Top 10 Best Gaming Motherboards
Having a hard time choosing the ideal motherboard for your upcoming PC setup? If that’s the case, know that you’re in good company. Our comprehensive guide highlights the top gaming motherboards on the market, engineered to be compatible with both AMD and Intel chips. These motherboards are tailored for gaming, equipped with functionalities that make them perfect for rigs powered by AMD or Intel processors, aiming to enhance your gaming sessions in 2023.
Gaming motherboards are essential components for building a top-performing gaming PC. It is crucial to choose a reliable and powerful motherboard to ensure seamless performance and stability while gaming. The wide range of motherboard options in the market can be overwhelming, especially for those who are new to building PCs. However, familiarizing oneself with the key features of each motherboard can help in making an informed decision.
A gaming PC demands a motherboard that can support high-performance components and deliver an immersive experience. When it comes to choosing the best motherboard for gaming, it can be overwhelming due to the sheer number of available options.
From overclocking capabilities and cooling support to connectivity options and expandability, these motherboards have been carefully selected to offer the best value for gaming PCs. Whether you’re building a low-budget gaming rig or a high-end beast, these gaming motherboards provide the perfect platform for your gaming setup.
Top Gaming Motherboards for AMD CPUs
Ah, an AMD fan, a gamer after my own heart! AMDs new 7000 series CPUs, especially the new 7950X3D, 7900X3D, and 7800X3D, are hands down the best-performing gaming CPUs on the market today. With that in mind, selecting the perfect gaming motherboard for your AMD CPU is crucial for unlocking your rig’s full potential.
Our carefully curated list of top gaming motherboards, compatible with the latest AMD processors, ensures you’ll experience exceptional performance, stability, and immersive gameplay. Dive in to explore features such as PCIe 4.0 support, RAM overclocking capabilities, and robust cooling solutions to give your custom-built gaming PC the competitive edge it deserves.
1. ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming (Wi-Fi 6)
Are you a PC gaming enthusiast looking for the perfect motherboard to build your dream gaming rig? Look no further than the ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming (Wi-Fi 6). This powerful motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors and offers cutting-edge connectivity options to ensure seamless, lag-free gameplay.
Featuring a robust power solution, DIY-friendly design, and unmatched personalization options, this motherboard gives you the ultimate control over your PC gaming experience. With ASUS-exclusive Aura Sync RGB lighting, you can customize the look of your rig to match your style, while the renowned software bundle ensures top-tier performance and easy system management.
KEY FEATURES
AM4 socket compatibility
PCIe 4.0-ready, dual M.2 slots
USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 output
On-board WiFi 6E (802.11ax)
Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANGuard
Aura Sync RGB lighting
Two-Way AI Noise Cancelation
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Robust power solution | No built-in support for DDR5 memory |
| Comprehensive connectivity options | |
| Customizable RGB lighting | |
| DIY-friendly design | |
| Premium gaming audio features |
2. MSI MPG B550 Gaming Edge Wi-Fi
Experience the perfect balance between performance and aesthetics with the MSI MPG B550 Gaming Edge Wi-Fi motherboard. Tailored for PC gamers building a new rig, this board provides exceptional performance and unparalleled connectivity. With support for AMD Ryzen processors and high-speed DDR4 memory, it delivers lightning-fast gaming experiences while maintaining a stable and secure network connection.
Equipped with MYSTIC LIGHT and enhanced power design, this motherboard ensures a high-performance system with non-stop gaming experience. The pre-installed I/O shielding not only makes installation more convenient but also offers better EMI protection. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your gaming rig with MSI MPG B550 Gaming Edge Wi-Fi.
KEY FEATURES
AMD Ryzen 5000 & 3000 Series support
DDR4 Memory up to 5100+(OC) MHz
PCIe 4.0 and Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2
Enhanced Power Design: 10+2+1 Duet Rail
MYSTIC LIGHT with 16.8 million colors
Premium Thermal Solution
2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX Solution
Flash BIOS Button with Optimized ClearCMOS Function
Pre-installed I/O Shielding
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-performance AMD Ryzen support | Not compatible with Ryzen 5 3400G & Ryzen 3 3200G |
| DDR4 Memory up to 5100+(OC) MHz | |
| Lightning-fast PCIe 4.0 & M.2 | |
| 2.5G LAN & Wi-Fi 6 for fast networking | |
| MYSTIC LIGHT with extensive customization |
3. GIGABYTE B550 AORUS PRO AC
For PC gamers who are building a new system and want a powerful, feature-rich motherboard without breaking the bank, look no further than the GIGABYTE B550 AORUS PRO AC. This reliable motherboard is specifically designed to support 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors, ensuring top-notch performance for even the most demanding games. With advanced thermal design and a true 12+2 phase digital VRM, you can rest assured that your system will remain cool and stable, even during extended gaming sessions.
