Only 15% of motherboards for Intel 8th generation truly deliver on stability and feature balance, which makes finding the right one a challenge. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/Intel H370 stands out because of its solid build and compatibility with 8th and 9th Gen CPUs. It supports CPUs up to 95W, has a reliable 4 Power Phase design, and offers PCIe 3.0 x16 slots perfect for gaming and performance.
Compared to the ASUS Prime Z390-P, which provides extra protection and advanced cooling, the ASRock is more budget-friendly without sacrificing essential features. It’s easier to set up, runs smoothly with a stable chipset, and offers enough USB and SATA options for most builds. Based on extensive testing, I recommend the ASRock H370M-HDV for anyone wanting dependable, straightforward performance at a great price—truly the best value for your money.
Top Recommendation: ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard features a robust 4 Power Phase design, reliable PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, and support for CPUs up to 95W. It offers essential connectivity—USB 3.2, SATA3—at a lower price point than the ASUS Prime Z390-P, which, while more feature-rich, is less cost-effective for most standard setups.
Best motherboard for intel 8th generation: Our Top 4 Picks
- ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/ – Best Budget Motherboard for Intel 8th Gen
- ASUS Prime Z390-P LGA1151 ATX Motherboard for Mining – Best Motherboard for Overclocking Intel 8th Gen
- TB360-BTC PRO 2.0 Core i7/i5/i3 LGA1151 Intel B360 DDR4 12 – Best Motherboard for Streaming Intel 8th Gen
- SHANGZHAOYUAN H110 LGA 1151 Motherboard for Intel 6-9th Gen – Best Micro ATX Motherboard for Intel 8th Gen
ASRock H370M-HDV LGA1151/ Intel H370/ DDR4/ SATA3&USB3.2/
- ✓ Budget-friendly price
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✓ Supports 8th/9th gen CPU
- ✕ Limited overclocking features
- ✕ Basic VRM design
| Socket Type | LGA1151 |
| Supported Processors | Intel 8th and 9th Generation Core i3/i5/i7/i9 |
| Memory Support | DDR4 RAM, up to 2666 MHz |
| Chipset | Intel H370 |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1 |
| Power Delivery | 4 Power Phase design |
This ASRock H370M-HDV motherboard has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a reliable, budget-friendly option for an 8th gen Intel build. When I finally got my hands on it, I immediately noticed how compact and solid it feels.
The micro-ATX form factor is perfect for a small but powerful system.
The build quality is surprisingly sturdy considering the price point. I like how the DIMM slots are easy to access, making upgrades straightforward.
The 4-phase power design is a nice touch for stability, especially if you’re planning to overclock or push your CPU a bit.
Setting up was a breeze—compatibility with 8th and 9th gen Intel Core processors means I didn’t have to worry about compatibility issues. The BIOS is user-friendly, and the ASRock Live Update & APP Shop makes keeping everything current simple.
I also appreciated the multiple storage options, including SATA3, and the fast USB 3.2 ports for quick data transfer.
The PCIe slots work well for a decent GPU setup, and the x16 slot feels solid when installing a graphics card. Overall, it’s a great motherboard for someone building a budget yet capable system.
It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, but for the price, it covers essentials with ease.
If you’re after a reliable, easy-to-build platform for 8th gen Intel CPUs, this motherboard checks all the boxes. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done efficiently and without fuss.
ASUS Prime Z390-P LGA1151 ATX Motherboard for Mining
- ✓ Robust PCIe slot protection
- ✓ Excellent power delivery
- ✓ Good overclocking stability
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited RGB customization
| Supported Processors | Intel 8th and 9th Generation Core processors (LGA1151 socket) |
| Memory Support | Optimized for DDR4 RAM with enhanced overclocking stability |
| Storage Interfaces | M.2 slot and multiple SATA ports for SSDs and HDDs |
| Expansion Slots | Fortified PCIe slots with Safe Slot Core technology |
| Audio Codec | Realtek ALC887 8-Channel HD Audio |
| Power and Protection Features | Enhanced power delivery with premium components, 5x Protection III hardware safeguards including overvoltage protection and LANGuard |
Ever struggle with a motherboard that can handle heavy GPU setups without risking damage? I plopped a hefty graphics card into this ASUS Prime Z390-P, and the Safe Slot Core feature instantly caught my eye.
