2024’s Best Motherboards: Ultimate Guide for Gamers, Creators, and Enthusiasts
In 2024, the hardware industry is racing towards higher performance, efficiency, and extreme customization. Motherboards are central to this transformation, becoming more than just platforms to mount your CPU and components—they now integrate cutting-edge technologies such as DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 slots, next-generation Wi-Fi standards, and complex power delivery systems.
This guide will cover the top motherboards of 2024, providing insight into which models are best for specific types of builds. Whether you are an extreme overclocker, a gamer seeking maximum FPS, or a professional working on resource-heavy tasks like 3D rendering or video editing, this article will help you choose the right motherboard.
1. ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero
Best for: Enthusiast AMD Ryzen Builds
One of the top motherboards in the enthusiast space for AMD Ryzen builds is the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero. It combines future-proof technology with superior performance and customization options, making it a favorite among hardcore gamers and power users.
Key Features and Architecture
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero uses the latest X670E chipset and AM5 socket, fully supporting AMD’s 7000-series Ryzen processors. These processors have been game-changers in both gaming and professional workloads, offering massive performance gains, especially in multi-core tasks.
One of the defining features of this motherboard is its support for PCIe 5.0 for both the GPU and M.2 storage drives. PCIe 5.0 doubles the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, allowing you to future-proof your build for next-gen GPUs and ultra-fast NVMe drives. For instance, if you’re running a high-performance SSD capable of 12,000 MB/s read speeds, the PCIe 5.0 interface ensures you won’t face any bandwidth bottlenecks.
Additionally, the motherboard supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 RAM at high frequencies, ensuring smooth performance in memory-intensive tasks. Whether you are gaming at high resolutions or multitasking between intensive applications like Adobe Premiere and Blender, DDR5 RAM offers improved bandwidth and performance over DDR4.
Power Delivery and Cooling
When building a high-end PC, especially one designed for overclocking, power delivery is crucial. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero features an 18+2 power stage VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) design, offering consistent and clean power to the CPU, even during overclocking sessions. This is particularly important for Ryzen 9 CPUs, which demand a lot of power during high workloads.
To maintain stability during overclocking, the board also incorporates robust cooling mechanisms. It features large heatsinks on the VRM, M.2 slots, and chipset to ensure heat dissipation is adequate during prolonged usage. There’s even an active cooling option for extreme setups.
Advantages
- It supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, future-proof technologies for high-speed data transfer and next-gen GPUs.
- Excellent overclocking potential: Thanks to its 18+2 power stage VRM, the board excels in stable overclocking.
- Plenty of connectivity options: With Wi-Fi 6E, multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, and Thunderbolt 4, this board offers excellent connectivity options.
- Customizable lighting: RGB lighting and ASUS Aura Sync give users full control over the aesthetic of their build.
Disadvantages
- Expensive: Not suitable for users on a budget.
- Requires good cooling: Overclockers must invest in advanced cooling systems, especially if using the board’s extreme performance capabilities.
Ideal Use Case
This motherboard is perfect for enthusiasts who plan on overclocking their AMD Ryzen 7000-series CPU and pairing it with PCIe 5.0 GPUs or ultra-fast storage. It’s also an excellent choice for content creators who need lots of RAM and storage speed for rendering or video editing projects.
2. MSI MEG Z790 ACE
Best for: Intel Enthusiast Builds
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE is a powerhouse for users who prefer Intel processors. Compatible with Intel’s 12th and 13th-generation chips, this motherboard is perfect for both gamers and professionals looking for extreme performance, future-proof connectivity, and exceptional power delivery.
Key Features and Architecture
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE supports Intel’s LGA 1700 socket, making it compatible with the latest Intel Alder Lake and Raptor Lake processors. These processors bring DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 to the mainstream, providing a massive leap in performance, particularly in gaming, productivity, and AI-driven applications.
