneous use of 4 slots forces to opt for a smaller fan.
4. ASUS TUF Z270 Mark 1
Looking for the best motherboard? Feel free to analyze the specifics of ASRock TUF Z270 Mark 1. It will be able to meet your expectations if you are among the amateurs of powerful machines.If you are also a true video game enthusiast in search of the best motherboard that can meet your requirements, the specifics of this one will amply convince you.
Moreover, this motherboard is quite worthy of gamers, if only by its design. Indeed, we can not ignore this topic. It has a Gamer Killer E2400 chipset and is compatible with Windows 10. This motherboard gamer is willing to support the new processor Intel Skylake 6th generation (socket 1151).
Equipped with PCIe X16 slots, it offers you the ability to connect up to 3 graphics cards in SLI or CrossfireX. Its SATA3, SATA Express and Ultra M.2 storage interfaces provide up to 32 Gbps of data throughput. With this motherboard, you can assemble your gaming configuration from the latest Intel innovations in terms of chips and components.
Are you looking for a motherboard for all your uses without worrying about your budget? The ASRock TUF Z270 Mark 1 is probably the most powerful motherboard in this ranking.
- Gamer experience: The technology used on this motherboard is geared towards video games. Notably, the Gamer Killer E2400 chipset is among the most powerful. It is also possible to connect three graphics cards simultaneously with the three PCIe X16 ports.
- Practical Design: This model has a design called Gaming Armor that allows to push the maximum possible configurations without the risk of choking the system.
- High price: This card stands out for its power. It also makes it much more expensive than other motherboards.
3. ASUS ROG Crosshair VI Hero
Equipped with next-generation connectivity, this motherboard is able to provide you with optimized use thanks to its USB 3.1 type-A and type-C connectors as well as its two M.2 slots for PCIe throughput up to 32 Gb / s and Wi-Fi.
This Asus motherboard is supposed to be the motherboard Z170 Pro Gaming and is compatible with the latest processors and Intel technologies. To speak only of its features, we can specify the presence of lighting Aura Sync RGB LED. This system allows you to create your own LED effects to bring a touch of originality to your system. It makes you enjoy nine bright themes that are waiting for your creativity.
One of the special features of this motherboard is its ability to support 3D printing. It is therefore provided with supports intended particularly to simplify the installation of printed elements in 3D. It also features the SupremeFX audio technology from ROG Strix in its most advanced version offering superior sound quality.
Wondering where to buy the best motherboard for a very practical use? The Asus ROG Crosshair VI Hero may be of interest to you. This is a motherboard that stands out completely from the competition in different points.
- Performance: This card perfectly matches the latest generations of processors. It easily supports the use of peripherals related to 3D printing.
- LED Effects: It is possible with this motherboard to customize lighting with Aura Sync RGB LED technology. This gives a touch of originality to the entire system.
- Sound Quality: The manufacturer has equipped this card with sound technology ROG SupremeFX with two amplifiers for headphones. All this makes it possible to obtain a sound of very good quality.
- Brightness too strong: The red LEDs on this card are very bright. This can be a bit awkward for the most sensitive users.
2. MSI B250M Gaming Pro
The MSI B250 GAMING M3 can be particularly suitable if you are looking for a rugged and resistant motherboard. It has the Military Class 5 and Guard-Pro design that fully protects the components. With this particularly designed to accommodate the Intel Core processors of 7th generation (Intel Kaby Lake). It is worth remembering that MSI Enthusiast GAMING motherboards provide the most outstanding gaming experience with the various technologies it has.
For example, we can use Audio Boost 4 technology combined with Nahimic 2 to provide the purest sound signal. In terms of design, it perfectly meets the expectations of fervent players. It sports indeed a modern and original look.
Regarding the connection of this motherboard MSI, we can say that it is complete. It includes, among others, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 ports including a type C, additional connectors (power supply, internal USB, etc.) and many more. What is certain is that it will make you enjoy the most of the use of your PC, and this, at the best price.
You want to buy a new motherboard quality? We propose to compare these few models. For starters, there is the MSI B250 gaming m3 which is a motherboard specifically dedicated to the gaming experience.
- Aesthetics : A motherboard, strange as it may seem, can also be judged from an aesthetic point of view. Sometimes whoever assembles a computer uses transparent houses and, in this case, it is important to have a product with an attractive design. Characteristic that the MSI can definitely boast.
- Gaming : The purchase of a motherboard can depend on several factors and if your fundamental objective is gaming, take a look at this model because it has everything you need to ensure maximum enjoyment, from the simple BIOS interface to overlocking and support for the 1150 socket.
