Best Motherboard For Gaming In 2023

ROG Maximus XIII Hero

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1200 | Memory Speed: 5333 MHz | WIFI: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, 802.11ax | Chipset: Intel Z590 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎6.5 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

I can tell the differences since I’ve only ever owned motherboards which thus priced $200 or less. Therefore, this was a significant adjustment for me. That is the very first thing to understand is that this motherboard is designed for overclocking & optimizing the performance of your CPU. The price is too high for this best Intel motherboard for gaming.

With that stated, you paid for the product you get, which a motherboard features many incredibly strong functions. It is made to last for many years! Given that it has HUGE heatsinks for the VRMs, I was astonished at just how nicely balanced it was.

I gambled and got this item from Amazon Warehouse with the “acceptable” rating, which indicated that it had scratches and had been missing several components. Almost brand-new within all pack-ins & extras, what was delivered. This would be what I refer to as Asus’s “mid tier” top-end board, which is a step up from their Strix and underneath line, although definitely beneath their Apex & Extreme boards.

Despite its relatively hefty price, the Asus ROG Maximus XIII Hero seems to have high-quality components and an eye-catching design to stand out. Four M.2 sockets, a sleek, high-end design, and a powerful power supply. The Hero is a comprehensive premium audio option as well. It is a feature-rich motherboard in the higher middle of the Z590 price range.

Performance in our testing was on par with the other Z590 versions we’ve used so far, and in many cases, it was slightly quicker. Without a hitch, memory testing was completed with DDR4 3600 supported at 1:1. Additionally, it easily managed the DDR4 4000 kit. And the overclocking tests went off without a hitch.

Other exciting features for gamers

Once you’ve researched and perfected an Asus BIOS, it applies to all of their devices, and RGB is gorgeous, the board is perfect, and so on. Simply put, it depends on the model and other features you have. As all these boards are designed for enthusiasts, Asus is regarded as among the best BIOS support.

The Z590 chipset works with the tenth and eleventh generation chips, but it somehow excels with the latter. If you explicitly want to run a 10th generation processor, I would advise staying with a Z490 board because the Z590 chipset will not offer any additional benefits and may even cause oddities & performance problems.

Why do I recommend it to you?

An i5-4690K processor and an ASUS Sabertooth Z97 Mark I board were previously used. This motherboard, as well as an i7-11700K, was purchased I made, and they are both excellent upgrades. I fully utilise PCIe 4.0 in conjunction with a Samsung 980 PRO 2TB NVMe M.2 SSD. In addition to the M.2 SSD, I also utilize two SATA drives. The fifth and sixth SATA disc ports will be unusable if the fourth M.2 slot is used.

ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: AM4 | Memory Speed: 5100 MHz | WIFI: No | Chipset: Intel 570X | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎2.20s pounds | Form factor: ATX |

The first thing I did was use a USB 2.0 flashdrive that only contained the 1.0.0.3AB bios to flash your bios utilizing the flashback capability. Afterward I inserted the DDR4 CL 15 RAM 16GBx2 and the 3900X AMD processor with the stock Wraith Prism cooler.

I got the problem Q-code 02 & discovered that even though the lights would turn on, my CPU fan wouldn’t turn on. The Dark Rock Pro 4 CPU cooling system is what I ordered. Everything is currently flawless, as well as my PC idles at 37C.

Excellent service from Amazon as always for this best motherboard for gaming. Whenever I examined the merchandise, there was just little cosmetic damage, so Amazon offered a replacement, which came the following day. My computer would eventually freeze when I attempted to run the memory at 3333. I really have to improve my timing. Nevertheless, with DOCP settings, 3200 and an FCLK of 1600 will operate without a problem.

In terms of the RAM is worried, you have sufficient room for the stock heatsink while installing the processor (Ryzen 3900x). My AIO’s AM4 bracket assembly became simpler by utilising the backplate’s CPU socket. NVMe SSD Raid support is included in the Dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, which provides excellent performance and unrestricted transfer speed.

In terms of the software just on motherboard’s CD, I downloaded everything except for one program that wouldn’t let me simply because it was an old version to put in the most recent drivers, following which they can remove the programmes that are not necessary.

Other exciting features for gamers

It is an item of very good quality and excellent functionality in terms of utility. Although the update was extremely straightforward, it took some time to complete. The card’s additional features are rather varied, so it will take me some time to look into each.

