Most mainstream motherboards will let you go with your choice of graphics cards, as PCIe 3.0 x16 slots are nearly ubiquitous, but your choice of motherboard will figure into just what other expansion cards you can use. In addition to the quality of a motherboard possessing the ability to make or break an entire build, there are numerous other, smaller benefits to grabbing a solid one. These range from minor luxury features like a few extra USB ports, to performance-enhancing benefits such as the ability to install better (newer) CPUs.
List of Best Gaming Motherboards 2024
Asus ROG Maximus XII Extreme
Featuring premium components, multiple fan headers and a bundled fan extension card, Maximus XII Extreme is fully equipped to enable higher performance at lower temperatures.
Features
- Lga1200 socket for 10th generation intel core desktop processors
- Optimization: system-wide automated optimization, which provides overclocking and cooling profiles tailored to your rig
- Cooling: dedicated water cooling zones, m.2 heat sink and various fan controls
- Connectivity: marvell aqtion 10gb, intel 2.5gb ethernet, langaurd, quad m.2, USB 3.2 gen 2 and intel Wi-Fi 6
- Synchronized RGB lighting technology works with a broad portfolio of aura sync compatible PC devices and includes support for addressable light strips and philips hue
MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Carbon WiFi
MSI’s MPG models represent a more affordable gaming-centric option when compared with the MEG range. Starting with the top MPG model out of three for Z490, the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Carbon WIFI has two PCIe 3.0 x4 M.
Features
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core / Pentium Celeron processors for LGA 1200 socket
- Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 4800(OC) MHz
- Ready 4 the Future: Support Lightning Gen 4 Solution for the future
- 2.5G LAN with LAN Manager and Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX Solution: Upgraded network solution for professional and multimedia use.
- MYSTIC LIGHT: 16.8 million colors / 29 effects controlled in one click. MYSTIC LIGHT EXTENSION supports both RGB and RAINBOW LED strip.
MSI MAG B460M Mortar WiFi
The MAG series was born through rigorous quality testing and designed to be a symbol of sturdiness and durability. Focused on providing the best user experience, the MAG series has a simple installation process coupled with a friendly user interface making it the best choice for entry level gamers.
Features
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core / Pentium Celeron processors for LGA 1200 socket
- Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 2933 MHz(Max)
- Enhanced Power Design: 12+1+1 Duet Rail Power System, Core Boost, DDR4 Boost
- Thermal Solution: Extended Heatsink Design and M.2 Shield Frozr are built for high performance system and non-stop gaming experience
- 2.5G LAN with LAN Manager and Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX Solution: Upgraded network solution for professional and multimedia use. Delivers a secure, stable and fast network connection
ASRock B460 Steel Legend
The ASRock B460 Steel Legend is one such affordable, yet still reasonably equipped B460 motherboard. If you don’t care about overclocking or running super-fast DDR4 memory, then a B460 board is well worth a look. The ASRock B460 Steel Legend is an awesomely named mid-range B460 entry.
Features
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core Processors(Socket 1200)
- 9 Phase Dr. MOS Power Design
- Supports DDR4 2933MHz
- 2 PCIe 3. 0 x16, 1 PCIe 3. 0 x1, 1 M. 2(Key E) For WiFi
- AMD CrossFireX
Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Ultra
In the dark, starless night, the falcon strikes fear into the heart of its prey. Even with minimal visibility, the falcon pinpoints its prey and patiently anticipates the perfect moment to swoop in for the kill. The falcon with its laser sharp gaze dominates the darkness of night in the same manner that AORUS Core Lighting illuminates the vast AORUS ecosystem.
Features
- Supports 9th and 8th Intel Core processors
- Dual channel non ECC unbuffered DDR4, 4 DIMMs
- Intel optane memory ready
- 12+1 Phases digital VRM solution with DrMOS
- Advanced thermal design with direct touch heat pipe
- Onboard Intel CNVi 802.11AC 2×2 wave 2 Wi-Fi
- Alc1220 vb enhance 114db(rear)/ 110db(front) SNR in microphone with WIMA audio capacitors
Asus ROG Crosshair VIII Dark Hero
Automated system-wide tuning, providing overclocking and cooling profiles that are tailor made for your rig and Pre-mounted I/O shield, ASUS SafeSlot, BIOS flashback and premium components for maximum endurance.
Features
- Robust power delivery: Designed power solution 14+2 TI power stages rated for 90A, ProCool II power connectors, microfine alloy chokes and 10K Japanese-made black metallic capacitors
- High-performance connectivity: On-board Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with MU-MIMO support, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- DIY Friendly Design: Pre-mounted I/O shield, ASUS SafeSlot, BIOS flashback and premium components for maximum endurance.
- Industry-leading ROG audio: ROG SupremeFX S1220 is combined with the venerable ESS ES9023P to deliver high-fidelity audio to headsets and exotic cans.
- Please ensure your BIOS is up to date if installing a compatible Ryzen 5000 series CPU.
