Unveiling the Ultimate Motherboards for Tech Enthusiasts in 2023

Intel and AMD are introducing new technological advancements for their CPUs, such as PCI-E 5.0 and DDR5. These advancements necessitate significant chipset upgrades, which are requirements for Intel's 12th and 13th generation processors, as well as AMD's Ryzen 7000 Series processors and the recently-launched 7000 Series X3D processors.

As a result, a new generation of motherboards from Intel and AMD has been introduced to support these technological upgrades and their latest processors. Intel offers the H610, B660, H670, and Z690 chipsets for the 12th generation, and the H710, B760, H770, and Z790 chipsets for the 13th generation. AMD, on the other hand, leads with the B650, B650E, X670, and X670E chipsets, with the recent unveiling of the A620 series.

Here are some top-notch Intel and AMD motherboards meticulously selected by the GameRant team to assist you in making a well-informed purchase this year:

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero - The Ultimate Intel Motherboard priced at $600 on Amazon.

GIGABYTE X670E AORUS Master Motherboard: The Ultimate Choice for AMD Users at $490 on Amazon.

MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4: An Affordable Option for Intel Users at $190 on Amazon.

GIGABYTE B650 AORUS Elite AX: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly AMD Motherboard priced at $220 on Amazon. EVGA Z790 Classified Gaming Motherboard: The Unrivaled Premium Intel Motherboard available at a price of $650 on Amazon.

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ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme Motherboard The Best Premium AMD Motherboard $990 at Amazon

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero: The Ultimate Intel Motherboard Choice

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero stands out as the top choice when it comes to purchasing a motherboard for Intel 12th and 13th generation CPUs. With its exceptional support for high-speed memory overclocking, superior build quality, and a sleek premium design, this motherboard is unmatched. Additionally, it boasts the inclusion of dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, setting it apart as one of the rare USB4 motherboards available in the market.

ASUS brand offers a motherboard with four memory slots that support DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 7800+ MHz. The ATX form factor ensures compatibility with various computer cases. Additionally, it is equipped with Wi-Fi 6E technology and provides up to 21 USB ports for convenient connectivity. This motherboard is designed to support Intel 12th and 13th Gen CPUs and features the Z790 chipset with an LGA1700 socket. With 20+1 power phases, it delivers stable power supply to the system. Networking options include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Ethernet 2.5G. Notably, it supports Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4.0 (Type-C) out of the box, making it compatible with the latest devices. Another remarkable feature is its ability to support up to five M2 PCI-E 4.0 sockets simultaneously.

Is PCI-E 5.0 GPU ready out of the box

Has an excellent 20+1 phase power delivery system

Looks aesthetically pleasing and feels premium thanks to multiple design upgrades by ASUS

Cons Trades at a significant premium compared to similarly spec'd motherboards

Skips 10GbE Ethernet, which should be a standard for a motherboard at this price point

$600 at Amazon $630 at Newegg

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is a gaming-centric motherboard that caters to gamers, creators, and productivity professionals. Its impressive feature set and future-proofing make it the top choice for the best overall Intel motherboard for gaming, productivity, and content creation. With USB 4.0 support, a wide range of I/O options, effective cooling, and reliable power delivery, this motherboard offers a visually appealing package. Additionally, it boasts a comprehensive set of networking capabilities, ample M2 slots, and USB ports, as well as support for highly overclocked RAM, making it a serious contender for users who mean business.

Bottom line: A high-priced all-in-one option that provides comprehensive support for both 12th and 13th generation Intel processors, albeit with the added cost associated with the renowned 'ROG' brand.

GIGABYTE X670E AORUS Master Motherboard: The Optimal Choice for AMD Users

A Remarkable Array of Features

Gigabyte's high-end X670E is designed to provide a plethora of IO options and native support for PCI-E Gen 5. With a focus on combining reliability and value for money, Gigabyte aims to capture the market by offering a competitive entry for midrange/high-end users at an affordable price.

