Like keyboards, mice, and headsets, motherboards appealing to gamers have become increasingly popular in new builds. Compared to other motherboards, these gaming-oriented components fully take advantage of the power of the latest CPUs, memory, and graphics cards. The best gaming motherboard is compatible with Intel's 13th generation or AMD's 7000 series of processors. In addition, these vital components offer support for DDR5 RAM and advanced GPUs like NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 40 line of graphics cards.
Shopping for a gaming motherboard is often tricky since they emphasize cutting-edge features that the average user isn't yet familiar with. What, if any value capabilities like PCI Express 5 will have in the near future remains unclear, but motherboards with this spec carry a high premium nonetheless. To avoid costly mistakes, gamers should first decide on whether they prefer an AMD or Intel processor and then determine if their system will use a mini ITX, ATX, or E-ATX form factor. Also, buyers should ensure that their chosen motherboard provides enough ports for storage and external peripherals. The following gaming motherboards include a wide variety of feature sets and are appropriate for both small and large budgets.
Factors To Consider When Choosing the Best Gaming Motherboard In 2024
Unlike many previous years, gaming motherboards for both Intel and AMD are expected to last longer than 1 or 2 years. Intel's LGA 1700 socket is expected to support the 12th, 13th, and 14th generation CPUs and if AMD holds true to its AM4 promise, the AM5 socket will remain relevant for newer CPUs for a considerable period of time. This also means that there is a much richer set of motherboards and chipsets to choose from for gamers.
Upgrade Options: Users buying a gaming motherboard rightfully view it as an investment. It is directly contingent on potential upgrades available to the user. These can be potentially newer CPUs, newer DDR5 memory, or upcoming PCI-E Gen 5 SSD or GPUs that benefit from an up-to-date motherboard.
Expansion Options: Power users and enthusiasts, as well as gamers, benefit from having plenty of storage expansion slots, extra USB ports, and in some cases, additional thunderbolt ports. These features help make high-end or well-endowed motherboards a much easier recommendation, depending on the needs and requirements for various tasks.
Game ZXC's Picks for the Best Motherboards For Gaming in 2024
MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi Gaming Motherboard
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge Wi-Fi Gaming Motherboard is a capable entry from MSI that supports current-generation Intel Raptor Lake and previous-generation Alder Lake CPUs.
It comes packed with a PCI-E 5.0 x16 slot, a very capable networking stack, and as many as 5 M2 NVME connectors making it a compelling choice for gamers, creators, and people looking for a feature-packed motherboard for work or entertainment.
- Brand
- MSI
- CPU Included
- No
- Graphics Card Interface
- PCI-Express 5.0
- Memory Slots
- 4
- Memory Type
- DDR5 (Up to 7200MHz)
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Wi-Fi
- Yes, Wi-Fi 6E (M2 Key)
- USB Ports
- Up to 17 USB Ports
- M.2 NVMe Connector
- 5 x M2 slots
- CPU Support
- Intel 12th and 13th Gen
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Socket
- LGA1700
- Power Phases
- 16+1+1 Phase Power Delivery
- Networking
- 2.5G Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, BT 5.3
- One of the best networking stacks available in a 13th-generation motherboard
- Mid-range motherboard with tremendous value
- Excellent build quality
- Effective heatsink cover for all the VRMs and M2 slots
- M2 Slots are not PCI-E 5.0 compatible
- No RGB lighting directly on the motherboard
The MSI MPG Z790 Edge Wi-Fi Gaming Motherboard is the best gaming motherboard for enthusiasts looking to pair the latest Intel CPUs with a well-rounded performer. With as many as five M2 slots coupled with an excellent heatsink cover that also extends over the VRMs, the MSI MPG Z790 Edge has players covered in more ways than one when it comes to storage needs. Sporting an excellent 16+1+1 phase power delivery system, it can handle some of the more powerful Intel processors without breaking a sweat.
On the networking front, it offers both a 2.5G Ethernet connection and Bluetooth support with the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard for those looking to run things wirelessly. The MSI MPG Z790 Edge Wi-Fi Gaming Motherboard feels premium in many aspects with its polished design, an integrated I/O plate, and heatsinks all of which add to the aesthetic of what is a beautiful-looking motherboard.
