Picking the right best gaming motherboards is crucial for building the best gaming PC, regardless of whether it affects the performance or not. Essentially, the mother gaming board is your rig’s backbone, which allows you to plug in all the components you need to play all your favorite games. You need to find the best gaming motherboard to determine how much storage space you will have, and which CPU upgrades you can perform later.
Even though choosing the best CPU, ergonomic keyboard, best graphics card, or ergonomic gaming mouse often receives more attention, choosing the best gaming motherboard is nonetheless an integral part of your PC build. The best gaming motherboards connect every component of your PC. You can only install certain types of processors on your computer based on their form factor and chipset. Its socket also dictates the size of your computer.
Today, the best gaming motherboards built around the same chipset don’t have much difference, so choosing the right one is still important. The focus is on features rather than performance. Would you like the option to overclock your CPU? Are you looking for high-performance RAM? Would you need as many USB ports as a small server would have?. The answer to these questions depends on your needs.
Best gaming motherboards allow plug-ins to communicate with each other. The longevity of a good-quality motherboard is important for hardware performance. A good motherboard enables you to take advantage of the benefits of your computer.
The gaming experience is directly impacted by this feature, and your computer plays a very important role. Gaming with the best scepter gaming monitor can be a thrilling experience for any gaming expert.
In short, the gaming motherboard can be named the Powerhouse of your gaming pc. There are too many gaming motherboards available in the market and it becomes difficult to choose the best one. That’s where we play our role. We have done intensive research and found the top 5 best Gaming Motherboards to buy in 2021.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS TUF Gaming Z590  | ASUS TUF Gaming Z590 |
| Buy at $238.08 | |
| ASRock A520M ITX/AC  | ASRock A520M ITX/AC |
| Buy at $99.99 | |
| Gigabyte A520  | Gigabyte A520 |
| Buy at $109.99/a> | |
| MSI MAG B550M  | MSI MAG B550M | MSI MAG B550M |
| Buy at $172.30 |
| ASUS Rog Strix B550-F  | ASUS Rog Strix B550-F | ASUS Rog Strix B550-F |
| Buy at $194.99 |
Table of Contents
Top 5 Best Gaming Motherboards Reviews
The following are the reviews of the top 5 best gaming motherboards to buy in 2021
ASUS TUF Gaming Z590 Motherboard Review
A gaming motherboard designed as a mid-range option for users interested in running Rocket Lake. With a broader feature set and reasonable pricing, TUF products have always been positioned by Asus as reliable options. With all of that added up, it makes it a good option for someone seeking a no-fuss, safe, and reliable system. Considering the price of many Z590 motherboards, that’s definitely a welcome change.
With a subtle design and a particularly attractive white font, the TUF Z590 Plus is an attractive device. On the right side, you’ll see a couple of small splashes of RGB. This is a great look. A PCIe 4.0 card can be installed in the topmost of the three M.2 slots. Two of the heatsinks reside at the bottom of the board.
SATA ports are located vertically, which may be objectionable to people who are obsessed with cable management. The heatsink is connected with two other regular horizontal ports. Furthermore, there are two addressable RGB headers and six fan headers.
Rather than paying top dollar for 10G LAN or add-in cards, a gaming board like this is perfect for people who prefer to allocate their resources to an upgrade to a faster GPU or larger SSD. That totally makes sense to us. Getting the most bang for your buck and getting the essentials is the goal. It’s a good option for those on a budget.
Specifications of ASUS TUF Gaming Z590 Motherboard
- CPU Support: Intel 10th & 11th Gen
- Socket: LGA 1200
- Size: ATX
- Memory support: 4x DIMM, up to 128GB, DDR4-5133
- Expansion slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4), 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4), 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Video Ports: 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x HDMI 2.0
- Rear USB: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, 5x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 6x USB 2.0
- Storage: 3x M.2, 6x SATA 6Gbps
- Network: Intel Wi-Fi 6E, 1x Intel 2.5Gb ethernet
Buy: ASUS TUF Gaming Z590 at $238.08
ASRock A520M ITX/AC Gaming Motherboard Review
The A520 motherboards might be the right choice for you if you’re on a tighter budget and are not concerned with PCIe 4.0 or overclocking support. You can get some cheap boards, but a decent A520 board can do most of what a board for twice the price can.
If a gamer listens to compressed audio content, he or she won’t be less immersed. With the little ASRock A520M ITX/ac, you’ll have everything you need in an entry-level gaming system. Ryzen’s strengths are boosted by the addition of future-proofing to the mix. If you’re looking for an AMD Ryzen budget option, you should definitely keep this one on your shortlist.