Asus ROG Strix Z390-I Gaming
- Designed for 9th and 8th generation Intel Core processors to maximize connectivity and speed with dual M.2, USB 3.1 Gen 2, 802.11ac Wi-Fi and ASUS Opti-MEM II for better DRAM overclocking stability
- Revamped 5-Way Optimization overclocks intelligently based on smart prediction and thermal telemetry while Fan Xpert 4 delivers dynamic system cooling
- Gamer’s Guardian ensures longevity with Safe Slot, ESD Guards and DRAM Overcurrent Protection while M.2 double-decker heatsink shrouds the main M.2 slot and provides shared cooling for the M.2 and PCH
MSI MPG X570 Gaming Pro Carbon WiFi
The MSI MPG X570 Gaming Pro Carbon WIFI marks a shift from the company offering two versions of the same model: one with Wi-Fi and one without – this board is only available with Wi-Fi, This model represents its top tier gaming focused model, and its notable features include two PCIe 4.0 M.
- Supports 2nd and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen / Ryzen with Radeon Vega Graphics Desktop Processors for AM4 socket
- On-board Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with MU-MIMO support
- Mystic Light RGB lets you customize the lighting with 16.8 million colors and 29 effects with support for additional RGB and RAINBOW LED strips
- AUDIO BOOST 4 technology with NAHIMIC 3 software enhancement for immersive experiences
NZXT N7 Z490
The NZXT N7 Z490 has what you need to build a solid Z490 rig at a reasonable price. The VRMs are more than capable, and for the most part performance landed in line with competition. If you like the shroud-covered look or want to go all-in on NZXT’s ecosystem,
Features
- Form Factor: ATX
- Socket: LGA1200
- Chipset: AMD B550
- Memory Support: 4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, DDR4
- Multi-GPU support: AMD 2-Way Cross
- FireX Technology
- Features: Built-in digital RGB and fan controls, built-in Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
ASRock X299 Taichi
The X299 Taichi CLX comes equipped with a Realtek Dragon RTL8125AG 2.5Gbps NIC as well as a slower Intel i219V Gigabit controller.
Features
- ASRock Super Alloy
- Supports Intel® Core™ X-Series Processor Family for the LGA 2066 Socket
- 13 Power Phase Design, Dr. MOS
- Supports DDR4 4400+(OC)
- 4 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 2.0 x1
- NVIDIA® 3-Way SLI™, AMD 3-Way CrossFireX™
- 7.1 CH HD Audio (Realtek ALC1220 Audio Codec), Supports Purity Sound™ 4 & DTS Connect
- 10 SATA3, 3 Ultra M.2 (PCIe Gen3 x4 & SATA3)
- 2 USB 3.1 Gen2 10Gb/s (1 Type-A + 1 Type-C)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Best Gaming Motherboards
Q1: What factors should I consider when choosing a gaming motherboard? A1: Key factors include CPU compatibility, chipset, RAM support, PCIe slots for graphics cards, connectivity options (USB, Ethernet, Wi-Fi), and additional features like overclocking capabilities and RGB lighting.
Q2: Which chipset is best for gaming motherboards? A2: The choice of chipset depends on your processor. For Intel, Z590 and Z690 are popular for high-end gaming, while B560 offers a more budget-friendly option. For AMD, B550 and X570 are commonly used for gaming builds.
Q3: How much RAM support should a gaming motherboard have? A3: Most gaming motherboards support at least 16GB or 32GB of RAM, which is sufficient for gaming. However, if you plan on running memory-intensive applications or multitasking, opt for a motherboard that supports higher capacities.
Q4: Are PCIe 4.0 slots important for gaming motherboards? A4: PCIe 4.0 offers higher bandwidth, beneficial for fast storage devices and graphics cards. While not essential for all gaming scenarios, it can be a future-proofing consideration. Ensure your CPU and GPU also support PCIe 4.0.
Q5: What is overclocking, and do I need a motherboard that supports it? A5: Overclocking involves pushing your hardware beyond its stock performance. If you’re interested in overclocking your CPU or RAM for increased performance, choose a motherboard with good power delivery and cooling options.
Q6: Are there specific gaming motherboards for AMD or Intel processors? A6: Yes, gaming motherboards are designed for specific CPU sockets. Choose a motherboard that matches the socket type of your processor. For example, an Intel LGA 1200 motherboard for Intel CPUs or an AM4 motherboard for AMD Ryzen CPUs.
Q7: How important is onboard audio for gaming motherboards? A7: Onboard audio quality matters for gamers who prioritize immersive experiences. Look for motherboards with high-quality audio components, such as those with Realtek ALC1220 or similar codecs.
Q8: What role does Wi-Fi play in gaming motherboards? A8: Wi-Fi is essential for gamers who rely on wireless connectivity. Look for motherboards with built-in Wi-Fi support, preferably Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for faster and more reliable wireless performance.
Q9: Should I prioritize the number of USB ports on a gaming motherboard? A9: The number of USB ports is essential for connecting peripherals. Ensure the motherboard has enough USB ports, especially USB 3.2 Gen 2 or Gen 1 for faster data transfer rates.
Q10: What budget range should I consider for a gaming motherboard? A10: Gaming motherboards come in various price ranges. Set a budget based on your overall build cost and performance needs. High-end motherboards offer more features but may not be necessary for everyone.
