10 Best AM4 Motherboards

AMD is undoubtedly a popular and trending CPU manufacturer in the current times, owing to a number of powerful CPUs. And the AM4 chipset has been a huge success for the brand. Although it was originally launched in 2017, it still is used widely despite a number of newly introduced chipsets.

Planning to upgrade your AM4 CPU? Because it is now considered an old chipset, you may find it challenging to find the best AM4 motherboard. Here is a detailed review guide for these motherboards along with some useful buying instructions. So, dive right in and choose wisely.

10 Best AM4 Motherboards

1. Gigabyte B450M DS3H Motherboard

I am starting my list of the best AM4 motherboards with this B450M from Gigabyte. It is my all-time favorite for mid-level games, as it has a wide heatsink and pretty decent storage support. All in all, I would say the clocking speed is great, and there was no input lag with games in medium settings.

The first thing to note about this motherboard is its compact build, as it saved me a lot of counter space. It further has an all-steel structure that is quite durable. I also really like the addition of the RGB fusion element, as it elevates the mood instantly. It is available in seven customizable colors.

Lastly, speaking of storage, this one features four DDR4 RAM channels, each having 16 GB capacity. You can also utilize the 4 PCIe slots to expand the storage. All this combined provides you with 3600 MHz, which is more than enough for casual or mid-level games in medium settings without any input lag.

Wrapping up, this Gigabyte B450 motherboard is for anyone who is upgrading from a basic PC setup and needs a reasonable yet performance-oriented alternative. It has been my companion for a long time, and there were no lag issues. Likewise, its blended gray interior makes it visually appealing.

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2. ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming Motherboard

ASUS is a leading brand when it comes to computer equipment for its innovative and practical models. This one is no different and specifically designed for experienced gamers, all credit to its comprehensive heatsink and multiple connection options. Also, it supports multiple Ryzen processors, making it versatile.

First of all, this one has a wide VRM design that integrates a big aluminum heatsink and a separate water pump. This regulates the temperature and boosts the clocking performance well. It is further powered by 8+4 MOS capacitors that make sure you have an uninterrupted and consistent power supply.

In the end, for storage, it has four RAM slots, and the maximum they can reach is 4400 MHz. The manufacturers have further added 2 PCIe slots and 6 SATA ports. They may not be the best for the price, but they can facilitate 64GB RAM, which is pretty decent for games in medium settings, without any lag.

In essence, this ASUS Strix B450-F is a great choice for anyone in search of something capable of handling heavy loads. It features 8+4 MOS capacitors and a big aluminum heatsink that keeps the power consistent and prevents the chances of overheating. I have used it primarily for intermediate games.

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3. ASUS Prime B450M-A/CSM AMD AM4 Motherboard

Here comes yet another quality option from ASUS for budget enthusiasts. It is known for its versatile connectivity options and smart control buttons, which makes it pretty easy for beginners to get a hold of it. In addition, its neutral blended gray aesthetics complement the majority of PC setups out there.

First of all, this unit is equipped with a small size and steel interior that works for basic PCs and lasts for a long time. The manufacturers have also added a heatsink to make sure the temperature is regulated. For connectivity, it has all the basic options that give a 3.2 Gbps LAN connection combined.

Lastly, when it comes to storage capacity, this one is equipped with 64 GB RAM that can reach a max of 2400 MHz. You can also install memory kits using the 3 PCIe expansion slots to boost the speed and response. However, do consider that it is a micro ATX that may not work for professional gamers.

Final thoughts, this ASUS Prime B450M is my all-time favorite for casual gamers who want a basic yet efficient motherboard. It has multiple storage connection options along with a heatsink that helps you maintain speed and reduce lag. Also, its compact design saves you a lot of space on the table.

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4. MSI Performance Motherboard (B450 GAMING Max)

This MSI gaming motherboard is designed for anyone who wants a basic yet performance-oriented backup to support their gaming routine. The reason why most gamers prefer this is its wide array of connectivity options that boost up the speed and memory.

The first thing that impressed me about this model is its extended heatsink that regulates the temperature and improves the load capacity. Also, the fact that manufacturers have added a Turbo M.2 slot for speed makes it stand out among competitors.

