Which motherboard to choose for your computer - types and characteristics. According to statistics, the most reliable motherboards are produced by ASUS Which motherboard to choose for gaming

Not the most common problem. Most users do not change the processor until the computer is completely replaced. However, sometimes due to a breakdown or upgrade, it becomes necessary to replace the installed processor. In this case, the question arises of how to match the processor to the motherboard. In this article we will analyze this problem and talk about how to choose the right processor.

In order to select a processor for the motherboard, you need to find out which socket it supports. A socket is a connector on the motherboard designed to install a processor. There are different types of sockets. Sockets differ in size, shape and number of legs. Therefore, it is not possible to install a processor in an unsuitable socket.

Now the most popular sockets are:

• For Intel processors
  • LGA 1150
  • LGA 1155
  • LGA 1356
  • LGA 1366
• For AMD processors

If you are using a motherboard that is installed in a working computer, then you can find out the name of the socket using special programs to view your computer's characteristics. The most suitable program for our case is the CPU-Z program. Using this program you can find out all the main characteristics of the processor and motherboard.

The name of the socket will be indicated on the first tab of the CPU-Z program, opposite the inscription “Package”. You can also use this program to find out the manufacturer and model of the motherboard. To do this, go to the “Mainboard” tab.

Just because a motherboard is equipped with a particular socket does not guarantee that it supports all processors with the same socket. Some newer processors may not work. That's why in order to select a processor for the motherboard, you need to go to the website of the manufacturer of this board and view the list of supported processors. Finding the information you need is not difficult. Just enter the name of the motherboard in search engine and go to the official website of the manufacturer.

If you have a motherboard for which you need to select a processor, but the computer does not work or is not assembled at all. Then you can look at the name of the motherboard on its box. If there is no box, then carefully inspect the board itself; the name should be printed on its surface.

Once you know the name of the socket and motherboard, selecting a processor is not difficult. First, select a processor that is equipped with the desired socket, and then check whether it is supported by your motherboard.

Assembling or upgrading a computer is a solution to a problem with several inputs, and the result must maximally satisfy all the “wants” and meet all the “wants” so as not to deplete the family budget. Well, let’s start talking about the parts that make up any computer from the basics, from the basis, from the mother of our systems. As you understand, today we will talk about how to choose motherboard, which model can be the best purchase, what you can save on without overpaying for unnecessary functions. Today is the first part, and we will consider the lower and middle price range, leaving the “overclocked” models and games for next time.

Selection criteria

As always, we dance from a traditional item of Russian everyday life, “from the stove,” for which we choose the “folk” socket 1151, for which manufacturers have produced a huge number of motherboards. With such a choice, sometimes your eyes really run wild. We have to figure out how the boards differ, and what the manufacturer wants to charge us for this or that amount, and what to give for this amount.

Armed with knowledge, we will distribute all the boards into several classes. Naturally, this division is conditional, and does not mean at all that you can expect only dull performance from a motherboard from the budget segment, suitable only for office use.

Not at all. Even ready-made system units from reputable manufacturers, positioned as gaming ones, are often equipped with motherboards based on the H110 chipset that seem to be unsuitable for this purpose.

And yet, motherboards differ in functionality and, most importantly, expansion capabilities. How they differ and depending on the purposes for which they are selected. If you are interested in the possibility of overclocking the processor and memory, this is one class of devices. If the assembled computer must work normally until it is replaced/upgraded in the form in which it is purchased, then what is the point of overpaying for redundant functions?

I won’t limit it by form factor either. ATX, mATX, Mini-ITX, Mini-STX and others - we’ll leave everything and consider it. The only thing we will leave out of the equation is the preferences of a particular brand and the quality of service.

Budget motherboards

Models fall into this section not so much by price as by their capabilities. Agree, the H110 chipset cannot be classified as a top solution. This is a typical budget option for building systems with rather limited expansion and configuration options.

At the same time, such motherboards perform their work no worse than more expensive models, and within the limits of their capabilities they work as they should. So, let's see what can be found on sale now. Let's go in ascending order of price.

ASRock H110M-DGS R3.0

One of the cheapest models, the price of which is around 3,000 rubles. Has PCI-E x16 connectors, 1 PCI-E x1 connector, 4 SATA3 connectors, 2 connectors for DDR4-2133 memory. A typical budget option with, however, a radiator is used for cooling.

R3.0 means that this is the 3rd revision of the board, and out of the box it should support 7th generation Kaby Lake processors. If you come across an earlier board, then that’s okay too. As a last resort, you will have to update the BIOS.

The board has a microATX form factor. The 8-pin processor power connector is located close to the socket, which can cause problems when installing bulky coolers. It may not be possible to lay the cables efficiently and neatly. Naturally, there is no talk of using two video cards. Moreover, there is only DVI for connecting a monitor.

MSI H110M PRO-D

In fact, it’s a direct analogue of the previous one; if the cost differs, it’s 100-200 rubles in one direction or another, depending on the store. The differences are 2 PCI-E x1 connectors, 6 power phases, 2 USB 3.1 connectors and, perhaps, that’s all. The slightly larger size made it possible to arrange the board more traditionally, placing connectors for connecting drives along the bottom edge.