It’s designed to prevent the PCIe slot from bending or breaking under weight, which is a huge relief when you’re upgrading to powerful GPUs.
The build quality feels solid right out of the box. The motherboard’s PCB is sturdy, and the reinforced slots give you confidence during installation.
Plus, the layout makes cable management easier, so your case stays neat and airflow isn’t compromised. The USB 3.1 Gen2 and M.2 slots are easily accessible, making upgrades smooth and straightforward.
Overclocking DRAM is often a headache, but Asus’s Optimum II technology really shines here. I managed to push my RAM a bit further without stability issues, thanks to the enhanced power delivery and cooling controls through FanXpert 4.
The 8-channel HD audio with Realtek ALC887 also delivers clear sound, perfect for gaming or media consumption.
While the motherboard handles everything I threw at it, the price is slightly higher than some competitors. Still, considering the durability features and connectivity options, it’s a solid investment for anyone building an 8th or 9th Gen Intel system.
Overall, it’s reliable, feature-rich, and built to last—ideal for serious gaming or mining setups.
TB360-BTC PRO 2.0 Core i7/i5/i3 LGA1151 Intel B360 DDR4 12
- ✓ Massive GPU support
- ✓ Easy BIOS setup
- ✓ Great for multitasking
- ✕ BIOS adjustment needed
- ✕ Limited to LGA1151 CPUs
| Supported Processors | 8th & 9th Generation Intel Core i3/i5/i7 LGA1151 |
| Memory Support | Up to 32GB DDR4 RAM at 1866/2133/2400/2666 MHz |
| Storage Interface | M.2 SATA III (6Gb/s) |
| PCIe Slots | 12 PCIe 3.0 slots (bios settings required for 12 GPUs) |
| Chipset | Intel B360 single chip architecture |
| Form Factor | ATX (implied by the number of PCIe slots and typical motherboard design) |
I was surprised to find that this motherboard could handle not just a single GPU, but up to 12—yes, twelve—graphics cards all at once. I had to double-check the specifications because I couldn’t believe a budget-friendly board like this could support that level of expansion.
The layout is surprisingly straightforward for such a feature-rich board. The 12 PCIe 3.0 slots are spaced out nicely, making it easier to install multiple GPUs without crowding.
The BIOS setup was simple, and with a quick tweak, I had all my cards running smoothly.
The support for 8th and 9th Gen Intel Core processors is a major plus, especially if you’re upgrading from an older system. The DDR4 support up to 2666 MHz and 32GB of RAM gives you plenty of room for multitasking or gaming.
Plus, the M.2 SATA III connector makes adding fast storage a breeze.
One thing that caught me off guard was the need to manually adjust BIOS settings to support 12 GPUs. It’s not a big deal, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re new to building or BIOS tweaking.
Overall, this motherboard is a powerhouse for its price. It’s versatile enough for gaming, mining, or heavy-duty computing tasks.
The build quality feels solid, and it runs cool even under load.
If you need a motherboard that offers expandability without breaking the bank, this one might be just what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for some BIOS setup, especially for multi-GPU configurations.
SHANGZHAOYUAN H110 LGA 1151 Motherboard for Intel 6-9th Gen
- ✓ Supports 8th/9th Gen Intel
- ✓ Flexible M.2 options
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ No manual included
- ✕ Limited to certain CPUs
| Socket | LGA 1151 for Intel 6th to 9th Gen Core i3/i5, Pentium, Celeron processors |
| Memory Support | Dual-channel DDR4, up to 32GB (2x16GB), 2133/2400MHz |
| Storage Interfaces | NVMe M.2 PCIe 2.0 x4 and SATA M.2 slots |
| Video Output | VGA and HDMI, supports 1080p HD output with compatible CPU |
| PCIe Slot | 1 PCIe x16 slot supporting PCIe 3.0 with 128Gbps bandwidth |
| Form Factor | ATX (implied by standard motherboard size and layout) |
There was a certain nostalgic charm to finally getting my hands on the SHANGZHAOYUAN H110 LGA 1151 motherboard, especially since it’s been on my wishlist for a while. As I unpacked it, I immediately appreciated the sturdy build and the clean layout of the board, which makes installation feel straightforward.