Additionally, the GIGABYTE B550 AORUS PRO AC comes packed with an array of features to enhance your gaming experience. From dual ultra-fast NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 M.2 slots with thermal guards to blazing fast 2.5GbE LAN and integrated Intel Wi-Fi, this motherboard is built for speed and connectivity. Plus, with RGB Fusion 2.0, you can personalize your rig’s look to match your unique style.
KEY FEATURES
3rd Gen AMD Ryzen support
12+2 Phases Digital VRM with 50A DrMOS
Dual NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 M.2 with Thermal Guards
2.5GbE LAN with Bandwidth Management
Onboard Intel Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2
RGB Fusion 2.0
Q-Flash Plus for BIOS updates
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Processors | Limited to 3rd-Gen AMD Ryzen Processors |
| Advanced Thermal Design for optimal cooling | No DDR5 memory support |
| Dual Ultra-Fast NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 M.2 slots | No built-in Thunderbolt support |
| 2.5GbE LAN and Intel Wi-Fi for fast connectivity | |
| RGB Fusion 2.0 for customizable aesthetics |
4. ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi 6E
Meet the ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi 6E, a powerful and versatile motherboard designed for the most demanding PC gamers building their ultimate battlestations. This motherboard is engineered to provide stable power delivery and next-gen connectivity, enabling you to unleash the full potential of AMD Ryzen 7000 Series desktop processors. With comprehensive cooling solutions and AI-driven noise cancelation, this motherboard is designed to keep your system running cool and quiet, while you dominate the online gaming battlefield.
KEY FEATURES:
- AMD AM5 socket with Ryzen 7000 Series support
- PCIe 5.0 and USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C connectivity
- Realtek 2.5 Gb Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and TUF LANGuard
- Two-way AI Noise Cancelation for crystal-clear communication
- Comprehensive cooling solutions and Aura Sync RGB effects
- Enhanced Power Solution with 14+2 DrMOS power stages
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| AMD Ryzen 7000 Series compatibility | Limited built-in RGB effects |
| PCIe 5.0 and USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C support | |
| High-speed networking with 2.5 Gb Ethernet | |
| WiFi 6E and TUF LANGuard for online gaming | |
| Two-way AI Noise Cancelation | |
| Comprehensive cooling and power solutions |
5. Asus ROG Strix X670-E Gaming Wi-Fi
The Asus ROG Strix X670-E Gaming Wi-Fi motherboard is the ultimate choice for PC gamers who want to build a cutting-edge gaming rig that can handle the latest AMD Ryzen 7000 Series processors. With support for DDR5 memory and the latest PCIe 5.0 slots, you’ll experience lightning-fast performance and seamless gameplay like never before.
This high-performance motherboard boasts a robust power solution and an optimized thermal design, ensuring your components stay cool and stable during even the most intense gaming sessions. And with onboard WiFi 6E, Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet, and a Thunderbolt 4 header, you’ll enjoy ultra-fast connectivity for all your gaming needs. The Asus ROG Strix X670-E Gaming Wi-Fi also features industry-leading audio, providing an immersive gaming experience that will truly take your breath away.
KEY FEATURES
AMD Ryzen 7000 Series support
DDR5 memory compatibility
Dual PCIe 5.0 slots
Triple Gen 5 M.2 slots
Onboard WiFi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet
Thunderbolt 4 header
ROG SupremeFX ALC4080 audio
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports AMD Ryzen 7000 Series Processors | Premium pricing |
| DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 support | Limited to AMD Socket AM5 platforms |
| WiFi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet for ultra-fast connectivity | |
| Triple Gen 5 M.2 slots for ample storage options | |
| ROG SupremeFX ALC4080 audio for an immersive experience | |
| Thunderbolt 4 header for high-speed peripherals |
Side note, this is the motherboard that I use in my personal gaming PC, and while it is one of the more expensive motherboards on this list, in my opinion, it is one of the best gaming motherboards on the market today.