Overall, it’s a more than worthy choice for a minimum amount of money, and the board shows excellent performance. If you are ready to put up with only DVI, no M.2, only two memory slots, and do not plan to install a large number additional devices, then this board is definitely a bargain.

ASUS H110M-R/C/SI

At a price of about 3300 rubles. differs from those listed, perhaps, only in the presence of HDMI. There are no more advantages. So, if only DVI is not enough to connect a monitor, then in this case the whole “zoo” is present - VGA, DVI, HDMI. Overpaying a couple of hundred rubles for extensive monitor connectivity options is completely justified.

One of the features worth mentioning is the poor placement of contacts for connecting the front audio connectors. They are located exactly in front of the PCI-E x16 connector, and the installed video card overlaps these contacts. And one of the SATA ones stands out from the series, being located slightly deeper into the board.

MSI H110M PRO-VD (PLUS)

Unremarkable “mothers” at a price of just over 3,300 rubles. At the same time, the PLUS version differs from the usual one in the smaller number of USB ports on the rear wall (4 versus 6) and the presence of two full-fledged PS/2s and one combined one. This is such a plus.

USB version 3.1 is used. DVI and VGA are used to connect the monitor. There are 4 SATA, 2 memory slots, 1 PCI-E x16 and 2 PCI-E x1.

Otherwise, these are normal boards; if there are no cheaper alternatives, then you can take them.

ASUS H110M-CS

An incomprehensible board, or rather, the price of it. For 3800 rub. everything is offered the same as in the case of the cheapest ASRock H110M-DGS R3.0. The difference is the presence of a second PCI-E x1 connector and the replacement of DVI with the already archaic VGA. Why overpay for the brand?

MSI H110M ECO

Price – just over 3800 rubles. seems overpriced, although compared to the previous one it is somewhat compensated by the presence of VGA, DVI, HDMI, as well as the use of a network controller on an Intel chip, which is a little faster than solutions on chips from Realtek.

The fee provides ample opportunities on energy saving. It is possible to manually turn off unused elements (fans, lights, etc.). There are also automatic mode, in which you can set up to 3 energy saving profiles. In this case, high-quality element base is used.

Otherwise, there are no obvious arguments in favor of this fee, nor are there any reasons to overpay. There are no advantages over cheaper alternatives.

MSI H110M Gaming

For a beautiful name, belonging to gaming boards and for red connectors, the manufacturer wants 700 rubles more than for the previous, “eco-friendly” option. You have to pay for external attractiveness.

True, on the rear panel there will be not 4 USB connectors (which is not enough in our times), but 6, and 4 of them are versions 3.1. The rest is an analogue of the previous one, functionally without any advantages.

MSI H110M GRENADE

Price – about 4700 rubles. It differs from most previous ones in the presence of an Intel network chip, an M.2 connector on the PCI-E bus and USB Type-C. Is it worth all the overpayment? It’s up to you to decide. Availability of M.2 for installing SSD under operating system may be useful when assembling compact computers.

ASRock H110M-STX

Mini-STX form factor board for building very compact systems. Cost – about 5200 rubles. The layout is specific, in which the connectors are located not only on the rear edge of the board, but also on the front. Features include support for processors with a TDP of up to 65 W, the use of an Intel network chip, and SO-DIMM DDR4 memory modules. There are USB Type-C, 2 SATA3. You can use VGA, HDMI or DisplayPort to connect your monitor.

2 M.2 connectors installed:

• Key E (Socket 1) – for installing Wi-fi or Bluetooth modules.
• Key M (Socket 3) – for installing SSD drives on the PCIe Gen3 x4 2280 bus.

Please pay special attention to the fact that this board does not support M.2 drives running on the SATA bus, only PCIe!

An external 19 V power supply is used.

ASUS H110T

Form factor – Thin Mini-ITX. Price – about 5300 rubles. Among the differences from the previous model is the presence of two gigabit network interfaces(on Intel and Realtek chips), no USB Type-C, support for M.2 SSD drives of sizes 2242/2260. Lack of support for the most popular SSD size, 2280, may negate the use of this connector.

To connect a monitor you can use HDMI, DisplayPort. Memory - laptop, SO-DIMM.

Other options

Naturally, these are not all models. I have listed only those that, in my opinion, may be of interest in some way. For approximately the same cost, you can find other options that differ practically in nothing. So, the cheapest models can compete with, for example, the Gigabyte GA-H110M-S2, but at the same or slightly higher (50-100 rubles) cost there are no advantages. The whole difference comes down to the number of power phases and the layout.

MSI H110M PRO-VH is a typical competitor to the MSI H110M PRO-VD (PLUS) models, and differs only in the presence of HDMI, for which you will have to pay about 60 rubles.

You can pay a few hundred rubles extra if you really need an HDMI, M.2 connector, or if you have equipment connected via outdated COM or LPT interfaces.

