Before making your selection, however, the choice of CPU is crucial, as Intel and AMD use different motherboards that are not compatible with each other. For DIY PC builders, this is something to keep in mind. Below, we break down motherboards into three categories—entry-level, mid-range, and high-end—to make the decision easier.
| Entry-Level Motherboards |
Target Audience:
Casual home users
Office PCs
Features:
Basic expandability with typically 2 RAM slots and 1 PCIe slot.
I/O ports generally do not have heat sinks, and the chipset is often directly visible on the PCB.
Recommended Processor:
Intel: i3 series, i5 series
AMD: R3 series, R5 series
Motherboard Models:
Intel: H series, some entry-level B series (e.g., H610).
AMD: A series (e.g., A520, A620).
| Mid-Range Motherboards |
Target Audience:
Light gamers
Regular content creators
Features:
Better expandability with up to 4 RAM slots and multiple PCIe slots.
Improved heat dissipation materials compared to entry-level models; some mid-range motherboards feature ARGB lighting.
Recommended Processor:
Intel: i5 series, i7 series
AMD: R5 series, R7 series
Motherboard Models:
Intel: B series (e.g., B660, B760).
AMD: B series (e.g., B550, B650).
| High-End Motherboards |
Target Audience:
Hardcore gamers
Professional content creators
High-performance PC enthusiasts
Features:
Maximum expandability, including full coverage heat sinks, multiple PCIe slots, and USB Type-C ports.
Supports overclocking, allowing users to push the CPU to its performance limits.
Recommended Processor:
Intel: i7 series, i9 series, and any CPU ending with a "K" (overclocking-capable).
AMD: R7 series, R9 series
Motherboard Models:
Intel: Z series (e.g., Z790).
AMD: X series (e.g., X670, X670E).
When choosing a motherboard, it’s essential to consider your specific needs, budget, and use case. Entry-level boards are great for everyday use, while mid-range models provide better performance for light gaming and content creation. High-end motherboards are designed for extreme gamers, professionals, and enthusiasts who demand top-tier performance and expandability. By evaluating your needs, you can select the appropriate motherboard category and model to ensure your build meets your expectations.