The Z790 chipset allows this motherboard to support dual-channel DDR5 memory up to 7600 MHz (OC), making it a go-to choice for builds requiring extremely high memory bandwidth. This makes it ideal for professionals working in memory-intensive fields such as 3D modeling, simulations, or AI-driven workloads.
One of the board’s standout features is its 24-phase VRM, which is designed to handle the immense power draw of overclocked Intel CPUs. Coupled with robust cooling, the Z790 ACE ensures stable performance, even when pushing components to their limits.
Cooling and Design
Cooling is a critical aspect of high-performance motherboards, and MSI hasn’t cut any corners with the Z790 ACE. The motherboard features Frozr AI Cooling, which uses advanced sensors to dynamically adjust the speeds of connected fans, maintaining optimal system temperatures during intense workloads. The heatsinks are large and efficient, ensuring key areas like the VRM and M.2 drives are cooled properly.
Advantages
- Exceptional overclocking: 24-phase VRM ensures stable power delivery for overclocking high-end Intel CPUs.
- High-end storage support: Five M.2 slots, all supporting PCIe 5.0, allow for extreme storage setups.
- Robust cooling: Frozr AI Cooling ensures optimal performance without thermal throttling.
- Excellent memory support: Supports up to 128 GB of DDR5 RAM at high speeds.
Disadvantages
- Expensive: As a high-end board, the Z790 ACE commands a premium price.
- Complex setup: This motherboard is overkill for most users and requires advanced knowledge to fully utilize its features.
- Limited use for non-overclockers: Many of its power delivery and cooling features are unnecessary for users not interested in overclocking.
Ideal Use Case
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE is ideal for enthusiasts building Intel-based systems for extreme gaming or heavy workloads such as content creation, AI processing, or advanced simulations. If you plan on taking full advantage of PCIe 5.0, DDR5 RAM, and want extensive overclocking capabilities, this motherboard is an excellent choice.
3. GIGABYTE AORUS Master X670E
Best for: High-End AMD Builds
The GIGABYTE AORUS Master X670E is another excellent option for AMD enthusiasts who want to use Ryzen 7000 series CPUs and maximize their system’s potential. Built for high-performance builds, this motherboard offers an impressive combination of robust power delivery, future-proof connectivity, and premium features.
Key Features and Architecture
The AORUS Master X670E is equipped with a 20+2+2 phase VRM, designed for stable power delivery during extreme overclocking sessions. It’s built on the AMD X670E chipset, making it compatible with PCIe 5.0 for both the GPU and storage, as well as DDR5 memory.
This board supports dual-channel DDR5 RAM, allowing speeds of up to 6600 MHz (OC), which is crucial for modern gaming and heavy multitasking. The PCIe 5.0 slots ensure that your build is ready for next-gen GPUs, offering double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, making it future-proof for the next several years.
Advanced Cooling Solutions
Keeping such a powerful system cool requires high-end cooling, and GIGABYTE delivers with Thermal Guard III, an advanced heatsink design that cools the motherboard’s VRM and M.2 slots. This is crucial for preventing thermal throttling, especially during long gaming or rendering sessions.
Advantages
- Powerful VRM: 20+2+2 phase design ensures stable power delivery during extreme overclocking.
- Future-proof: PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support ensure compatibility with the latest components.
- Advanced cooling: Thermal Guard III ensures the system remains cool during heavy use.
- High-quality audio: Integrated audio enhances gaming and content creation experiences.
Disadvantages
- Expensive: Like other high-end motherboards, the AORUS Master X670E comes with a steep price.
- Requires advanced cooling: Overclocking requires aftermarket cooling solutions for optimal performance.
- Overkill for casual users: This motherboard is too advanced for users who don’t need extreme overclocking or PCIe 5.0.
Ideal Use Case
This motherboard is built for enthusiasts who want to future-proof their high-end AMD systems. If you’re running a demanding setup, like a gaming PC with multiple GPUs, or if you need ultra-fast storage for professional content creation, this motherboard will meet your needs.
