Build a desktop or upgrade an aging computer? Here's everything you need to know about choosing the right motherboard.
If memory, graphics, and CPU are the vibrant limbs of a PC, the parts that get the job done and launch your favorite games, then a motherboard is the skeleton and connective tissue, and even the soul.
To be sure, other components play a bigger role in determining the overall performance and functionality of your PC. But without the right motherboard, they're just loose parts.
In fact, comparing a PC motherboard to any single system in an organism underestimates it. It connects almost every device in your PC and helps you use the components of your choice to their potential. If you want to build a PC or upgrade an aging model, start with the motherboard. This guide will help you choose the right product for your needs.
ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming
ASUS's ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi II is a powerful and well-connected mid-range motherboard that supports 14th Gen Intel, the latest wireless networks, and plenty of M.2 storage slots, complete with high-quality audio.
技嘉 Z790 Aorus Elite AX
The GIGABYTE Z790 Aorus Elite AX performed well in our tests and looks good, making it a good choice in the high-end Intel LGA 1700 market if your new system doesn't require an M.2 slot that supports PCI Express 5.0.
华擎 X670E Taichi
ASRock's X670E Taichi can meet almost everything you need for an AMD AM5 motherboard for years to come. Just make sure this large E-ATX motherboard fits your case and budget.
华硕 ROG Strix B760-F Gaming
The ASUS ROG Strix B760-F Gaming Wi-Fi is a well-equipped mainstream Intel LGA1700 motherboard with premium audio, lots of storage, and a high-end look. Just know that the cheaper B760 chipset option has almost as many features.
华擎 B650E Taichi Lite
ASRock's B650E Taichi Lite downplays the trademark aesthetic of the Taichi motherboard series, offering ultra-high power transmission, advanced audio, and a large number of rear ports at a price of less than $300 (about 2,171 yuan).
微星 Mag B760 Tomahawk
Looking to build a PC on a budget with the latest Intel CPUs? MSI's B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi is a well-equipped, good-performing, all-black ATX motherboard.
华擎 B650 LiveMixer
ASRock's B650E LiveMixer is an affordable AMD motherboard that enjoys street credibility among digital content workers, containing three M.2 slots and no less than 14 rear USB ports. The lack of onboard Wi-Fi (with only two SATA ports) is what prevents it from becoming a star.
华擎 B660M Steel Legend
Gaming on a budget and want an outstanding motherboard for maximum looks and modest overclocking with Intel "Alder Lake" chips? ASRock's B660M Iron Legend is a great choice for MicroATX.
华擎 B650E PG-ITX
Priced at US$289.99 (about RMB 2,092), the ASRock B650E PG-ITX is the only motherboard in its class with a PCI Express 5.0 M.2 slot and Killler network, as well as a powerful power supply. If you don't mind the previous generation of audio codecs and only two SATA ports, then this is the B650 Mini-ITX.
华擎 X570 Extreme4
ASRock X570 Extreme4 is a well-designed ATX motherboard for AM4 Ryzen™ chips from AMD's latest platform, with rich features, attractive appearance, and an easy-to-use BIOS. Value-conscious advanced users can find a decent balance of features and punch here.