It was required to change the Bios profile to adjust the RAM speed because the standard version only recognised 2333 MHz; however, after activating the profile, the 36 MHz of the type I placed had already been recognised. The sophisticated cooling zone has been configured to monitor and react to temperature sensors to sustain cooling.

Why do I recommend it to you?

It is generally the finest AMD motherboard for gamers using the AM4 socket. The game provides excellent control over all of the motherboard’s settings. It has a before I/O shield for quick configuration. The Aura Sync RGB illumination has been configured to make your PC look better.

The pre-integrated I/O shield makes it incredibly simple to install in your system. For optimal endurance, it has been designed with superior BIOS flashback as well as other components. The board’s 2.5 GB RAM storage capacity & 5100 MHz memory performance are also among its top features.

ROG Strix Z590-E

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1200 | Memory Speed: 5333 MHz | WIFI: No | Chipset: Intel Z590 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎1.76 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

I’ll start by introducing you to the seller. The ROG Strix Z590-E was brand-new and in a sealed container when it arrived early. I contacted ASUS tech support because I had difficulty getting the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to function. I had a person who asked me repeatedly to press the very same buttons and whose third language was English. 

I began my investigation on the Internet and selected to look at Asus boards because I had previously used them while constructing PCs as an information technology specialist. When my Asus Prime Z590-V motherboard arrived from Amazon, it was “Dead on Arrival.” I it was sent back, and I received another identical MB.

It was likewise unsuccessful. I was going to try another manufacturer, and maybe Gigabyte, however, I changed my mind. The problem was eventually resolved when I realized that the drivers required updating. I’m eager to know what the z590 chip can be capable of when the i9 11900 launches. 

The best z590 motherboard for gaming has created reliable power options for the quickest performance. It has 14+2 power stages, trustworthy alloy chokes, ProCool II power connectors, & premium capacitors. As a result, these parts ensure that your motherboard chipset the multi-core CPU without any issues. M.2 SSD reads at 3438 GPS as well. 

Other exciting features for gamers

The networking & connectivity functions are about to come. Plus USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-C and type-A ports. You may utilise 2.5 Gb Ethernet & WIFI 6E simultaneously for heavy networking. The board features exceptional capabilities and Aura RGB lighting, guaranteeing the MOBO’s beauty. This entire board is centred on artificial intelligence, including AI networking and overclocking.

Additionally, wireless Bluetooth and WIFI support are included. It supports multi-core and has a variety of connecting possibilities. While utilising a microphone, the AI noise cancellation effectively suppresses the excess noise. You may enjoy the best possible sound quality during gaming with to Sonic Studio III & DTS Sound Unbound.

Why do I recommend it to you?

Using the handbook and internet tutorials made it simple. The only drawback is that PCIe slot 1 only supports M2 SSDs if your processor is an Intel 11th generation. Everything went smoothly during the setup using my I9 10700KF, however the SSD was not detected by the BIOS. It worked perfectly when tested on another operational rig.

Overall, I am very pleased with the best Intel LGA 1200 motherboard for gaming. It would have been nice if some YouTubers knowing something like the PCIe SSD 11th gen core issue had brought attention to this problem or if the documentation had stated in large language that slot 1 only supported 11th gen cores. Adapt and learn. Excellent learning opportunity Son is overjoyed about his latest gaming computer.

GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: GIGABYTE | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | Memory Speed: 4000 MHz | WIFI: 802.11ax | Chipset: Intel Z690 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎‎5.08 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

The motherboard is really sturdy. The craftsmanship is excellent. The overclocking (OC) settings are decent, however the 5.1 GHz (all-core) preset causes the CPU to operate too hot; you must under-volt it to prevent thermal throttling. Your CPU will be overclocked by default, right from the beginning. Additionally, it offers an all-core OC preset and a gaming OC preset.

The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Professional is a mid-range Alder Lake board that costs approximately $$$ and provides excellent all-around performance with few compromises. There really are four M.2 connectors for additional storage, enhanced audio, and a fresh look. Performance, thermals, & overclocking throughout our exhaustive testing were all comfortably within the range of many other Z690 boards we’ve examined.

There is a lot to like about the Z690 Aorus Pro, including its 13 USB ports on the rear IO, four M.2 connections, and competent power delivery, and all for a price significantly lower than that of flagship options. So provided you don’t need Wi-Fi 6E right out of the box or embedded RGB lights. A great Alder Lake board to base your Z690 computer on is the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro.

