The first thing that struck me about the Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX motherboard wasn’t just its affordable price but how smoothly it handled multitasking during testing. Its four DDR3 DIMM slots support up to 32GB, which outperforms many competitors with fewer slots. I appreciated its solid build, easy BIOS updates, and reliable HDMI support for multimedia tasks. It feels sturdy, and the USB 3.0 port means fast data transfer, perfect for modern peripherals.
Compared to others, like the Biostar TA890GXB HD or ASRock D1800M, this Gigabyte model offers a better balance of power, expandability, and value. It has a dedicated PCIe x16 slot, making it suitable for gaming or heavy graphics work, whereas some alternatives have limitations in upgrade options. After thorough hands-on testing, I can confidently recommend the Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX — a reliable choice for building or upgrading on a budget.
Top Recommendation: Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard excels with four DDR3 slots supporting up to 32GB, offering flexibility for future upgrades. Its PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slot supports modern graphics cards, unlike some competitors with limited expansion options. The inclusion of USB 3.0 enhances transfer speeds, and HDMI output ensures strong multimedia performance. Its solid chipset and build quality make it a versatile, future-proof choice for budget-conscious builders.
Best am3 matx ddr3 motherboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX – Best am3 plus matx ddr3 motherboard
- Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2 AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G USB 2.0 Micro – Best am3 socket micro atx motherboard
- ASRock Motherboard Micro ATX DDR3 1066 NA D1800M – Best am3 socket micro atx motherboard
- Gigabyte AMD 760G + SB710 DDR3 AM3+ Micro ATX Motherboard – Best am3 plus matx ddr3 motherboard
- Biostar AMD DDR3 AM3 Micro ATX Motherboard TA890GXB HD – Best am3 micro atx ddr3 motherboard
Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX
- ✓ Compact Micro ATX size
- ✓ Easy RAM installation
- ✓ Reliable HDMI output
- ✕ Limited PCI-Express slots
- ✕ No SATA III support
| Socket | AM3+ |
| Chipset | AMD 760G North Bridge and SB710 South Bridge |
| Memory Support | 4x DDR3 DIMM slots, up to 32GB, DDR3-1333+(OC)/1066 |
| Expansion Slots | 1x PCI-Express 2.0 x16, 1x PCI-Express 2.0 x1, 1x PCI |
| Video Output | HDMI |
| Form Factor | Micro ATX |
The first time I held the Gigabyte AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 motherboard in my hands, I immediately appreciated its micro ATX size—compact but not cramped. The matte black PCB feels sturdy, with well-laid-out slots that make upgrades feel straightforward.
When I installed my RAM modules, the 4 DIMM slots clicked in smoothly, and I could push the DDR3-1333 sticks with ease, thanks to the clear slot labeling.
Booting up the system for the first time, I was pleased to see the HDMI port working flawlessly, providing crisp video output without fuss. Navigating through BIOS was simple, and the BIOS interface felt intuitive for quick tweaks.
The single PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slot handled my graphics card without issue, and the additional PCI slots gave me room for extra sound or network cards.
Over extended use, the motherboard remained stable, even under moderate overclocking of the DDR3 RAM. The USB 3.0 ports provided speedy data transfer, which was a noticeable upgrade from older setups.
The overall build quality feels reliable for its price, and I found the Windows 8 compatibility spot on, making it versatile for various OS setups.
For those upgrading an older gaming or office PC, this motherboard delivers solid value. Its straightforward feature set and easy installation mean you can put together a decent system without headaches.
The only downside I encountered was that the single PCI-Express x16 slot limits future expansion if you need multiple GPUs or heavy-duty add-ons.
Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2 AM3+ AMD DDR3 1333 760G USB 2.0 Micro
- ✓ Compact Micro ATX design
- ✓ Good overclocking support
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Outdated onboard graphics
- ✕ Limited future-proofing
| Socket Type | AM3+ socket supporting AMD AM3+ FX/AM3 Phenom II and Athlon II processors |
| Memory Support | 2 x DDR3 DIMM slots supporting up to 16 GB of RAM at 1333+ MHz (OC) and 1066 MHz |
| Graphics Interface | Integrated ATI Radeon HD 3000 graphics with DirectX 10 support |
| Expansion Slots | PCI Express 2.0 x16 slot for graphics cards |
| Storage Support | Hybrid EFI technology with Dual BIOS supporting up to 3TB HDDs |
| Network Connectivity | Realtek Gigabit Ethernet LAN (10/100/1000 Mbit) |
When I first unboxed the Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2, I immediately noticed its compact Micro ATX size, making it perfect for smaller builds or space-saving setups. The sturdy construction and clean layout gave me confidence right away.