Key features of the Gigabyte X670E include support for AMD EXPO and DDR5 memory with up to 6666 MHz, making it a versatile choice. The motherboard's E-ATX form factor ensures ample space for components, while the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E guarantees fast and reliable wireless connectivity. Additionally, the motherboard offers 12 on-board USB ports, catering to a variety of peripheral devices.

In terms of CPU support, the Gigabyte X670E is compatible with the Ryzen 7000 series, ensuring compatibility with the latest processors from AMD. The chipset, X670E, provides the necessary features and capabilities for optimal performance.

One of the standout features of the Gigabyte X670E is its 16+2+2 phase power delivery mechanism, which ensures excellent power delivery to the CPU. This results in enhanced stability and performance, making it an ideal choice for demanding tasks and overclocking.

Furthermore, the motherboard boasts high-quality audio with its Hi-Fi Audio technology, providing an immersive audio experience for users. In terms of networking, the Gigabyte X670E offers Wi-Fi 6E, Ethernet 2.5G, and Bluetooth 5.3, allowing for seamless connectivity options.

Overall, the Gigabyte X670E is a feature-packed motherboard that caters to the needs of midrange/high-end users. With its impressive power delivery mechanism, extensive IO options, and support for the latest technologies, it offers excellent value for money without compromising on performance.

Has plenty of PCI-E 5.0 options. Has dual 5.0 M2 slots and an X16 GPU slot in PCI-E 5.0

Has excellent SSD and VRM cooling out of the box

Comes with solid networking options including Wi-Fi 6E, BT 5.3, and 2.5G Ethernet in play

Cons Stock bios needs to be updated to get decent boot timings out of the box

The GIGABYTE X670E AORUS Master Motherboard stands out as a top-notch motherboard, utilizing the X670E chipset. It not only offers impressive AM5 performance but also provides a wide range of I/O options and boasts a premium design. What sets it apart is its competitive pricing, offering a significant discount compared to its closest rivals, some of which are priced $100 or more higher.

The Gigabyte X670E Aorus Master is equipped with a top-notch power delivery system and efficient cooling, ensuring optimal performance. It also boasts SSD slots that maintain low temperatures. On the networking and I/O fronts, this motherboard offers abundant USB ports, M2 slots, and support for PCI-E 5.0. Although it initially had software issues, subsequent BIOS updates have resolved them, resulting in excellent memory compatibility and seamless compatibility with the new X3D processors. With its unmatched set of features, the X670E Aorus Master outperforms most motherboards in its price range, making it a worthy choice for early adopters of the AM5 platform.

In summary, the Gigabyte X670E Aorus Master is a reliable and high-quality motherboard that offers numerous I/O options and networking features. Its efficient cooling system makes it stand out from the competition, all at a price that is more affordable than other offerings on the market.

The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4: The Best Budget Intel Motherboard for Solid Performance at a Lower Price

MSI's MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi DDR4 motherboard is an impressive offering from the renowned Taiwan-based tech manufacturer. Designed to cater to the mainstream Intel CPU-based audience, it provides a perfect blend of value, functionality, and reliability. With a wide range of I/O and onboard slots, this motherboard aims to satisfy the needs of budget-conscious consumers without compromising on performance. Priced at $190, it offers significant savings of $40 compared to its competitors. The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 is undoubtedly a top choice for those seeking a powerful yet affordable motherboard.

MSI's brand offers an ATX motherboard with 4 memory slots that support DDR4 memory. The motherboard also features Wi-Fi 6E and up to 16 USB ports. It includes 3 M.2 NVMe connectors and supports Intel 12th and 13th generation CPUs. With a B760 chipset and LGA 1700 socket, this motherboard provides 12+1+1 power phases. In terms of networking, it offers Ethernet 2.5G + Wi-Fi. One of the advantages of this motherboard is its affordability, as it provides a full ATX layout while still offering well-distributed M.2 slots and sockets. This makes it easy to expand your system if needed. Additionally, by supporting DDR4 memory, you can use cheaper or older memory from a previous build, allowing for cost savings when upgrading.

