Having the right motherboard is always important when building a computer. No matter if you are building an open air gaming PC or a server you need to get the motherboard right. It is one of the most important pieces of the PC puzzle. It is also one of the most expensive pieces of the PC puzzle. This blog is going to look at the best budget motherboards, what they are good for and which ones are the best.
Best Budget LGA 1200 Motherboard
ASUS Prime B560M-A LGA 1200 micro ATX motherboard
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Ready for 11th Gen Intel Core processors.ASUS 5X PROTECTION III : Overvoltage Protection
- Enhanced power solution: 8 power stages, alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power delivery
- Comprehensive cooling: Stronger VRM heatsink, flexible M.2 heatsink, PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 2+
- Memory overclocking: Support memory overclocking up to 5000 MHz
- ASUS OptiMem II: Careful routing for significantly reducing crosstalk, preserving signal integrity for improved memory stability
The ASUS Prime B560M-A LGA 1200 micro ATX motherboard is the latest high-performance motherboard designed for high-performance computing (HPC) systems. It provides an optimized platform for HPC, and delivers the features required for users to configure their system easily. It is ready to deliver superior performance for graphics and multimedia. This Intel 10th Generation (10.0) processor-based motherboards are designed for enthusiasts, gamers, and overclocked who want a superior motherboard experience. With an enhanced feature set and enhanced audio, they offer an incredible value for your money.
With multiple high-quality PCI-Express slots for more storage expansion options, the Prime B560M-A can support the latest graphics card up to GTX1080. With Intel Smart Connect Technology and dual BIOS, the Prime B560M-A also supports multi-booting for more flexible usage.
ASUS Prime B560-PLUS LGA1200 (Intel 11th/10th Gen) ATX Motherboard
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Ready for 11th Gen Intel Core processors
- Comprehensive cooling: VRM heatsink, flexible M.2 heatsink, PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 2+
- ASUS OptiMem: Careful routing of traces and vias to preserve signal integrity for improved memory stability
- Ultrafast connectivity: PCIe 4.0, Intel 1 Gb Ethernet, rear USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C and Thunderbolt 4 header support
- 5X Protection III: Multiple hardware safeguards for all-round protection.
This motherboard supports many CPUs, such as Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, AMD Ryzen CPUs, etc. You can choose between the 4 memory slots for DDR4 2666 and lower, 8 memory slots for DDR4 3466 and higher, or 2 memory slots for DDR3 2666.
This motherboard provides ample expansion space for overclocking your processor, supporting many different processors with different configurations.
Featuring the exclusive Intel Optane technology for a blazing fast system response time and support for the latest 8th/9th/11th gen Intel CPUs, the ASUS Z270 motherboards deliver superior overclocking potential with their dual BIOS modes, PCIe Gen3 x16 slot, and up to 32 GB dual-channel DDR4 memory.
GIGABYTE B460M DS3H V2 Motherboard
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core Processors and 11th Gen Intel Core Processors
- Dual Channel Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4, 4 DIMMs
- NVMe PCIe Gen3 X4 M.2 Connectors
- Smart Fan 5 Features Multiple Temperature Sensors
- Hybrid Fan Headers with FAN STOP
GIGABYTE has officially released the new B460M Series motherboard. The B460M is designed for those users who need the utmost performance in a mainstream ATX motherboard. With GIGABYTE’s newest platform in place, the B460M will allow users to take advantage of AMD’s new Ryzen processors, and future DDR4 memory chips
Its large copper heatpipes ensure efficient heat dissipation and cooling performance even under heavy load conditions, and dual side panels with dust filters keep dust to a minimum. It comes equipped with high-quality components such as a 2nd Generation Intel Core i7-5960x processor with integrated Intel HD Graphics 520, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 graphics with 4GB GDDR5 VRAM, and 16GB DDR4 memory for excellent multimedia performance and smooth game experiences.
This motherboard supports PCI Express, USB 3.0, and SATA 6Gbps. Features a built-in fan controller for stable and quiet cooling. Supports Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and ME. Can handle multiple graphics cards.
MSI Z490-A PRO ProSeries ATX Motherboard
- Supports 10th Generation Intel Core / Pentium Gold / Celeron Processors for LGA 1200 socket
- Supports dual channel DDR4 memory up to 128GB (4800MHz)
- Twin Turbo M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr delivers transfer speeds of up to 32 GB/s for ultra-fast SSDs
- Core Boost technology combines optimized power circuit layouts, double CPU power connectors, and a digital power design which allows for precise and steady current delivery to the CPU
- On-board 2.5G LAN plus Gigabit LAN with with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)
The latest MSI Z490-A PRO offers the industry’s best cooling design. With the use of Direct Airflow Technology (DAT) and dual MOSFET-based VRMs, the Z490-A PRO provides the absolute best performance in the high-end market. The MSI Z490 motherboard also features the new 3D Sonic Radar 5, the first of its kind on the motherboard market.
