Motherboard Buying Guide: Form Factors, Sockets, Ports, and More

How to Choose a Motherboard: Key Factors to Consider

When selecting a motherboard, it’s essential to consider its compatibility with your computer case and central processing unit (CPU), among other factors. Here are the top seven elements to keep in mind:

1. Cost
2. CPU
3. CPU Socket
4. Form Factor and Case
5. Expansion Ports
6. Built-in Ports
7. RAM (Memory)

Cost

Motherboards range in price from as low as $50 to over $1,500. Generally, spending more gets you more features. Here’s a breakdown:

• Basic (>$150): H510 and H610 (Intel), A520 (AMD); LGA1200 and LGA1700 (Intel), AM4 (AMD); mATX or Mini ITX.
• Mid-Range (>$250): B560 and B660 (Intel), B550 (AMD); LGA1200 and LGA1700 (Intel), AM4 (AMD); mATX, ATX, Mini ITX.
• High-End ($250 and up): Z590 and Z660 (Intel), X570 (AMD); LGA1200 and LGA1700 (Intel); ATX, Mini-ITX, E-ATX.

Motherboard Chipset

The chipset determines the motherboard’s capabilities and compatibility with other components.

CPU

The CPU is the brain of your PC. Choose a motherboard that supports your current CPU or the new one you plan to buy. Mid-tier CPUs are adequate for multitasking and business use, while gamers and content creators may need CPUs with higher clock speeds and more RAM support.

CPU Socket

The CPU socket type on a motherboard dictates which CPUs are compatible. Ensure the motherboard socket matches your CPU. For example, an Intel Core i7-9700F needs an LGA 1151 socket, while an AMD Ryzen 9 5900X requires an AM4 socket. Check your CPU’s documentation or manufacturer’s website for socket information.

What Form Factor and Case Should a Motherboard Have?

The form factor of a motherboard is crucial, alongside the CPU socket, when selecting the right motherboard.

• Upgrading or Replacing a Motherboard: If you’re replacing a motherboard in an existing computer, ensure it has a compatible socket for your current CPU and fits in your existing case, unless you plan to upgrade both the CPU and case.
• Building a New PC: Choose a motherboard that fits your desired CPU and case. While aesthetics matter, the case size and supported motherboard type are more important.

Main Motherboard Form Factors:

• ATX: Standard for most desktops, measuring 12 inches by 9.625 inches. It offers ample space for expansion cards and peripherals.
• Micro-ATX: Same width as ATX but two inches shorter. It fits smaller cases but has fewer expansion slots.
• Mini-ITX: Compact at 6.75 inches square, fitting small cases with limited expansion slots.

Select a case that matches your chosen form factor (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX) and then find a compatible motherboard.

What Expansion Ports Should a Motherboard Have?

After the CPU socket and form factor, the number and type of expansion ports are vital considerations:

• PCIe Slots: Key for adding components like graphics cards and additional USB ports.
  • PCIe x16 Slots: For graphics cards.
  • PCIe x1 Slots: For other expansion cards.
• PCIe Generations: Most motherboards support PCIe 3.0, but newer ones support PCIe 4.0 and 5.0 for more bandwidth. Consider future-proofing by opting for PCIe 5.0 if possible.

What Built-In Ports Does a Motherboard Need?

Built-in ports determine the connectivity options for your peripherals:

• Common Ports: USB-A, USB-C, audio ports, HDMI, DisplayPort.
• Legacy Ports: VGA, PS/2, parallel, and serial ports (if needed).
• Network and Wireless: Ethernet ports, built-in Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

Choose a motherboard with the necessary ports to avoid needing additional expansion cards or USB hubs.

How Much RAM Does a Motherboard Need?

Consider the number of RAM slots and the total RAM capacity:

• Basic Use: Streaming, web browsing, and basic gaming require less RAM.
• Intensive Use: Video/photo editing and resource-heavy gaming benefit from higher RAM capacity and additional slots.

What Should I Do After Buying a Motherboard?

After purchasing a motherboard, follow these steps for installation:

1. Preparation: Gather the motherboard and PC manuals. Consult a tech expert or consider professional installation if unsure.
2. Power Off and Unplug: Ensure the PC is off, unplugged, and all peripherals disconnected.
3. Open the Case: Remove the desktop case cover.
4. Disconnect Hardware: Safely remove internal hardware and power supply cables.
5. Remove Old Motherboard: Unscrew and carefully remove the existing motherboard.

Install the new motherboard by following its specific instructions, particularly if reusing old components.

Additional Tips for Choosing a Motherboard

• Peripheral Support: Ensure compatibility with required connections (USB 3.0, eSATA, Thunderbolt, HDMI, PCI Express).
• Component Compatibility: Verify the motherboard supports your CPU and memory types.
• Cooling: Ensure adequate cooling, especially if overclocking.
• Device Drivers: Install necessary drivers for connected devices.
• Additional Features: Consider onboard wireless, audio, RAID controller, etc.
• Overclocking: Ensure the motherboard supports necessary CPU multipliers and voltages.

What Is a Motherboard?

A motherboard connects key computer components, including the CPU, memory, hard drives, expansion cards, and ports. It’s the backbone of a Windows PC, ensuring all parts work together seamlessly. Macs also have motherboards, often referred to as “logic boards.” The CPU plugs into a specific socket on the motherboard, with expansion cards and other components also connecting directly to it.