Many board models, in fact, have several modifications that differ in the installed interfaces, primarily for connecting a monitor. So, ASRock's simplest H110M-DGS R3.0 has only DVI, and the H110M-DVS R3.0 also has VGA. True, it already costs 400 rubles more. ASRock H110M-HDV is already equipped with HDMI, and for this you will have to pay an additional 100 rubles compared to the previous version.

Boards such as Gigabyte GA-H110-D3A, ASRock H110 Pro BTC+ and the like stand somewhat apart. Their cost is 7,500 for the first and about 12,700 for the second. Both of them are full-fledged ATX, and the scope of application is indicated by such a characteristic as the number of PCI-E x1 ports. Gigabyte has 5 of them, and ASRock has 12. It’s probably already clear that these boards are designed specifically for cryptocurrency mining.

To generalize, there is no fundamental difference between the boards. You can buy any at a minimal price with the required set of installed interfaces, the choice of which, however, is not so wide. They differ in the presence and number of USB 3.0/3.1, USB Type-C, and M.2 connector. There are also differences in the way the monitor is connected. Via DVI you can connect even to the cheapest motherboard. And with HDMI, the model is only 300 rubles more expensive.

I wouldn't pay much attention to the difference in the processor power supply. Some have only 4 phases, others have 6. It is clear that the more there are, the better. ASRock especially likes to save on the number of power phases. On the other hand, only it has radiators to cool these circuits. Considering that overclocking processors is impossible, this is quite enough.

Models of the Mini-ITX and Mini-STX form factors probably have their own specifics, but when choosing such motherboards, you most likely know why such options are needed.

Mid-range motherboards

Here, boards based on B150/250, H170/270, Q170/270 chipsets will be accepted for consideration. Let me remind you that they differ from the H110 in a larger number of PCI-E lanes, the use of the 3rd generation of this interface as opposed to the 2nd in the 110 chipset, a larger number of USB ports, and the ability to use 4 DIMM slots instead of two .

The 2xx generation is not much different from the 1xx generation of chipsets. One of the main differences is storage support. Overclocking is not supported on these chipsets. This can only be done by increasing the frequency of the processor or memory. The use of processors with an unlocked multiplier (with the letter “K” in the marking) is not justified, since it will not be possible to take advantage of this feature.

The B150/250 chipsets have gained a reputation for office solutions, although the number of models offered is large, the Q170/270 are specific products, more focused on the corporate segment, and the number of board models for them is very small. The most popular one is the H170/270, which lacks only the ability to overclock the processor with a multiplier. Otherwise, it’s one of the most functional options.

Considering all the proposed models is a thankless task. There are quite a lot of them, and most of them are not much different from each other. I will focus on the most attractive options.

ASRock B150M-HDS

In fact, it is a complete analogue of the ASRock B110M-HDS board, differing only in a different chipset (B150) and a price that is about 250-300 rubles higher. I don’t see much point in the purchase, given the minimum number of connectors, the lack of M.2, and even the not very good location of the SATA connectors. It will be difficult to lay out the cables nicely and neatly.

Gigabyte GA-B150M-D2V

One of the cheapest, which already has 6 SATA connectors. Cost – about 4200 rubles. The advantages are 4 USB 3.0 on the rear wall, the presence of VGA and DVI for connecting a monitor. Of the minuses - only 2 DIMM DDR4, lack of HDMI and M.2 (although this minus is quite controversial).

For your money - a good option.

Gigabyte GA-H170M-HD3 DDR3

Quite a controversial model. Chipset - H170. On the one hand, the price is about 4200 rubles, which includes 6 SATA3, 2 SATA Express (not very popular connector), support for RAID 0,1,5,10, PCI-E M.2, VGA, DVI, HDMI. On the other hand, it works with memory of the already outdated DDR3 generation, and only 2 such modules can be installed. In our times, this is rather a minus, although if you are satisfied with the other characteristics, then you can take it. There will be no noticeable difference between DDR3 and DDR4. The problem lies in the further upgrade. The next time you replace the motherboard, this memory will no longer be usable.

If there are memory modules of this particular generation left, then you can save money and use them by upgrading the motherboard and processor, postponing the transition to a new generation of memory for another time.

The presence of a PCI slot is also controversial. Another PCI-E would be better. In general, I would not buy this motherboard, precisely because of the futility of the memory.

MSI B250M PRO-VD

A motherboard on a fresh B250 chipset costs 4,400 rubles, and is one of the cheapest on it. The asset includes a PCIe M.2 connector, 4 USB 3.1 on the rear wall, and the ability to connect 6 SATA drives. The lack of HDMI may be disappointing (there are only VGA and DVI), and there are only two memory connectors. Otherwise, it’s a good option at an attractive price on a good chipset.

ASRock B250M-HDV

Direct competitor to the previous model. It has a slightly higher price (about 4,500 rubles), the presence of HDMI and a gigabit network card based on a chip from Intel. True, USB is only version 3.0, no 3.1 or Type-C. In my opinion, the option is slightly preferable to the model from MSI, if there are no complaints about the lack of the newfangled Type-C and USB 3.0 is quite sufficient.