The Z490 PRO chipset offers support for up to an impressive 128GB of RAM, four DDR4 memory slots, USB 3.1 Gen 2, USB 3.1 Gen 1, Thunderbolt 3, and more. The I/O panel offers a comprehensive set of ports to enable connections for your devices, and the new RGB LED fan headers to enable customizable lighting.
The MSI Z490-A PRO has an impressive feature set, including the latest DDR4 memory support, PCIe Gen3 XMP 2.0 RAID function, and high-performance Wi-Fi technology. With all these improvements, you can experience greater gaming and multimedia performance, as well as amazing overclocking potential.
GIGABYTE Z590 AORUS ELITE Gaming Motherboard
- Supports 11th and 10th Gen Intel Core Series Processors
- Dual Channel Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4, 4 DIMMs
- Direct 12 plus1 Phases Digital VRM Solution with 60A DrMOS
- Shielded Memory Routing for Better Memory Overclocking
- Fully Covered Thermal Design with High Coverage MOSFET Heatsinks
The GIGABYTE Z590 AORUS Elite gaming motherboard was designed to provide users with maximum performance in the form of increased memory bandwidth and faster CPU frequencies. At the same time, it provides enhanced audio and video capabilities through improved onboard Audio Codec, and supports the latest PCI Express 3.0 technologies for optimal graphics performance. With triple
M.2 slots supporting PCI-e 4.0, USB 3.2, and NVMe technologies, the Z590 is ready for extreme PC performance. It also includes three DDR4 DIMM slots supporting up to 32GB of memory. For gamers looking for the ultimate connectivity, the GIGABYTE Ultra Durable 3 has a built-in armor plate and is protected from bumps, drops, and shocks to prevent damage in extreme gaming environments.
When you buy a GIGABYTE motherboard, you’re buying an amazing combination of performance and features. Your motherboard is the foundation of your system, and we’ve designed ours to give you maximum performance and versatility at the lowest possible cost.
Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Ultra
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core processors
- Direct 12 Phases Digital VRM with 50A Smart Power Stage with Tantalum Polymer Capacitors Array
- Next Generations VRM Cooling Fins Array and Direct Touch Heatpipe with Nanocarbon coating
- Shielded Xtreme Memory Design with Tantalum Polymer Capacitors Array
- Dual Channel Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4, 4 DIMMs
It comes with the latest Intel Z490 chipset, which allows you to take advantage of an enhanced range of features. You can use the motherboard for various gaming purposes as it supports DDR4 RAM and is compatible with the Intel 8th generation processors.
The motherboard has six SATA ports which allow you to add two more hard drives to your system. It also supports multiple USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports and the use of both front and rear audio outputs.
It includes Gigabyte’s RGB Fusion technology, a lighting feature that adds extra functionality to the motherboard. This allows users to change the colors and patterns of the RGB lighting depending on what mode they are using.
ASUS ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Designed to unleash the maximum performance of 10th Gen Intel Core processors
- Robust Power Solution: 12+2 power stages with ProCool II power connector, high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors to provide reliable power when pushing CPU performance to the limit
- Optimized Thermal Design: VRM heatsink, PCH fanless heatsink, M. 2 heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 4 utility
- High-performance Gaming Networking: On-board Intel 2. 5 Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANGuard
- Best Gaming Connectivity: Supports HDMI 1. 4 and DisplayPort 1. 4 output, and featuring dual M. 2, front panel USB 3. 2 Gen 2 Type-C connector
If you’re looking for a top-end motherboard for an entry-level gaming rig, the ASUS ROG Strix Z490-G is it. It’s more than just a board, though; it’s also an entire system in a compact enclosure.
It can be easily set up as a desktop system or tucked away under your desk for a more portable option. The Z490-G is available in two versions – a full ATX and MicroATX model, each packing some impressive features.
This motherboard has everything you need to have a flawless gaming experience.
ASUS ROG Maximus XII Formula
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Designed to unleash the maximum performance of 10th Gen Intel Core processors
- Extreme Power Solution: features 16 infineon power stages, each rated to handle 70 amps, high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors to provide reliable power even when push the CPU performance to the limit
- Hybrid Cooling System: CrossChill EK III VRM block and Extra-large heatsinks for VRM, chipset and M. 2 slots, solid steel backplate lets you cool with air and water
- Fastest Gaming Connectivity: Intel WiFi 6 AX201 (802. 11 ax), Dual Ethernet with Marvell AQtion 10Gb and Intel 2. 5Gb Ethernet with LANGaurd technology, Triple M. 2 slots, USB 3. 2 Gen 2x2 front panel connectors
- Unmatched Personalization: 2” Livedash OLED, ASUS-exclusive Aura Sync RGB lighting, including 2X 4-pin RGB header and 2x Gen 2 addressable RGB headers
The motherboard is equipped with an overclocked chipset, verified and validated by the overclocking benchmarking tool, and has some of the latest technologies. This motherboard is very suitable for the overclocking function.
