The Art of Choosing the Best Motherboard for Gaming

Building a new gaming PC is always fun, but with so many specs, requirements, and components, it can also get stressful.   

One core component of gaming PCs is the motherboard. Because a motherboard is a critical part of a gaming PC, gamers should consider a few factors when choosing one to ensure a smooth and ultimate gaming experience.   

Master the Motherboard: An Essential Guide 
 

If you are a gamer searching for how to choose a mother board or need tips on choosing the best motherboard for gaming, this is an essential guide for mastering your decision! 

CPU Socket Type 
  

The CPU socket type is the physical interface where the CPU connects to the motherboard. It plays a critical role in ensuring the correct functionality of a gaming PC and selecting the wrong one can seriously jeopardise your gaming experience.   

Regarding a motherboard’s CPU socket type, ensure it matches your selected CPU. In addition, you can choose between an AMD or Intel CPU socket. Both differ by size and shape. You should also be mindful of the socket type’s generation. A newer generation is better for high-end gaming, while an older generation is suitable otherwise.   

Size and Form Factor  
 

Paying attention to the size and form factor of the motherboard is also vital to choose the best motherboard for gaming. Ideally, the motherboard should fit the case comfortably. The most common types of size and form factors of motherboards that exist are XL-ATX (extra large), E-ATX (large), ATX (normal), micro-ATX (small), and mini-ITX (extra small).   

Chipset  
 

A motherboard’s chipset significantly impacts its performance, features, and compatibility. We recommend a higher-end chipset for enhanced performance, improved power delivery, overclocking support, and additional benefits like futureproofing and longevity. 

Compatibility  

The motherboard should be compatible with your selected CPU, RAM, and other components.  
 

Expansion Slots  

Your motherboard should have expansion slots (PCIe and M.2). PCIe slots support GPUs, sound cards, and other expansion cards, and it is also recommended that you have at least one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot on your motherboard to enjoy high-performance graphics. Additionally, look for M.2 slots. M.2 supports high-speed SSDs, while M.2 SATA supports SSD and SATA drives. Nonetheless, the number and types of M.2 slots will affect your storage options.   

RAM Support 

The best motherboard for gaming supports the highest-quality RAM (DDR RAM). In addition, gamers who desire smooth gaming performance should opt for at least 16 GB RAM. 

Overclocking Support  
 

Most gamers prefer overclocking their CPU and GPU to boost performance. If you are one of them, look for features like adjustable BIOS settings, VRM heatsinks, and powerful power delivery to ensure an efficient and stable overclocking experience. 
 

I/O Ports  
 

The motherboard should have sufficient USB ports (USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 3.2 Gen 1), network ports (2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E), audio ports (HD audio, S/PDIF output), display outputs (HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4), and other ports like Thunderbolt 4 and PS/2 ports for efficient, optimal use. 

BIOS  
 

A user-friendly BIOS can make configuration and troubleshooting easy, so look for one on your motherboard.   

Cooling  

Your chosen motherboard should have an efficient cooling solution for steady, reliable, and stable performance.   

Aesthetics and Price 

When choosing motherboard, consider price and aesthetics to make a practical decision. It is better to have a motherboard that works well than one that looks good. However, the motherboard should still have a sturdy build for long-term and sustained use. Additionally, motherboards vary by price and setting a budget can streamline your research and help you find the right fit easily.  

Brand Matters!  
 

For quality purchases and extensive use, opt for a motherboard from a trusted and reputed brand like ASUS, MSI, or GIGABYTE. 
 

Read Reviews  
 

Read reviews and compare features for a refined selection.  
 

Decide 

After considering and doing all the above, pick the best option accordingly. 
 

Top Gaming Motherboards: Engineered for Epic Victories! 
 

Here are our top gaming motherboard picks for exceptional gaming experiences and epic victories! 
  

ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 APEX LGA 1851 DDR5 ATX Motherboard (90MB1IP0-M0EAY0)  
 

Specifications  
 

• DDR5 Memory  
• Intel Z890 Chipset  
• LGA 1851 Socket  
• Motherboard Support: ATX  
• White Colour  
• 3-Year Warranty   
• HDMI | USB 3.2 | DisplayPort  

Features 
 

The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 APEX LGA 1851 DDR5 ATX motherboard fully supports Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). It is precision-engineered for supreme overclocking and offers outstanding power delivery. In addition, it has a two-slot DDR5 memory layout and boasts a sleek and refined look.  
 