Offers a solid networking stack that includes Ethernet 2.5G, Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3 out of the box

Cons No RGB lighting might feel underwhelming for some gamers

The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi DDR4 is a remarkable entry-level B760 motherboard that sets a new standard for affordable Intel motherboards in 2023. Boasting a comprehensive range of networking choices, a satisfactory SSD, and pre-installed VRM cooling, this motherboard allows users to utilize their existing DDR4 memory. With its budget-friendly price tag, the B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi is an ideal choice for gamers, content creators, and technology enthusiasts who are looking to save some money.

The absence of RGB lighting on the motherboard may disappoint gamers, but content creators and productivity-focused users might appreciate the lack of distractions. However, those seeking the latest options or upgrade paths to DDR5 may consider other motherboards with more RGB features as more worthy options. Alternatively, for just an additional $10, users can opt for the DDR5 variant of the same motherboard, which could be a worthwhile upgrade for those interested in DDR5 technology.

In summary, the Tomahawk B760 motherboard is a commendable option with a reliable specification and satisfactory build quality, although it does not offer any RGB lighting.

The Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX is a feature-packed motherboard that offers impressive performance at a budget-friendly price. With the B650 chipset, it delivers excellent value for money and is a great choice for those looking to build a high-end AMD system without breaking the bank. Additionally, its inclusion of a PCI-E Gen 5 M2 slot ensures future-proof compatibility with faster PCI-E 5.0 storage options.

Pros:

- Gigabyte brand

- 4 memory slots

- DDR5 memory type, supports up to 6666MHz

- ATX form factor

- Wi-Fi 6E

- Up to 19 USB ports

- 3 x M2 connectors for NVMe storage

- Supports AMD Ryzen 7000 Series CPUs

- B650 chipset

- AMD AM5 socket

- 14+2+1 power phases

- 2.5G Ethernet + Wi-Fi 6E + Bluetooth 5.3 for networking

- Comes with a comprehensive 5-year warranty

- Excellent networking I/O options (Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 2.5G Ethernet)

Allows for high DDR5 Ram overclocking out of the box

Cons Limited to Gen 4 PCI-E for GPUs

The GIGABYTE B650 AORUS Elite AX is a highly capable motherboard based on the B650 chipset. It boasts an impressive networking stack and supports DDR5 memory on a spacious ATX form factor. With its reliable power delivery, 4 RAM slots, and a comprehensive 5-year warranty, this budget-level gaming motherboard exceeds expectations.

The B650 Aorus Elite offers a comprehensive package, capable of running current-generation graphics cards at full capacity despite its PCI-E Gen 4.0 X16 slot being considered dated. However, it is worth mentioning that a BIOS update is necessary to address certain issues, which may not be ideal for some users. Additionally, the placement of the heatsink on the motherboard can be somewhat problematic when fitting it into a case.

In conclusion, the Aorus Elite B650 Motherboard boasts solid specifications, excellent networking capabilities, and a reasonable price. While it may not be flawless, it comes close to competing with most X670 motherboards.

The EVGA Z790 Classified Gaming Motherboard is designed to fully harness the power of Intel's 12th and 13th generation processors. With its 19-phase power delivery system and a 12-layer PCB, which is one of the most compact in the industry, this motherboard is dedicated to providing optimal overclocking performance on the Z790 chipset.

The EVGA brand offers a motherboard with 4 memory slots that support DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 7800Mhz. This E-ATX form factor motherboard includes Wi-Fi 6E and can accommodate up to 15 USB ports. It also features 3 M.2 NVMe connectors for high-speed storage options. The motherboard is compatible with Intel 12th and 13th Gen CPUs and utilizes the Z790 chipset. With 14+2+2+1 power phases, it provides efficient power delivery. In terms of networking, it offers 10G and 2.5G Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and BT 5.2 capabilities. One notable feature is its triple BIOS, which allows users to set different performance presets or experiment with overclocking to test stability. Additionally, the motherboard conveniently positions the RAM slots at the top, making it easy for users to upgrade or test different memory models.