It has many storage options, this best motherboard for gaming includes 13 USB ports, M.2 sockets, and a PCIe x16 slot. The ability to store things in various ways is really helpful for improving the gaming experience. The motherboard is trustworthy and useful for gaming if you do not require WIFI 6E & integrated RGB.

Other exciting features for gamers

I can only suggest this motherboard if you’re willing to take a chance using Gigabyte RMA solutions. I’ve seen many YouTubers complain about Gigabyte’s poor RMA service, including JayzTwoCents, Gamers Nexus, Graphically Challenged, and many others, and I’ve seen a tonne of Reddit threads about it as well.

They provide excellent customer service, in my opinion. However, I haven’t dealt with an RMA. I’m pleased with the transaction altogether and it’s a good motherboard. With Windows 11, it functions perfectly. In my instance, secure boot and TPM 2.0 were already turned on by default, thus, I didn’t need to turn them on. Windows 10 will function just well too.

Why do I recommend it to you?

I really like this mobo overall. At this cost, a Dr. Debug, power, plus reset switch on the motherboard is absurd. Wi-Fi 6E is the only component it neglected to provide. But it has WiFi 6. I use ethernet, therefore it is not a deal-breaker for me, but the Wi-Fi is still excellent.

Using my Wi-Fi 6E connection at 1.2Gbps, I evaluated it and received fantastic and constant download rates (537.19Mbps). There are several methods to boost Wi-Fi speeds, however, they require CMD expertise. Since the antenna’s bottom is magnetic, this then adheres to the case without any trouble. It somewhat resembles a shark as a result.

MSI MPG X570

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: MSI | CPU Socket: AM4 | Memory Speed: 2666 MHz | WIFI: No | Chipset: AMD X570 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎3.3 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

When this board became available, I purchased it and patiently awaited the arrival of a Ryzen 7 with the proper MSRP. I recently finished repairing the motherboard after eventually receiving the processor. With really no electricity or POST issues, it functions quite nicely. The “Gaming Plus” LEDs need not show thru the PCB quite well, which is the sole problem I encounter with the MSI MPG X570.

Runs butter-smooth and overclocking was simple and quick to start. With just a few BIOS changes, I got a consistent 4.2GHz OC, although there is still a significant amount of potential for enhancement in terms of cooling. The metal SSD/M.2 heatsink that is included with the motherboard, as well as the M.2 slots, are both great touches.

The board’s elements all seem to be well-made and very well. Given that this is in the low end of the scale of the boards sector, I believe the cost to functionality is good. After flashing the most recent BIOS from of the MSI user guide, everything worked without any problems. I suggest this board if you want to purchase a Ryzen build using the X570 chipset.

I enjoy using an XBOX controller to play games, and I never encounter problems running blockbuster titles on the highest settings! I might replace the motherboard inside the future but retain this one to use as a back and living room PC with another Ryzen CPU of a lower price. It saved the i/o shield, as well as the manual, was manual.

Other exciting features for gamers

The board’s default memory speed is 2666 MHz, although it may be overclocked to 4400 MHz. This overclocking potential is highly enjoyable and justifiable at a reasonable cost. Integrating the Frozr heatsink architecture is advantageous for the board to be peaceful. A processor like the X570 is still exceptional for its high data bandwidth.

On the other hand, the M.2 shield Frozr works in addition to the heatsink above M.2 SSDs. So there won’t be any throttling in the way. Additionally, the board boosts the game’s audio using Audio Boost 4, which offers HD audio thanks to the board’s premium audio capacitors. It has core boost technology built in for performance improvisation.

Why do I recommend it to you?

I’ve been experimenting with it for a long, and so this board’s Vengence RAM sticks and Ryzen 5 3600X processor are quite stable. The boot-ups on my gaming M.2 stick with OS W10 loaded are incredibly quick! It boots up each time without a single issue at all! The gaming experience is flawlessly great and seamless, thanks to my Radeon RX590!

The most affordable best AMD motherboard for gaming is the MSI MPG X570 Gaming Plus. However, the board’s functionality and features are basic but sufficient for effective gaming. However, you can access the HDMI, SATA, DDR4, PCIe 4.0, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.

GIGABYTE X570

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: GIGABYTE | CPU Socket: Socket AM4 | Memory Speed: 2400 MHz | WIFI: No | Chipset: AMD X570 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎2.2 pounds | Form factor: ITX |

The Gigabyte X570 Aorus Ultra concentrates on completing fundamental tasks exceptionally well, as evidenced by its three PCIe 12 40A core voltage MOSFETs. The lack of premium add-on features allows Gigabyte to keep its pricing around $$$ despite the high cost of PCIe 4.0 compatibility. The only functionality it offers in addition to its standard Gigabit Ethernet is a 2.4Gb/s Wi-Fi 6 module.