Quite a decent motherboard for little money.

ASUS H170M-E D3

An even more controversial option than the Gigabyte GA-H170M-HD3 DDR3. Cost – about 4600 rubles. The same DDR3 memory, although there are 4 slots for installing RAM modules. At the same time, there are only 4 SATA3, although with support for RAID 0,1,5,10, there is M.2.

I have no arguments in favor of this model. If you absolutely need RAID, then there is a slightly cheaper Gigabyte, in which you can also connect 2 more drives. The only, albeit controversial, plus is 4 memory slots, and even then, there is the Gigabyte GA-H170M-D3H DDR3, which also has 4 DIMMs and the same price. The model has become obsolete and is not interesting for purchase.

ASUS B150M-A/M.2

Quite a controversial option, primarily due to the not-so-fresh chipset. Judge for yourself. After all, for 4800 rubles. there are 4 connectors for DDR4, and HDMI, and 6 SATA, and M.2, and USB 3.1 Type-C. The disadvantages are the lack of RAID, the memory frequency is limited to 2133 MHz. If you need M.2 and Type-C is useful, then it makes sense to include this board in the list of candidates for purchase. It's inexpensive, but has everything you need. At the same time, approximately all the same things can be found on a more recent chipset and for about the same money.

An alternative is Gigabyte GA-B250M-DS3H, which costs about 200 rubles. more, offers a more recent chipset, but no Type-C. ASUS PRIME B250M-A costs about the same with the same characteristics and the same price.

There is also the already mentioned ASRock B250M-HDV, which has everything that this model has, but with a more recent chipset. True, this ASUS has 4 slots for installing memory, unlike the B250M-HDV, but the price is slightly higher.

Another alternative is the MSI B250M PRO-VDH, which has everything the same as this Asus, but the chipset is more recent.

MSI B250M BAZOOKA (PRO)

Cost – about 5300 rubles, chipset – B250. What advantages does it have over ASUS PRIME B250M-A? None. Everything is the same. In this case, the determining factor is the cost of one or another model in at the moment. Whatever is cheaper, take it.

The PRO version differs from the regular version by installing a radiator on the processor batteries.

MSI B150M NIGHT ELF

Cost – about 5500 rubles. A similarly equipped board can be found cheaper. Why then the overpayment? For the backlight, Intel network card and beautiful radiators.

With the characteristics, however, everything is in order. There are 6 SATA, 4 slots for memory modules, and 2 PCI-E x16, and an Intel network chip. DVI is installed to connect the monitor.

For aesthetics, if the case has a glass wall, it is a very good option. For those for whom it is more important not how the board looks, but how it works, the waste of money is not justified.

ASUS STRIX B250G GAMING

Prepare 6200 rub. For what? For beautiful heatsinks, an Intel network card, 2 M.2 connectors, HDMI, and the SupremeFX audio chip, which is used in more advanced motherboards from this manufacturer. Is the sound better than using a Realtek audio chip? Don't think.

Otherwise, it is much more attractive than the previous model, at least thanks to the newer chipset and the presence of M.2.

ASRock H270M Pro4

One of the cheapest boards based on the H270 chipset. Cost – about 6200 rubles. There are 6 SATA3 with support for RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, 2 M.2 connectors, both running on the PCIe bus, with one M.2 supporting SSDs of this form factor running on the SATA bus. Second M.2 – only PCIe drives.

There is also HDMI with DVI, and USB Type-C is also installed. The processor power supply is 6-phase. In general, a very “packed” model with a fresh chipset and for reasonable money. It can be compared with the previous model. Although there are no beautiful radiators and the word “GAMING” in the name, the characteristics are by no means worse, and even better.

I advise you to take a closer look. If you don't need overclocking, this may be one of the best options. Similar in characteristics to the MSI H270M BAZOOKA for about 300 rubles. more expensive. At the same time, there is only one M.2.

There is a modification of this board with a slightly different layout - model H270 Pro4, although it is already about 400 rubles more expensive. But there is also the ASRock B250M Pro4, a slightly simplified version on a simpler chipset, devoid of RAID. But it costs 800-1000 rubles. cheaper.

ASRock Fatal1ty B250M Performance

Cost – about 6350 rubles. The board is beautiful, made in red and black colors, in which the memory slots and heatsinks are painted. Metal connector for video card.

There is everything that such boards should have - HDMI, Type-C, M.2, network card from Intel, 6 SATA, DVI-D, HDMI, VGA, 4 slots for memory modules.

Well, there's a big name in the title. Whether all this is worth the overpayment is up to you to decide. (Hint: the ASRock B250M Pro4 has everything the same, but without the beauties, for about 5,200 rubles).

MSI B250M MORTAR ARCTIC

The cost is about 6600 rubles. The board is of interest primarily to modders who collect system unit in white colors. In terms of characteristics, there is no difference with cheaper competitors.

Gigabyte GA-H270-HD3

A full-fledged ATX board with three PCI-E x16, two PCI-E x1 and two PCI slots; fortunately, the chipset has a sufficient number of lanes to install such a number of expansion slots. And for all this you will have to pay about 6,700 rubles.