Has excellent right-angle connectors that tend to make cable management much easier compared to most alternatives

Offers some of the highest DDR5 ram overclocks in the industry

Has excellent power delivery that should allow for excellent CPU overclocks

Cons Has no M2 PCI-E 5.0 memory slots whatsoever

Is in E-ATX form factor, making it a problematic install for some end users that have smaller cases who might have to factor in a case upgrade as well

$650 at Amazon $650 at Newegg

The EVGA Z790 Classified Gaming Motherboard stands out as an exceptional choice for enthusiasts seeking the best premium/performance tier Intel motherboard. Not only does it come with a somewhat higher price tag, but it also offers a plethora of features, overclocking support, and a unique design that allows for a seamless PC installation in 2023.

However, it is important to note a couple of drawbacks. Firstly, the absence of PCI-E 5.0 storage is a notable limitation, especially considering the increasing availability of PCI-E 5.0 SSDs in the market. Additionally, due to its E-ATX form factor driven by the movement of RAM slots, this motherboard may pose challenges when fitting into smaller cases that do not comply with the E-ATX standard. To ensure proper functionality, a complete overhaul, including a case swap, might be necessary.

Bottom Line: With its exceptional features, robust overclocking support, and abundant I/O options, the EVGA Z790 motherboard proves to be an outstanding choice for Intel users in 2023. However, the absence of M2 PCI-E 5.0 ports remains a drawback.

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme stands out as the top-tier offering from ASUS, featuring the exclusive AniMe Matrix LED technology combined with ASUS' superior power delivery solution. Designed to meet the needs of the most discerning consumers, this motherboard boasts impressive features such as 4 DDR5 6400MHz memory slots, E-ATX form factor, Wi-Fi AX 6E connectivity, and 12 onboard USB ports. It also provides support for the AMD Ryzen 7000 Series processors, utilizes the X670E chipset, and offers a robust power phase design of 20+2. Additionally, it excels in networking capabilities with Wi-Fi 6E, 10G, and 2.5G Ethernet options. Notably, it comes equipped with USB 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4 ports right out of the box, making it a highly desirable choice for power users.

Premium build quality with plenty of display control, RGB lighting and an OLED display for information

Has Dual Ethernet ports in play (10G+2.5G)

Offers a generous amount of accessories to help you customize your build as you see fit

Cons Lacks integrated HDMI and DisplayPort cables (Adapters required)

Is one of the most expensive X670E motherboards money can buy in 2023

$990 at Amazon $990 at Newegg

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme Motherboard stands out as the ultimate choice for AMD users seeking a high-end motherboard. With its support for USB 4.0, impressive memory overclocking capabilities, top-notch networking features, and exceptional power delivery, it truly shines on AMD's AM5 platform. However, due to its E-ATX form factor, it may pose challenges for those with smaller PC cases, potentially requiring a case upgrade.

Nevertheless, this motherboard makes good use of its ample space. It boasts excellent RGB control, incorporates a premium Crosshair OLED display, and exudes a sense of luxury that sets it apart as a top-tier motherboard. While it offers the convenience of display connectivity via USB-C, it lacks HDMI and DP ports, which may necessitate the use of an adapter for certain setups.

Bottom Line: Despite its high price tag, the Crosshair X670E Extreme surpasses all expectations with its extensive range of features. This motherboard stands out as the ultimate choice for AM5 platform enthusiasts who crave additional options and functionality.

What Should I Look For When Picking A Motherboard?