Moreover, speaking of storage, it supports four DDR4 channels, each of which has 32GB of space. So, the total 128 GB can go up to 2133 MHz without any lag. You are also getting 4 PCIe slots that make a huge difference in storage and boost the clocking performance. Still, it may not work for professionals.

In conclusion, this MSI B450 motherboard is great for anyone who has decided on a budget and wants incredible speed to run heavy games. It features multiple storage connection options and extra slots. Also, it is equally worth mentioning that the manufacturers have added rear Realtek ALC892 audio ports.

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5. ASUS TUF B450M-Plus Gaming Motherboard

If you are a gamer looking for a comprehensive module setup at a reasonable price range, do give this motherboard a try. Despite being compact, it is equipped with military-graded elements that last you for a long time. Moreover, I love its all-black structure that complements most PCs out there.

Speaking of memory storage, this one features a 64 GB DDR4, which is more than enough for casual gamers to enjoy a seamless experience. The max it can reach is 2400 MHz. I wouldn’t recommend you play your games in high settings. Sadly, because of price restrictions, it only has 3 PCIe slots for storage.

Another thing that deserves appreciation is its buildup quality. It has an all-steel TUF interior that is highly durable and resists overheating ideally. Here, the manufacturers have also added an RGB element that has multiple effects. So, you can customize the RGB effects as per your mood while gaming.

Final thoughts, this ASUS TUF motherboard is a great choice for casual gamers who want a seamless experience with minimal lag. It features an all-steel interior with a fairly big heatsink that lasts you for a long time and prevents overheating. Likewise, it has USB Type-C, HDMI, and 4 SATA ports for data transfer.

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6. MSI X570-A PRO AM4 AMD Motherboard

This is an upgraded version of the X470 with an improved cooling setup and storage capacity. It is specifically designed for single-GPU setups that demand reasonable overclocking performance. Moreover, it has an extended heatsink and powerful capacitors, providing you with a clean power supply.

First of all, this unit comes with a special Frozr heatsink that integrates patented fan and propeller blade technology. It makes sure you have a regulated temperature and a consistent power supply. It also has a separate RGB light that is customizable and allows gamers to change the entire gaming mood each time.

In addition, this one supports 128 DDR4 RAM that can reach the clocking speed of 2666 MHz. This combo works great for entry-level and mid-level games. I would advise you to use the three SATA slots and a PCIe port to boost the memory speed. This is because there was some lag without extra drive storage.

In essence, this MSI X570-A Pro is for anyone who can spend money on the speed and cooling system. The highlight of this model is its patented Frozr heatsink and large storage that adds to the data transfer speed and clocking performance. Overall, I would say it is a long-term investment, so your money is safe.

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7. ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming ATX Motherboard

Coming from ASUS, this X570 E is best known for its overlocking speed and CPU support. This is why most mid-level gamers prefer this over the X470. I really like this unit for its comprehensive cooling system, as it prevents any heating issues and contributes to the overlocking performance significantly.

The first thing that impressed me about this unit is its active PCH heatsink. It has a separate pump header and M.2 slots, providing the motherboard with improved heat dissipation and better thermal efficiency. This, along with the 128 GB RAM, makes the gaming experience incredibly enjoyable without any lag.

Moreover, the manufacturers have added a form factor that facilitates 4 PCIe ports, which means a better memory capacity. This way, you can also install 2 NVMe M.2 slots for better speed. The best part about this gaming motherboard is that it has built-in Wifi 6 and Bluetooth 5 for data transfer.

This ASUS ROG X570 E is a perfect option for mid-level gamers, all credit to its comprehensive cooling system. It has a big aluminum heatsink with separate water pump headers that regulates heat ideally. Likewise, you will also find 7 USB Gen 2 ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Type C ports for data transfer.

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8. MSI Performance Gaming AMD X470 Motherboard

Coming from MSI, this X470 is yet another quality alternative for casual to mid-level gamers, all thanks to its StoreMi technology. It supports multiple storage options and high data transfer rates that deliver well. Overall, this unit is compatible with AMD 2nd and 3rd Gen Ryzen processors, which is pretty versatile.

To start off with the storage, it has low-supported RAM, which might hinder the speed at medium settings. Yet, the good news is that it has four DIMM channels to boost RAM and improve the overclock speed. The max it can reach with a total of 128 GB is 2133 MHz, which is fast enough for casual games.