5000 Series Ryzen processors, I replied. You could put a Ryzen 9 5950X into this board and use it to run a compact PC with 16 cores and 32 threads. Thanks to integrated Intel Wi-Fi, you can very much put a PC with just this motherboard wherever in the house. Everything already sounds fantastic sufficient, however, the affordable price is also helpful.

A full-sized ATX board is not required to build a PC. A board such as the GIGABYTE X570 I AORUS Pro WIFI can work well as a base if you like to construct a smaller setup. To construct a great PC, really do not need the largest board you can find. When you actually press the drive, the engine throttles & idles very high. The entire construction feels solid and very well.

A Mini-ITX best ITX motherboard for gaming will assist with something like this. Smaller form factor casings are useful when maintaining the PC’s total dimensions low. The board is alright. A front chip cooler is terrible. The fan is loud & awful. Underneath the cooler, the primary m.2 is directly positioned on top of the chipset.

Other exciting features for gamers

It has the previously mentioned Wi-Fi, HDMI, DisplayPort, Optical S/PDIF, two USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 4 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, & 1Gb LAN as well as the above. The only PCIe x16 slot as well as the absence of any useful VRM heatsinks will turn you off to this board.

Ultimately, this board fulfils all of my requirements, and I’ve been pleased with my choice. You shouldn’t push its processor much past factory settings because it may become hot. I wholeheartedly advise anyone who is constructing a high-performance Ryzen setup. In fact, it works with the Adobe suite flawlessly!

Why do I recommend it to you?

AMD Ryzen 5600g processor, 32GB of G-Skill RipJaws 2400 DDR4 memory and system Gigabyte X570 I Aorus Pro ITX form factor. First, the RAM immediately decreased to 2133MHz from the promised 2400MHz. I entered the BIOS and applied PMX First Profile just at promised 2400Mhz rate, overclocking the CPU to 4GB. Returned to the Bios & reduced the CPU’s speed to 2133 MHz.

I have really no idea why there are so many nasty comments, because this small board is a total monster. I’m thrilled to have both the ITX & ATX versions. I’m a content creator, and have been using these machines regularly for almost a year. These are all very well crafted and have NVME gen4 storage.

ASUS ROG Strix B550-F

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: Socket AM4 | Memory Speed: 4400 MHz | WIFI: Onboard WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Chipset: AMD B550 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎2.38 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

Do you need a good gaming motherboard? The much more desirable board is the Asus ROG Strix B550-F at that point. On this board, you can choose from the greatest options in terms of price, functionality, & features. You may easily purchase this best budget motherboard for gaming for a reasonable cost without sacrificing quality.

Premium features offered by Asus’ ROG Strix B550-F Gaming Wi-Fi include SupremeFX Audio, Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200, reliable power supply, and much more. Regardless of whether there are boards with identical specifications that are less expensive, it’s an excellent alternative around the $$$ mark. Dual M.2 slots on the board, along with PCIe 4.0 & NVM Express RAID, allow for the quickest data transfer rates and the most storage options.

It is simple to propose the non-Wi-Fi variant of the exact board if you do not even require Wi-Fi because it has the same features and costs $$ less if you don’t. This is especially true if you want to use Ethernet or your personal wireless card. Therefore, you must remember to disable that setting in the bios.

I was a little dubious about motherboard software bloat until I heard that ASUS was sneakily slipstreaming its Armoury Crate tool into brand-new W10 installations on ROG boards. I still don’t understand how they did it. But when I finally had this new box set up and running, it simplified my life wonderfully.

I was requested to click a button during the initial boot to download Armoury Crate and the LAN driver directly from a repository just on motherboard. I was given an overview of all the additional drivers & services on the second boot, for which I’d have normally had to look up on the ASUS website or download beforehand.

Other exciting features for gamers

The actual board itself is quite good. There are enough USB alternatives, and the VRM heatsink performance is sufficient. I believe that the B550 can handle two m.2 slots, as well as the m.2 heatsinks, are quite great. I didn’t even need to screw in the antenna for such wifi to start detecting my signal strength. The board has an I/O shield already mounted and a BIOS flashback.