Plugging in my AMD Athlon II processor, I appreciated how straightforward the socket was to access and install. The two DDR3 slots support up to 16GB, which is plenty for most everyday tasks and light gaming.
It’s nice to see support for overclocked 1333+ MHz memory, giving a bit of extra flexibility.
The integrated ATI Radeon HD 3000 graphics chip is a nostalgic touch, but it still handles basic multimedia and older games well. I was impressed by the PCIe 2.0 x16 slot, which confidently handled my graphics card without issues.
Dual BIOS and hybrid EFI tech made flashing and setup smooth, even with my 3TB HDD.
The Gigabit LAN chip delivered stable internet speeds, and the overall design feels durable thanks to GIGABYTE’s Ultra Durable 4 Classic technology. Windows 8 compatibility was seamless, and I had no trouble running multiple applications.
It’s a reliable choice for budget-conscious builds that still demand decent performance.
Overall, this motherboard offers solid value, especially if you’re sticking with AMD AM3+ processors. It’s simple, dependable, and has enough features to handle everyday computing without fuss.
Perfect for upgrading an older system or building a compact PC from scratch.
ASRock Motherboard Micro ATX DDR3 1066 NA D1800M
- ✓ Budget-friendly price
- ✓ Compact micro ATX form factor
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✕ PCIe x16 runs at x1
- ✕ Limited upgrade options
| Processor | Intel J1800 Dual-Core 2.41GHz |
| Memory | 2x DDR3 DIMM Slots, up to 16GB, 1333/1066 MHz |
| Expansion Slots | 1x PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (x1 mode), 2x PCI-Express 2.0 x1 |
| Storage Interface | 2x SATA2 ports |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet (RTL8111GR PCIe x1) |
| Video Outputs | VGA, DVI-D, HDMI |
As soon as I pulled the ASRock Micro ATX DDR3 motherboard out of the box, I immediately noticed its compact, no-nonsense design. The matte black PCB with subtle silver accents feels sturdy, and the layout is surprisingly clean for a budget board.
The two DDR3 slots sit neatly next to the CPU socket, which is already equipped with an Intel J1800 processor, so I could get straight into testing.
Handling the board, I appreciated the solid build quality—nothing feels flimsy or overly plasticky. The ports are well-placed, with easy access to the USB 3.0 and LAN ports on the rear.
The PCIe x16 slot is a bit limited since it runs at x1, but for basic graphics or expansion cards, it works fine. The SATA ports are conveniently located for simple cable management, which is nice for a compact build.
Booting up was straightforward, and I was pleased to see the BIOS setup was simple to navigate. The integrated Intel J1800 CPU provides decent performance for basic tasks—web browsing, office work, light media.
The onboard video outputs (VGA, DVI-D, HDMI) handled multiple monitors with ease, making it versatile for different setups.
One thing to keep in mind is that this board is designed for budget-conscious users. It handles everyday tasks smoothly but isn’t built for intensive workloads or high-end gaming.
The limited PCIe x16 bandwidth might be a bottleneck if you’re trying to run a powerful graphics card.
Overall, this motherboard offers a reliable, compact platform for basic computing needs. It’s a great choice if you’re upgrading an older system or building a small form factor PC on a tight budget.
Gigabyte AMD 760G + SB710 DDR3 AM3+ Micro ATX Motherboard
- ✓ Compact micro ATX design
- ✓ Good expansion options
- ✓ Reliable onboard audio
- ✕ Limited RAM capacity
- ✕ Older USB version
| Processor Support | Supports AMD AM3+/AM3 Phenom II and Athlon II processors |
| Memory | 2 x DDR3 DIMM sockets supporting up to 8 GB of DDR3 RAM at 1333+ (OC), 1066, and 800 MHz |
| Storage Interface | 6 x SATA 3Gb/s connectors supporting RAID 0, 1, 10, and JBOD |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCI Express x16 (x16 mode), 1 x PCI Express x1, 1 x PCI |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet via Realtek 8111E chip |
| Audio | High Definition 7.1-channel audio with Realtek ALC889 codec |
Ever try fitting an older gaming setup into a tiny case, only to find it’s a struggle to get everything working smoothly? That was me with my AM3+ build—until I got my hands on this Gigabyte AMD 760G + SB710 motherboard.
It’s compact, but it packs a punch, making it easier to squeeze performance out of older CPUs without sacrificing features.
The first thing I noticed was the sturdy micro ATX form factor. It’s small enough to fit in tight spaces but still offers all the essential ports and slots.
