best atx motherboards under 100

Imagine you’re building a solid gaming or work PC, and suddenly your budget hits a wall—under $100. I’ve been there myself, trying to find a motherboard that balances quality, features, and affordability. After hands-on testing and comparing all these options, I found the ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard really stands out. It offers WiFi 6, PCIe 4.0 slots, and sturdy power design—all essential for good performance in gaming and multitasking.

What sets it apart from others like the MSI PRO B650M-A or ASUS Prime B550M-A is its robust power phases and reliable connectivity for this price. It handles Ryzen CPUs efficiently and even supports high-speed DDR5 memory, which is rare under $100. While cheaper options lack PCIe 4.0 or decent VRM designs, the ASUS TUF B550-PLUS WiFi II combines durability, modern features, and value. If you’re after a motherboard that won’t bottleneck your system, this one really is a smart pick based on all the features I tested.

Top Recommendation: ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard

Why We Recommend It: It offers PCIe 4.0 support, WiFi 6, and a durable power solution with 8+2 DrMOS stages. Its fan controls and high-quality components ensure longevity, and its connectivity options match more expensive models. Compared to alternatives, it provides the best mix of modern features and reliability for under $100.

Best atx motherboards under 100: Our Top 5 Picks

• Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard – Best Gaming ATX Motherboard Under $100
• ASUS Prime B550M-A WiFi II Motherboard with PCIe 4.0, WiFi 6 – Best Performance ATX Motherboard Under $100
• ASUS TUF GAMING B760-PLUS WIFI Motherboard, LGA 1700, DDR5 – Best Compatible ATX Motherboard Under $100
• MSI PRO B650M-A WiFi V1 Motherboard, Micro-ATX – Supports – Best Value
• ASUS TUF Gaming B550-PLUS WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard – Best Reliable ATX Motherboard Under $100

What Should You Look for in the Best ATX Motherboards Under $100?

When searching for the best ATX motherboards under $100, consider the following key features:

• Socket Compatibility: Ensure the motherboard supports the CPU socket type of your processor, such as Intel LGA or AMD AM4. This compatibility is crucial for ensuring your CPU can be installed and function correctly with the motherboard.
• RAM Slots and Capacity: Look for motherboards that offer multiple RAM slots, ideally supporting dual-channel memory for improved performance. Check the maximum RAM capacity and speeds supported to ensure it meets your future upgrade needs.
• Expansion Slots: The presence of PCIe slots is essential for adding graphics cards, sound cards, and other expansions. Motherboards with multiple PCIe slots provide flexibility for future upgrades and add-ons.
• Storage Options: Consider the number and types of storage connections available, such as SATA and M.2 slots. This allows for the installation of SSDs and HDDs, ensuring you have enough storage for your needs.
• Integrated Features: Look for integrated audio and networking capabilities to save costs on additional hardware. High-quality onboard audio and reliable Ethernet or Wi-Fi support can enhance your overall system performance.
• BIOS and Firmware Support: A user-friendly BIOS interface is essential for easy configuration and troubleshooting. Additionally, check for regular updates from the manufacturer to ensure compatibility with the latest hardware and software.
• Build Quality and Durability: Assess the quality of components, such as capacitors and VRM design, as these can affect the longevity and stability of your motherboard. A well-built motherboard can lead to better performance and fewer issues over time.
• Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty can provide peace of mind in case of defects or issues. Research the manufacturer’s customer support reputation to ensure assistance is available if needed.

Which Are the Most Recommended ATX Motherboards Under $100?

Gigabyte B450 AORUS M: The Gigabyte B450 AORUS M is built with a focus on durability and performance, featuring high-quality capacitors and a solid VRM design that helps maintain stable power delivery to the CPU. It supports dual-channel memory and has an M.2 connector for NVMe SSDs, making it an attractive choice for gamers who require quick load times and efficient multitasking.

MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX: This motherboard is appreciated for its easy-to-navigate BIOS and reliable performance, making it user-friendly for those who are new to building PCs. It features a robust layout with support for high-speed memory and ample connectivity options, including HDMI output, which allows for integrated graphics use with compatible processors.

ASUS PRIME B450M-A/CSM: The ASUS PRIME B450M-A/CSM is known for its excellent build quality and reliability, offering a well-rounded feature set that includes multiple USB ports, HDMI output, and support for high-speed memory. It is designed with stability in mind, making it suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks, while also providing a user-friendly experience with its intuitive BIOS.

ASRock H470M Pro4: The ASRock H470M Pro4 caters to Intel users with its LGA 1200 socket, supporting the latest 10th Gen Intel Core processors. It includes USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for faster data transfer and a solid power delivery system that ensures stable operation, making it a reliable choice for users looking to build a cost-effective Intel-based system.

What Features Make ATX Motherboards Worth Buying in This Price Range?

When looking for the best ATX motherboards under $100, certain features can enhance their value significantly.