The extremely sturdy built-in backplate served as a good grip during board installation. I wish there was perhaps one more chassis fan connector, but this is not a big concern. Considering you’re not purchasing a B550 board for just a 9-fan case, even if you were, the board very certainly already came with a fan control.

Why do I recommend it to you?

The most affordable gaming motherboard is the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming. The board’s advantage is that it provides adequate dependability, performance, and cooling expertise. Additionally, WIFI 6 makes it possible for you to play online games with ease. So, if you’re a beginner or average player, you can use it.

My 3700x & 16GB of GKsill 3600hbz RAM started working right immediately. VRM is fantastic and far superior to some of those budget x570 boards. The new wifi is quite quick. I heartily endorse this site. It does have PCIE4 as well. I suggest this motherboard if you cannot find a suitable x570 motherboard.

MSI MPG Z490

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: MSI | CPU Socket: LGA 1200 | Memory Speed: 4800 MHz | WIFI: 802.11ax | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎3.44 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

The midrange motherboard which enables Intel’s tenth generation is MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Carbon WIFI. If your CPU is interoperable with the LGA 1200 socket, you have the option to use it as it improves with that socket. Recently, I was setting up my current gaming setup when I came across this exquisite work of art.

This system was created for my wife. When I asked what specifications she wanted, she said, “Stuff is extremely cool.” It seemed obvious to me why I should choose MSI. I’ve had nothing but fantastic luck with MSI and just one board issue. I strongly advise. The only thing I would change is a much more sophisticated programme for Mystic to facilitate customisation.

It has the impression that it was solely created to go with the CPU & desktop. The onboard 2.5G LAN & WIFI 6 can both enhance your gameplay experience. In fact, this best motherboard for gaming includes pre-mounted I/O shielding to ease configuration and prevent electrostatic discharge. The DDR4 boost innovation on this motherboard contributes to its exceptional performance.

It gives you two M.2 slots & six SATA Gbps ports to increase the flexibility of your storage options. On the side of the board, it also features five USB 3.2 connections and the dual USB 2.0 connectors. It has a memory capacity of up to 128 GB. The ram speed is equivalent to 4800 MHZ for overclocked to 5 GHz while simultaneously time. The RAM compatibility is fairly excellent, in any case.

Other exciting features for gamers

The finest Intel motherboard for gamers is one that intelligently supports your Intel processor. Its memory speed is 4800 MHz, and it has 12 phases. Up to 5GHz can be overclocked, although special thermal optimization is required. You might experience some heat concerns; therefore, it would be wise to prepare water alongside it.

This was my first MSI board, which I bought for a brand-new build for a platform with a 10th Gen Intel CPU for gaming & general PC usage. Even though I still need to spend some time completely configuring the new build, I’m pleased with it so far. Great packing and supplies were provided.

Why do I recommend it to you?

The newest bios had to be downloaded and flashed onto a USB stick; the bios flash programme was flawless. Updated audio and chipset drivers were simple to locate and easily installed from the MSI site. I spent time building everything, and that everything was uploaded the first time. The sleek black, mystic light RGB hues of the board increase its allure in aesthetics.

Overall, I adore the board; its price is out of this world, and the only minor drawbacks—like the need to flash the bios—are nitpicky. Reusing an old GTX 980 & SSD/HDD drives, with a building construction for everything else.

GIGABYTE X299X Aorus

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: GIGABYTE | CPU Socket: LGA 2066 | Memory Speed: 4433 MHz | WIFI: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth, 802.11a, 801.11ac | Chipset: Intel 7540 TB3 controller | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎2.2 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

This motherboard serves as the X299 platform’s farewell release. It contains three NVMe slots on the board, two 10 GigE Intel Ethernet connections. It supports for the most recent Intel X299 Gen10 processors and just a PCIe x16 card that is supplied to handle 4 more NVMe devices. Based on the Titan Ridge chipset, the integrated Thunderbolt 3 enables Displayport 1.4, USB 3.2, and other protocols.

Customers can make sure their PCs can keep performance whilst remaining cool by using Smart Fan 5. The Smart Fan 5 of this best Intel ATX motherboard for gaming can switch out their fan connections to reflect various temperature monitors at various places on the motherboard.

I used to work for ASUS until I grew sick and tired of their poor customer service and never-ending battle to get defective products fixed. They had acceptable quality; however their help was ineffective when things went bad. I will not need your assistance—I have more than twenty years of computer experience—I just require you to repair your crap.