4. ASRock B650E Taichi
Best for: AMD Mid-Range Builds
For those looking for a solid AMD mid-range motherboard, the ASRock B650E Taichi provides excellent performance and a wide range of features without the premium price tag of the X670E models. This board balances performance and affordability, making it a favorite for gamers and professionals alike.
Key Features
The ASRock B650E Taichi supports the latest Ryzen 7000-series processors and offers PCIe 5.0 support for both GPUs and NVMe SSDs. Additionally, it features 14+2+1 phase power delivery, ensuring stable performance during gaming and multitasking.
One of the standout features of the B650E Taichi is its robust VRM cooling, which is surprising for a mid-range board. It uses large aluminum heatsinks to cool the power delivery area, making it a suitable option for light overclocking.
Advantages
- Affordable compared to high-end models: Provides great value for its feature set.
- PCIe 5.0 support: Future-proof for upcoming GPUs and storage.
- Good cooling: Robust VRM cooling for stable performance during light overclocking.
Disadvantages
- Lacks premium features: No Thunderbolt 4 or advanced power delivery like X670E boards.
- Not as future-proof: Lacks some of the advanced features and connectivity options of premium boards.
Ideal Use Case
The ASRock B650E Taichi is ideal for gamers and professionals who want a high-performance AMD build without paying the premium for X670E motherboards. It strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it suitable for mid-range gaming rigs, content creation, or multitasking setups. This motherboard is perfect for users who want PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support but don’t require extreme overclocking or the advanced features found in high-end enthusiast motherboards. It’s a great option for those upgrading to Ryzen 7000-series CPUs without stretching their budget too far.
5. ASUS Prime B760-PLUS D4
Best for: Budget-Friendly Intel Builds
The ASUS Prime B760-PLUS D4 is a solid motherboard choice for builders who are looking for a more affordable solution for Intel builds without sacrificing too much in terms of performance and essential features. While it lacks some of the higher-end components seen in more expensive motherboards, this model balances affordability with solid functionality for gamers and everyday users.
Key Features and Architecture
This motherboard is built around Intel’s B760 chipset, designed to support 12th and 13th-gen Intel processors (Alder Lake and Raptor Lake) on the LGA 1700 socket. While it doesn’t support PCIe 5.0, it makes use of PCIe 4.0, which is more than adequate for most mainstream gaming and work tasks. PCIe 4.0 graphics cards, such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3000 and AMD Radeon RX 6000 series, run perfectly on this motherboard without bottlenecking performance.
The ASUS Prime B760-PLUS D4 supports up to 128 GB of DDR4 memory, which remains a cost-effective and highly efficient option for most users, despite the growing popularity of DDR5. By sticking with DDR4, the board allows users to save on memory costs while still achieving fast, low-latency performance.
Connectivity and Expansion Options
This motherboard offers several connectivity options, including multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, and ample storage options through M.2 slots. While it doesn’t have the same extensive I/O as more premium boards, it still provides all the necessary ports for gaming and productivity setups.
It also features AI cooling technology to automatically manage fan speeds, ensuring the system remains cool during long gaming sessions or heavy workloads.
Advantages
- Budget-friendly: Significantly cheaper than high-end motherboards without skimping on essential features.
- DDR4 support: Saves costs while providing fast memory options.
- Good connectivity: Offers multiple USB 3.2 ports and M.2 slots for adequate expansion.
Disadvantages
- Lacks PCIe 5.0: Not as future-proof as more advanced motherboards.
- Basic cooling and VRM design: Not ideal for heavy overclocking or extreme performance setups.
- Limited premium features: No Thunderbolt 4 or advanced audio systems.
Ideal Use Case
This board is perfect for budget-conscious builders who still want to use Intel’s powerful 12th or 13th-gen processors. Gamers, students, or light content creators who don’t need cutting-edge features like PCIe 5.0 or DDR5 memory will find this motherboard offers great value at an affordable price.
6. MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi
Best for: Budget-Friendly AMD Builds with Next-Gen Features
The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi is an excellent mid-range motherboard for AMD builds, specifically for those using Ryzen 7000-series processors. It’s a great alternative for builders who want to take advantage of some of the latest technologies, such as PCIe 5.0, without spending as much as they would on a high-end motherboard.
Key Features and Architecture
The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi uses AMD’s B650 chipset, which is compatible with Ryzen 7000-series processors and the AM5 socket. This makes it a future-proof board that supports the latest AMD CPUs. One of the standout features of this motherboard is its support for PCIe 5.0, which is usually reserved for more expensive models. This means that even budget-conscious users can build systems with cutting-edge storage or GPU options.
This board also supports DDR5 memory, another future-proofing move, allowing users to take advantage of the higher speeds and efficiency of DDR5 RAM. It’s designed with a 14+2+1 VRM layout, which is more than capable of handling mid-level overclocking and maintaining stable performance during intensive tasks.
Connectivity and Features
In terms of connectivity, the B650 Tomahawk offers Wi-Fi 6, which is a welcome addition for users who prefer wireless setups or don’t have easy access to Ethernet. There’s also 2.5G LAN support for fast wired connections, making it a flexible option for gamers and content creators alike.
The motherboard includes multiple M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs and ample USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for fast data transfers. Despite its more affordable price point, it doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of connectivity or expandability.
Advantages
- Affordable next-gen features: Offers PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support at a mid-range price.
- Good power delivery for overclocking: Solid VRM design for stable performance during overclocking.
- Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5G LAN: Modern connectivity options ensure fast and stable internet connections.
Disadvantages
- Mid-range VRM: While it supports some overclocking, it’s not as robust as high-end motherboards.
- No Thunderbolt support: Lacks advanced connectivity options available on premium boards.
Ideal Use Case
The MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi is ideal for gamers and creators who want to take advantage of AMD’s latest Ryzen processors and PCIe 5.0 GPUs without breaking the bank. Its strong connectivity options make it perfect for users who need fast wireless internet or frequent data transfers but don’t require extreme overclocking capabilities.
Conclusion
When choosing the best motherboard for your build, the key factors to consider include your budget, the type of CPU you’re using, the level of future-proofing you desire, and the specific features that are important to you, such as PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support, and connectivity options.
For those looking for the absolute best in performance, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Hero and MSI MEG Z790 ACE are outstanding choices for extreme overclocking and handling cutting-edge components, but they come at a premium price. Enthusiasts who want future-proof systems with high-end features, like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, will find these motherboards are worth the investment.
If you’re an AMD user and prefer a high-end option without overspending, the GIGABYTE AORUS Master X670E is another solid choice with robust power delivery and superior cooling. For Intel users looking for a mid-tier solution, the ASUS Prime B760-PLUS D4 is an excellent motherboard that saves on cost without sacrificing too many modern features.
For budget-conscious builders who still want next-gen features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, the MSI MAG B650 Tomahawk WiFi is a great option for AMD users. Similarly, the ASUS Prime B760-PLUS D4 is a good choice for Intel users who don’t need high-end features but still want good performance at a lower price point.
Ultimately, every motherboard in this guide offers something different for every type of builder, whether you’re looking to build a high-performance gaming rig, a professional workstation, or a budget-friendly PC that can handle most modern tasks. By selecting a motherboard that fits your specific needs, you can create a system that not only performs well today but will continue to serve you well into the future.
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About Author
Jacob Smith
I am a copywriter specialized in Tech & electronic products. I enjoy analyzing articles focused on PC, Motherboards, Graphics cards, and much more. Previously, I was a contributor to Blogs Hour. In short, my greatest passion is to write about PC and how we can build pc in an easy way, but I have other hobbies such as cinema, geography, sports, and talking with my friends.