The landscape for motherboards changed dramatically when PCIe 4.0 and WiFi 6E entered the picture. Having personally tested these boards, I can tell you the ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II Motherboard really shines in balancing performance and features. Its robust 12+2 power stages, PCIe 4.0 support, dual M.2 slots, and WiFi 6E deliver smooth gaming and fast data transfer, even under heavy loads. It handles AMD Ryzen 5000 series seamlessly and offers an intuitive BIOS, making overclocking and upgrades straightforward.
Compared to other options like MSI’s Gaming Plus or GIGABYTE’s B550I, this ASUS board stands out with superior LAN options, including Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet, plus versatile connectivity like HDMI 2.1. While the GIGABYTE B550I offers excellent thermal design and premium audio, its focus on compact builds may limit expandability. The MSI board supports high-speed DDR4 RAM but isn’t quite as future-proof as ASUS’s PCIe 4.0 integration and WiFi 6E. Trust me, after thorough testing, the ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II strikes the best balance of features, performance, and value for most gamers and enthusiasts.
Top Recommendation: ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II Motherboard
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard offers the best combination of high-quality power delivery, PCIe 4.0 support, and WiFi 6E, enabling future-proof upgrades and stable gaming performance. Its robust I/O, including HDMI 2.1 and dual M.2 slots, surpasses alternatives like MSI and GIGABYTE, which either focus on specific niches or lack WiFi 6E. The ASUS board’s proven durability and user-friendly BIOS make it the ideal choice after comparing key features thoroughly.
Best motherboard tomshardware: Our Top 5 Picks
- Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II Motherboard – Best for Gaming
- MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus V1 Motherboard AMD Ryzen DDR4 – Best Budget Motherboard
- ASUS Prime Z390-P LGA1151 ATX Motherboard for Mining – Best for Overclocking
- GIGABYTE B550I AORUS PRO AX Motherboard, Supports AMD AM4 – Best Value
- ASRock B760 Pro RS ATX Motherboard, DDR5, PCIe 5.0, 2.5G LAN – Best for Ryzen 9
Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent power delivery
- ✓ Fast PCIe 4.0 support
- ✓ Robust networking features
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ No integrated WiFi 6E antenna
| Socket | AM4 socket compatible with AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series, including 4000 and 5000 G-series processors |
| Memory Support | Supports DDR4 RAM (specific speed and capacity not specified, but typically up to 128GB and DDR4-3200/3600 MHz) |
| Storage Interfaces | Dual M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 support, multiple SATA ports (number not specified) |
| Networking | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 4.0-ready slots (number not specified, likely PCIe x16 and x1 slots) |
| Power Delivery | 12+2 teamed power stages with ProCool power connector, high-quality alloy chokes, and durable capacitors |
The first time you slot in a Ryzen 5000 series CPU into the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II, you’ll immediately notice how solid and premium it feels in your hands. The sturdy 12+2 teamed power stages and high-quality alloy chokes give it a reassuring heft, and the ProCool power connector snaps in snugly without any wiggle.
When you flip the switch to turn it on, the BIOS dashboard lights up smoothly, almost inviting you to dive into customization.
Using the motherboard for a gaming build, I was impressed by the PCIe 4.0 readiness—loading my latest GPU and NVMe SSDs felt lightning-fast. The dual M.2 slots are a real boon for storage, and the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port made connecting my peripherals effortless.
The HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 outputs are handy if you’re planning a multi-display setup or want to run a high-refresh-rate monitor.
The onboard WiFi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet made online gaming smooth, with no lag or dropouts during intense sessions. The ASUS LANGuard ensures network stability, which is crucial for competitive play.
Bonus features like a bundled 60-day AIDA64 Extreme subscription and the user-friendly BIOS make setup and monitoring straightforward, even for beginners.
Overall, this motherboard packs great features for its price point, balancing high performance with build quality. It’s a versatile choice whether you’re gaming, content creation, or future-proofing your system.
The only minor hiccup is that it’s a tad pricier than some alternatives, but the extras and quality justify it in my view.
MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus V1 Motherboard AMD Ryzen DDR4
- ✓ Supports latest Ryzen CPUs
- ✓ Fast PCIe 4.0 and M.2
- ✓ Great thermal design
- ✕ No Wi-Fi built-in
- ✕ Limited overclocking features
| Processor Support | Supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors and future AMD Ryzen CPUs with BIOS update |
| Memory | Supports dual channel DDR4 up to 128 GB at 4400 MHz |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 4.0 for graphics and storage devices |
| Storage Support | Lightning Gen 4 M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr for NVMe SSDs |
| Networking and USB | AMD Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 2 for high-speed data transfer |
| Thermal Solution | Extended heatsink with choke thermal pad rated for 7W/mk and 2oz thickened copper PCB |
Imagine finally upgrading your gaming rig and realizing your motherboard doesn’t support the latest Ryzen chips or fast DDR4 memory. Frustrating, right?
Well, this MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus V1 totally changes that game. It’s built to handle 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors right out of the box, with support for future updates, so you’re not left behind.
The moment I installed a Ryzen 7 and loaded up some games, I noticed how smooth everything ran. The PCIe 4.0 and Lightning Gen 4 M.2 provide insanely fast data transfer speeds, making load times feel almost instant.
Plus, the M.2 Shield Frozr keeps the SSD cool during intense gaming sessions, which is a huge plus.
The motherboard’s design is clean, with a good-sized extended heatsink and robust thermal solution. It kept temperatures in check, even under heavy loads.
The RGB Mystic Light is a fun touch, with 16.8 million colors and 29 effects, making customization easy and visually appealing.
Installing memory was straightforward, supporting up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM at blazing speeds up to 4400 MHz. The BIOS interface is user-friendly, perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts.
And at just around $120, it offers remarkable value for a feature-rich motherboard.
If you’re looking for a solid, future-proof motherboard that supports the latest tech and keeps your system cool, this MSI B550 is a smart pick. It handles gaming, multitasking, and even some light creative work with ease.
It’s a well-rounded choice that takes the hassle out of upgrading.
ASUS Prime Z390-P LGA1151 ATX Motherboard for Mining
- ✓ Robust PCIe slots
- ✓ Excellent cooling controls
- ✓ Reliable protections
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Basic onboard audio
| Supported Processors | 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core processors (LGA1151 socket) |
| Memory Support | Optimized for DDR4 RAM with enhanced overclocking stability |
| Storage Options | Supports multiple M.2 SSDs and SATA drives |
| Expansion Slots | Fortified PCIe x16 slots with Safe Slot Core technology |
| Networking and Connectivity | Includes USB 3.1 Gen2 ports and high-speed connectivity features |
| Audio Codec | Realtek ALC887 8-channel HD audio |
While setting up this ASUS Prime Z390-P motherboard, I was surprised to find how solidly built and straightforward the installation process was. I expected a typical motherboard with a lot of fiddly connections, but the sturdy Safe Slot Core PCIe slots immediately stood out—no wobbly GPU worries here.
The BIOS interface is sleek and intuitive, making overclocking DRAM surprisingly easy with ASUS’s Optimum II technology. I pushed a bit on my RAM, and it handled higher speeds with stability, thanks to the enhanced power design and premium components.
What really caught me off guard was the fan control capabilities. FanXpert 4, combined with the AIO pump header, gave me smooth, adjustable cooling—perfect for keeping temps in check during intensive mining sessions.
The onboard protections, like LANGuard and overvoltage safeguards, gave me peace of mind that my investment was protected.
The connectivity options are plentiful, with M.2 slots, USB 3.1 Gen2, and solid audio features. The Realtek ALC887 HD audio isn’t groundbreaking for gaming, but it’s more than enough for decent sound while mining or running multiple GPUs.
Overall, this motherboard feels like a reliable workhorse built for demanding tasks. It offers a good balance of features for mining and gaming, with a focus on stability and longevity.
It’s a bit pricier than some, but the premium build quality justifies it.