It is crucial to ensure that the motherboard you choose is compatible with the CPU you intend to use, considering the frequent updates and changes in both AMD and Intel's motherboard chipsets and sockets. Certain motherboards may require a BIOS update in order to function properly with newer processors. It is advisable to be aware of this potential requirement, as it can help prevent compatibility issues and the need to troubleshoot problems that may arise from using a newer CPU with an older BIOS version that does not recognize the processor. Additionally, some motherboards may not receive BIOS updates to support the latest generation of CPUs, so it is recommended to check for compatibility early on when considering your build.

Intel's 12th and 13th generation CPUs serve as an example in this case. The 12th gen CPUs are compatible with both Intel's 12th and 13th generation motherboards. However, the 13th gen CPUs require a mandatory BIOS update on most 12th gen motherboards in order to function smoothly.

When searching for a new motherboard, it is crucial to consider the memory support it offers. The distinction between DDR4 and DDR5 compatibility is important. With AMD's AM5 socket-based motherboards being exclusively DDR5 compatible and AM4 being limited to DDR4, the choice is relatively straightforward. However, Intel's motherboards for the 12th and 13th gen provide options for both DDR4 and DDR5 SKUs.

Modern gamers are faced with the need for larger storage options due to the increasing size of game engines and assets. As time goes on, games are demanding more storage space, making it essential for players to have ample storage capacity.

When it comes to productivity, modern applications often require a significant amount of storage space. In addition to this, some users may also need a backup drive or secondary storage. It is important to consider the storage slots available on your motherboard and determine if they are sufficient for your current and future storage needs.

For power users or those who require storage for gaming or productivity purposes, having multiple M2 (NVME) slots on your motherboard would be ideal. Additionally, if you plan on using hard drives instead of SSDs, it would be beneficial to have SATA slots available. Considering the current affordability of modern SSDs, it is advisable to make the purchase sooner rather than later.

The form factor of a motherboard is a crucial factor to consider as it has a direct impact on your choice of case, expansion capabilities, and the space it occupies on your work desk or floor. This not only affects the overall aesthetic of your PC but also the cooling options available in certain cases.

Smaller motherboards may have fewer memory slots, typically opting for 2 instead of the standard 4 DIMMs, which could limit your upgrade potential. Ideally, an ATX motherboard is recommended for most PC cases, but you can also consider investing in an mATX/ITX case for a compact PC or an EATX case if you want to maximize expansion slots and features in your build.

It is crucial to verify the available PCI-E slots on the motherboard in terms of compatibility. Although PCI-E slots support backward and forward compatibility, it is possible that they may limit the full potential of your new SSD drive or graphics cards in certain situations.

Considering that the latest high-end GPUs currently support PCI-E 4.0 x 16 speeds, being prepared for the upcoming PCI-E 5.0 speeds at the GPU level can prove advantageous. This preparation ensures that a future GPU upgrade will only require a simple graphics card swap.

As motherboards surpass the basic necessities and transition into the realm of recommended specifications, they enter the enthusiast domain where their prices escalate rapidly, particularly for features that may be deemed specialized in certain scenarios.

Consequently, users often seek budget-friendly alternatives for both Intel's 12th and 13th-generation motherboards, as well as AMD's new AM5-based motherboards designed for their Ryzen 7000 series processors. These options frequently prove to be formidable contenders, presenting remarkable features and value-added solutions that can rival those found in more premium counterparts.

FAQ:

Q: What are AM5 Compatible Processors?

A: AMD's latest Ryzen 7000 series processors are compatible with the AM5 socket available on some of the latest motherboards to release in 2023.

Q: Is PCI-E 5.0 Necessary for users in 2023?

PCI-E 5.0, a relatively new standard, is compatible with PCI-E 4.0 and provides double the bandwidth compared to its predecessor. However, by 2023, its adoption has not become widespread yet. While there are plenty of PCI-E 5.0 motherboards available, finding peripherals that support this standard is currently more challenging. If you prioritize having the fastest SSD storage, considering PCI-E 5.0 could be necessary. However, it is important to note that mainstream GPUs currently do not effectively utilize the bandwidth offered by PCI-E 5.0, making it more of a future-proofing measure rather than an immediate necessity.