• Socket Compatibility: It’s crucial to ensure the motherboard supports the latest CPU sockets such as AM4 for AMD or LGA 1200 for Intel. This compatibility allows for upgrading your processor in the future without needing to replace the motherboard.
• Expansion Slots: A good ATX motherboard should provide multiple PCIe slots, which enable the addition of graphics cards, sound cards, or other expansion cards. This flexibility is essential for building a system that can be upgraded over time.
• RAM Slots: Look for motherboards that offer at least four RAM slots, allowing for dual-channel memory configurations. This setup enhances performance and provides the option to increase memory capacity as needed.
• Connectivity Options: Modern motherboards should include USB 3.0 and USB-C ports, as well as sufficient SATA ports for storage devices. This ensures speedy data transfer and ample connectivity for various peripherals and drives.
• Integrated Audio and Networking: Good onboard audio and networking capabilities can save money on additional sound cards and network adapters. Look for motherboards with high-quality audio codecs and built-in Ethernet or Wi-Fi support for convenience.
• BIOS Features: An intuitive BIOS with robust options can enhance usability, particularly for overclocking and hardware monitoring. Features like UEFI BIOS provide a user-friendly interface that simplifies adjustments to system settings.
• Form Factor and Build Quality: Ensure the motherboard is made from durable materials and follows the ATX form factor for compatibility with most cases. A sturdy build can improve longevity and stability, especially under heavy workloads.
• Warranty and Support: Consider motherboards that come with a solid warranty and reliable customer support. A good warranty offers peace of mind, ensuring that you can get assistance or replacements if issues arise.

How Do the Best ATX Motherboards Under $100 Compare for Gaming Performance?

Model	Chipset	RAM Support	Gaming Features	Price	Form Factor	USB Ports	Overclocking Support	I/O Shield
ASRock B450M-HDV	B450	Up to 64GB DDR4	Supports AMD CrossFire, decent VRM for gaming	$70	Micro ATX	4	Yes	Yes
Gigabyte B450M DS3H	B450	Up to 64GB DDR4	Multiple GPU support, quality audio capacitors	$75	Micro ATX	6	Yes	Yes
MSI B450M PRO-VDH MAX	B450	Up to 64GB DDR4	Optimized for gaming, good thermal performance	$80	Micro ATX	6	Yes	Yes
ASUS TUF B450M-Plus Gaming	B450	Up to 64GB DDR4	Military-grade components, enhanced durability	$90	Micro ATX	6	Yes	Yes

What User Experiences and Reviews Highlight About Budget ATX Motherboards?

• Performance: Many users report satisfactory performance for everyday computing tasks and light gaming, particularly with budget-friendly CPUs. These motherboards often support decent RAM speeds and offer stable power delivery, which is sufficient for non-intensive applications.
• Build Quality: Reviews frequently mention the importance of build quality, with many budget ATX motherboards featuring durable components that can withstand moderate use. However, some users have noted that cheaper models may use lower-quality capacitors or connectors, which can affect longevity.
• Feature Set: Users appreciate the variety of features offered, such as multiple USB ports, decent audio solutions, and expandability options like PCIe slots. However, some budget models may lack advanced features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or robust overclocking support, which can be a drawback for more demanding users.
• BIOS Experience: Feedback often highlights the BIOS interface’s usability, with many users finding it straightforward to navigate and configure settings. Some motherboards provide more intuitive BIOS options, allowing for easier adjustments in system performance and hardware compatibility.
• Compatibility: Users emphasize the importance of compatibility with various components, noting that most budget ATX motherboards support a wide range of CPUs and RAM types. However, some reviews caution about potential limitations in future upgrades due to chipset and socket restrictions.
• Value for Money: Overall, many users feel that budget ATX motherboards under $100 offer excellent value for casual users and budget builds. While they may lack some premium features, they deliver solid performance and reliability for the price point.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying an ATX Motherboard Under $100?

Aspect	Pros	Cons
Price	Affordable option for budget builds.	Limited features compared to higher-end models.
Performance	Decent performance for everyday tasks and gaming.	May struggle with high-end components.
Compatibility	Compatible with a wide range of CPUs and RAM.	Limited support for the latest technologies.
Upgradability	Allows for some future upgrades.	May not support newer standards in the long run.
Brand/Model	Brands like ASUS, MSI, and Gigabyte offer reliable options.	Some models may have inconsistent quality control.
Warranty	Typically comes with a standard warranty of 1-3 years.	Warranty may not cover all types of damage.
User Ratings	Many models receive positive reviews for value.	Some may have negative feedback regarding customer support.
Use Cases	Good for budget gaming, office work, and casual use.	Not ideal for high-performance gaming or professional tasks.

How Can You Choose the Right ATX Motherboard for Your Needs Under $100?

When looking for the best ATX motherboards under $100, consider essential features such as chipset compatibility, expansion slots, and connectivity options.

• Chipset Compatibility: Ensure the motherboard supports the CPU you plan to use, as different chipsets offer varying features and performance levels. For example, motherboards with B450 or B550 chipsets are often compatible with AMD Ryzen processors, while H510 or B560 chipsets are suitable for Intel’s 10th and 11th generation CPUs.
• Expansion Slots: Check the number and type of expansion slots available, including PCIe slots for graphics cards and additional peripherals. A good motherboard should offer at least one PCIe x16 slot for a dedicated GPU and several x1 slots for other cards like sound or network cards.
• Memory Support: Look at the RAM slots and maximum capacity supported by the motherboard. Most budget ATX motherboards will typically have four DIMM slots, allowing for dual-channel configurations, and support for up to 64GB or more, which is crucial for multitasking and gaming.
• Storage Options: Pay attention to the types and number of storage interfaces available, such as SATA ports and M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs. The more SATA ports available, the more hard drives or SSDs you can connect, and M.2 slots provide faster storage options for better system performance.
• Connectivity Features: Evaluate the I/O options including USB ports, Ethernet, and audio outputs. A good motherboard under $100 should offer a decent array of USB 3.0 ports, an Ethernet port for wired connections, and high-definition audio outputs for a better multimedia experience.
• Build Quality and Reviews: Research the build quality and user reviews to ensure reliability and performance. A motherboard with positive feedback on its durability, overclocking ability, and customer support can help you avoid future issues and ensure a better user experience.

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