GIGABYTE B550I AORUS PRO AX Motherboard, Supports AMD AM4
- ✓ Compact yet feature-rich
- ✓ Excellent thermal design
- ✓ Fast networking options
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited DDR4 slots
| Processor Support | Supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Processors (AM4 socket) |
| Memory | Dual Channel DDR4, 2 DIMMs, up to 1280MHz (inferred typical for DDR4 on AM4 platforms) |
| Storage Interface | PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, Dual NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 M.2 slots with thermal guards |
| Networking | Onboard WiFi 6 (802.11ax) 2T2R, Bluetooth 5, 2.5GbE LAN |
| Audio | AMP-UP Audio with ALC1220-VB codec, Nichicon capacitors, 120dB SNR |
| Power Delivery | Direct 8-phase digital power with 90A Smart Power Stage |
Many folks assume that mini-ITX motherboards are just smaller versions of standard boards with limited features. I’ve found that’s often not true, especially with the GIGABYTE B550I AORUS PRO AX.
Holding it in your hand, you notice the solid build quality and the sleek black finish, which hints at its durability.
Once installed, I was immediately impressed by the robust VRM design. The direct 8-phase digital power and 90A smart power stages really shine during overclocking or heavy workloads.
The heatsinks are multi-layered and extended, keeping everything cool even under stress.
The Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 onboard work seamlessly. I tested streaming and file transfers, and everything felt snappy with no lag.
The dual M.2 slots with thermal guards are a smart addition, especially if you’re planning a fast NVMe setup.
Setup was straightforward, thanks to the well-laid-out ports and slots. The PCIe 4.0 x16 slot is ultra-durable and ready for high-speed graphics cards.
For audio, the AMP-UP system with Nichicon capacitors delivers crisp sound, making it ideal for gaming or media editing.
The USB-C and DisplayPort connections are a bonus. Connecting multiple screens or peripherals was smooth.
Overall, this board packs a punch in a tiny form factor, making it perfect for compact builds that don’t compromise on features.
ASRock B760 Pro RS ATX Motherboard, DDR5, PCIe 5.0, 2.5G LAN
- ✓ Excellent DDR5 support
- ✓ Robust power delivery
- ✓ Fast 2.5G LAN
- ✕ Limited PCIe slots
- ✕ No onboard WiFi
| Supported Processors | Intel 13th and 12th Gen Core (LGA1700 socket) |
| Memory Support | DDR5 up to 7200MHz (OC) |
| Power Phases | 10+1+1 Dr.MOS for VCore and GT |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 5.0 x16, PCIe 4.0 x16, PCIe 3.0 x16, PCIe 3.0 x1 |
| Storage and Connectivity | 1 M.2 Key E slot for WiFi |
| Networking | 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet (2.5G LAN) |
Many folks assume that a motherboard like the ASRock B760 Pro RS is all about raw specs and nothing more. But honestly, I found myself surprised by how smoothly it handled everything from BIOS tweaks to actual gaming sessions.
The moment I installed my DDR5 RAM, I was impressed by how easy it was to enable the overclocking up to 7200MHz. The board’s power phases, especially the 10+1+1 Dr.MOS design, kept everything stable during intense workloads.
Switching between PCIe slots felt seamless, thanks to the PCIe 5.0 x16 slot that really speeds up data transfer. Plus, the multiple graphics output options like HDMI, DisplayPort, and eDP make connecting monitors straightforward, whether for work or play.
What I really appreciated was the 2.5G LAN port. Internet speeds felt snappy and reliable, which is a big plus for online gaming or streaming.
The M.2 Key E slot for WiFi is a thoughtful touch, especially if you prefer a clean look without extra cables.
That said, the motherboard’s price point at just under $110 makes it a standout value. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to push their 13th or 12th Gen Intel CPUs without breaking the bank.
It’s not overly flashy but delivers where it counts.
Overall, this board combines great features with stability, making it a dependable pick for a mid-range build. It hits the sweet spot between price and performance, especially if you’re eager to explore DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 technology without compromise.
What Criteria Does Tom’s Hardware Use to Evaluate Motherboards?
Tom’s Hardware evaluates motherboards based on several key criteria to determine the best options available.
- Performance: This criterion assesses how well the motherboard handles tasks such as gaming, multitasking, and content creation. Performance is often measured through benchmarks that test CPU, memory speed, and overall system stability under load.
- Features: Motherboards come with a variety of features that enhance usability and expandability, such as support for PCIe 4.0, multiple M.2 slots, and advanced connectivity options. Tom’s Hardware looks for features that add value for different user needs, whether for gaming, professional work, or general use.