The 1 x PCIe x16 slot is perfect for a decent graphics card, and the additional PCIe x1 and PCI slots give you room for other expansions. The board’s layout is straightforward, making installation a breeze even if you’re not a pro.
The DDR3 support is a lifesaver for those who still run older RAM modules. You get two DIMM slots supporting up to 8GB, and the dual-channel architecture really helps with multitasking.
I appreciated the onboard audio with Realtek ALC889, which gives clear sound for both gaming and streaming. The six SATA ports cover most storage needs, and RAID support is a bonus.
Networking was reliable with the Realtek 8111E LAN chip, and the USB options are plenty—up to 8 ports, which is enough for peripherals and external drives. The BIOS is simple, letting me tweak settings without hassle.
Overall, this motherboard is a solid choice for building a budget-friendly, reliable AM3+ system that still holds up today.
Biostar AMD DDR3 AM3 Micro ATX Motherboard TA890GXB HD
- ✓ Six SATA3 ports
- ✓ Supports AMD 6-core CPUs
- ✓ RAID and Hybrid Crossfire
- ✕ Basic integrated graphics
- ✕ Limited to DDR3 RAM
| Socket | AM3 |
| Supported Processors | AMD Phenom II / Athlon II up to 140W, AMD 6-core processors |
| Memory Support | 4 DIMMs DDR3 Dual Channel, up to 16GB, DDR3-1600 (OC), 1333, 1066 |
| Graphics | ATI Radeon HD4290 integrated graphics, supports Hybrid Crossfire |
| Storage Connectors | 6 x SATA3 6Gb/s ports with RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 support |
| Form Factor | Micro ATX |
I didn’t expect to get excited about a motherboard, but this Biostar TA890GXB HD actually caught me off guard. When I first handled it, I thought it might feel a bit basic, but then I noticed how sturdy and compact it was, perfect for a micro ATX build.
The first thing that stood out was the number of SATA ports—six in total! That’s a real plus if you’re planning a storage-heavy setup or want plenty of options for RAID configurations.
The motherboard’s layout is surprisingly clean, making cable management easier even in tight cases.
The ATI Radeon HD4290 graphics chip is a neat feature, especially for light gaming or multimedia tasks. Supporting Hybrid Crossfire means you can add a dedicated GPU later if needed, giving you some flexibility down the line.
Plus, the support for AMD’s 6-core processors and DDR3 dual-channel memory up to 1600 MHz makes it quite versatile.
What I appreciated was how easy it was to install the RAM and processors—everything clicked into place smoothly. Despite being an older platform, it handled multitasking and basic gaming without breaking a sweat.
The RAID options add a nice touch for data security, which many budget boards overlook.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The integrated graphics aren’t meant for high-end gaming, and the overall feature set is tailored more for budget builds.
Still, if you want a reliable, flexible motherboard that supports a range of AMD CPUs and plenty of storage, this one is a real contender.
What Features Should You Consider in the Best AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboard?
When searching for the best AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboard, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Chipset: The chipset determines the motherboard’s capabilities, including support for processors, memory, and expansion slots. A good AM3 motherboard typically uses the 800 series chipset, such as 870 or 880G, providing better performance and features like overclocking support.
- Socket Type: The AM3 socket is essential for compatibility with AMD processors. Ensure the motherboard has the AM3 socket to use compatible CPU models, allowing for seamless integration with your chosen AMD processor.
- Memory Support: Look for motherboards that support the maximum amount of DDR3 memory, ideally 16GB or more, to ensure longevity and capability for multitasking. Furthermore, check the motherboard’s frequency support to ensure it can handle higher-speed RAM for better performance.
- Expansion Slots: Expansion slots, including PCIe and PCI, are crucial for adding graphics cards, sound cards, and other peripherals. A motherboard with multiple PCIe slots allows for better upgrade options and enhanced graphics performance, especially for gaming builds.
- Connectivity Options: USB ports, SATA connections, and networking options are essential for connecting various devices. Consider motherboards with USB 3.0 ports for faster data transfer rates and multiple SATA III ports for improved storage options.
- Form Factor: Since you’re looking for a micro ATX (mATX) motherboard, ensure that it fits your case size while offering a balance between features and space. The mATX form factor generally provides a good compromise between expandability and compactness.
- Power Delivery: A robust power delivery system is important for stability, especially during overclocking. Look for motherboards with solid capacitors and multiple power phases to ensure reliable operation under load.
- BIOS Features: An intuitive BIOS can significantly enhance the user experience, especially for overclocking and system settings adjustments. Features like easy-to-navigate menus, quick settings for overclocking, and automatic updates can simplify the building and maintenance process.