- Price / quality : MSI not only guarantees important performances for the passionate players but, moreover, has a competitive cost like few other similar models.
- Spacers : Unlike other motherboards in the same range, the spacers which will be purchased separately are not included in the MSI package.
- LED : LED indicator that indicates whether the card is powered or not is also missing.
1. MSI Z170A Gaming M5
We chose the MSI Z170A as the first one. It is a typical player’s disc. Thanks to the DDR4 Boost technology, in which memory circuits are isolated from the rest of the components, the memory signals are not disturbed and thus achieve optimal efficiency and stability of the system. The board has 4 DDR4 DIMM memory slots.
The Platform Intelligent Networking Platform with the implemented Advanced Stream Detect 2.0 technology allows for maximum network performance of the integrated network card.The Killer ™ network system speeds up network traffic, increasing the player’s performance and advantage over his opponents.
The Audio Boost 3 system, thanks to Nahimic Sound Technology, ensures the highest quality of sound generated by the Realtek 1150 network card integrated with the motherboard. Double OPA1652 amplifiers and the EMI AMPs metal shield also help.
Data transfer via USB, thanks to the USB 3.1 Gen 2 installed, takes place at a speed of 10Gb / s. This connector also allows for fast transmission of a computer with peripheral devices. This board has been equipped with the award-winning CLICK BIOS 5 system. It is a new generation UEFI BIOS with optimizations for Windows 10. The user can control the system in two modes: EZ to the most frequently used settings, and in advanced mode with access to detailed settings allowing to gain system performance.
- Solidity : It is a product made of quality materials that guarantee strength and sturdiness, especially as regards the metal reinforcements for the PCI express slots and for the power supply
- Circuitry.BIOS : According to the opinions of most consumers, the BIOS is among the strengths of Gigabyte because it is extremely manageable, responsive and flexible.Driver compatibility : There are no problems regarding compatibility with the drivers of the various devices.
- Price / quality : The Gygabyte motherboard is a high-end electronic component with very high performance; It is complete and versatile and can be purchased at a price not excessive.
- Fans : Compared to other similar models, the BIOS fan management system may appear to be too thin.
Purchasing Guide
The chipset :
- The motherboard is one of the important elements of a computer. It should not be overlooked when buying a PC, whether it is a laptop or a landline. Reason why, we offer this buying guide for the best motherboards. First, we will mention the importance of the chipset, which as you probably know, remains the guarantor of digital flows between the microprocessor and all components.The chipset is indeed a main piece of the motherboard. It is designed to handle the connection between components.
- Generally linked to the socket, it is intended to synchronize the various data exchanges of the components of the computer.It is wise to pay attention to the type of chipset you need to choose because this element can affect the choice of processor and RAM. It would be, for example, a shame to have a super powerful processor if the chipset is not even able to function as it should.
- In addition to being determinant for other components, it can also influence performance, especially in terms of system stability and scalability. You should also know that the chipset also plays a key role in the principle of overclocking, especially to optimize the capabilities of the processor.
Connectivity :
- Where to buy a new motherboard? You have several possibilities. As there are no missing models, you can easily find the motherboard that fits your needs, whether you buy online or in specialized stores.
- For you to benefit from an optimized use of your PC and so that it is able to follow possible technological progress, you must pay attention to the connectivity and its scalability. You must have a sufficient number of ports to make it easy to add other items or connect other devices.
- Your motherboard should generally have jacks (for connecting headphones, speakers, etc.), USB ports (USB 3.0 and USB 2.0), video outputs (HDMI, DVI or VGA), a PS / 2 port , an e-SATA port and an Ethernet port.
Compatibility :
- To find a good motherboard that can make you enjoy excellent value for money, you should consult a price comparison. Many expert tips will be presented to you, so stay tuned.
- Finally, we will discuss the compatibility of your motherboard with all other components. These must be part of the same generation, or better still, the same chipset to prevent any malfunction or the inability to perform updates once you upgrade some of your parts.
- In addition, you should also think about the format or size factor of motherboards compatible with your needs. With advances in computing, more and more formats are standardized. To name only the main formats, we can mention AT, ATX, ITX, BTX and DTX.
Socket and BIOS :
- The most important criterion is that you pay attention to the correct socket of the mainboard. Most manufacturers offer their boards with different socket variants, so you can choose the model that fits your CPU. However, the recommendation – especially if you have a fairly new processor and want to buy a relatively cheap motherboard under 100 euros – to check before buying, if the motherboard also supports your processor on the software side. Because the socket is not everything in the case, but the BIOS, so the operating system of the motherboard, can also communicate with the CPU. It may take a BIOS update to support new CPUs, even if the socket fits.