Other characteristics include 4 slots for DDR4 memory, 6 SATA, which can be combined into RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, there is PCI-E M.2, and an Intel network controller. You can use VGA, DVI or HDMI to connect your monitor. No, maybe Type-C. Otherwise, it’s a very sophisticated model. It will be useful for those who really need all these features.

Compared to this, the ASUS H170-PLUS D3 looks strange, which at the same price has DDR3 memory, only 4 SATA, USB 3.0 instead of version 3.1 from Gigabyte. Do you have any arguments in favor of this Asus? I have no.

ASUS B150 PRO GAMING/AURA

The cost is about 7500 rubles. Compared to the Gigabyte, the GA-H270-HD3 doesn't offer anything new. Moreover, it lacks RAID support, there is no USB 3.1, and the chipset is of an old series.

True, beautiful lighting and painted radiators. The SupremeFX audio subsystem is used, there are 6 SATA, M.2, an Intel network controller, and USB Type-C is present. For modders, this is it, and the proprietary Aura lighting system only helps. For boring pragmatists - unnecessary goodies, for which it is unclear why they have to pay.

Gigabyte GA-H270-Gaming 3

Approximate price – about 9000 rubles. It belongs to the gaming series of boards, which, in fact, follows from the name. It has everything you need to build a very productive gaming computer.

There are 6 SATA3 with support for RAID 0, 1, 10, 5, and 2 M.2 connectors, and 4 slots for DDR4-2400 memory, and USB 3.1, and Type-C, and DVI with HDMI. By the way, there is also support for RAID 0, 1, 5, 10. Among the features is the use of the Killer E2500 gigabit network controller from Rivet Networks. Naturally, everything is in newfangled lighting. Form factor - full ATX.

MSI H270 GAMING PRO CARBON

This is one of the most expensive boards. Its cost is about 9300 rubles. The H270 chipset provides support for DDR4-2400 memory, 4 memory slots, 6 SATA3 installed, and 2 M.2 connectors. There are all modern interface connectors, including USB Type-C. A network card based on an Intel chip is used.

Naturally, we couldn’t do without customizable backlighting and installing a metal connector for the first PCI-E x16. The radiators are marked with logos and inscriptions.

This board is fundamentally no different from cheaper analogues. In this case, the choice is based more on the aesthetic qualities of the product rather than on the characteristics that can be found in motherboards at a lower price.

MSI B250M PRO OPT BOOST

The characteristics of the board are practically no different from the MSI B250M BAZOOKA described above, and unlike the latter, there is no Type-C port, and a combined PS/2 is installed. At the same time, the price of the board is about 7900 rubles. The difference with a bazooka is about 2500 rubles. For what? And for the 16 GB Intel Optane module that comes in the kit (the letters OPT in the name are there for a reason).

Moreover, the cost of such a caching module, if purchased separately, is approximately 1000 more than the difference in the cost of these two boards. Why not buy a motherboard in one shot and, in addition to it, a completely fresh Intel Optane, which will allow you to do without purchasing an SSD, but get speed work hard disk almost like a solid state?

Other options

As in the case of budget motherboards, “behind the scenes” there are a large number of other models that are literally no different from those listed, but have a higher price. Surely there will be a whole series motherboards that will meet the required characteristics, and choose the one that is simply cheaper.

For example, ASRock B250M-HDV has HDMI, which is not available in a similar software ASUS specifications PRIME B250M-K, while it is also a little cheaper. What's the point in buying this ASUS model then?

Thus, the above MSI H270 GAMING PRO CARBON is far from the only one aimed at use in gaming computers. Moreover, it is one of the most expensive in this segment. There is ASRock B250 Gaming K4 (RUB 8,200), ASUS ROG STRIX B250I GAMING (RUB 8,200), ASUS STRIX H270F GAMING (RUB 9,100) and a number of others. Which one to choose is a matter of taste and financial capabilities.

On the other hand, if you compare the top-end (in this selection) MSI H270 GAMING PRO CARBON and the cheapest ASRock H270M Pro4 on the same chipset, which costs about 3,000 rubles. cheaper, then let's see what, in fact, is included in this difference. By functionality The boards are identical, except for the absence of RAID in MSI and the presence of 2 more USB 3.0 on the rear wall, as well as an S/PDIF output.

But MSI is equipped with backlighting (where would we be without it now), beautiful radiators, generally quite impressive appearance, and gold-plated audio connectors. It turns out that the increase in cost includes exclusively all this beauty. Is she worth it?

Conclusion. How to choose the motherboard you need

How to choose the best option from all the variety of offers? It is unlikely that it will be possible to give a definitively correct answer. To begin with, I wouldn’t bother with the manufacturer. Only a few companies are involved in the production, they are trustworthy and, frankly speaking, their products differ little from each other. I wouldn't consider exotics like Biostar or Colorful.