The motherboard has 16 power stages.
EK has also added innovative elements to this motherboard, such as the CrossChill III thermal compound, the Triple M.2 SSDs (two on the first PCIe x16 slot), the 2.5″ LiveDash LED display, the Aura RGB lighting system, and other features.
It can say that this is a very versatile motherboard.
Gigabyte H410M S2H
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core Processors
- Dual Channel Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4, 2 DIMMs
- 8-Channel HD Audio with High Quality Audio Capacitors
- Ultra-Fast M.2 with PCIe Gen3 X4 & SATA Interface
- Intel GbE LAN with cFosSpeed Internet Accelerator Software
GIGABYTE is a famous brand of computer hardware because of its affordable price, good looks, and reliable service. The H410M is one of the many models they offer, and it includes several useful features. A great feature of this motherboard is the size.
It is small enough to fit into any case, but at the same time, it can also support large graphics cards. Another feature that this model has is that it is PCI Express-ready, meaning that it can run multiple graphics cards without any issues.
This is a gaming motherboard for Intel’s 10th-generation processors and supports up to four graphics cards. It’s got a lot of power-efficient components that can work together to create a robust system.
ASROCK B460M PRO4 Motherboard
- Supports 10th Gen Intel Core Processors (Socket 1200)
- 9 Power Phase Design
- Supports DDR4 2933MHz
- 2 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 3.0 x1, 1 M.2 (Key E) for WiFi
- AMD Quad CrossFireX and CrossFireX
ASRock’s B460M PRO4 is designed with multiple new features to improve its performance. It offers better compatibility with 4 DDR4 memory slots, dual-channel M.2 connectors, Gigabit LAN, two USB 3.0 ports, and more.
This motherboard also supports the 10th generation of Intel processors, which means it can help the Intel Z390 platform built on the 7th Gen core series chipset. It has been tested successfully with the 10th Gen Skylake processor to be compatible with the latest Intel processors.
How to choose the best motherboard? Buying guide
There is a lot to consider when choosing the best motherboard for your needs. The first thing to think about is what type of CPU you want to use.
AMD and Intel CPUs require different types of sockets, so you will need to make sure that the motherboard you choose has the correct socket for your CPU. You will also need to make sure that the motherboard supports the type of RAM you want to use. DDR3 and DDR4 are the most common types of RAM, but there are others as well.
Make sure that the motherboard you choose has the correct slots for the type of RAM you want to use. Another important consideration is what type of expansion slots you need. PCI Express slots are the most common, but there are others as well. Make sure that the motherboard you choose has enough expansion slots for all the components you want to use.
Lastly, you need to consider the form factor of the motherboard. ATX and microATX are the most common form factors, but there are others as well. Make sure that the motherboard you choose will fit in the case you want to use.
Frequently asked questions
Is an LGA 1200 motherboard good for gaming?
How to select the best Intel LGA 1200 motherboard
The ASUS ROG Maximus XII Formula is one of the best motherboards available for enthusiast gamers who push their hardware to its limits. Even though it is costly, it will keep your gaming rig going for a long time or until you decide to upgrade again.
What is the cheapest LGA 1200 motherboard?
H410M S2H from Gigabyte
A 10th generation Intel processor can be supported by the Gigabyte H410M S2H, the cheapest LGA 1200 motherboard on our list.
Will Intel 11th GEN be LGA 1200?
Intel Desktop Processors from the 10th Generation and 11th Generation use the LGA1200 socket, and they require motherboards with the Intel 400 Series Desktop Chipset or Intel 500 Series Desktop Chipset.
What is the LGA 1200 socket motherboard?
Here are a few high-quality LGA1200 motherboards featuring Intel’s 500 series chipset. Intel’s 10th and 11th generation processors can run on these motherboards.
Does LGA 1200 support the 12th Gen?
A new socket for Intel’s 12th Gen Core “Alder Lake” processors (CPUs). Compared to the previous LGA 1200 socket, this is a replacement for Intel’s 10th and 11th generations of CPUs.
Is LGA 1200 compatible with LGA 1700?
It won’t be possible to use your old CPU cooler with the new LGA 1700 socket. LGA 1200 cooling components will not work with Z690 motherboards since the socket dimensions have changed.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed our blog about the best LGA 1200 motherboard. If you are looking for a motherboard that will allow you to run a high-end i7-7700K and DDR4-2666 RAM, you should definitely consider the GIGABYTE Z590 AORUS. It’s a great motherboard at a reasonable price. If you have a different motherboard in mind, please let us know in the comments below.