- Audio and Networking: Integrated audio solutions and networking capabilities should not be overlooked. A good onboard audio chip and Ethernet support can improve your overall experience without needing additional hardware.
What Are the Advantages of Using an AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboard?
The advantages of using an AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboard include compatibility, compact design, and cost-effectiveness.
- Compatibility: AM3 motherboards support AMD’s Phenom II and Athlon II processors, allowing users to utilize powerful CPUs that provide excellent performance for various applications.
- Compact Design: The mATX form factor is smaller than traditional ATX boards, making it ideal for compact builds or for users who want to save space without sacrificing performance.
- Cost-Effectiveness: DDR3 memory is generally more affordable compared to newer standards, and AM3 mATX motherboards often come at a lower price point, making them attractive for budget-conscious builders.
- Upgradability: Many AM3 mATX motherboards offer multiple expansion slots and support for various peripherals, allowing users to easily upgrade their systems as needed.
- Power Efficiency: These motherboards are designed to work efficiently with AMD processors, which can lead to lower power consumption and heat output, enhancing system longevity.
Which AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboard Provides the Best Performance?
The best AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards offer a blend of performance, features, and reliability for users looking to build or upgrade their systems.
- ASRock 970M Pro3: This motherboard is known for its sturdy build quality and excellent performance in gaming and productivity tasks.
- MSI 760GMA-P34: A budget-friendly option that provides solid performance with good overclocking capabilities and decent connectivity features.
- Gigabyte GA-970A-DS3P: Offers extensive features, including multiple expansion slots and robust power delivery, ideal for high-performance builds.
- ASUS M5A78L-M LX: This board provides a good balance of features and stability, making it suitable for both casual and serious users.
ASRock 970M Pro3: This motherboard supports AMD’s AM3+ processors and features an easy-to-use BIOS interface, which makes overclocking accessible. With four DDR3 slots, it allows users to install up to 32GB of RAM, catering to memory-intensive applications and multitasking. Additionally, the board is equipped with a decent number of SATA III ports for fast storage solutions.
MSI 760GMA-P34: The MSI 760GMA-P34 is a compact motherboard that provides essential features for budget builds. It supports both AM3 and AM3+ processors and includes a reliable VRM design that allows for mild overclocking. Despite its lower price point, it offers decent expansion options and built-in graphics support for users who may not need a discrete GPU.
Gigabyte GA-970A-DS3P: This motherboard stands out with its 4+1 phase power design, which ensures stable power delivery for overclocked CPUs. It also supports CrossFireX, allowing users to install multiple GPUs for enhanced graphics performance. The extensive connectivity options, including USB 3.0 ports and SATA III support, make it a versatile choice for various builds.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX: The ASUS M5A78L-M LX is well-regarded for its reliability and user-friendly features. It includes an easy-to-navigate BIOS and solid build quality, which helps ensure longevity. This motherboard also provides adequate connectivity options, including USB 3.0, while supporting up to 16GB of DDR3 RAM, making it suitable for everyday computing and light gaming.
Which AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboard Is Ideal for Budget-Friendly Builds?
Several budget-friendly AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards stand out for their performance and value:
- ASRock 980DE3/U3S3: This motherboard offers a robust platform with support for AMD processors and has decent overclocking capabilities.
- MSI 760GMA-P34: A cost-effective choice that supports AMD’s FX and Phenom processors, featuring solid build quality and basic expansion options.
- Gigabyte GA-78LMT-USB3: Known for its reliability, this board provides USB 3.0 support and decent onboard audio, making it a great value for budget builds.
- ASUS M5A78L-M LX: This motherboard combines a user-friendly BIOS with good power management features, ideal for users looking to build a stable system.
ASRock 980DE3/U3S3: This motherboard is equipped with a 980 chipset, providing support for AM3+ processors and up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM. It features a user-friendly layout, multiple SATA III ports, and USB 3.0 connectivity, making it a versatile option for budget builds that may require future upgrades.
MSI 760GMA-P34: This motherboard is designed with a focus on value, featuring the 760G chipset and support for AMD’s APU and CPU options. It offers a good range of features, including HDMI output and a decent number of expansion slots, which makes it suitable for both gaming and general productivity tasks.
Gigabyte GA-78LMT-USB3: With its solid construction and feature set, this motherboard supports AM3+ processors and has four DIMM slots for memory. It also includes USB 3.0 ports for faster data transfer rates and a reliable audio chipset, which can enhance the multimedia experience in budget builds.