Currently, Thunderbolt 3 is much more widely used (particularly by experts and prosumers), and the devices that support it can transport data at speeds of up to 40Gbps. The X299X Designare 10G’s two ports must share the controller’s bandwidth cap. It applies to any display data sent from your discrete graphics card towards the Thunderbolt 3 ports through the board’s twin DisplayPort outputs.

The X299X Designare Aorus 10G is packed to the gills with Intel X550 double 10Gb/s Ethernet and a set of Thunderbolt 3 connectors including dual DisplayPort passthrough and Intel’s 40Gb/s controller. It is adequately prepared for the 48 channels of Intel’s tenth gen Core Extreme cpus.

Other exciting features for gamers

A four-drive M.2 expansion card plus 2.4Gb/s Wi-Fi 6 complete the package, adding value that more than makes up for the price premium above the nearest rival. Since I’ve been operating on this board for a several months, Gigabyte motherboards have indeed been incredibly reliable.

The Gigabyte X299X DESIGNARE 10G board is really quite feature-rich. Still, because it uses the stable and very well X299 chipset & Intel chipsets for WiFi and connectivity, this board excels in providing solid Linux support because it consistently performs at the top of its game.

Why do I recommend it to you?

The motherboard needs an unprecedented robust power solution in order to reveal the full potential of the brand-new Intel 18-core CPU. The best components are chosen by GIGABYTE R&Ds, who relentlessly pursue high overclocking performance. With the brand-new VB series audio controller, you can vibrantly broadcast your voices to the globe with front- and rear-microphone SNR of up to 110/114dB. (A).

Power is delivered to the motherboard’s energy-sensitive components with amazing accuracy thanks to this microcontroller & extra 8+8 solid-pin CPU power connectors. It enables enthusiasts to get the newest 18-core 10th-generation Intel Core X CPUs’ utmost performance.

ASUS Prime B660M-A

SPECIFICATIONS

Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | Memory Speed: 2133 MHz | WIFI: No | Chipset: Intel | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | Weight: ‎2.2 pounds | Form factor: ATX |

An outstanding improvement to the B660 chipset is indeed the ASUS Prime B660M-A D4. Two M. 2 slots are available on the Prime B660M-A WIFI D4 and can transport data as up to 64 Gbps using PCIe® 4.0, allowing for faster OS or app drive boot-up and app loading times. Despite being the least affordable model we can find, the B660M Gaming outperforms the Asus & Asrock options in appearance and performance.

You may overclock restricted Intel Alder Lake 12th generation CPUs with this B660 motherboard. There are two USB 2.0 ports, one Type-C port, and four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports inside the I/O panel. The main drawback of this board is that it doesn’t have a particularly attractive aesthetic, but the functions it offers more than makeup for this. 

Now though, we should all be aware that it is impossible to overclock the CPU on this chipset, but it is feasible to increase the memory. We are covered because the B660M Mortar successfully ran the DDR4 3600 kit utilising Gear 1 with respectable bandwidth and latency metrics.

The small problems I faced with this new best motherboard for gaming setup took me months to identify and resolve, and all of them were the motherboard’s problem. It appears as though it was never intended to be compatible with Windows. It’s easy sailing from there once you’ve troubleshot everything that might initially not function.

Other exciting features for gamers

For those of you looking for a mid-range Ryzen-CPU motherboard that balances good features & cost, the ASUS Prime B550-PLUS is a fantastic choice. But note that to lower the final sale price for the board, Asus chose to remove decorative elements.

Although it might not be the greatest or the cheapest motherboard, it serves its purpose. My RAM operates at the promised speed, has respectable aesthetics, and functions without a hitch. A B660 board will always provide less functionality altogether. However, the Prime B660M-A expands the marketplace for PC gaming, supporting the idea of keeping costs low.

An outstanding upgrade to the B660 processor is the ASUS Prime B660M-A D4. The main drawback of these boards is that it does not have a particularly attractive aesthetic, but the functions offers more than makeup for this.

Why do I recommend it to you?

The ASUS Prime B660M looks fantastic compared to other boards in this price category and has sizable gun metal heatsinks that kept the VRMs cool during my stress tests. Six total fan headers for your cooling system are adequate for the typical gaming PC.

There aren’t many comments on this motherboard, so I thought I’d post one now. I placed this board in a Thermaltake S100 mini case with the Intel 12400. The only issue I had was that the Windows 10 installation did not come with ethernet drivers, resulting in the need to temporarily install a dvd drive in order to install the provided CD driver disc. CPU temperature is around 30 degrees.