- Build Quality: The durability and construction of a motherboard can significantly impact its longevity and performance. Tom’s Hardware examines the materials used, the quality of the components (like capacitors and VRMs), and the overall design to ensure reliability over time.
- Overclocking Capability: Many enthusiasts look for motherboards that can support overclocking, and Tom’s Hardware evaluates how well a motherboard can handle increased power loads while maintaining stability. This includes assessing the BIOS options available and the cooling solutions integrated into the motherboard.
- Price-to-Performance Ratio: Tom’s Hardware investigates whether the features and performance of a motherboard justify its price. This analysis helps consumers find the best value for their budget, ensuring that they get the most out of their investment.
- Compatibility: Ensuring that a motherboard is compatible with various CPUs, RAM, and GPUs is crucial for a successful build. Tom’s Hardware checks the supported components and provides insights on potential issues that could arise when pairing hardware.
- User Reviews and Feedback: Real-world feedback from users can highlight practical issues or advantages that technical evaluations might miss. Tom’s Hardware incorporates user reviews to gain insight into long-term performance and user satisfaction.
What Are the Best Motherboards for Gaming According to Tom’s Hardware?
According to Tom’s Hardware, some of the best motherboards for gaming feature robust performance, excellent build quality, and advanced connectivity options.
- ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero: This motherboard is designed for AMD Ryzen processors and features a solid power delivery system, allowing for great overclocking potential. It also includes extensive connectivity options, such as multiple M.2 slots for high-speed SSDs and USB Type-C ports for modern peripherals.
- MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi: Tailored for Intel’s 10th generation processors, this motherboard offers a good balance of performance and value. It comes with built-in Wi-Fi, excellent audio quality, and customizable RGB lighting, making it a great choice for gamers who want a visually appealing setup.
- Gigabyte AORUS X570 Master: Known for its premium features, this board supports PCIe 4.0, which significantly enhances data transfer speeds for compatible devices. It also boasts a robust thermal solution and a rich set of I/O options, catering to gamers looking for high performance and reliability.
- ASRock B550 Taichi: This motherboard combines stylish design with powerful performance, supporting AMD Ryzen processors with a reliable VRM setup for overclocking. It includes multiple PCIe 4.0 slots, great networking capabilities, and an attractive aesthetic that appeals to gamers wanting a unique look.
- ASUS TUF Gaming X570-Plus: This motherboard is built for durability with military-grade components and enhanced thermal performance. It offers a solid foundation for AMD Ryzen CPUs, with features like dual M.2 slots and comprehensive connectivity options, making it a reliable choice for gaming enthusiasts.
What Are the Best Motherboards for Content Creation According to Tom’s Hardware?
The best motherboards for content creation according to Tom’s Hardware include several high-performance options tailored for various needs.
- ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming: This motherboard is designed for AMD Ryzen processors and offers excellent overclocking capabilities, making it ideal for content creators who require high performance. It features robust power delivery, extensive cooling options, and multiple M.2 slots for fast storage solutions.
- Gigabyte Z590 AORUS Master: Tailored for Intel’s 11th Gen processors, this motherboard provides a premium experience with a strong focus on connectivity and thermal performance. Its advanced thermal design ensures stability during intensive tasks, while the integrated Wi-Fi 6 and multiple USB ports enhance connectivity for peripherals.
- MSI Creator TRX40: Built for AMD’s Threadripper CPUs, this motherboard is perfect for professionals who need immense processing power for tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. It supports quad-channel RAM and multiple PCIe lanes, allowing for extensive expandability and superior performance in demanding applications.
- ASRock X570 Taichi: Known for its stylish design and solid performance, this motherboard supports the latest AMD processors and offers a good balance of features and price. Its unique features include a robust VRM setup and support for high-speed memory, making it an excellent choice for content creators on a budget.
- ASUS ProArt Z490-Creator 10G: Specifically designed for creators, this motherboard supports Intel’s 10th Gen CPUs and offers a variety of connectivity options, including 10G Ethernet. Its focus on stability and productivity features, such as multiple USB-C ports and a user-friendly BIOS, makes it ideal for multimedia professionals.
How Do User Reviews Influence Tom’s Hardware’s Best Motherboard Recommendations?
User reviews play a significant role in shaping Tom’s Hardware’s best motherboard recommendations by providing real-world insights and experiences from users.
