Top 10 Am4 Motherboards - Build Your Dream Gaming PC Today

Get ready to dive into the world of innovative computing solutions with our Am4 Motherboard roundup article. In this engaging and informative piece, we’ll explore an array of top-of-the-line options for enthusiasts, professionals, and everyone in between. From sleek design to powerful performance, there’s a motherboard out there waiting to transform the way you build your perfect system. Read on and discover your perfect match!

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Reviews

Gigabyte B550 Aorus Elite AX V2 AMD ATX Motherboard

Assembling a new PC has never been smoother than when I used the Gigabyte B550 Aorus Elite AX V2 motherboard. I installed it effortlessly and began my construction project with ample enthusiasm. With this motherboard, connectivity options and gaming capabilities are unmatched - it’s perfect for anyone seeking robust performance without compromising on functionality.

One striking aspect is the range of processor options available - both AMD Ryzen and third-generation Ryzen with Radeon graphics have ample support. The motherboard makes efficient use of the AM4 socket, allowing me to install up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM, speeding up multitasking like never before.

The storage devices are impressively diverse, accommodating both SATA III and PCIe NVMe SSDs. The expansion slots, including PCIe 4.0 for maximum graphics card performance, have been nothing short of remarkable in my experience. The multitude of USB 3.2 Gen 1 and 2 as well as 2.0 ports has made connecting peripherals a breeze.

However, there’s no denying that under heavier loads, there were occasional freezing issues. But overall, it was an exceptional device that helped streamline my daily routine and gave me unmatched functionality in a single package.

ASRock B450M Steel Legend Micro ATX Motherboard for Enhanced Performance and Aesthetics

The ASRock B450M Steel Legend took me by surprise - this may be a budget-friendly micro-ATX motherboard, but it definitely packs a punch! The sleek aesthetic and sturdy build were some of the first things I noticed about it. I recently built a gaming PC, and this board turned out to be a great find.

One of the standout features for me was the built-in RGB lighting, complementing the heat indicators for easy system monitoring. It adds an impressive touch of color and style to any build. The heat sinks made of aluminum alloy also played a significant role in keeping my system cool.

In terms of connectivity, I appreciated the availability of two M. 2 slots - one offering 32Gb/s transfer speed and the other supporting SATA3 6Gb/s mode. Plus, the onboard Type-A and Type-C USB 3.1 Gen2 ports provided next-gen data transfer rates, ideal for modern devices.

However, the installation process was not entirely smooth - the manual and BIOS guide were poor, and there were certain instances where I felt a bit lost. As a first-time builder, I had to rely on YouTube tutorials to get through the setup phase.

After installing the fan cooler incorrectly, I encountered difficulties in finding the mounting screws. The back-plate simply fell off when I removed the screws, which proved to be quite frustrating. A simple fin feature on the corner of the socket would have greatly aided the alignment before contacting the pins.

As for the motherboard’s lifespan, I initially encountered an issue with the Ethernet cable not being recognized by the OS within a year and a half of use. Despite contacting ASRock support, the problem persisted.

All in all, the ASRock B450M Steel Legend provides a solid combination of performance and style. However, be prepared for some hiccups amidst the installation process and the possibility of an early hardware failure. As a gamer and first-time builder, I would recommend this board to others willing to take on the occasional challenge.

MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard with Turbo M.2, Steel Armor, and Core Boost

The MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 motherboard is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, high-performance AMD AM4 ATX motherboard. It’s built with a chipset that supports the latest AMD processors, ensuring compatibility across a wide range of Ryzen series CPUs. This motherboard is designed for seamless connectivity, featuring an array of SATA 6Gb/s ports, a single M. 2 slot for ultra-fast storage devices, and a variety of USB ports for added convenience.

One of the standout features of the MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 is its ability to manage fan speeds quickly and effectively. With Total Fan Control, users can monitor primary system characteristics in a user-friendly graphical interface and easily set temperature targets for CPU and motherboard. The motherboard also supports the latest storage standards, allowing for easy connection to ultra-fast storage devices.

In addition to its performance features, the MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 has a wide range of compatibility options. It’s compatible with the latest AMD processors, and MSI’s extensive network of compatible components, including RAM, cooling solutions, and graphics cards make this board an ideal choice for DIY enthusiasts and seasoned builders alike.

However, like any product, there are pros and cons to consider when choosing the MSI B550 Gaming Gen3. While it’s a fantastic choice for those seeking compatibility and performance, some users reported issues with faulty units, resulting in dead-on-arrival boards. This inconvenience highlights the importance of double-checking the seller’s return policy and considering purchasing from a reputable retailer.

In summary, the MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 motherboard offers a blend of compatibility, performance, and easy fan management, making it a solid choice for builders seeking dependable AMD-based performance.

MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard

As someone who frequently works with professional systems, I was initially intrigued by the MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard due to its promise of uninterrupted connections and powerful USB speeds. Being powered by the AMD Turbo USB 3.2 Gen1, I expected it to deliver a seamless performance in terms of network and data transfer capabilities.

Upon using this motherboard, it did not disappoint. The 2.5G Network Solution offered a significant improvement in network performance, making it more stable and efficient. This alone made a noticeable difference in my workflow, as I found the system’s response time to be incredibly smooth.

Apart from the excellent network capabilities, the audio codec (Realtek ALC897) also made a positive impact on the overall sound quality. It ensured that everything from music to voice calls was crisp and clear.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks. Firstly, I would have appreciated more fan headers, especially given the motherboard’s support for 2nd and 3rd generation Ryzen processors and their increased power requirements.

Secondly, while the user guide is generally helpful and intuitive, the lack of specific information regarding the available BIOS settings and certain features left me with a few uncertainties that could have been resolved with more in-depth documentation.

In conclusion, the MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard offered an impressive performance, particularly with its advanced 2.5G Network Solution and audio codec. While there are a few minor drawbacks that could have been addressed with more comprehensive documentation and additional fan headers, this motherboard does an excellent job of combining stable functionality and high-quality assembly for professional workloads.

MSI B550M-VC Pro WiFi: Powerful MicroATX Motherboard with Advanced Features

As a dedicated gamer, I found the MSI B550M-VC Pro WiFi AMD AM4 MicroATX Motherboard to be a reliable and efficient companion for my daily gaming and streaming needs. At first glance, the sleek design and compact size of the motherboard made it a perfect fit for my MicroATX case, while still offering a wide range of features for its budget-friendly price point.

One of the standout features of this motherboard was the advanced audio capabilities, thanks to the Realtek ALC892/ALC897 audio codec. The immersive audio performance was truly noteworthy, heightening my gaming experience and ensuring that I could fully appreciate every sound effect in my favorite titles.

However, there were a few aspects of the motherboard that left room for improvement. The installation process, while not overly complicated, involved some minor challenges. I had to be cautious with the board’s placement in my case, as some of the standoff holes were partially obstructed by the motherboard itself or the M. 2 drive bay. This required extra attention and adjustments during the assembly.

Moreover, the BIOS interface felt a bit unintuitive, as I found myself needing to navigate through layers of menus to access certain settings. This could be a bit frustrating for users less familiar with tweaking BIOS settings.

Despite these minor inconveniences, I would say that the overall performance of the MSI B550M-VC Pro WiFi AMD AM4 MicroATX Motherboard exceeded my expectations. The wealth of connection options, including Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, allowed for seamless integration with my gaming peripherals and media devices. I would highly recommend this motherboard to anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality option for their gaming or streaming setup.

MSI B450M PRO-VDH Max Micro-ATX Motherboard: Enhanced Performance and Stable Operation

The MSI B450 Bazooka Max Micro-ATX motherboard is a robust and affordable solution for those seeking a high-performance system. Its support for AMD Ryzen processors ensures compatibility with multiple generations of CPUs, making it a versatile choice for builders. Its four RAM slots can accommodate up to 64 GB for impressive memory expansion, enabling the best game experience. The USB 3.2 interface ensures swift data transfer rates, perfect for file management and multi-tasking.

This motherboard boasts an AMD B450 chipset, specifically designed to maximize the performance of your device, making it an optimal choice for enthusiast gamers and professionals alike. With cooling that’s tailored to gaming requirements, the MSI motherboard ensures stable and top-speed operation. Additionally, the power supply components enhance CPU cooling, a vital factor in system reliability.

The optimal system design is achieved via an isolated memory circuitry layout that guarantees excellent stability and functionality. With numerous expansion slots catering to varying needs, additional slots for PCIe x4/x8/x16, and SATA connectors for storage, users can customize their systems to cater to desired components.

The MSI B450 motherboard’s I/O includes Gigabit Ethernet, audio line-in, line-out, microphone, VGA, DVI-D, HDMI, USB 3.2 Gen1 and USB 2.0 interfaces, and USB 2.0. Each connection allows users to explore the high-quality audio experience and swift data transfers.

Lastly, the MSI B450 boasts MSI Audio Boost, turbo M. 2 to manage heat, PCIe Steel Slots for optimal graphics performance, and a range of interfaces essential for complete system functionality. With its compact dimensions and comprehensive features, the MSI B450 Bazooka Max is an attractive and powerful choice for gaming enthusiasts and professionals looking for an affordable yet feature-rich micro-ATX motherboard.

ASUS B550-F ROG Strix Gaming AMD ATX Motherboard

Recently, I decided to give the ROGSTRIXB550-F Gaming motherboard a shot for my PC build, and I must say, it’s been quite the experience. The sleek aesthetics and feature-rich design of the motherboard made it an enticing choice for a gaming enthusiast like me.