At the same time, it can improve in some ways. Unlike some of its competitors, it lacks a PCI-E 5.0 M2 slot despite having a PCI-E 5.0 X 16 GPU slot which could be a deciding factor for users getting this motherboard with future-proofing in mind. For others, the lack of any onboard RGB might affect their purchase decision and make them look for something that has a more gaming-centric RGB theme. Thankfully, MSI does have another option in their own product line in the form of the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon Wi-Fi Gaming Motherboard.
ASUS ROG Strix X670E-F Gaming Wi-Fi
The ASUS ROG Strix X670E-F Gaming Wi-Fi is an amalgamation of what AMD enthusiasts, motherboard manufacturers, and system builders would approve of at a price that can be considered reasonable compared to the competition. The feature-rich motherboard supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 RAM, 4 M2 Slots, a PCI-Express x16 slot, and up to 17 USB ports, meaning that connectivity should not be an issue for most power users.
- Brand
- ASUS
- Memory Slots
- 4
- Memory Type
- Supports up to DDR5 8000+(OC) EXPO
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi 6E
- USB Ports
- Up to 17
- M.2 NVMe Connector
- 4 x M2 slots
- CPU Support
- AMD Ryzen 7000 Series
- Chipset
- X670E
- Socket
- AMD AM5
- Power Phases
- 16+2
- Networking
- 2.5G Ethernet plus Wi-Fi 6E
- Better value than most of the competition for a feature-packed X670E motherboard
- Extensive I/O offerings including top-tier networking options
- Better than average 16+2 Phase Power delivery system
- Still somewhat expensive compared to more recent B650/B650E motherboards
The ASUS ROG Strix X670E-F Gaming Wi-Fi is a motherboard that offers everything most gamers and creators could ask for from an AMD AM5 motherboard. Featuring AMD's highest-end X670E chipset coupled with an excellent VRM configuration, it supports all of AMD's latest and greatest CPU offerings including the latest AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D and the gaming champion, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D.
It has a fair amount of overclocking tools under the hood, supporting AMD EXPO profiles of at least 6400MHz while allowing steady and stable overclocking performance for the bulk of AMD's Ryzen 7000 series processors. With plenty of I/O and networking options, it supports Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5G Ethernet, easily satisfying players in terms of connectivity. The highlight of this motherboard's expansion potential is the 4 M2 slots, 2 of which support PCI-E 5.0 with the other 2 running at PCI-E 4.0 speeds in tandem with a PCI-E 5.0 x16 slot for gaming CPUs.
All in all, the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-F Gaming Wi-Fi doesn't represent amazing value for AMD's AM5 platform (that will probably be a B650E-based motherboard). However, it offers excellent overclocking potential, plenty of I/O and expansion slots, and a comprehensive networking suite that makes it the best motherboard for gaming for AMD enthusiasts.
MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX Gaming Motherboard
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX supports DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 devices, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and dual 2.5 GbE LAN ports for reliable and fast network connectivity as well as faster transmission speeds.
The motherboard uses an Intel LGA1700 socket compatible with Intel Core 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation processors. It also supports entry-level processors like Celeron and Intel Pentium Gold.
The high-end motherboard features a 24+1+2 phase VRM that delivers robust and stable power to the processor even when overclocking heavily, making it ideal for professional gaming and other demanding applications.
- Brand
- MSI
- Graphics Card Interface
- PCI Express 5.0
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- Form Factor
- DIMM
- Wi-Fi
- WI-FI 7
- USB Ports
- 18x USB Ports (Front and Rear), including two USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Front Ports with 60W PD
- M.2 NVMe Connector
- 4x M.2 Gen4 Ports, 1x M.2 Gen5 Port
- CPU Support
- Supports 12th/13th/14th Gen Intel Processors
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Socket
- LGA 1700
- Power Phases
- 24+1+2
- Networking
- Wi-Fi 7, Dual 2.5G Ethernet, BT 5.4
- Audio
- RealTek ALC4082 with ESS DAC
- Dual 2.5 GbE and Wi-Fi 7 support
- Great VRM cooling
- Features 2x Thunderbolt 4.0 Ports
- Expensive
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX is an ideal pick for gamers who are looking for a high-end motherboard that supports DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 devices, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and dual 2.5 GbE LAN ports for reliable and fast network connectivity as well as faster transmission speeds. The motherboard uses an Intel LGA1700 socket compatible with Intel Core 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation processors. It also supports entry-level processors like Celeron and Intel Pentium Gold.