Top Gaming Motherboards for Intel CPUs
While AMD may hold the crown at the time of writing this, Intel is still not to be slept on, and their track record of having CPUs that just flat-out work is hard to argue with. If you decide to go “Team Blue,” then this list of Intel motherboards will be your best bet at ensuring you maintain optimal performance when gaming. In this section, we’ll explore the best gaming motherboards available, focusing on features such as overclocking capabilities, memory support, and connectivity options. We’ll also examine compatibility with popular Intel processors, especially the new 12th gen intel processors, ensuring you can make an informed decision and elevate your gaming experience to new heights.
1. MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi
Are you a PC gamer on the hunt for a high-performance motherboard without breaking the bank? Look no further than the MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi. This motherboard not only supports the latest 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors but also boasts impressive connectivity options and lightning-fast SSD performance to keep you ahead of the competition.
The MSI MAG B660 Tomahawk WiFi delivers an exceptional gaming experience with its studio-grade Audio Boost, ensuring an immersive gaming atmosphere. Its multi-GPU support with Steel armor PCIe slots means you can take your gaming rig to the next level with AMD Crossfireâ„¢ support.
Key Features
- Supports 12th/13th Gen Intel® Core™ processors
- DDR4 Memory up to 4800+(OC) MHz
- Premium Thermal Solution with Extended Heatsink Design and M.2 Shield Frozr
- 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi Solution
- Lightning M.2 for PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs
- Lightning USB 20G for 20Gbps transmission speed
- AUDIO BOOST for studio-grade sound quality
- Multi-GPU support with AMD Crossfireâ„¢
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-performance 12th/13th Gen Intel support | No built-in RGB lighting |
| Lightning-fast SSD and USB support | Lacks support for DDR5 memory |
| Superior Audio Boost for immersive gaming | |
| Multi-GPU support with AMD Crossfireâ„¢ |
2. Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme
Unleash the power of your gaming rig with the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme. This cutting-edge motherboard brings you the latest advancements in gaming technology, ensuring unparalleled performance and seamless gameplay. Designed specifically for PC gamers building their dream machine, the Z690 Aorus Xtreme is loaded with features to enhance your gaming experience, from its commanding power design to its cutting-edge thermal solution. Get ready for a new level of gaming with the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Xtreme.
The Z690 Aorus Xtreme boasts an impressive 20+1+2 phase power design, ensuring stability and responsiveness in even the most demanding gaming situations. With PCIe 5.0, quad NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2, and Intel Thunderbolt 4, you’ll have all the next-gen connectivity you need for the ultimate gaming experience. Plus, with support for DDR5 memory and Intel’s latest 12th-Gen Core processors, you can build a system that will dominate the competition.
KEY FEATURES
Intel LGA 1700 Socket
DDR5 Compatibility
20+1+2 Phases Power Design
Thermal Reactive Armor
PCIe 5.0 Support
Quad NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports 12th Gen Intel Core | High price point |
| DDR5 Compatibility | May be overkill for casual gamers |
| Cutting-Edge Thermal Design | |
| PCIe 5.0 and Thunderbolt 4 | |
| Quad NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 |
3. Asus ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming Wi-Fi
Take your gaming experience to the next level with the Asus ROG Strix Z690-F Gaming Wi-Fi motherboard. Designed for the most demanding PC gamers, this high-performance motherboard offers an array of cutting-edge features that will leave your opponents in the dust. With support for 12th Gen Intel Core processors, four M.2 slots, and a robust thermal design, you can build a truly powerful gaming rig.
Not only does the Asus ROG Strix Z690-F offer outstanding performance, it also simplifies the setup process with ASUS-exclusive AI technologies. And to top it off, unmatched personalization options allow you to create a unique gaming experience that reflects your style and passion for gaming.