First and foremost, the motherboard’s compatibility with the latest Ryzen processors was a game-changer. The PCIe 4.0 support in the motherboard ensures an unparalleled gaming experience, giving even the thirstiest games a run for their money. Additionally, the 2.5Gb LAN connectivity provided lightning-fast network speeds, making online gaming and streaming a breeze.

One of the standout features of the motherboard was the BIOS Flashback function, which provided a seamless and hassle-free update process, keeping it compatible with the latest technologies. The HDMI 2.1 port, coupled with the addressable RGB Gen 2 header and Aura Sync compatibility, took the motherboard’s visual appeal to a whole new level.

However, no product is perfect, and the ROGSTRIXB550-F Gaming motherboard wasn’t completely free of its quirks. It was quite disappointing to find that the constant RGB light on the motherboard did not have a way to turn it off in the BIOS. The product’s compatibility with certain operating systems, particularly Linux, was also a bit of a letdown.

Nevertheless, my overall experience with the ROGSTRIXB550-F Gaming motherboard has been a mostly positive one. It provided a powerful and immersive gaming experience, with just a few minor hiccups along the way. If you’re in the market for a gaming motherboard that has high-speed connectivity and a sleek design, this Asus ROG Strix could be just what you’re looking for.

Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD Motherboard with Ultrafast Connectivity and 5X Protection III

The Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard has been a game-changer for me. The micro ATX form factor fit perfectly in my cramped case, and the included SATA cables made installation a breeze. This motherboard supports my first-generation AMD Ryzen processor and allows me to utilize up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM with ease.

One of the standout features for me is the comprehensive cooling that the motherboard offers. Along with the 5X Protection III, my system stays cool even during heavy workloads. The Aura Sync RGB lighting adds a touch of personalization and style to my build.

The board comes equipped with an M. 2 slot that supports both SATA and PCIe 3.0 x4 interface for fast storage speeds. The Realtek 8111H Gigabit LAN ensures smooth and reliable network connectivity. The 8-channel HD audio enhances the overall audio experience during gaming or watching videos.

While the motherboard does not include an integrated Wi-Fi antenna, the dual USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports provide ample high-speed connectivity options. The only downside I’ve encountered is the limited number of PCIe slots, which may be an issue for users running multiple GPU setups.

Overall, the Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard has exceeded my expectations and made a noticeable improvement to my system’s performance and aesthetics.

Asus ROG Strix B550-A ATX Gaming Motherboard: RGB Lighting, Immersive Graphics, and High-Performance RAM

The ASUS ROG Strix B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard offers an impressive blend of connectivity and performance. Designed for use with CPUs using the AM4 socket, this motherboard features the AMD B550 chipset, allowing you to install up to 128GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM across four slots, with speeds up to 5100 MHz supported when overclocking. Storage drives can be installed using six SATA III connectors or two M. 2 slots.

One of the key highlights of this motherboard is the RGB lighting, which allows you to create a vibrant gaming ambiance. Additionally, the DDR4 RAM offers a significant boost in execution speed for smooth and lag-free multitasking. The motherboard is also equipped with Radeon graphics, ensuring an immersive gaming experience.

Despite its positives, the ROG Strix B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard faces a few challenges. Some users have experienced instability issues, resulting in sudden system shutdowns. However, these instances have been relatively rare, and the motherboard’s overall performance is well-regarded.

Users have also praised the motherboard’s easy setup and build quality, with many appreciating the ability to easily update the BIOS. Despite some minor drawbacks, the ROG Stixx B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard stands out for its attractive design, powerful performance, and ample connectivity options.

In conclusion, the ROG Stixx B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard is a great choice for gamers seeking a powerful, versatile, and budget-friendly option. With its attractive design, fast performance, and ample connectivity options, this motherboard is worth considering for anyone looking to build a gaming PC.

MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max Motherboard: Unmatched Performance for Enhanced Gaming

The MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max motherboard delivers impressive performance, thanks to its excellent cooling system and enhanced capabilities. It’s a sleek and attractive addition to any PC setup, with high-quality components and customizable colors to suit your preferences. One of the best features is the flexible memory layout, which allows for easy setup and optimal performance.

However, some users have encountered issues related to the memory slots and BIOS, which can be frustrating. Overall, the MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max is a reliable choice for those looking for a high-performing motherboard with plenty of customization options.

Buyer’s Guide

When looking to purchase an AM4 motherboard, it’s essential to consider several factors before making a decision. This buyer’s guide will provide you with essential information, key features, and valuable advice to help you choose the best AM4 motherboard for your needs.

