Best Motherboard for Gaming in 2024

Gaming is a popular pastime that requires high-quality components to ensure the best experience possible. One of the most critical components of any gaming setup is the motherboard. A motherboard is the backbone of a computer, connecting all the other components and providing the necessary power and data transfer. When it comes to gaming, having the right motherboard can make all the difference.

The best motherboard for gaming is one that can handle the high demands of modern games while providing stability and reliability. There are several factors to consider when choosing a gaming motherboard, including compatibility with your other components, the number of expansion slots, and the quality of the onboard audio and networking.

One critical thing to consider when purchasing a gaming motherboard is the chipset. The chipset determines the motherboard’s capabilities, including its supported CPU, RAM, and storage options. It’s essential to choose a chipset that is compatible with your CPU and other components to ensure optimal performance.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various gaming motherboards to identify the best options on the market. We considered factors such as compatibility, performance, and features to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best motherboards for gaming.

Best Motherboards for Gaming

We know that building a gaming PC can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right motherboard. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best motherboards for gaming, to help you make an informed decision and get the most out of your gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious enthusiast, we’ve got you covered with our top picks. So without further ado, let’s dive into our roundup of the best motherboards for gaming.

1) MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Gaming Motherboard

If you’re looking for a high-quality motherboard for gaming, the MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Gaming Motherboard is a great option.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Gaming Motherboard, and we were impressed with its performance. The motherboard supports the latest AMD Ryzen processors, allowing for top-notch performance in even the most demanding games.

The lightning-fast game experience is also a major plus, thanks to the Turbo M.2 Gen3 x4 and AMD Turbo USB 3.2 GEN 2 features. We found that our games loaded quickly and ran smoothly, even with high graphics settings.

The enhanced power design is another great feature of this motherboard. We noticed improved efficiency and stability, even when running multiple programs at once. This makes it a great choice for gamers who like to multitask while they play.

Unfortunately, the MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Gaming Motherboard does have a few downsides. It does not support SLI for multiple Nvidia graphics cards, which could be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, the lack of Wi-Fi connectivity could be an issue for those who prefer a wireless setup. Finally, some users have reported difficulty with BIOS updates, so it may not be the best choice for beginners.

Overall, we would recommend the MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Gaming Motherboard to anyone looking for a high-quality motherboard for gaming. Its top-notch performance, lightning-fast game experience, and enhanced power design make it a great choice for serious gamers.

2) Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II

If you’re looking for a high-performance motherboard for gaming, the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II is definitely worth considering.

We recently had the opportunity to test out the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II, and we were impressed with its performance and features. The PCIe 4.0, dual M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.2 output provide excellent gaming connectivity.

The onboard WiFi 6E (802.11ax) and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANGuard provide smooth networking, ensuring that you’re always connected and ready to game. The 12+2 teamed power stages with ProCool power connector, high-quality alloy chokes, and durable capacitors make for a robust power solution, ensuring that your system stays stable even during intense gaming sessions.

The bundled 60-day AIDA64 Extreme subscription and intuitive UEFI BIOS dashboard make it easy to customize your system to your liking. However, the BIOS can be a bit confusing for beginners, so it may take some time to get used to.

Overall, the Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II is an excellent choice for gamers looking for a high-performance motherboard. While it may be a bit pricey compared to other options on the market, the features and performance make it well worth the investment.

3) ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus (Wi-Fi) AM4 Zen 3 Ryzen 5000 & 3rd Gen Ryzen ATX Motherboard with PCIe 4.0, Dual M.2, 12+2 with Dr. MOS Power Stage

If you’re looking for a reliable and durable motherboard for gaming, the ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus (Wi-Fi) is a great option.

We recently used this motherboard for a gaming build and were impressed with its performance. The military-grade TUF components and Digi plus VRM provide enhanced power solutions, ensuring that the motherboard lasts for a long time. The comprehensive cooling system, including the active PCH heatsink and hybrid fan headers, kept our system cool even during extended gaming sessions.

The dual PCIe 4.0 m.2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A/Type-C provide next-gen connectivity, making it easy to transfer data quickly. We did have some trouble with the type C port in the back, but overall the connectivity options are impressive.

One thing to note is that the BIOS may need to be updated for compatibility with Ryzen 5000 series CPUs. Additionally, the RGB lighting is limited, but this may not be a concern for everyone.

Overall, the ASUS AM4 TUF Gaming X570-Plus (Wi-Fi) is a solid choice for a gaming motherboard with its durable components, comprehensive cooling system, and next-gen connectivity options.

4) ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi

If you’re looking for a gaming motherboard that offers stable performance, then ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi might be the one for you.

ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is a great choice for gamers who want a durable and reliable motherboard. The enhanced power solution and comprehensive cooling system ensure stable performance even during marathon gaming sessions. However, the motherboard is relatively expensive compared to other gaming motherboards on the market, and the onboard WiFi 6 AX201 (802.11 ax) and Intel I225-V 2.5Gb LAN are not the fastest networking options available.