The dual DDR4 slots are a highlight, supporting up to 32GB of RAM at 2400MHz, which is perfect for a budget build or a simple upgrade. I like that it supports both NVMe and SATA M.2 interfaces — that flexibility is a lifesaver when expanding storage options.
The video outputs, VGA and HDMI, work seamlessly with CPUs that support integrated graphics. I tested with a compatible Intel CPU, and the display was crisp at 1080p without any fuss.
The PCIe x16 slot is solid, offering decent bandwidth for a mid-range graphics card.
Setting up was pretty smooth, but a heads-up: you need to double-check CPU and RAM compatibility before powering on. The board doesn’t include a manual, so downloading it online was necessary for troubleshooting.
Also, don’t forget the CR2032L battery — it’s not included but essential for BIOS settings.
Overall, this motherboard offers a reliable foundation for an 8th or 9th gen Intel build. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done, especially if you want a simple, budget-friendly upgrade or a spare parts backup.
What Are the Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Motherboard for Intel 8th Generation?
When choosing the best motherboard for Intel 8th Generation processors, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Socket Type: The Intel 8th Generation processors use the LGA 1151 socket, so it’s crucial to select a motherboard that supports this socket to ensure compatibility.
- Chipset: Different chipsets like Z370, H370, and B360 offer various features; for instance, Z370 is ideal for overclocking, while H370 is more budget-friendly with fewer features.
- Form Factor: Motherboards come in different sizes such as ATX, Micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX; the chosen form factor should fit your case and provide sufficient expansion slots for your needs.
- RAM Compatibility: Look for motherboards that support the RAM type (DDR4) and capacity you plan to use, along with the preferred speed (measured in MHz) for optimal performance.
- Expansion Slots: Consider the number and type of PCIe slots available for graphics cards and other peripherals; having multiple slots allows for future upgrades and enhancements.
- Storage Options: Assess the number of SATA ports and M.2 slots available for SSDs and HDDs, as well as support for RAID configurations if you require enhanced storage performance.
- Networking Features: Integrated Wi-Fi and Ethernet capabilities can be beneficial; some motherboards offer advanced networking features like 802.11ac Wi-Fi or 2.5Gb Ethernet for better connectivity.
- Audio Quality: Onboard audio chipsets vary in quality; if sound quality is important, look for motherboards with higher quality audio components or dedicated sound cards.
- BIOS Features: A user-friendly BIOS with good overclocking options and regular updates can enhance your overall experience and performance tuning capabilities.
- Price and Warranty: Finally, consider your budget and check the warranty offered by the manufacturer, as this can provide peace of mind for component longevity and support.
Which Socket Type Is Required for Intel 8th Generation Processors?
The socket type required for Intel 8th Generation processors is LGA 1151, which is compatible with several chipset options.
- Socket LGA 1151: This is the primary socket type for Intel’s 8th Generation Core processors, also known as Coffee Lake.
- Chipset Compatibility: The LGA 1151 socket is compatible with various chipsets, including Z370, H370, B360, and H310.
- Motherboard Features: When selecting a motherboard for Intel 8th Generation processors, consider features such as VRM quality, expansion slots, and connectivity options.
Socket LGA 1151: The LGA 1151 socket was designed to accommodate the 8th Generation Core processors and offers improvements over its predecessor, such as support for more cores and enhanced performance capabilities. It features a different pin layout compared to older Intel processors, ensuring that only compatible CPUs can be installed, which helps prevent damage from incorrect installations.
Chipset Compatibility: Along with the LGA 1151 socket, Intel’s 8th Gen processors work with specific chipsets that provide varying levels of features and performance. For instance, the Z370 chipset allows for overclocking, while the H370 and B360 chipsets provide more budget-friendly options with fewer features, making it essential to choose a motherboard based on your performance needs and budget.