The high-end motherboard features a 24+1+2 phase VRM that delivers robust and stable power to the processor even when overclocking heavily, making it ideal for professional gaming and other demanding applications. Additionally, it can seamlessly handle even the most demanding titles in 1440p and 1080 resolutions with smooth gameplay and high frame rates. The Thunderbolt 4 ports, as well as PCle.5.0 slots, means it supports DLSS and ray tracing technologies.
The high-end audio ESS DAC audio solution, as well as high-quality amplifiers and capacitors, allows one to experience a realistic and immersive sound experience while its several USB ports can support several VR devices, monitors, and other peripherals.
Regarding connectivity, it features 4 DDR5 memory slots that support up to 128GB RAM with a maximum speed of 7800+MHz (OC), 5 M.2 slots, 1 PCIe 4.0 x1 slot, and 3 PCIe 5.0 x16 slots that support several expansion cards and graphic cards. Others include 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, 7 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports.
When it comes to aesthetics it features a stunning sleek design with a gold and black color scheme, a large heatsink, and RGB lighting. This motherboard's user-friendliness further comes into play with its outstanding cooling add-ons. An aluminum backplate, stacked fin array, 7W/mk thermal pads, and Frozr AI software guarantee resiliency and maintain low temperatures.
Now, although some people might argue that it is a bit pricey, it justifies the cost with its top-tier features and a 3-year warranty.
ASRock B760M Steel Legend WiFi Motherboard
The ASRock B760 Steel Legend is a premium-tier mATX motherboard that comes with the trademark durability that the Steel Legend lineup is famous for while offering superfast Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, DDR5 support, and a well-placed heatsink over the VRMs in a compact package.
- Brand
- ASRock
- Memory Slots
- 4
- Memory Type
- DDR5, Up to 7200MHz
- Form Factor
- mATX
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi 6E
- USB Ports
- Up to 15 ports
- M.2 NVMe Connector
- 3 X M.2 Slots
- CPU Support
- Intel 12th-14th gen
- Chipset
- B760
- Socket
- LGA 1700
- Power Phases
- 12+1+1
- Networking
- Ethernet 2.5G + Wi-Fi 6E + BT 5.3
- Premium build quality and excellent durability coupled with subtle RGB lighting
- Packs an impressive amount of tech into a mATX motherboard
- Excellent amount of networking options, supporting the latest Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3 along with 2.5G ethernet
- Ample overclocking headroom of up to 7200MHz on DDR5 RAM
- Due to its mATX spec, some users might feel that the motherboard is somewhat cluttered with options which might be a bit of trouble for first time PC builders when using an AIO cooler or other expansion cards
- Supports a limited number of fans on-board
The ASRock B760M Steel Legend Wi-Fi Motherboard has a legacy to fulfill thanks to the excellent reputation of its predecessors that pushes the boundaries of what is possible from a mid-range motherboard with impressive networking capabilities. With support for up to three M2 drives and excellent overclocking potential, it offers much more than a traditional mATX motherboard in terms of value given the price point it sells at.
Among Intel options, the ASRock B760M Steel Legend Wi-Fi Motherboard makes some sacrifices to become the best motherboard for gaming on a budget. ASRock reduces the number of fan headers on the board to a measly three while also being restricted to PCI-E 4.0 for M2-based storage speeds; it does however come with PCI-E 5.0 support on the GPU slot and support for stacking as many as four DDR5 RAM DIMMs on an mATX board. Clutter may become an issue with this limited form factor which presents obstacles for first-time PC builders.
Looking at the total picture, the tradeoffs this motherboard makes are some most PC builders can live with, and it offers impressive value, durability, and connectivity in a lean package that should appeal to users designing a new PC.
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore
ASUS Apex motherboards have repeatedly proven to be a solid foundation for extreme overclockers. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore lives up to expectations, providing everything elite overclockers need to push the latest Intel CPUs to new heights, including exceptional power delivery, excellent memory overclocking support, and a wealth of troubleshooting tools. While overkill for most gamers, it delivers for hardcore gamers willing to invest in top-tier performance.