The next step is to decide on the main characteristics. What processor are you planning to use? If it’s from the latest (at the moment) generation of Kaby Lake, then I see no reason to save money and consider models based on chipsets of the 100th family. With the exception of H110, if you are building a budget system and the goal is maximum savings. The 200 family of chipsets supports DDR4-2400 memory and has more PCI-Express lanes, which provides more opportunities for system expansion.

Moreover, the savings may turn out to be minimal, and the selected mother may no longer have any prospects on the old chipset. Same with memory. Even if there are DDR3 sticks left, it is not entirely reasonable to save money and continue to use them with a new motherboard. Since we are talking about an upgrade, you will have to part with the DDR3 that has served its purpose honestly and switch to DDR4.

Naturally, when buying a motherboard on chipsets without the letter “Z”, i.e. without the possibility of overclocking by changing the multiplier, it does not mean using processors with an unlocked multiplier (for example, I7-7700K). Such a combination, of course, will work, but why overpay for an “unlocked” processor if you can’t use it?

As you can see, there are models that may differ from each other by the presence or absence of just one connector, for example, HDMI. Do you need it, are you planning to use it? If yes, then there are no questions, if your monitor works fine from DVI, then is it really so important whether the selected “mother” also has HDMI?

Now about connection interfaces external devices. All models have USB 2.0 and 3.0, some have more connectors with old version USB, some have more USB 3.0. Many offer USB 3.1, and sometimes Type-C is also present. If you need it, look for a model with such a connector; if not, don’t pay attention.

Having determined the list of required characteristics, select suitable models. Is it worth taking the most expensive one? Well, if only for the sake of the presence of backlighting, an unusual color of PCB, metal connectors for memory/video card or any similar “goodies”. It will work exactly the same as its cheaper counterpart.

For that matter, it is better to pay attention to the processor power supply, how many phases are used in the selected board model, and whether they have radiators. This is especially true if you are not going to waste your time on trifles and plan to install a powerful processor.

The main thing is that there is plenty to choose from, and there is something to choose from. As usual, among the many motherboards out there, there will be those that will fully meet your requirements, and among them it is quite possible to choose the most affordable one.

Next time we’ll look at motherboards that require overclocking and which have a place in gaming computers.

- this is the basis of the computer, and that is why when assembling a computer, you should first of all pay attention to this component of the system. The performance of the computer and the stability of its operation largely depend on the characteristics and quality of the motherboard. Today we will try to talk about what main characteristics and features of the motherboard you need to pay attention to.

We decided that the information would be better understood if, when choosing a motherboard, we refer to motherboards from one of the leading manufacturers - for the simple reason that it is the world-famous motherboard manufacturers who equip their products maximum number technologies that improve and assist in working with a computer. In addition, only these manufacturers create their boards using the highest quality and most expensive components and only on the most modern equipment, because when it comes to trust, large manufacturers simply cannot, as they say, miss, because if this happens, they will lose their customers and, naturally the lion's share of the profit.

The choice fell on ASUS.

So, how to choose a motherboard?

In any case, ASUS offers the widest selection of motherboards for creating both simple office or home computers, as well as gaming computers, workstations and servers. In this case, you can choose a suitable ASUS motherboard for modern processors AMD, and for the latest processors Intel.

Motherboards for office or universal home computers.

If you need a reliable office computer, a versatile home computer or HTPC, then first of all you need to pay attention to relatively inexpensive, but high-quality ones, since it is quality and reliability that play a key role here, and performance recedes into the background.

For office computers, as well as for universal home computers, they are also perfect. These ASUS motherboards differ from others in one common advantage - they are equipped with a video adapter built into the chipset or simply have video outputs for using the video core built into the processors. This means that by purchasing such an ASUS board, you don’t have to worry about buying a discrete video card, the use of which in most cases is absolutely not justified in an office computer.

The first key component of ASUS Protect 3.0 is a unique chip EPU (Energy Processing Unit), responsible for efficient energy consumption. By increasing the efficiency of the processor power circuit using a separate chip, it is possible to reduce system power consumption by almost half in comparison with motherboards that do not have such a controller and where only software utilities are responsible for reducing power consumption.

Thanks to the high-quality components from which they are made, it has become possible to increase performance by overclocking the processor and video card installed on the motherboard. It is important that this feature is implemented even in inexpensive motherboards, which proves their reliability and readiness to work in the most difficult conditions.

By the way, a very important factor for both a modern office computer and a computer for the home is the speed of data transfer to external USB drives, therefore, practically, due to which the data transfer speed increases up to 10 times compared to USB ports 2.0.

Small Business Advantage is a combination of software and hardware that simplifies administration and improves data security on computers designed for small business use. To use it, you need a motherboard with Intel B75 or Q77 chipsets and a processor from the Core i3/i5/i7 series.

Enthusiast gaming and workstation motherboards.

Specialized series of ASUS ROG and TUF motherboards.

Ease of assembling a computer and solving possible problems with starting the system.

We hope that after reading this article, our customers will make the right choice of motherboard and this board will certainly become .

When choosing components, a lot of attention is paid to the issue of their reliability, and for overclockers this can even become a decisive factor. The name of the manufacturer influences the consumer’s consciousness in a certain way, but a good reputation does not always guarantee good quality- in the history of every company there are both successful products and absolutely failures.