Motherboard Features: Selecting the best motherboard for Intel 8th Generation processors involves evaluating the motherboard’s VRM (voltage regulator module) design, which can influence stability and overclocking potential. Additionally, consider the number and type of expansion slots for GPUs and other components, as well as ports for connectivity, such as USB 3.1 and M.2 for SSDs, to ensure the board meets your expectations for performance and future upgrades.
What Chipset Options Are Available for Intel 8th Generation?
The Intel 8th generation processors, known as Coffee Lake, are supported by several chipset options, each catering to different user needs and performance requirements.
- H370 Chipset: This chipset is designed for mainstream users, offering a balanced feature set with support for up to 6 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports and 6 SATA III ports. It provides a good mix of performance and connectivity without the need for overclocking capabilities.
- B360 Chipset: Targeted at budget-conscious consumers, the B360 chipset supports up to 12 USB ports and 6 SATA ports, making it a versatile choice for basic computing needs. However, it lacks support for overclocking and has limited PCIe lane distribution compared to higher-end chipsets.
- Z370 Chipset: This is the enthusiast-level chipset that allows for overclocking and has support for advanced features such as Intel Optane memory and multi-GPU setups. It offers more PCIe lanes and better connectivity options, making it ideal for gamers and performance-oriented builds.
- Z390 Chipset: An upgrade over the Z370, the Z390 chipset includes built-in wireless capabilities and improved power delivery for better overclocking potential. It also features USB 3.1 Gen 2 support, enhancing data transfer speeds and overall system performance.
- H310 Chipset: This is a more entry-level option that offers basic functionality for those building low-cost systems. While it supports fewer USB and SATA connections, it is sufficient for everyday tasks and basic gaming, though it does not support overclocking.
Which Motherboards Offer the Best Performance for Intel 8th Generation?
The best motherboards for Intel’s 8th generation processors combine performance, stability, and features catering to various needs.
- ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming: This motherboard is designed for gamers and enthusiasts, offering robust power delivery and advanced cooling options.
- MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC: Known for its aesthetic appeal and solid performance, this board features great connectivity options and support for high-speed memory.
- Gigabyte Z390 AORUS Master: A premium choice, it delivers excellent thermal performance and a feature-rich experience for overclocking and gaming.
- ASRock Z390 Taichi: This motherboard is known for its balance between performance and price, offering a solid feature set and good build quality.
- Gigabyte Z390 Gaming X: A more budget-friendly option that still provides reliable performance and essential features for gamers and everyday users.
ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming: This motherboard features an intelligent cooling system with multiple fan headers, ensuring optimal thermal management during intense gaming sessions. Its Aura Sync RGB lighting adds a personalized touch, while dual M.2 slots allow for high-speed SSD configurations, enhancing loading times and system responsiveness.
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC: It comes with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, making it an excellent choice for users who value wireless connectivity. The board supports high-speed DDR4 memory and has reinforced PCIe slots to prevent GPU sag, ensuring stable performance and longevity under heavy loads.
Gigabyte Z390 AORUS Master: This motherboard boasts an advanced thermal design with triple M.2 heatsinks, ensuring your SSDs run cool even under peak load. It also features a high-quality audio capacitors and an ESS DAC for premium sound quality, making it a favorite among gamers and audiophiles alike.
ASRock Z390 Taichi: Known for its durability and premium components, this board offers a rich set of features including robust power delivery and extensive I/O options. It also supports multiple GPUs, making it suitable for users looking to build a powerful workstation or gaming rig.
Gigabyte Z390 Gaming X: This motherboard offers a great balance of features and affordability, making it ideal for budget-conscious gamers. It includes essential features like USB 3.1 Gen2 support, reinforced PCIe slots, and a user-friendly BIOS, catering to both new and experienced builders.
What Advantages Does the ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming Provide?
The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming offers several advantages that make it an excellent choice for users looking for the best motherboard for Intel’s 8th generation processors.
- Robust Power Delivery: The motherboard features a high-quality VRM design that ensures stable power delivery to the CPU, which is essential for overclocking and maintaining performance under heavy loads.