- A matching socket means at first only that the CPU can be plugged and installed on the motherboard at all. The most common socket variants currently are 1150, 1151 and AM3 +, the latter of which fits the AMD family, so it is suitable for AMD processors. The 1150 and 1151 series are only suitable for Intel CPUs.
- The 1150 socket is the slightly older version but is compatible with all Intel® Core ™ i7-2600-3770 (Ivy Bridge, Sandy Bridge), Intel® Core ™ i5-2300-3570 (Ivy Bridge, Sandy Bridge) and Intel® Core ™ i3-2100-2130 (Sandy Bridge) processors fits. Newer Intel processors require the 1151 socket. Make sure you pay attention to the compatibility! Incidentally, it may happen that a motherboard manufacturer at the time of purchase supports all currently available on the market processors with his boards, but later an update must be performed if you decide to buy a new processor at the time of the motherboard Buying was not in the market yet.
How to choose a good motherboard?
Composed of a few elements, the motherboard is intended to collect several components of the PC, including the processor and RAM. It must therefore be the subject of a large study during your purchase. This article aims to help you determine how to buy a motherboard for better value.
How to use a motherboard gamer?
The motherboards of computers used by fanatics of the virtual world are more complex and more advanced than those used for office automation. You have purchased it to be able to graft various components and make your computer more powerful. To guide you through the installation and maintenance of this equipment, we offer these tips.
The best motherboards of 2018
The heart of every PC is the motherboard. Different manufacturers offer in addition to the different socket variants and motherboards with different equipment features. Currently the most common sockets are the LGA1150 and LGA1151 for Intel’s latest processors and the AM3 + for the latest AMD processors. From both camps, the best motherboards were examined in 2018 under the microscope and tested in terms of their price-performance ratio. So you can be sure that you will not buy an inferior motherboard for your new processor, which will later become the famous bottleneck (the slowest link in the chain). Of course, the model that ultimately pervades you as the best motherboard also depends on your equipment requirements.
Read the instructions for use
The manipulation of a motherboard remains very delicate. One misstep and you could end the life of your computer. To avoid this end, it seems better to take precautions. Start by carefully reading the instructions for your article. Be aware that some operations may differ from one model to another. You may not experience the same installation steps on all models that exist on the market, even though both have been dedicated to games for example.
Disassemble the case of your computer
Before you start any operation, you will need to open the case of your computer. Indeed, it is inside the latter that all future actions will take place. To do this, proceed gently. First remove the tray from the motherboard. This is fixed with two screws. Avoid losing them.
Observe safety instructions
As you will be handling an electrical appliance here, you will need to take precautions in this regard. It would be unfortunate if you received a discharge in full operation. To avoid this, we recommend wearing an antistatic wrist strap. You will be ready for any eventuality.
Change the I / O panel
This component is located at the back of your computer case. Identify it first. This is where you can connect your monitor and all your other devices to your motherboard. Make sure to have this element in your CPU. Check if you have installed this part in the right direction. Otherwise, miscellaneous connections can not be done.
Install your motherboard
To install your product properly, find the spacers first. These will serve you to locate you. Once you have fixed all your spacers, it will now be possible to put your motherboard. To do this, screw it. Then make sure that the screws are tight. It should also be noted that for this operation it is forbidden to use an electric screwdriver .
Connect the components
Once your motherboard has been properly installed, all you need to do is connect the components. First, re-integrate your motherboard with its tray into the case of your computer. Then we advise you to connect the power supply first. The 20/24 pin and 4/8 pin 12V connectors will have to be well attached.
Check compatibility
Be aware that some new products may not be compatible with your older computer models. It is therefore important to check this feature to avoid unpleasant surprises at the time of installation. The case has four compartments. There is the one for the power supply, the one for the hard drive, then comes the location for the drives and peripherals and finally you have the one for the motherboard. Multiple enclosures are compatible with different motherboard formats. Look in the user manual that this is the case for yours.
Put the motherboard in the intended location
Finally comes the time to install the motherboard. At this moment, several elements are to be taken into account. First, all the holes must coincide with the sleepers placed previously. Also make sure that the inputs and outputs of these sleepers coincide with the connector plate. When the verification is complete, proceed to the fixing of the motherboard using the screws. Do this by respecting the thread.
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