Specifications of ASRock A520M ITX/AC Gaming Motherboard
- CPU Support: AMD 3rd and 4th Gen Ryzen
- Socket: AM4
- Size: Mini ITX
- Memory Support: 2x DIMM, up to 64GB, up to DDR4-4600 (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16
- Video Ports: 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DVI-D
- Storage: 1x M.2, 4x SATA 6Gbps
- Networking: Realtek GbE LAN, Intel 802.11ac Wi-Fi
Buy: ASRock A520M ITX/AC at $99.99
Gigabyte A520 Aorus Elite Gaming Motherboard Review
A Gigabyte A520 Aorus Elite board is a high-end version of the A520 platform. This might seem contradictory, but if you didn’t know what it was, you’d assume it was a mid-range gaming board. Furthermore, it also has two RGB headers, in addition to two ARGB headers. Wi-Fi is about the only thing that’s really missing, but then do you really expect to have Wi-Fi for this price?
Gigabyte should be commended for including audio using the ALC1200 codec. It is usually reserved for motherboards that are more expensive. On a budget, you might want to give the Gigabyte A520 Aorus Elite a look. Additionally, it is compatible with the next-generation Ryzen processor, leaving Intel’s budget B460 boards in the dust. Is it suitable for everyone? No, but the Gigabyte A520 Aorus Elite clearly isn’t cheap and nasty like almost all previous A320 boards.
Specifications of Gigabyte A520 Aorus Elite Gaming Motherboard
- CPU Support: AMD 3rd and 4th Gen Ryzen
- Socket: AM4
- Size: ATX
- Memory Support: 4x DIMM, up to 128GB, up to DDR4-4733 (OC)
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1x PCIe x16 (x2), 3x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Video Ports: 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DVI-D
- Storage: 1x M.2, 4x SATA 6Gbps
- Networking: Realtek GbE LAN
- Rear USB: 1x USB 3.2 Gen2, 3x USB 3.2 Gen1, 4x USB 2.0
MSI MAG B550M Mortar Gaming Motherboard Review
If you’re looking for a cheap next-generation Ryzen machine with the best gaming performance, MSI’s micro-ATX MAG B550M Mortar is a great choice. It is considerably cheaper than many of the X570 and other B550 motherboards currently on the market.
MSI B550 Mortar achieves higher gaming frame rates than most of the B550 crew we’ve tested thus far, and its pure CPU performance is comparable to some of the best X570s we’ve tested. This is good news for AMD Zen 3 CPU enthusiasts seeking an affordable solution to a future CPU upgrade since the B550 has a good chance of ensuring that the CPU operates at its best stock-clocked without you breaking the bank.
However, the 8+2+1 power phase design is perhaps the least welcome miss, as it results in a board that will not inspire any overclocking joy. The board is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an affordable gaming board with no OC pretensions.
Specifications of MSI MAG B550M Mortar Gaming Motherboard
- CPU Support: AMD 3rd and 4th Gen Ryzen
- Socket: AM4
- Size: Micro-ATX
- Memory Support: 4x DIMM, up to 128GB, up to DDR4-4400
- Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x4
- Storage: 2x M.2, 6x SATA 6Gbps
- Networking: Realtek 2.5Gb ethernet
- Rear USB: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 2.0
ASUS Rog Strix B550-F Gaming Motherboard Review
In addition to its 14+2 power stage, M.2 heatsinks, and preinstalled backplate, it’s a premium motherboard from Asus’ Republic of Gamers lineup. Also included are Wi-Fi 6 wireless networking and Ethernet 2.5Gb. Of course, RGB LEDs as well.
In general, high-end Asus boards offer good performance, matching X570 motherboards for gaming performance without issue. However, in our straight performance tests, the far more affordable MSI board is the one that comes out on top among the B550 boards. Asus however overclocks much better, although it does consume more raw power from the plug on the whole.
The Asus ROG Strix B550-E Gaming is all about performance this time around, and it’s our top pick for an all-around B550 motherboard. Even so, it seems hard to recommend it when X570 boards cost the same.
Specifications of ASUS Rog Strix B550-F Gaming Motherboard
- CPU Support: AMD 3rd and 4th Gen Ryzen
- Socket: AM4Size: ATX
- Memory Support: 4x DIMM, up to 128GB, up to DDR4-4600
- Expansion Slots: 2x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x4Storage: 2x M.2, 6x SATA 6Gbps
- Networking: Intel Wi-Fi 6, Intel 2.5Gb ethernet, Bluetooth 5.1
- Rear USB: 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 4 x USB 2.0
Buy: ASUS Rog Strix B550-F at $194.99
Buying Guide for Gaming Motherboard
If you are shopping for a gaming motherboard, consider the following:
Make sure your CPU has the Right Socket: AMD and Intel both offer good CPUs. However, regardless of what processor you select, make sure your board has the appropriate socket. The latest mainstream AMD processors use the AM4 CPU socket, whereas Intel’s 10th generation and 11th generation Core processors require the LGA 1200 interface.
Depending on which CPU you choose to pair with your board, your options will be whittled down, since the CPU socket on a given motherboard will only be compatible with the chips it was designed for.
For AMD, things are easier because (prior to Ryzen 9’s 16-core version) all of its mainstream chips use the same AM4 socket, making it a bit less confusing, although you may have problems installing newer CPUs on older motherboards.
In contrast, Intel has tended to switch sockets (or at least socket compatibility) from one generation to the next in recent years, although this isn’t the case with Socket 1200, which remains in use for two more generations. Intel (LGA 2066) and AMD (TR4) both have different sockets for their high-end Core X and Threadripper processors, which have both larger sizes and higher power requirements.