Now, when it comes to data transfer rates, this unit has a wide range of options. This includes a Turbo M.2 slot, USB Gen 2 ports, DVI-D ports, and SATA ports. Along with this, it has two audio connections. All this combined gives you a LAN connection of 1.5 Gbps that works appropriately for basic games.

This MSI X470 gaming motherboard is a perfect choice for anyone in search of something fast with extensive CPU support. It is best known for its four 32GB DIMM slots that help you improve the overclocking speed. Moreover, the fact that it is compatible with multiple processors adds to its value.

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9. GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Fusion Gaming Motherboard

For anyone building a mini PC setup, this Gigabyte X570 has been my all-time favorite. It has multiple advanced features, including an RGB element and an ITX package. Similarly, the fact that it supports NVMe slots and extra SATA ports allows new beginners to overclock their system and boost the speed.

The first thing I am impressed with is the compact structure, as it saved me a lot of space. Also, the manufacturers have utilized aluminum and steel for the interior, which is why it has an above-average life. Using the smart controls was no issue at all, even though I was a newbie at that time.

Lastly, it is accompanied by a mini-ITX package. This includes an M.2 slot and two PCIe ports. I find it a bit lacking in its storage memory, but given that it helped with clocking performance, it was fine for me. To regulate the temperature, it uses an 8-phase VRM cooling mechanism, which is quite functional.

Final thoughts, this one from Gigabyte is the best-suited option for new gamers who are building a mini PC, all thanks to its basic VRM setup and storage. It has a durable interior and a small size that complements such setups. Likewise, the addition of 5M/MK thermal pads makes sure the power is clean and consistent.

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10. ASRock B550M-HDV Motherboard

Here comes yet another of my favorite best AM4 motherboards from ASRock B-550 M for its price range. I have used this for building my small form-factor PC, and it worked pretty fine for that. There are enough storage options and a sufficient VRM cooling setup for a consistent power supply.

First of all, it has a 6-phase power design. At this price, I would say you cannot find better than this. It further comes with a big enough heatsink to regulate the temperature. Not only this, the steel does look blended and appealing, not to mention it is durable, which is a big plus for an affordable motherboard.

Speaking of features, this one comes with DDR4 RAM along with two PCIe slots. So, despite it being basic, you can always boost the storage. Overall, it supports 64 GB RAM that can reach a max clocking speed of 2400 MHz. This has worked fine for me as a new casual gamer in low to medium settings.

Wrapping up, after using this ASRock B550-M for a long time, I would say it serves well for the price. All in all, it has a pretty basic design with average features. It works pretty decently for casual gamers. Another reason why I picked this one is the blended white interior which makes it look expensive and neat.

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What to Consider While Buying the Best AM4 Motherboard: All You Need to Know

If you are planning to build a gaming or even a regular PC, you must be doing some research on leading manufacturers. And given that you are here, you are looking for one that is compatible with your AM4 chipset.

Here, you will have to look into things like compatibility, casing, connectivity options, and storage. I have brought together some significant features that can help you in finding the best AM4 motherboard that suits your needs and skill set.

Compatibility

First of all, the first thing you need to look into is the compatibility of the motherboard. So, ask yourself whether your chosen AM4 motherboard is compatible with the casing or not.

Generally, there are different types of frames, such as low-tower, mid-tower and high-tower casings. So, it is better to review each one before buying it. Although this aspect has nothing to do with your CPU performance, it does make a huge difference as to how it will look. Also, the wrong size can be a big disadvantage.

Socket Type

Here is another important aspect that you should know about when buying a motherboard. The primary function of the socket is to connect the CPU to your motherboard. Hence, it is pretty obvious that you need a chipset that is compatible with your processor.

In recent years, a number of AMD motherboards have been designed with AM4 sockets that match the majority of CPUs and can easily connect to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Gen CPUs. All in all, just make sure your preferred motherboard has an AM4 socket in this case.

Connectivity Options

When buying an AM4 motherboard, you should check its connectivity options. This is because they are going to determine the functionality of the motherboard. They are primarily divided into exterior and interior connectivity options.