In terms of installation, the motherboard is easy to install, and the user-friendly BIOS interface offers seamless navigation. The motherboard also has several PC DIY-friendly features, such as SafeDIMM, PCIe 5.0 Safeslot, Q-LED, M.2 Q-Latch, and Pre-mount I/O shield.

The new TUF Gaming aesthetics, which include the new TUF Gaming logo and simple geometric design elements, make the motherboard look sleek and modern. The synchronizable LED effects across a vast portfolio of compatible PC gear, including addressable RGB strips with Aura Sync, add a touch of personalization to your gaming setup.

The Realtek S1200A codec offers pristine audio quality to draw you deeper into the game action or to enhance your favorite music tracks or videos. The ASUS AI Noise Canceling Mic technology ensures clear communication during gaming sessions.

Overall, ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is a great choice for gamers who want a durable and reliable motherboard that offers stable performance.

5) ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi Motherboard

If you’re looking for a reliable and stable motherboard for gaming, the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi is a great option to consider.

We recently had the chance to test out the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi motherboard, and we were impressed by its features and performance. The military-grade components and upgraded power solution provided stable and reliable performance during our marathon gaming sessions. The comprehensive cooling system kept the motherboard cool, even during intense gameplay.

One of the standout features of this motherboard is the next-gen connectivity options. The M.2 PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, and USB4 support make it easy to connect your gaming peripherals and ensure fast and reliable data transfer. The WiFi 6, Realtek 2.5 Gb Ethernet, and TUF LANGuard also make it a great option for online gaming.

While the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi motherboard is a bit on the expensive side, we believe it’s worth the investment for serious gamers who want a reliable and stable motherboard. However, some users have reported issues with the BIOS and GPU compatibility, so make sure to do your research before purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend the ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi motherboard for gamers who want a reliable and stable option with next-gen connectivity features.

6) ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi 6E AM5 (LGA1718) Ryzen 7000 Motherboard

If you’re looking for a high-quality motherboard for gaming, the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi 6E AM5 (LGA1718) Ryzen 7000 Motherboard is definitely worth considering.

Overall, we think that the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi 6E AM5 (LGA1718) Ryzen 7000 Motherboard is a great choice for serious gamers who want a powerful and reliable motherboard that can handle the latest games and demanding applications. The motherboard’s robust power solution, optimized thermal design, and advanced connectivity features make it a great investment for anyone who wants to build a high-performance gaming rig.

7) MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi Gaming Motherboard

If you’re looking for a high-performance gaming motherboard, the MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi is a great choice.

We recently upgraded our gaming rig with the MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi Gaming Motherboard, and we’re impressed with its performance. The PCIe 4.0 slot and Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2 provide a lightning-fast gaming experience, and the extended heatsink and MOSFET thermal pads ensure optimal cooling for high-performance systems.

The 2.5G LAN with Wi-Fi 6E solution delivers a secure, stable, and fast network connection, which is perfect for professional and multimedia use. However, we were disappointed to discover that the motherboard doesn’t support RAID 0 with NVMe drives, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.

While the MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi Gaming Motherboard is a great choice for high-performance gaming, it does come with a higher price point. Some budget-conscious gamers may find the cost too high for their needs. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the motherboard being dead on arrival, which is something to keep in mind when making a purchase decision.

Overall, we recommend the MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi Gaming Motherboard for gamers who want a high-performance, reliable motherboard with excellent network connectivity.

8) GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX Motherboard

If you’re looking for a high-performing motherboard for gaming, the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX is a solid choice.

We recently used the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX in a gaming build, and we were impressed with its performance. The Direct 8+2+1 Phases Digital VRM Solution ensures that the motherboard can handle even the most demanding games without any issues. Additionally, the 5-year warranty gives us peace of mind that this motherboard will last.

One downside we encountered was the WiFi driver, which caused some lag spikes and packet loss. However, we were able to find a workaround by using a different driver. We also had some initial issues with the motherboard not working out of the box with our Ryzen processor, but a BIOS update fixed that problem.

Overall, we would recommend the GIGABYTE B650 Gaming X AX for gamers looking for a high-performing motherboard with DDR5 compatibility. Just be aware of the potential issues with the WiFi driver and BIOS updates.

9) ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II

If you’re looking for a high-end gaming motherboard, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II is an excellent choice.

We were impressed with the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II’s performance during our testing. The robust power solution and optimized VRM thermals ensure stable performance, even under heavy loads. The ample M.2 support provides plenty of storage options for gamers who need it.

However, the motherboard’s high price tag may be a barrier to entry for some gamers. Additionally, the user manual could be clearer on certain installation procedures. Finally, some users have reported slow hard boots and Ethernet driver issues, which could be a concern for some buyers.

Overall, if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line gaming motherboard, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II is an excellent choice.

10) Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2

If you’re looking for a reliable motherboard for gaming, the Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2 is a great choice.

We recently used the Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2 for a gaming build and were impressed with its performance. The motherboard supports AMD 3rd Gen Ryzen and 3rd Gen Ryzen with Radeon Graphics Processors, which allowed us to use a powerful processor for our build. The dual Ultra-Fast NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 x4 M.2 Connectors also allowed us to add fast storage options to our build.

One of the standout features of the Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2 is the GIGABYTE Exclusive 8118 Gaming LAN with Bandwidth Management. This feature allowed us to prioritize our gaming traffic and ensure a smooth online gaming experience.

While we did encounter some issues with the reset switch and ps2 port, these were minor inconveniences that did not impact the overall performance of the motherboard. Additionally, some users have reported issues with firmware support for 5000 series CPUs and slow WiFi 6 speeds.

Overall, we would recommend the Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2 for anyone looking for a reliable motherboard for gaming. Its powerful processor support and gaming LAN make it a great choice for gamers.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best motherboard for gaming, there are several factors that should be considered. We have compiled a list of key features that you should look for when making your purchase.

Socket Type

The first thing to consider is the socket type. This is the physical interface between the motherboard and the processor. It is important to choose a motherboard that is compatible with the processor you plan to use. Common socket types include LGA1151, AM4, and TR4.

Chipset

The chipset is another important factor to consider. It determines the features and capabilities of the motherboard. For gaming, we recommend choosing a motherboard with a high-end chipset such as the Intel Z370 or the AMD X470.

RAM Compatibility

The amount and type of RAM that a motherboard can support is also important. Look for a motherboard that can support at least 16GB of DDR4 RAM. Additionally, consider the number of RAM slots available on the motherboard. This will determine the maximum amount of RAM that can be installed.

Expansion Slots

Expansion slots are used to add additional components to the motherboard such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards. Look for a motherboard with enough expansion slots to accommodate your needs. Additionally, consider the speed and type of the expansion slots. PCIe 3.0 x16 slots are ideal for high-performance graphics cards.

Storage Options

Storage is another important factor to consider. Look for a motherboard with multiple SATA ports and M.2 slots for SSDs. Additionally, consider the RAID support and the type of RAID that is supported.

Overall, choosing the best motherboard for gaming requires careful consideration of several key factors. By considering the socket type, chipset, RAM compatibility, expansion slots, and storage options, you can find a motherboard that meets your needs and provides the performance you need for gaming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features to look for in a gaming motherboard?

When looking for a gaming motherboard, there are several key features to consider. First, you want to ensure that the motherboard is compatible with your chosen CPU. Additionally, you want to look for a motherboard with a high-quality chipset, as well as support for fast and reliable memory. Other important features to consider include the number and type of expansion slots, support for overclocking, and the quality of the onboard audio and networking components.

How does the choice of motherboard affect gaming performance?

The motherboard plays a crucial role in gaming performance, as it serves as the foundation for your entire system. A high-quality gaming motherboard can provide faster and more stable performance, as well as better support for overclocking and other advanced features. Additionally, a good motherboard can help ensure compatibility with the latest hardware and software, which can further enhance your gaming experience.

What are the best motherboards for gaming with AMD processors?

For gamers using AMD processors, there are several excellent options available. Some of the best gaming motherboards for AMD processors include the ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero, the MSI MPG B550 Gaming Edge WiFi, and the Gigabyte AORUS X570 Master. These motherboards offer excellent performance, reliable stability, and a range of advanced features to enhance your gaming experience.

Which motherboards support DDR5 memory and are optimal for gaming?

DDR5 memory is the latest and greatest memory technology for gaming, offering faster speeds and improved performance over DDR4. While DDR5 is still relatively new, there are already several gaming motherboards available that support this technology. Some of the best options include the ASUS ROG Maximus XV Extreme, the MSI MPG Z690 Gaming Carbon WiFi, and the Gigabyte AORUS Z690 Master. These motherboards offer top-of-the-line performance and support for the latest hardware and software.

What are the top gaming motherboards available in 2024?

As of 2024, some of the best gaming motherboards available include the ASUS ROG Maximus XV Extreme, the MSI MPG Z690 Gaming Carbon WiFi, and the Gigabyte AORUS Z690 Master. These motherboards offer excellent performance, stability, and a range of advanced features to enhance your gaming experience. However, new motherboards are constantly being released, so it’s always worth doing your research to find the latest and greatest options.

How can I find a high-quality gaming motherboard on a budget?

While high-end gaming motherboards can be quite expensive, there are also plenty of affordable options available. When shopping for a budget gaming motherboard, it’s important to look for models that offer a good balance of performance, stability, and features. Some of the best budget gaming motherboards include the ASRock B550M Pro4, the Gigabyte B450 AORUS M, and the MSI B450 Tomahawk Max. These motherboards offer solid performance and reliability, without breaking the bank.