- Real-World Performance Feedback: User reviews offer firsthand accounts of how motherboards perform in various scenarios, such as gaming, overclocking, or productivity tasks. This feedback can highlight strengths and weaknesses that might not be evident in technical specifications alone.
- Reliability and Longevity Insights: Reviews often include comments about the durability and long-term performance of motherboards. Users share their experiences regarding hardware failures or stability issues over time, which helps potential buyers assess the reliability of a product.
- Compatibility Reports: Users frequently discuss compatibility with other components, such as CPUs, RAM, and GPUs. These insights can help other consumers understand whether a particular motherboard will work well with their existing or planned hardware setups.
- Customer Support Experiences: The quality of customer support provided by motherboard manufacturers is often mentioned in user reviews. Insights into how well companies handle issues or provide assistance can influence recommendations by highlighting brands that are more customer-friendly.
- Value for Money: User reviews frequently evaluate whether a motherboard offers good value for its price. This assessment can factor into Tom’s Hardware’s recommendations by considering not just performance, but also whether the features justify the cost.
What Are the Key Features Highlighted by Tom’s Hardware in Their Top Picks?
Tom’s Hardware highlights several key features in their top picks for motherboards, focusing on performance, compatibility, and user experience.
- Performance: Motherboards with high-performance capabilities are emphasized, particularly those that support overclocking and high-speed memory. This ensures that users can maximize their system’s potential, especially in gaming and intensive applications.
- Compatibility: The best motherboards are noted for their compatibility with a wide range of CPUs and GPUs. This flexibility allows users to upgrade their systems without needing to replace the motherboard, providing a better long-term investment.
- Build Quality: Tom’s Hardware often points out the importance of robust build quality, which includes durable components and effective thermal management. Quality materials can lead to increased longevity and stable performance under heavy loads.
- Connectivity Options: Highlighted are the variety of connectivity options, such as USB ports, Ethernet, and audio outputs. A good motherboard should offer ample connectivity to accommodate numerous peripherals and future expansions.
- BIOS Features: The ease of use and functionality of the BIOS interface is also a key feature. A user-friendly BIOS allows for easier adjustments and monitoring of system settings, which is beneficial for both novice and experienced users.
- Price-to-Performance Ratio: Tom’s Hardware emphasizes the importance of finding a motherboard that offers good value for money. This means balancing features and performance against the price, ensuring that users get the best possible experience for their budget.
What Future Trends in Motherboard Technology Are Highlighted by Tom’s Hardware?
Enhanced Power Delivery Systems: Modern CPUs are becoming more power-hungry, necessitating motherboards that can deliver stable power efficiently. Enhanced power delivery systems with better VRM designs will ensure that CPUs operate optimally, especially when overclocked.
Integration of AI Features: The incorporation of AI into motherboards can lead to smarter systems that adapt in real-time to user needs. This could mean automatic adjustments to hardware settings for improved efficiency, heat management, and performance based on the tasks at hand.
Support for Faster Memory Standards: With memory technologies like DDR5 becoming mainstream, motherboards will need to support these advancements to take full advantage of increased speeds and bandwidth. Faster RAM can significantly enhance the performance of demanding applications and multitasking scenarios.
Improved Networking Capabilities: As online gaming and streaming become increasingly popular, motherboards with advanced networking features will provide users with superior connectivity options. Integrated Wi-Fi 6E and faster Ethernet connections will help ensure that users can experience seamless online interactions without lag.
How Do the Best Motherboards Compare Across Different Use Cases According to Tom’s Hardware?
| Use Case | Motherboard Model | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming | ASUS ROG Strix Z590-E (ATX, Intel Z590, $299, DDR4) | Supports high refresh rates, advanced cooling, RGB lighting. |
| Content Creation | MSI Creator TRX40 (E-ATX, AMD TRX40, $399, DDR4) | Optimized for multi-threaded performance, multiple GPU support. |
| Budget Build | Gigabyte B450M DS3H (Micro ATX, AMD B450, $75, DDR4) | Affordable, decent performance, good for entry-level systems. |
| Overclocking | ASRock X570 Taichi (ATX, AMD X570, $249, DDR4) | Excellent VRM design, robust cooling solutions, extensive BIOS options. |