Most commonly, the interior options include a fan header, panel connector, and smart controls. Despite the type, the rule of thumb says that more ports mean better performance and speed. Here is a breakdown of what you should expect from the exterior options;

• It is ideal to go for SATA ports (between 3 and 6) to increase the drive storage and speed.
• Expansion slots are designed to increase the data transfer rate speed. These are also known as PCIe slots, and the rule is to go for as many as you can. This is because having backup PCIe slots means more storage and clocking performance.
• USB Headers are for memory cards to improve functionality.
• Do go for DIMM slots to increase the drive space and improve the data transfer rates.
• Other options include USB Gen 3, Gen 2, Type-A, Type-C, DisplayPort, HDMI, and audio connections.

Memory Capacity

The third on my list of the important motherboard characteristics memory slots. Generally, people who love gaming prefer Ryzen CPUs because of their powerful speed. But Ryzen CPUs need a lot of storage to work properly.

This is why you should have an AM4 motherboard that allows you to install huge storage for the CPU. All in all, they can easily hold a storage capacity of 128 GB, which is a lot for mid-level gaming. You will also need extra slots to increase the storage capacity.

Also, consider the type, whether it is DDR4, DIMM, or DDR5. And if you are installing extra hard drive storage, do make sure that it is compatible with your preferred motherboard.

PCIe Expansion Slots

Although I have talked about them above, they certainly deserve a separate header, partly because of their contribution to the storage. In simple words, PCIe means peripheral component interconnect express. And their main function is to increase drive storage and improve the speed.

For beginners, it is more than enough to know that they are to check whether these external devices are compatible with the motherboard or not. These days, PCIe 4th Gen is quite popular, and most latest graphic cards are using it. These offer a high speed of 16 GT/s to these graphic cards. However, they may be a bit expensive.

Budget Allocation

Lastly, it is equally important to set your budget beforehand. Generally, AM4 motherboards are a little more expensive than their competitors, partly because they are mostly using sophisticated technology. This doesn’t mean you can’t find an affordable option as a casual gamer or for routine use.

Generally, they cost you anything between $50 and $200. For instance, if you want an average motherboard with standard features, keep the budget between $100 and $150. Newbies must not pay more than $100 for a basic motherboard. However, if you are buying it for intense gaming, it is ideal to go for an expensive option.

Finally, I hope now you know how to find the best MA4 motherboards that work for your skill set.

Commonly Asked Questions

What CPU can I use for AM4?

AM4 chipset was first released in 2017 and still is quite popular. Part of the reason is that they have high CPU support. Overall, this chipset is compatible with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Gen Ryzen processors. For anything above this, like the Ryzen 5th Gen processor, you need to check the motherboard documentation.

Is AM4 still worth buying?

Yes, AM4 is a pretty good choice for motherboards with Ryzen processors. This is partly because it costs you less yet offers high CPU support and memory storage. Most AM4 motherboards have a wide range of connectivity options and cooling setups that work for regular productivity tasks or gaming.

Does AM4 support Ryzen 5 Generation?

Yes, but it depends on the type of CPU and motherboard you have chosen. Basically, 5th-generation CPUs are the last generation which is why most people are confused about whether they work with 5th Gen processors or not. So, to check this, all you need to do is check the motherboard documentation.

Which AM4 motherboard is best?

You will find a number of motherboards out there for AM4 chipsets based on different skill sets and budgets. That being said, ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming Wi-Fi is the most loved, all thanks to its multiple connectivity options and extensive cooling setup.

What should I look for in an AM4 motherboard?

There are different things you should look at while buying an AM4 motherboard. This includes casing compatibility, memory storage capacity, memory speed, and clocking performance. Apart from this, you also need to have more connectivity ports to make sure it has fast data transfer rates.

Final Thoughts

Finally, choosing an AM4 motherboard can be challenging, given that it is old and has limited options across the market. The good news is that they are quite popular, and the specifications are quite simple.

So, even with little research, you can easily find the one that matches your requirements. And here are some of my favorites from the list;

• ASUS ROG Strix B450-F Gaming Motherboard is best known for its wide range of connectivity options, comprehensive cooling setup, and fast data transfer rate.
• GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Fusion Gaming Motherboard is one of the best for its memory storage, improved clocking performance, and strong interior elements.
• MSI Performance Gaming AMD X470 Motherboard is massively popular for its efficient cooling setup, durable structure, and low running cost.

Finally, I hope you will soon be able to find the best AM4 motherboard that matches your requirements and skill set.