- Brand
- ASUS
- Memory Slots
- 2
- Memory Type
- DDR5 (Up to 8400+ MHz)
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi 7
- USB Ports
- 10 onboard
- M.2 NVMe Connector
- 1x PCIe 5.0, 4x PCIe 4.0
- CPU Support
- 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Intel
- Chipset
- Intel Z790
- Socket
- Intel LGA 1700
- Power Phases
- 24+0+2
- Graphics Card Interface
- 2x PCIe 5.0 x16
- Perfect for extreme overclocking
- High DDR5 memory overclocking capability
- Advanced features: PCIe 5.0, DDR5, Wi-Fi 7, and DIMM Flex
- Quality BIOS and plenty of troubleshooting tools
- Overkill for most gamers
- No backplate
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore carries on the legendary ROG Apex name, a motherboard series synonymous with world-record overclocking. This board is built for extreme overclockers, boasting features to maximize performance and stability when pushing the limits. It has already proven its mettle with four broken world records, including pushing the Intel Core i9-14900KS to an astounding 9117 MHz at the hands of talented overclockers Elmor and ASUS's SkatterBencher and Shamino.
Designed from the ground up for maximum performance, the Z790 Apex Encore features an overkill 24-phase, 105A Vcore VRM capable of handling any Raptor Lake CPU. In addition to the beefy VRM heatsinks, this motherboard can operate at liquid-helium temperatures, significantly increasing the overclocking headroom of flagship Intel CPUs. ASUS has also improved memory support, delivering superior memory overclocking potential compared to rivals like the EVGA Z790 Dark Kingpin. It even includes a DDR5 fan kit for additional memory cooling.
Unlike mainstream gaming motherboards, the Z790 Apex Encore intentionally features two DIMM slots to maximize performance without stressing the memory controller. Gamers and system tweakers also have access to more tuning and troubleshooting tools, including an onboard power button, a safe boot button, and a 7-segment LED display. At $650 MSRP, it's certainly not a budget-friendly motherboard, but it's worth the investment for those who can take advantage of its premium features. For gamers seeking a similar board at a lower price point, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Tachyon is an equally impressive overclocking option, if you can find it in stock.
GIGABYTE B650 AORUS Elite AX
The Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX is a high-end motherboard featuring the B650 chipset that allows it to command a much lower price point, closer to AMD's more budget-oriented motherboard lineups. It is a capable entry that also offers a PCI-E Gen 5 M2 slot that should allow access to faster PCI-E 5.0 storage down the line.
- Brand
- Gigabyte
- Memory Slots
- 4
- Memory Type
- DDR5, Up to 6666MHz
- Form Factor
- ATX
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi 6E
- USB Ports
- Up to 19 USB ports
- M.2 NVMe Connector
- 3 x M2 connectors
- CPU Support
- AMD Ryzen 7000 Series
- Chipset
- B650
- Socket
- AMD AM5
- Power Phases
- 14+2+1
- Networking
- 2.5G Ethernet + Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3
- Excellent overclockability with support for up to 6666MHz DDR5 RAM
- Ample connectivity options compared to alternatives
- Premium build and design as part of its value proposition
- Generous amount of I/O options for a budget motherboard
- Power delivery mechanism that somewhat exceeds most of its competitors
- Limited future-proof potential: restricted to a PCI-E 4.0 X16 slot for GPUs
- Gimps on a debug LED, something that is considered an industry standard
The GIGABYTE B650 AORUS Elite AX is an entry-level B650 motherboard for AMD users looking to upgrade to the AM5 platform as a long-term investment given how long the AM4 socket has been in the market. While the B650 AORUS isn't the most feature-packed B650/B650E motherboard out there, it does a more-than-fair job of being an excellent alternative to the entry-level B650 motherboards it competes with. This motherboard throws excellent power delivery, outstanding I/O options, decent networking, and an above-average aesthetic into the mix to offer a formidable combination of value and performance to end users.
Gamers however might take a dim view of the B650 chipset and the somewhat limited PCI-E 4.0 speeds the GPU slot runs at. While it's currently not an issue, we expect PCI-E 5.0 GPUs to be in play as early as next year, and they could look to take advantage of the extended bandwidth that the Gen 5 PCI-Express slots have to offer.
