Best Motherboards for 2024

A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer or other electronic devices. It serves as the central hub that connects all the essential components of the system, allowing them to communicate and function together. The motherboard holds crucial parts such as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), and provides connectors for other peripherals.

The form factor of the motherboard (likely E-ATX, ATX, Micro ATX, or Mini-ITX) also tells you what size PC case you need. And the processors you can put in your CPU socket depend on the socket and motherboard.

Choosing the best motherboard for your PC is crucial for ensuring top performance and compatibility with your components. Whether you are building a gaming rig or a high-performance workstation, the right motherboard can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the best gaming motherboards for AMD Ryzen 7000 (socket AM5) and 5000 (socket AM4) CPUs, as well as Intel 14th Gen, 13th Gen (Raptor Lake, Raptor Lake Refresh), and 12th Gen (Alder Lake) CPUs. We will also look at specialized options like the YTX motherboard for unique PC builds. Read on to find the perfect motherboard for your needs.

These are the Best Motherboards in 2024.

Choosing the right motherboard is key to building a powerful and reliable PC. For 2024, here are the top picks:

Gigabyte’s B650E Aorus Master offers exceptional value, positioned competitively below the pricier X670E models. At a cost of $400 from Newegg, it blurs the distinction with the feature-rich X670 chipset by providing nearly all the capabilities of the B650E, aside from a few faster USB ports. It is equipped with four PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and 9 USB ports on the rear IO, alongside robust VRMs similar to those on the more expensive X670E Aorus Master. Performance-wise, it met our expectations in benchmark tests.

The B650E Aorus Master stands out visually and is priced more attractively than many X670-based alternatives. It ranks as a top choice for those assembling a Ryzen 7000 series system, especially if the additional bandwidth of X670 is not a requirement.

The ASRock X670E Taichi combines aesthetics with functionality for the mid-range market. At $499, it offers numerous storage options, including eight SATA ports, four M.2 sockets, and several USB ports, two of which are USB4 Type-C offering 40 Gbps. Our tests confirm that its performance and overclocking capabilities are reliable.

A recent comparison with other high-end X670E motherboards revealed that the X670E Taichi stands out for its lower price while still delivering all the critical features of AMD’s latest platform. If your budget allows, the X670E Taichi is an excellent choice amongst its peers, and it is the best AMD AM5 board available for around $500. Opting for a B650E model could save you $100 or more if you don’t require extensive PCIe bandwidth, as many B650E models still offer the essential features most builders need.

The Gigabyte X670E Aorus Pro X packs nearly all the desired features from the X670E platform. It boasts two PCIe 5.0 M.2 sockets, integrated Wi-Fi 7, an impressive array of USB ports, and a distinctive white/silver aesthetic that differentiates it from darker-themed motherboards.

Despite its older audio codec, the board’s audio output should satisfy most users. If superior sound is needed, external PC speakers with a built-in DAC are recommended. Performance concerns are unwarranted; the X670E Aorus Pro X performed solidly in our gaming and benchmark tests and managed a top-tier AMD Ryzen 7950X processor effortlessly.

The Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming Wi-Fi delivers top-notch features such as SupremeFX Audio, Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX200, robust power delivery, and more, making it a solid option around the $180 price point. If Wi-Fi isn’t necessary, an almost identical board is available for about $30 less.

Benchmark tests place it in line with competing boards, and its 14-phase power delivery handles an overclocked 3900X with ease. Despite the competitive market around this price, Asus presents an appealing choice.

Entering the AMD B550 scene later allowed NZXT to incorporate user feedback from its Intel boards, resulting in a board with more USB ports and cutting-edge Wi-Fi 6E, alongside 2.5GbE. The board’s design has also evolved, with prominent shrouds and a notable lack of onboard RGBs.

Priced at $229, the NZXT N7 B550 is slightly more expensive than our main pick but offers a newer Wi-Fi chip, additional and faster USB ports, and solid performance, all packaged in a visually unique design from other B550 options. If your budget allows, and you don’t need the additional PCI 4.0 bandwidth available with older X570 boards at similar prices, the NZXT N7 B550 is a compelling option.

Selecting the best motherboard is essential for maximizing your PC’s performance and compatibility. For AMD Ryzen 7000 (socket AM5) and 5000 (socket AM4) CPUs, there are excellent gaming and high-performance options available. For Intel 14th Gen, 13th Gen (Raptor Lake, Raptor Lake Refresh), and 12th Gen (Alder Lake) CPUs, motherboards with Z790, B760M, Z690, B660, and H610 chipsets are the top choices. Additionally, the YTX motherboard offers a unique solution for those seeking a clean and organized build with most ports on the back. These motherboards cater to a wide range of needs, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your setup.

What motherboard to get in 2024?

For 2024, the best motherboard depends on your specific needs and the CPU you plan to use. For AMD users, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero is an excellent choice for Ryzen 7000 series processors. For Intel users, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is highly recommended for 13th and 14th Gen Intel CPUs.

Which motherboard is best for future upgrade?

• AMD: ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi
• Intel: Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

What is the most powerful motherboard right now?

• AMD: ASUS ROG Zenith II Extreme Alpha
• Intel: ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Extreme Glacial

Which is the best motherboard in the world?

• AMD: ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Formula
• Intel: ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Extreme