· 15 min read
Top 19 ATX Motherboards for High-Performance Computing
Explore the top ATX motherboards on the market in this comprehensive roundup, highlighting their features, performance, and compatibility for a range of systems.
Building a powerful computer or upgrading your existing one starts with selecting the right motherboard. In this roundup, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top ATX motherboards available, each delivering a unique blend of features, performance, and affordability. Get ready to dive into the world of computer motherboards like never before, as we highlight the best options to suit your computing needs.
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Reviews
Gigabyte Aorus Elite V2 ATX Atomic Motherboard
Experience the seamless blend of functionality and efficiency with the ATX AM4 motherboard from Gigabyte. Designed for durability and uninterrupted performance, this high-quality motherboard boasts an array of top-notch features and the fastest Internet experience. Discover the all-solid capacitors, Digital PWM Controller for optimal CPU voltage, and 24 + 8 pin CPU Power Connectors for reliable power distribution. With this Gigabyte motherboard, you get a comprehensive set of tools for smooth operation and long-lasting reliability.
High-Performance DDR5 Gaming Motherboard with Precise Control and Fan Stop Feature
The Gigabyte B760 Gaming x AX motherboard brings powerful performance and compatibility for gamers. With DDR5 SDRAM memory technology, high-quality sound from the Intel chipset, and support for multiple RAM and RAID levels, this motherboard delivers outstanding gaming experience. The multiple fan and temperature control points, along with fan stop and curve modes, ensure the fan performance matches your needs. The motherboard offers flexibility and easy setup with Quick memory performance simulation and transferring DDR5 XMP profiles.
Asus TUF B550 Plus Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard
The Asus TUF Gaming B550-Plus Desktop Motherboard is an exceptional choice for gaming enthusiasts, boasting impressive performance and durability. Built with military-grade TUF components and Digi+ VRM, this motherboard ensures maximum stability and compatibility with the latest AMD Ryzen processors. It provides comprehensive cooling options, featuring a VRM heatsink, PCH fanless heatsink, and M. 2 heatsink, along with hybrid fan headers and the Fan Xpert 4 utility. The motherboard also offers fast connectivity with PCIe 4.0 M. 2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C support. With 2.5 Gb Ethernet, an M. 2 slot for Wi-Fi module, and TUF LANGuard and Turbo LAN technology, you’ll experience smooth and stable online gameplay. Enhanced audio quality through the Realtek S1200A codec and an AI noise-canceling microphone make for clear in-game voice communication. Invest in the TUF Gaming B550-Plus, and you will have a solid foundation for your gaming setup.
ASRock Steel Legend B450 ATX Motherboard - AMD AM4 DDR4 Support
The ASRock B450 Steel Legend motherboard is a fantastic choice for those looking for budget-friendly high performance. It features the latest AMD B450 chipset, supporting second and third generation AMD Ryzen processors with Socket AM4. With four memory slots for up to 128GB of DDR4 dual channel memory, you can easily overclock it up to 3533MHz depending on your processor. It’s designed for everyday computing tasks and comes with plenty of ports, including USB-Type C and a huge amount of USB ports. You’ll appreciate its sleek design with built-in RGB LEDs that add a whimsical touch to your computer setup. Overall, this motherboard is a reliable and efficient choice that delivers great value for its price.
Asus TUF Gaming II AMD Motherboard - ATX Design
Dive into the world of gaming with the TUF Gaming B450-PLUS II Desktop Motherboard. Designed to deliver rock-solid performance, this motherboard is packed with advanced features that cater to the needs of hardcore gamers. Experience crystal-clear in-game voice communication with the AI Noise-Canceling Microphone and immerse yourself in vibrant Aura Sync RGB lighting. With its comprehensive cooling options and next-gen connectivity, this ATX gaming motherboard makes building your ultimate gaming rig a breeze. Perfect for both seasoned gamers and first-time builders, the TUF Gaming B450-PLUS II is your ticket to unparalleled gaming performance.
Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX - Intel LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3
The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX motherboard boasts an impressive range of features, including support for 13th Generation Intel Core processors, a dual-channel memory architecture, and compatibility with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5 technology. With its robust build quality, smart fan control, and convenient accessory package, this ATX motherboard is an excellent choice for both gaming enthusiasts and PC builders alike, who are seeking a stylish and high-performing computing solution.
Intel Z790 Gaming x AX ATX Motherboard
Build the ultimate gaming rig with the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming x AX LGA 1700 Intel Z790 ATX Motherboard, designed to handle powerful components while showcasing an eye-catching aesthetic. This versatile motherboard supports a wide range of Intel processors, with four dual-channel DDR5 RAM slots allowing for up to 192GB of seamless multitasking and rendering. With a plethora of connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, the Gaming x AX also gives you the flexibility to expand your system with cutting-edge graphics cards. Known for its high-quality build and easy setup, the GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming x AX lays the perfect foundation for your next gaming masterpiece.
Asus TUF X570: ATX Motherboard for Gaming & Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Asus TUF X570-Plus Wi-Fi AMD AM4 ATX Gaming Motherboard is a robust and reliable choice for avid gamers. Its sturdy design and multiple heat sinks keep it running smooth even under intense gaming sessions. Featuring an aesthetic RGB lighting, this motherboard adds a touch of style to your gaming setup. With two PCIe 4.0 x16 graphics card slots, it ensures a fully immersive gaming experience. This Asus motherboard delivers excellent performance along with the convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity.
ASRock Z690 Pro RS Intel DDR4 ATX Motherboard: Advanced Features, Premium Performance
The ASRock Z690 Pro RS DDR4 packs a punch with its support for the latest 13th Generation Intel Core Processors. Featuring a 13-phase Dr. MOS power design and capable of M. 2 PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi connectivity, this motherboard delivers superior performance with options for high-end graphics support. Equipped with Nahimic Audio for a rich listening experience, you’ll enjoy smooth, speedy connectivity and cutting-edge features for your gaming or work setup.
MSI Mag B550 Tomahawk - Versatile ATX Motherboard for AMD Processors
Experience lightning-fast computational tasks with the MSI Mag B550 Tomahawk AM4 ATX AMD Motherboard. Featuring high-bandwidth 2.5G plus Gigabit LAN, this powerful motherboard boasts incredible data transfer speed and automatic latency prioritization for unmatched online performance. Combined with DDR4 SDRAM compatibility and versatile interfaces such as HDMI and DisplayPort, you’ll enjoy seamless sound and video quality. This robust motherboard is perfect for enthusiasts seeking a reliable and powerful gaming experience.
Gigabyte Aorus Elite AX V2 ATX Motherboard
The B550 AORUS Elite AX V2 Motherboard from Gigabyte offers top-notch performance for gaming connoisseurs. Built with an AMD B550 chipset and an AM4 socket, it’s compatible with a wide range of AMD Ryzen processors. The motherboard is designed to maximize system responsiveness and provide ample storage options with four SATA III and two M. 2 connections.
Maximum Capacity MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard
The MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard is a reliable and affordable choice for businesses and office use. Featuring AMD technology, it offers uninterrupted connections and lightning-fast USB speeds. With a sleek and compact design, this motherboard delivers efficient and stable performance for professional workflows.
MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 ATX Motherboard for AMD Processors
Experience top-notch performance and reliable connectivity with the MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 AMD AM4 motherboard. This powerful ATX board offers a robust chipset, flexible memory options, and numerous expansion slots to support your various components. With multiple SATA and M. 2 ports, you can connect high-speed storage devices for efficient work performance. Take control of your system with Total Fan Control and customize your fan speeds for cool and quiet operation.
MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus ATX Motherboard
Experience gaming at its finest with the MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus motherboard. This Atx motherboard boasts on-board Wi-Fi 6 and a sleek black design with red accents for a touch of gaming flair. Boasting support for AMD Ryzen processors, Socket AM4, and a user-friendly BIOS interface, this motherboard is a solid choice for your gaming needs. It offers various connectivity options, including USB-C Gen 2 ports and high-speed data transfer support, ensuring your system is ready for future, high-performance components. The B550 Gaming Plus also excels in power management and cooling, with efficient power delivery and an extended heatsink to maintain stability during intense gaming sessions. Though it lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, the motherboard makes up for it with its robust feature set, making it a noteworthy contender in the competitive motherboard market.
Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2: High-Performance AMD Motherboard with Ryzen Support
Rev up your gaming setup with the Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2, a high-performance AM4 ATX motherboard that supports a wide range of Ryzen processors. Experience enhanced multitasking capabilities with up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM and enjoy smooth connectivity with dual M. 2 slots, plenty of PCIe slots, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. Perfect for those who want premium gaming performance without breaking the bank.
ASUS ROG Strix B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard with 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet and RGB Lighting
Experience seamless gameplay with the ASUS ROG Strix B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard. This robust board boasts ample connectivity options and fast performance. With support for up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM and a variety of storage drives, you can enjoy multitasking without lag. Immerse yourself in vibrant RGB lighting and Radeon graphics for an unparalleled gaming experience. Despite minor issues with the Wi-Fi driver, the board is popular among users for its ease of setup and reliable performance.
Asus B550-F ROG Strix Gaming AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard
Upgrade your gaming experience with the ROG Strix B550-F Gaming motherboard, featuring PCIe 4.0 connectivity for lightning-fast networking and file transfers. Immerse yourself in superior sound quality and powerful audio enhancements for an unparalleled gaming experience. With its easy setup and innovative design, this ATX motherboard is the perfect choice for both casual and serious gamers alike.
Asus Prime B450M-A II Micro ATX Motherboard: Affordable, High-Performance Gaming Companion
Experience ultimate performance with the Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard. Its comprehensive cooling and ultra-fast connectivity features ensure smooth and efficient computing. With a 5X Protection III, Aura Sync RGB lighting adds an attractive flair to your system. This micro ATX motherboard supports first- and second-generation socket AM4 AMD Ryzen processors for unparalleled power.
MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max ATX AM4 Motherboard for AMD Systems
Experience unmatched gaming performance with the MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max AM4 motherboard. Enjoy enhanced cooling, optimized memory layout, and an array of exclusive gaming features all rolled into one sleek, high-quality device. With a 4.5-star rating and an impressive 419 reviews, this exceptional motherboard is sure to exceed your expectations - giving you the ultimate gaming experience.
Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to building your PC, the ATX motherboard is the crucial component that ties everything together. It supports a range of components and integrates them seamlessly. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to find the best ATX motherboard for your needs. Here, we’ll provide a comprehensive buyer’s guide that will help you make an informed decision.
Important Features
Before you start shopping for an ATX motherboard, there are several key features to consider. These include the chipset, CPU support, expansion slots, RAM support, and connectivity options. Understanding these specifications can make your shopping experience much easier and ensure that you’re getting the right motherboard for your setup.
Chipset
The chipset is the heart of the motherboard and determines how well it performs different tasks. Popular chipsets include Intel’s Z490, Z390, and H310, or AMD’s B550, X570, and B450 chipsets. You should choose a chipset that supports the CPU you plan to use to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
CPU Support
Another crucial factor to consider when selecting an ATX motherboard is CPU support. Different motherboards support various CPU types and generations, so it’s essential to choose one that works with your chosen CPU. For example, if you’re using an Intel Core i9-10900K, you’ll need a motherboard with the appropriate LGA 1200 processor socket.
Expansion Slots
Expansion slots on an ATX motherboard provide space for additional components like graphics cards, networking cards, and sound cards. While most modern PC builds don’t require these additional components, having extra slots can be useful if you ever decide to upgrade your setup. Be sure to check the motherboard’s expansion slot configuration before making a purchase.