Considerations Before Purchasing an AM4 Motherboard

1. Compatibility: Ensure the motherboard you choose is compatible with your CPU and other system components, including RAM, cooler, and graphics card. Check the supporting listings provided by the manufacturer to avoid incompatibility issues. Make sure the motherboard supports the latest AMD processors to ensure best performance.

Important Features of AM4 Motherboards

1. Chipset: The chipset determines the motherboard’s CPU and memory support, graphics capabilities, and many other features. Research the various chipsets available and choose one that suits your needs and budget. Popular AM4 chipsets include X470, B450, B350, and X370, with the latest being AM4 X570.

Connectivity Options

2. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: If you require wireless connectivity, look for a motherboard with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. These features are often found in higher-end models but can also be added through expansion cards for budget-friendly options. Check compatibility with your specific needs.

Other Features to Look For

3. Audio and Networking: High-quality audio and networking capabilities are important for gamers and enthusiasts. Look for a motherboard with onboard Realtek audio or an ALC1220-VBCodec audio processor to ensure high-quality audio output. Additionally, check for LAN capabilities, dual network cards, or Intel GBE LAN controllers for better networking experience.

FAQ

What is an AM4 motherboard?

An AM4 motherboard is a type of computer motherboard that supports the AMD Ryzen series of processors. It is the successor to the AM3+ socket, and was first introduced in 2016 with AMD’s Ryzen and Ryzen Pro series of processors. The AM4 socket is designed to support both AMD’s Ryzen processors and future CPUs, making it a popular choice for building a new computer or upgrading an existing one.

The AM4 socket is a quad-pin-grid design, which provides better compatibility with the latest Ryzen processors, as well as improved cooling and power efficiency. It also allows for overclocking, which can provide a performance boost for gaming or other CPU-intensive tasks. With its support for the latest processors and features, the AM4 motherboard is a great choice for anyone looking to build a high-performance PC.

What are the differences between AM4 and AM3+ motherboards?

There are several key differences between AM4 and AM3+ motherboards. The most significant difference is the socket used to connect the processor to the motherboard. The AM4 socket is a quad-pin-grid design, while the AM3+ socket is a quad-pin-grid as well. However, the layout and size of the pins are different, which means that AM4 and AM3+ motherboards are not interchangeable.

Another difference is the memory compatibility. AM4 motherboards support DDR4 memory, while AM3+ motherboards support DDR3 memory. This means that you can’t use DDR3 memory on an AM4 motherboard, and vice versa. Additionally, the newer AM4 motherboards support higher memory speeds and more memory channels, which can provide a performance boost for gaming and other CPU-intensive tasks.

Are AM4 motherboards compatible with AM3+ processors?

No, AM4 motherboards are not compatible with AM3+ processors. This is because the sockets used to connect the processors to the motherboards are different, with different pinouts and layouts. AM4 motherboards are designed to support only the latest Ryzen processors, while AM3+ motherboards are designed to support older Phenom and Athlon series processors.

Using an AM3+ processor on an AM4 motherboard can cause damage to the motherboard and processor, as well as the other components in your computer. It is important to ensure that you have the correct socket and processor for your motherboard, and to consult the motherboard’s manual or manufacturer’s website for compatibility information.

What are some popular AM4 motherboards?

There are many popular AM4 motherboards available on the market, with different features and price points. Some of the most popular models include the ASUS ROG C6H, MSI X470 GAMING PLUS, and GIGABYTE X470 AORUS ULTRA GAMING. These motherboards come with a range of features, including support for high-speed memory, multiple graphics card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Other popular models include the MSI X470 GAMING X470, ASUS ROG STRIX X470-F GAMING, and GIGABYTE X470 AORUS XTREME. These motherboards offer a balance of performance, features, and affordability, making them popular choices for builders and enthusiasts alike. It is important to research and compare different models to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

What is the best AM4 motherboard for gaming?

The best AM4 motherboard for gaming will depend on your specific needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular models for gaming include the ASUS ROG C6H and MSI X470 GAMING PLUS. These motherboards offer a range of features that are ideal for gaming, such as support for high-speed memory, multiple graphics card slots, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Other popular gaming motherboards include the MSI X470 GAMING X470, ASUS ROG STRIX X470-F GAMING, and GIGABYTE X470 AORUS XTREME. These motherboards offer a balance of performance, features, and affordability, making them popular choices for builders and enthusiasts alike. It is important to research and compare different models to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

Are there any disadvantages to using an AM4 motherboard?

While there are many advantages to using an AM4 motherboard, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. One of the main disadvantages is the cost. AM4 motherboards can be more expensive than their AM3+ counterparts, which can make them less affordable for some builders and enthusiasts.

Another potential disadvantage is the limited compatibility with older components. AM4 motherboards are only compatible with the latest Ryzen processors, which means that they cannot be used with older Phenom or Athlon series processors. This can make it difficult to upgrade or reuse components from older systems, and may require additional investment in new hardware.

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