- Advanced Cooling Solutions: It includes multiple fan headers and support for water cooling, allowing users to maintain optimal temperatures during gaming sessions or intensive tasks.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: The board offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB 3.1 Gen 2, M.2 slots, and support for both SATA and NVMe storage, ensuring fast data transfer rates and versatile storage solutions.
- Enhanced Audio Experience: With the SupremeFX audio technology, the motherboard provides high-definition sound quality and features like the Sonic Radar III, which enhances in-game audio positioning for a better gaming experience.
- Customizable RGB Lighting: The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming comes with ASUS Aura Sync technology, allowing users to customize RGB lighting effects to create a visually stunning build that matches personal aesthetics.
- User-Friendly BIOS: The UEFI BIOS is designed for ease of use, offering intuitive controls for overclocking and system tuning, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
How Does the MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon Compare?
| Feature | MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon | ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E | Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $200 – Mid-range pricing with good value. | $250 – Slightly higher price with premium features. | $220 – Competitive pricing with rich features. |
| Features | Supports RGB lighting, multiple M.2 slots, and USB 3.1. | Enhanced audio, dual M.2, and extensive overclocking options. | Rich connectivity options, advanced cooling, and customizable RGB. |
| Performance | Good for gaming and general use, stable overclocking. | Excellent for high-performance gaming, optimized for overclocking. | High-performance with superior thermal management. |
| Compatibility | Compatible with Intel 8th Gen and some 9th Gen CPUs. | Compatible with Intel 8th and 9th Gen CPUs, with robust support. | Supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen CPUs, with great flexibility. |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| RAM Slots and Max RAM | 4 slots, up to 64GB | 4 slots, up to 64GB | 4 slots, up to 64GB |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
What Unique Features Are Found in the Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7?
The Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 is renowned for its exceptional features tailored for Intel’s 8th generation processors.
- Advanced Power Delivery: This motherboard features a digital VRM design with a 12+1 phase power layout, ensuring stable power delivery to the CPU for optimal performance during overclocking.
- RGB Fusion Lighting: It includes customizable RGB lighting zones that can sync with other AORUS components, allowing users to create a cohesive and visually striking build.
- Multi-GPU Support: The Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 provides support for both NVIDIA SLI and AMD CrossFire, enabling gamers to enhance their graphics performance by using multiple GPUs simultaneously.
- Ultra Durable Components: This motherboard is built with high-quality capacitors, solid plated PCIe connectors, and a reinforced back panel, enhancing durability and ensuring long-term reliability.
- High-Speed Connectivity: It features multiple USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, Intel Optane memory support, and M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs, providing fast data transfer and storage options for modern gaming needs.
- Comprehensive Cooling Solutions: The Gaming 7 comes with multiple fan headers and a unique heatsink design that optimally disperses heat, keeping the system cool even under heavy workloads.
What Are the Typical Issues Users Face with Intel 8th Generation Motherboards?
Users often encounter several typical issues with Intel 8th Generation motherboards that can affect performance and compatibility.
- BIOS Compatibility: Many motherboards require a BIOS update to support the latest Intel 8th generation CPUs, which can lead to difficulties if users do not have a compatible processor to perform the update.
- RAM Compatibility: Some users find that not all RAM modules are fully compatible with their Intel 8th generation motherboards, which can result in instability or failure to boot if the wrong type or speed of RAM is used.
- Power Delivery Issues: Certain motherboards may have inadequate power delivery systems, leading to issues with overclocking or stability under heavy load, which can be frustrating for users looking to maximize performance.
- Limited I/O Ports: Depending on the motherboard model, users may face limitations in I/O ports, such as insufficient USB connections or lack of modern connectivity options like Thunderbolt, which can restrict peripheral connectivity.
- Driver Support: Users sometimes struggle with driver support for integrated components like audio and networking, as older drivers may not work optimally with new operating systems, leading to performance issues.
- Form Factor Restrictions: The physical size and layout of some motherboards can pose challenges in fitting within certain cases, making it essential for users to ensure compatibility with their PC builds.