FAQ
Uncovering the ATX Motherboard: Its Purpose and Design
Delving into the world of desktop computers, an ATX motherboard serves as a primary building block - also referred to as a mainboard or system board. This particular design boasts a compact ATX form factor, making it immensely popular due to its ease of installation and compatibility with a plethora of other components. With dimensions of 12 inches by 9.6 inches, the ATX form factor is smaller than its original AT form factor counterpart.
The ATX form factor doesn’t just offer advantages in terms of size; it excels at cable management, airflow optimisation, and streamlined component access. These characteristics make it the go-to choice for modern desktop computers. Furthermore, ATX motherboards are capable of supporting a diverse array of processors, memory, storage devices, and graphics cards, catering to an array of user requirements.
Exploring the Benefits of Employing an ATX Motherboard
Incorporating an ATX motherboard into your desktop system provides ample advantages. Firstly, its smaller form factor effortlessly fits in most desktop cases, contributing to a compact workspace for cable management. This, in turn, enhances overall system performance and aesthetics. Another benefit of ATX motherboards is their designated slots for power, data, and expansion cards, ensuring compatibility and minimizing the risk of damage.
ATX boards are versatile, as they can accommodate a wide range of processors, memory, and storage devices. Their diminished dimensions promote better airflow within the case, aiding in maintaining optimal operating temperatures for the components. Additionally, ATX motherboards are budget-friendly, making them an affordable choice for many builders.
Exploring the Popular ATX Motherboards in the Market
A plethora of popular ATX motherboards are available for purchase in the market, such as the MSI B550M PRO-VDH+, ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming, and Gigabyte B450M DS3H. These boards come equipped with top-tier features, including high-speed memory support, cutting-edge cooling solutions, and user-friendly BIOS interfaces. The best option for you will be determined by your specific needs, budget, and intended components.
When searching for the perfect ATX motherboard, research and comparison are key. Factors to consider when choosing a motherboard include compatibility with your selected components, performance, and user reviews. It’s also crucial to find a board with a reliable manufacturer and warranty.
Installing an ATX Motherboard: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing an ATX motherboard involves a dose of preparation and assembly. Firstly, ensure that your chosen desktop case has sufficient space to accommodate the ATX motherboard and any expansion cards. Make sure to select a compatible power supply and other components before assembling your system. If you’re constructing a custom loop cooler, plan the placement of the radiator and fans.
Begin by securing the motherboard to the case using screws and standoffs — these create space between the motherboard and the case to prevent damage due to direct contact. Connect the necessary power and data cables from the motherboard to the power supply and other components. Custom loop coolers require the attachment of the radiator and fans to the case, ensuring optimal airflow and water circulation.
Troubleshooting ATX Motherboard Issues: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re facing any issues with your ATX motherboard, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take. Start by verifying the basics, such as ensuring all connections are secure and that your power supply is functioning correctly. Confirm that all cooling solutions are operating as expected, and verify that all components are compatible with your motherboard.
If you’re experiencing boot issues, examine the BIOS settings. Double-check that the correct power-saving mode is selected, that the boot order is set correctly, and that any software-based features are deactivated. If the problem persists, consider updating the BIOS firmware, but remember to exercise caution and always adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Alternatives to ATX Motherboards: When ATX Isn’t the Best Fit
While ATX motherboards have a wide following, there may be some alternative options to consider, depending on your specific requirements and the demands of your system. For instance, a Mini-ITX motherboard boasts a smaller form factor than ATX and is specifically crafted for compact builds. This form factor is ideal for media centers, HTPCs, or systems with restricted space.
Another possibility is the Extended ATX (E-ATX) motherboard, which offers more features and flexibility than standard ATX boards. E-ATX motherboards can accommodate larger processors, additional memory slots, and more graphics card slots. They’re frequently used in powerful gaming rigs, data centers, and high-performance workstations. However, E-ATX motherboards require larger cases and may not be the ideal choice for all types of systems.
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