Overall, the AORUS Elite AX is not the best gaming motherboard users can get for future-proofing PCs with AM5. Still, it's by far the best one available today for the AM5 platform.
ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 Gaming Motherboard
The ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 Gaming Motherboard is an excellent mITX motherboard that brings a host of new features including USB4, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 to a Z790 chipset in a compact but potent form factor while clocking in at a considerable discount to its closest Z790-based competition.
- Brand
- ASRock
- Memory Slots
- 2
- Memory Type
- DDR5 (Up to 7000+ MHz)
- Form Factor
- mITX
- Wi-Fi
- Yes, Killer 802.11ax Wi-Fi 6E
- USB Ports
- 11
- CPU Support
- Intel 12th and 13th gen
- Chipset
- Z790
- Socket
- LGA1700
- Power Phases
- 10+1+1 phase
- Networking
- Killer 2.5G LAN
- Mini ITX Z790 motherboard without compromises
- Includes 3 M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots + 1 PCIe 5.0 x16
- Doubleshot Pro for maximum network bandwidth
- 2 USB 4/Thunderbolt ports
- Large heatsinks
- Some memory incompatibility issues
When designing a power-efficient compact gaming rig, gamers often have to make some unfortunate compromises with performance and connectivity. The ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 is the ideal gaming motherboard for small-form-factor PCs, removing many of the limitations of typical mini ITX boards. Supporting 13th and 12th-generation Intel CPUs, this ASRock motherboard includes a 10-layer PCB and 10+1+1 power phase design that makes overclocking a realistic possibility.
The ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 is complete with one PCIe 5.0 x 16 slot for a powerful graphics card, though installing them in smaller cases is often a challenge. Storage-wise, the motherboard is well-equipped, but gamers will have to settle for three M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots. External storage is often a necessity with mini ITX gaming PCs, and the ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 includes two USB4/Thunderbolt ports, which aren't found on some larger and more expensive motherboards. Also, there is one USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 for front I/O ports, and six USB 3.2 Gen 2 connections on the rear of the board.
Separating itself from the mini ITX competition, the ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 has some unique features including Doubleshot Pro, which combines Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet connections for a maximum network bandwidth of 4.9 Gbps. Doubleshot Pro intelligently routes high-priority traffic to the fastest networking protocol. Also, onboard audio is often taken for granted on motherboards. However, it becomes more critical with smaller PCs since users are less likely to install dedicated sound cards. The ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 relies on SteelSeries Nahimic Audio for rich and powerful 360-degree surround sound, as well as to remove interference from voice communications.
As much as the ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 accomplishes with a limited amount of space to work with, there are a few downsides to the motherboard worth noting. To accommodate overclockers, there are some large heatsinks on the board which tend to make already precarious cable management more difficult. In addition, there are some reports of DDR5 memory incompatibility, but these have largely disappeared with firmware updates. Regardless, the ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 is the best gaming motherboard for compact gaming PCs, boasting the same features included on top-tier alternatives.
MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE Motherboard
The MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE is MSI's version of what the highest-end AMD motherboard offering should look like. And it does check nearly all of those boxes and then some.
The MEG X670E GODLIKE's price however might be too restrictive for most users except overclocking enthusiasts.
- Brand
- MSI MEG
- Memory Slots
- 4
- Memory Type
- DDR5, Up to 6666MHz
- Form Factor
- E-ATX
- Wi-Fi
- Yes, AX 6E
- USB Ports
- 9 onboard
- CPU Support
- AMD Ryzen 7000 Series
- Chipset
- X670E
- Socket
- AM5
- Power Phases
- 24+2+1 Phase Power Design
- Networking
- Wifi 6E + 10G+2.5G Ethernet
- 24+2+1 power phase design
- M-Vision LCD dashboard provides vital system information
- PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 storage support
- Prohibitively expensive
- No USB 4/Thunderbolt ports
The E-ATX MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE demands a lot of faith from buyers to make such a massive investment in a motherboard. Even so, GODLIKE boards have a well-deserved reputation for allowing gamers to experience breakthrough performance on their rigs. The 24+2+1 power phase design with 105A per stage is essential for overclocking AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. MSI also relies on a modified thermal module with a wavy fin construction combined with Frozr AI software to effectively dissipate the heat expected when pushing system limits.