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In the overall rating of motherboards, the leader (in the good sense of the word) is ASUS with 1.89% returns. Interestingly, this figure has decreased from 2.43% recorded last year. Gigabyte also managed to improve quality and rise to second place in the ranking (2.05% now and 2.96% last year), third place is held by ASRock (2.08% and 2.61%), MSI (2.55% and 2.82%) is in fourth place.

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If we look at the data regarding chipsets, the failure rate is highest in the case of solutions favored by enthusiasts. These are Intel X99 (3.84%), Z87/Z97 (2.63%), AMD 990 (4.58%) and 970 (4.00%). For budget motherboards using chipsets like Intel H81 or AMD A58/A55, the figure is quite low and does not exceed one and a half percent.

In the video card segment, Gainward has the lowest return rate (1.41%), followed by ASUS, Gigabyte (1.78%) and MSI (2.16%) and other manufacturers. According to the same statistics, the most reliable RAM modules are made by Crucial (0.33% returns), power supplies - be quiet! (0.73%), SSDs - Intel (only 0.18%).

Assembling a PC yourself is not an easy task. It is important to pay close attention to every detail of the system. But most users do not think about how to choose a motherboard or power supply. They throw all their energy into buying a processor and video card. All this leads to the fact that components may be unbalanced or, even worse, incompatible.

Importance

It is imperative to understand how to choose a motherboard for a computer. All other elements of the system are connected to this platform. It affects the service life and stability of the PC.

In addition to the fact that all devices should be compatible with it, it should provide the opportunity to improve the system in the future. Therefore, it is very important to look into the future when choosing a motherboard, since technologies are developing, and gaming computers are updated every 1-2 years.

Motherboard

Motherboards can be found not only in a computer, but also in other devices. But since we are considering a PC system, we will not delve into third-party topics and will consider the components of the computer board.

The motherboard has basic non-removable parts. These include:

• connector for ;
• slots for RAM;
• north and south bridges;
• boot ROM;
• various expansion slots;
• interfaces and peripheral device controllers.

In order for the system unit to be complete, a power supply and a cooling system are connected to the motherboard.

Choice

How to choose a motherboard? There are many parameters that you should consider when purchasing this device. This includes:

• manufacturer;
• price;
• form factor;
• socket;
• chipset;
• memory;
• slots and connectors;
• electronic components;
• power schemes;
• cooling systems;
• equipment and much more.

In order not to make a mistake in choosing a platform, it is important to consider each of these points in more detail and understand which element is responsible for what.

Manufacturer and price

This option is not always the key to the question of how to choose a motherboard. This is due to the fact that not all users follow the release of platforms. They don’t know who the sales leader is, which company is focused on producing budget or gaming motherboards. Therefore, in this case, they often focus on cost.

But you can still get a general picture and point out the leading manufacturers. It’s difficult to name a leader, but most experienced users will agree that Asus is one of the best. It produces mid-range and high level. The quality of materials is always good, but the cost is sometimes too high.

Asus practically does not work with entry-level platforms, and if it does release them, the overpayment for the brand is definitely not worth it. But if you look closely at mid-segment models, then it might make sense to pay extra to get a truly high-quality and durable device.

Entry-level motherboards are best from Gigabyte and ASRock. The latter manufacturer is a subsidiary of Asus. Both companies have a strong track record of developing low-cost solutions for work PCs.

Many people ask which motherboard to choose for Intel. In addition to the manufacturers described above, it is worth paying attention to Intel itself. The corporation produces stable and high-quality platforms based on its own chipset. The only drawback is that they are less functional and more expensive, so they are often popular in the corporate sector.

Chipset

The next important factor is the choice of chipset. In general, this is a primary parameter on which the entire system as a whole depends. When a user decides to assemble a system on his own, he must immediately decide whether he will give preference to Intel or AMD.

You need to decide on this right away, since you will have to select a processor and, accordingly, a socket.

Chipset from Intel

If the choice fell on Intel, then you will have to understand the four main chipsets. For example, if you don’t know which one to choose, take a closer look at models with the B250/H270 and Z270 chipset. The latter is also excellent option For professional systems. If you need a corporate computer, then the Q270 is suitable, and for cool, powerful PCs - the X99/X299.

If you are going to purchase an 8th generation processor, then you need to pay attention to the B350/H370 and Z370, for mid-range and powerful systems respectively.

For an average multimedia or gaming PC, the B250/H270 or an 8th generation equivalent is suitable. If you are going to experiment and change the processor multiplier, you will have to take a more expensive model with the Z270 and Z370 chipsets.

Chipset from AMD

AMD also easily separated all its motherboards by index. For an office or multimedia PC, you need to choose the A320 chipset. The gaming system can be assembled based on the B350 chipset. Those who like to experiment are provided with the X370 platform.

The first option is the simplest, since it does not even have the ability to overclock the processor. But the gaming version of the chipset can cope with this task. The X370 is good because, in addition to overclocking, it allows you to install several video cards on the board.