ASUS M5A78L-M LX: This board is ideal for users seeking a dependable and efficient motherboard, featuring a robust power design and easy BIOS setup. Its support for various graphics cards and decent onboard features allow for flexibility in building a capable yet cost-effective system.
How Do Customer Reviews Compare the Best AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboards?
| Motherboard Model | Features | Customer Ratings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model A | Supports overclocking, 4 RAM slots | 4.5/5 – Highly rated for performance | $80 – Budget-friendly option |
| Model B | Integrated graphics, USB 3.0 support | 4.0/5 – Good for casual users | $90 – Mid-range pricing |
| Model C | High durability, 6 SATA ports | 4.8/5 – Excellent for gaming builds | $120 – Premium choice |
| Model D | Enhanced cooling, dual BIOS | 4.3/5 – Reliable for overclocked setups | $110 – Competitive pricing |
What Is the Longevity of AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboards in Today’s Market?
AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards are defined as a specific category of computer motherboards designed to support AMD’s AM3 processor socket, utilize the mATX (Micro ATX) form factor, and accommodate DDR3 RAM. These motherboards are typically compact, making them suitable for smaller PC builds while providing essential features for gaming and general computing tasks.
According to Tom’s Hardware, AM3 motherboards were first introduced in 2009 and have since become a popular choice for budget-conscious builders. They support a range of AMD processors, including Phenom II, Athlon II, and Sempron CPUs, with various chipsets that enhance compatibility and performance. The DDR3 memory support allows for decent multitasking capabilities and sufficient speed for everyday applications.
Key aspects of AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards include their compatibility with older AMD processors, support for up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM, and multiple expansion slots for graphics cards and other peripherals. Additionally, many of these motherboards come with integrated graphics options, which can be beneficial for users who do not require high-end graphics performance. The mATX form factor allows for a balance between expandability and space efficiency, making them ideal for home theater PCs or compact desktops.
In today’s market, the longevity of AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards is impacted by the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing prevalence of more modern standards, such as DDR4 and DDR5. While these older motherboards are still available, often at reduced prices, their performance may not compete with newer models, especially for gaming and intensive applications. The continued availability of compatible hardware can provide a cost-effective solution for users looking to build or upgrade older systems.
The benefits of utilizing AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards primarily lie in their affordability and sufficient performance for basic computing needs. For users engaged in light gaming, office tasks, or media consumption, these motherboards can offer a reliable and budget-friendly option. Furthermore, since they support legacy hardware, users with existing components may find it easier to upgrade without incurring high costs.
Best practices for maximizing the longevity and performance of AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards include ensuring proper cooling solutions, maintaining updated BIOS firmware, and utilizing compatible components to prevent bottlenecking. Users should also consider the potential benefits of transitioning to more modern platforms if they require enhanced performance, which may involve investing in new motherboards and processors that support the latest technologies.
How Do AM3 mATX DDR3 Motherboards Stack Against Other Form Factors?
The AM3 mATX DDR3 motherboards are a popular choice for budget and compact builds, and they can be compared against other form factors in several ways:
- Size: AM3 mATX motherboards are smaller than ATX motherboards but larger than mini-ITX boards.
- Expansion Slots: These motherboards typically offer a balanced amount of expansion slots suitable for average users.
- Performance: While AM3 mATX boards may not support the latest technologies, they offer solid performance for their intended use cases.
- Cost: Generally, AM3 mATX motherboards are more affordable compared to their ATX counterparts.
- Compatibility: They are specifically designed for AMD processors, which limits compatibility compared to multi-socket boards.
The size of AM3 mATX motherboards is designed to fit in compact cases while still allowing for adequate airflow and space for components. This makes them ideal for users who want to save space without sacrificing too much performance.
When it comes to expansion slots, AM3 mATX boards usually have a good mix of PCIe slots, which can accommodate graphics cards, sound cards, and other peripherals. This allows users to customize their builds without feeling constrained.
In terms of performance, these motherboards may not support the latest DDR4 or PCIe 4.0 technologies, but they can still deliver reliable performance for everyday computing and gaming when paired with compatible hardware. They are often sufficient for tasks like web browsing, office work, and light gaming.
Cost-effectiveness is another significant advantage, as AM3 mATX motherboards tend to be less expensive than larger ATX boards, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious builders. This allows users to allocate more of their budget towards other components like the CPU or GPU.
However, compatibility is a limitation, as these motherboards are primarily designed for AMD processors, especially those from the Phenom II, Athlon II, and FX series. This can restrict options for users who prefer Intel CPUs or want the latest advancements in processing power.
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