When gamers spend this much money on a motherboard, some perks not usually found with more affordable competitors are almost necessary. The M-Vision Dashboard definitely helps to justify the asking price of the MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE, supplying critical information about CPU temps and updates about system events. Users can also utilize this 4.5-inch touchscreen LCD to turn PCs on and off and toggle between different motherboard configurations before full boot-ups. Obviously when overclocking, having accessible information about the status of a system is critical.
The MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE is suitable for more than just a testbed, with six slots for M.2 storage solutions, including one PCIe 5.0 X 4 connector. Buyers will also never run out of connections for traditional 2.5 and 3.5-inch hard drives, thanks to eight 6Gbps SATA ports. Unfortunately, there is no USB 4/Thunderbolt available on the motherboard, which is disappointing considering its extreme price tag. Gamers will find a maximum of 15 USB 3.2 ports available either on the I/O shield or internal headers to partially compensate for this drawback.
Not surprisingly, the MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE welcomes DDR5 memory, with four slots for up to 128 GB of RAM. Overclockers will find the motherboard a great setting to test the capabilities of their memory with the ability to achieve clock speeds up to 6600 MHz. If something happens to go wrong, users can rely on the Smart Button on the I/O shield to return to a safe BIOS configuration.
Asking for a serious financial commitment, the MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE is far from a mainstream gaming motherboard. However, other than its surprising lack of a USB 4 port, the board is about as future-proof as there is among X670E contenders. The MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE is the best motherboard for gaming aimed at overclockers and buyers are not looking to upgrade again anytime soon.
How To Choose the Best PC Gaming Motherboard
As this guide has demonstrated, there is an incredible array of motherboards available, catering to various budgets and performance requirements. Still, such an extensive selection of components can lead to confusion when deciding on the best gaming motherboard for a new rig. Fortunately, following a few basic guidelines can make the buying process smoother;
The CPU
Generally, gamers should decide on a CPU for a build before any other component, since it will influence the choice of a motherboard. Other parts like graphics cards, memory, hard drives, and stylish cases are generally compatible with motherboards designed for either AMD or Intel processors. For owners of Intel 12th or 13th-generation CPUs, a gaming motherboard like the MSI MPG Z790 Edge Wi-Fi provides a healthy amount of features and storage ports for modest budgets. Similarly, motherboards ideal for AMD 7000 processors such as the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-F take advantage of the fastest DDR5 memory, with some RGB lighting to add some style to a gaming PC.
Budget
Motherboards come at different price points. At the very lower end ($200 and lower), affordable motherboards like the ASRock B760M Steel Legend and the GIGABYTE B650 AORUS Elite AX provide decent features for the money. While they lack all the bells and whistles, they have just the right combination of features for a first- or budget-friendly build.
For most gamers, a motherboard in the range of $200 to $350 checks most, if not all, the boxes for building a powerful gaming rig, with features like solid power delivery, high-end features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, multiple M.2 slots, and the latest Wi-Fi. The MSI MPG Z790 Edge WiFi offers the best features for the money in this price range, but you can also find some good options like the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-F Gaming Wi-Fi and ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 for compact builds. Decent overclocking is possible, but we recommend spending more for the best overclocking performance.
For gamers who seek to maximize the potential of their systems, the $350 to $500 range offers good upper-mid-range motherboards with excellent overclocking capabilities and all the features that come with the latest platform. For enthusiasts and extreme overclockers, the $500 to $800 range has the best options, including the record-breaking ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore.
PC Compatibility
The motherboard should be compatible with the PC for easy installation and functionality. Some PCs may require modification before fitting in a specified motherboard, which can be hectic.
FAQ
Q: What is the best AMD AM5 chipset you should get for gaming?
The AMD X670E chipset has the greatest amount of PCI-E 5.0 bandwidth available from the processor with up to 24 direct PCI-E 5.0 lanes being supported, making it both the best and the most future-proof chipset you should choose for gaming.
Q: What are the latest Intel Chipsets for gaming PCs?
The latest Intel chipsets are the 13th generation-supporting Intel B760 and Z790 motherboards that support a plethora of new improvements including better RAM clocks and 13th gen processor support.