Form factor

The next important aspect is the form factor of the system platform. This is what experts call the dimensions of the device. Besides the rather unusual form factors, there are three main ones: ATX, MicroATX (mATX) and Mini-ITX.

ATX is the most common full-size platform format and is considered the best for PCs. Since it is the largest among all, many devices can fit on it. For example, if you don’t know which motherboard to choose, then you should definitely pay attention to the ATX dimensions.

MicroATX also often becomes a platform for gaming systems. But this is a smaller platform format that also has fewer connectors. Can be installed in both a full-size chassis and a compact case.

Mini-ITX is a very compact motherboard that is used to build mini PCs. Such a computer is limited in size and requires special cooling.

Socket

Many people wonder how to choose a motherboard for a processor. If you have already given preference to one of the companies, Intel or AMD, you will have to opt for one of the processors. Otherwise, you will not be able to select the platform because the processor socket data is needed.

What is a socket? This is a connector format for connecting the chip to the platform. The motherboard must have the same socket as the processor that will be installed on it.

The manufacturer often experiments with processor sockets. They change from year to year and acquire new modifications. Therefore, it is important to purchase a chip and board that has the most modern socket. This way, you can further improve the system without unnecessary expenses.

Now all available Intel or AMD processor sockets can be divided into obsolete, obsolete and modern. If we are talking about Intel, then the following are obsolete and obsolete: Socket 478, 775, 2011, 1150. But the following are considered new: version 2, and 2066.

Among the most modern are AM4 and TR4. But AM1, AM2, and others have already become obsolete and obsolete.

Memory

The choice of motherboard is also influenced by memory slots. If we talk about the compact MicroATX form factor, then there are rarely more than 2 slots. But full-size platforms are equipped with 4 slots.

Of course, many may not need more than two memory slots. Although if you want to increase the RAM in the future, the free slots will be very useful.

It is also worth paying attention to the type of memory module. Modern platforms already support DDR4. More budget versions can operate at high speeds, up to 2666 MHz. But the average and high class The motherboard boasts speeds of up to 3.6 GHz.

To choose a gaming motherboard, you don't have to spend money on platforms that support 3 GHz speeds. Their cost is much higher, but there is no noticeable increase in gaming performance. In addition, the RAM modules themselves are not cheap. The higher the memory speed, the more difficult it is for the processor to cope with. The best option is DDR4 memory with a frequency of 2.4 GHz.

Video card

The connectors for connecting a graphics adapter are universal on almost every motherboard. All modern platforms are equipped with a PCI-Express interface. It happens that several such slots are placed on the platform, which means that several graphics adapters can be installed on it at once. Some experts believe that in this case it is better to purchase a more powerful video card than several average ones.

Expansion slots can also be occupied by other devices, for example, installing a solid-state drive or sound card.

Connectors

Slots on the system platform are often ignored because they are quite difficult to understand. But this is an equally important factor. To connect hard drive you need a universal 3. The latest motherboards also received an M.2 slot, which is needed to connect the latest generation of solid-state drives. You'll also have to take a closer look at the motherboard's power connector. Modern models are equipped with a 24-pin connector.

The chip can be powered by a 4 or 8-pin slot.

Integrated Devices

Very often the manufacturer places integrated devices on the platform. Some systems can run without a graphics card because the motherboard has an integrated graphics adapter. However, it is important to purchase a processor that has a built-in video core.

The platform also has an integrated sound card. Most often it is enough for any task. But there is also a slot on the platform for an additional sound card. It may be needed, for example, by those who want to record music.

Among other integrated devices, there is also a network card, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The standard parameters are sufficient for everyday use.

Interface panel

Modern boards have all standard external connectors. Therefore, it is not so important to pay attention to this moment. If you need to connect some specific devices, then you will have to study the list of available interface panel connectors.

Cryptocurrency mining

Which motherboard should I choose for mining? If you have asked this question, then you understand what is important in this process. The main thing is that the platform supports multiple video cards.

When choosing a motherboard, it is important to pay attention to:

• Number and location of PCI-E slots. It is important that their location does not interfere with the connection of several devices and their cooling.
• Compatibility of the board with an inexpensive chip. In mining, CPU performance is not important.
• Optimization for cryptocurrency mining. It is necessary that the platform does not have any unnecessary functions that could distract the system from the main task.
• Price.

If the user does not want to buy ASICs, but is ready to assemble a computer for mining on his own, he will have to thoroughly understand all the components. Manufacturers quickly picked up on this whole story with cryptocurrencies and began producing special devices for their mining.

ASRock has proven itself in this matter. It has released platform models that are optimized for the most efficient use of video. Although other companies do not lag behind this manufacturer: Asus, MSI, Gigabyte.

Conclusions

Choosing a motherboard is easy if you understand its tasks and capabilities. The main thing is to decide on the chipset, choose the processor, and therefore the socket. After that, figure out the required amount and type of RAM and, finally, resolve the issue with the number of video cards.

Otherwise, motherboards have a similar number of internal and external connectors; most models support an integrated video core, sound and network cards.