With an Intel Z890 chipset, an LGA 1851 socket, and multiple port support, the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 APEX LGA 1851 DDR5 ATX motherboard offers overclocking support, PCIe Gen 5 support, compatibility, upgradability, and seamless connectivity with various devices, making it an excellent choice for high-end gamers. It also supports AI Cooling II and has a ROG Memory Fan Kit for more optimal cooling and minimal noise, customised fan curves, effective monitoring of various components, and phenomenal cooling. It supports WiFi 7, 1 x Realtek 5GB Ethernet, and ASUS LANGuard. Additional features include AI Networking II, ASUS AI Advisor, and USB Wattage Watcher, while support for extensive software like ARMOURY CRATE, ASUS Glidex, and others further improve and simplify use. 

Overall, the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z890 APEX LGA 1851 DDR5 ATX is one of the best motherboards for gaming. Its robust, steady, and stable performance and use stand out. At the same time, with an ATX form factor, it offers versatility, expandability, and compatibility. You can buy it today at a notable discount and with a 3-year warranty at Box. 

MSI Intel MEG Z890 ACE DDR5 PCIe 5.0 ATX Motherboard (MEG Z890 ACE)  
 

Specifications 
 

• DDR5 Memory  
• Intel Z890 Chipset  
• LGA 1851 Socket  
• Motherboard Support: ATX  
• Ultra+ Power  
• Frozr Design  
• Dual Thunderbolt 4  
• 10G Super LAN  
• Audio Boost 5 HD  
• Black Colour  
• 1-Year Warranty  
• HDMI | USB | Thunderbolt 4  

Features 
 

The MSI Intel MEG Z890 ACE DDR5 PCIe 5.0 ATX motherboard is another one of our top picks for the best motherboards for gaming. It offers the ultimate power solution for maximum CPU performance. Specs-wise, it features an Intel Z890 chipset and LGA 1851 socket and supports DDR5 memory. 

Gamers will instantly fall in love with this incredible MSI motherboard's remarkable performance. It offers core and memory boost and has a FROZR design, boasting a wavy fin design, direct-touch cross heatpipe, 9W/mK thermal pads, MOSFET baseplate, double-sided M.2 shield Frozr, and Frozr AI software, ensuring mind-blowing performance at low temperatures.   

The MSI Intel MEG Z890 ACE DDR5 PCIe 5.0 ATX motherboard packs dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and supports 10G LAN and the latest Wi-Fi. It also has expansion slots (PCI Express and M.2) and I/O ports. Concurrently, it has an EZ Debug LED and EZ button, providing an easy BIOS Flashback or CMOS Clear function, and supports Audio Boost 5 HD for improved audio quality, enhanced audio isolation, virtual surround sound, and bass boost. 

If you are interested in getting the MSI Intel MEG Z890 ACE DDR5 PCIe 5.0 ATX motherboard, you can buy it today at Box.co.uk with a 1-year warranty. 
 

Conclusion  
 

Building a gaming PC is fun but demanding and constructing the best one requires meticulous consideration of numerous specs, features, and components. 

Concerning a gaming PC’s components, the motherboard is considered its 'backbone' as it connects all the other parts of a system, such as the RAM, GPU, and storage drives. However, choosing a motherboard is usually technical and many gamers are left confused about how to select the right one. Nevertheless, by considering the points discussed above, you can pick an immaculate motherboard for your needs. 

Box.co.uk is a comprehensive online destination in the UK that offers a wide range of gaming motherboards. At Box, we offer motherboards from leading brands like ASUS, MSI, and GIGABYTE, ensuring stunning performance every time. All motherboards at Box are competitively priced and include warranties for peace of mind. We also offer various gaming and non-gaming laptops, desktops, phones, tablets, monitors, other PC components, and accessories to meet varied tech needs! Find a suitable fit for your needs by browsing our collection today!   

A motherboard is the foundation of any gaming empire! Choose the ideal one today at Box to adapt, conquer, and dominate!