KEY FEATURES
12th Gen Intel Core support
Optimal Power Solution
Optimized Thermal Design
Intel WiFi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet
HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 output
Four M.2 slots
AI Overclocking, AI Cooling, AI Networking
Aura Sync RGB lighting
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Support for 12th Gen Intel Core processors | Might be overkill for casual gamers |
| High-performance networking with Intel WiFi 6E | |
| Four M.2 slots for flexible storage options | |
| Advanced thermal design for stable performance | |
| Unmatched personalization with Aura Sync RGB |
4. Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro
The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Pro is a fantastic choice for PC gamers looking to build a new rig with the latest 12th Gen Intel Core processors. This motherboard is designed to maximize performance while keeping things cool and stable, thanks to its top-tier power design and advanced thermal solutions. With support for PCIe 5.0 and ultra-fast NVMe storage, it will keep your gaming system on the cutting edge of speed and performance, ensuring that you can play even the most demanding titles without breaking a sweat.
In addition to the impressive performance capabilities, the Z690 Aorus Pro also comes equipped with a host of customization features, including RGB Fusion 2.0 for personalizing your system’s look and Smart Fan 6 for fine-tuning your cooling setup. Combined with high-quality audio and lightning-fast networking options, this motherboard is the perfect foundation for any serious gaming build.
KEY FEATURES
Intel LGA 1700 Socket
Dual Channel DDR4 Support
16+1+2 Digital VRM Design
Fully Covered Thermal Design
PCIe 5.0 Support
Quad NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2
2.5 GbE LAN, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-performance power design | Only compatible with LGA1700 cooling brackets |
| Cutting-edge connectivity | |
| Advanced thermal solutions | |
| Fast networking options | |
| High-quality audio |
5. GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX
Unlock the full potential of your gaming rig with the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX motherboard, designed to support 13th and 12th Gen Intel processors. This high-performance motherboard offers a comprehensive suite of advanced features and robust connectivity options, ensuring that you have the power and flexibility you need for top-tier gaming experiences. With support for cutting-edge DDR5 memory, ultra-fast M.2 storage, and powerful thermal management, the Z790 AORUS Elite AX is the perfect foundation for your next gaming PC build.
Tailored for PC gamers who demand nothing but the best, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX delivers unparalleled performance, an advanced thermal design, and next-generation storage capabilities. Its extensive connectivity options, including 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, ensure smooth online gameplay, while the easy-to-use Q-Flash Plus feature lets you update your BIOS without needing to install a CPU, memory, or graphics card.
KEY FEATURES
- 13th and 12th Gen Intel Processor Support
- Dual Channel DDR5 with XMP 3.0
- 4x PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 Connectors
- Advanced Thermal Design & M.2 Thermal Guard III
- 2.5GbE LAN & Wi-Fi 6E 802.11ax
- Q-Flash Plus for Easy BIOS Updates
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Support for 13th and 12th Gen Intel CPUs | No built-in RGB lighting |
| Advanced Thermal Design & M.2 Thermal Guard | Limited to four M.2 slots |
| Fast 2.5GbE LAN & Wi-Fi 6E connectivity | |
| User-friendly Q-Flash Plus BIOS updating | |
| EZ-Latch Plus for easy M.2 installation |
Choosing the Right Gaming Motherboard for Your Needs
When selecting a gaming motherboard, consider the following factors to ensure compatibility and optimal performance:
- CPU Socket: Ensure the motherboard’s socket type matches your CPU (e.g., AMD AM4/AM5 or Intel LGA 1700).
- Memory Support: Check for compatibility with your desired RAM type (DDR4 or DDR5) and speed.
- Expansion Slots: Assess the number of PCIe slots, M.2 slots, and SATA ports for your storage and expansion needs, including support for multiple graphics cards.
- Connectivity: Evaluate built-in networking options, such as Ethernet and Wi-Fi, as well as USB and Thunderbolt ports for peripherals and VR headsets.
- Form Factor: Determine the appropriate size (ATX, microATX, or Mini-ITX) for your PC case and desired feature set.
Conclusion
A gaming motherboard is the foundation of a high-performance gaming PC. By considering the top picks for AMD and Intel CPUs mentioned in this guide, as well as taking into account your specific gaming requirements, you can confidently choose a motherboard that will enable an unparalleled gaming experience. Remember to focus on compatibility, upgradability, and performance-enhancing features to build a gaming rig that will stand the test of time.