Gaming Motherboard Size: Typically, a motherboard comes in three sizes:
- ATX is the de facto standard and provides the most plugs and slots of any motherboard.
- There is less room for expansion slots on Micro-ATX due to its 2.4-inch shorter length.
- The Mini-ITX form factor creates a tiny PC, but it usually only has room for one add-in card (such as a graphics card), and less storage and RAM connections.
In addition to knowing the type of processor you plan to use, size is an important consideration when selecting a motherboard. The right motherboard is pretty much up to you if you’re putting together a standard ATX gaming computer, but if you’re considering a smaller chassis, such as Micro ATX or Mini ITX, then you’ll need the right motherboard
However, the scale will have an impact on pricing. It’s interesting to note that Micro ATX boards are often the most affordable, while Mini ITX options are usually higher priced. To give you the most useful options, we’ve chosen our top 5 best gaming motherboards based on the most popular Intel and AMD chipsets.
The Number of RAM Slots: There are usually four RAM slots on mainstream motherboards these days, although larger Mini-ITX boards often have two, and high-end HEDT boards sometimes have eight. It is, of course, restricted by the number of slots that you have.
While 16GB is sufficient for typical tasks and games, 32GB is ample. Consequently, you don’t need to worry about more than two slots since you can install 64GB of RAM. The price for a 64GB and 32GB kit containing two sticks will often be higher than a kit using four sticks.
Switches On-board for Turning on/off: Using these can prove useful in initial build processes or if your system is being installed in an open case for component testing. Buy usually onboard buttons aren’t necessary for most users (which sometimes include buttons for clearing the CMOS or basic overclocking).
Diagnostic LED Readouts: An obsolete device that provides diagnostic beeps when something goes wrong is soldered into motherboard headers. The same purpose is now served by a two- or three-digit display, which gives you an alphanumeric code when something goes wrong. A visual representation like this can be very helpful when building a computer or upgrading a computer and it turns out that you forgot to plug in something, something wasn’t seated properly, or one of your components is not functioning.
Wi-Fi Card: This is the best option if you don’t have Ethernet near your computer. Consider picking up a Wi-Fi 6 board if you want to use your PC for many years to come. Be sure to get high-end ports and built-in Wi-Fi only if you need them. If you are using Ethernet, don’t spend more money on wireless. By getting USB 3.1 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt support for your PC, you can make your PC future-proof. In AMD motherboards, Thunderbolt is quite rare.
Integrated Dual Ethernet Ports: The motherboard of any modern computer comes with an Ethernet port (for wired networking or internet connections). Nowadays, a port will have at least a 1G speed, so that it can be used at Gigabit speeds.
There is plenty of bandwidth for Internet traffic on a single Gigabit Ethernet port, so this is most useful if you will use the computer as a server with a board that can merge the two connections. Consider boards with a 2.5 Gb or 10 Gb Ethernet port if you have heavy wired network requirements.
Conclusion
We have provided you with the reviews of the top 5 best gaming motherboards to buy in 2021 along with an intensive buying guide that can come in handy while buying a gaming motherboard. Each above-mentioned gaming motherboard has its unique specifications and amazing capabilities. Readers are recommended to thoroughly go through these reviews before choosing the best gaming motherboard to fulfill your gaming needs.
FAQs
Does every Gaming motherboard have USB Type-C?
There are not many motherboards that come with USB Type-C ports (neither as a header for the front panel of the case nor as a standard rear port for the motherboard). There are a few cases that have a front USB Type-C port (like the NZXT H510), but to use them make sure that the motherboard specs also mention an internal USB Type-C port.
Is it possible to Overclock any gaming motherboard?
Sadly, no. Especially on Intel’s side, there are strict restrictions preventing that from happening. In spite of the fact that it has enabled memory overclocking for its 500-series chipsets, you can only overclock the K-series CPUs on the Z590. You don’t need to worry, they don’t overclock very well.
AMD is more generous by making its CPUs and most of its motherboard chipsets compatible with all its products. It’s okay to tweak the Ryzen board so long as it’s not the cheapest, with the ‘A’ at the front of the nomenclature. It is true, however, that the returns are rather limited.
Is WiFi available on every Gaming Motherboard?
Since not all motherboards include built-in WiFi capabilities, choosing a motherboard that clearly identifies the wireless capability in the model name or its spec sheet is your best bet if you want to connect to the internet via WiFi.
Up until recently, the only motherboards with WiFi were usually more expensive models, but there are many models with WiFi that are quite affordable now. Although it’s easy and affordable to purchase an add-on wireless adapter if you wish to go wireless, you do not need to buy a WiFi-ready motherboard.
Are all Motherboards equipped with Bluetooth?
The majority of motherboards do not have Bluetooth capabilities. If you need Bluetooth connectivity, you can check the motherboard specs or you can purchase either a PCIe WiFi adaptor with Bluetooth capabilities or a separate USB Bluetooth adapter.
