TOP 25 best motherboards: 2021 rating by price/quality and which one to choose the coolest

Just as a house needs a strong foundation, a computer system cannot exist without a motherboard - a reliable platform on which all the necessary components are placed in the form of a processor, storage, RAM, cooling, network and sound cards.
In order for these components to work without failures and to fully reveal their potential, it is important not to make a mistake when choosing a motherboard. How to choose a board in terms of price/quality ratio?

What options are being considered first?

Which models are noted by buyers and experts.

We will talk about this in our rating article, where we tried not only to select the most popular and productive devices, but also to take into account their advantages and disadvantages.

Rating of the TOP 25 best motherboards of 2021

Drive controllers

Let's get acquainted with the number of internal connectors for connecting storage devices.
SATA connectors are used for connecting hard drives. Their number is six, and only the board from Gigabyte has only four sockets. This immediately makes it a worse choice if you have a large number of drives that interact with just such a connector.

A gaming motherboard could not do without a slot for an M.2 SSD drive. Moreover, products from Gigabyte and Asus have two such connectors! In the case of the first board, one of the slots is even covered with a heatsink, which allows you to achieve stable speed performance even from a relatively inexpensive drive.

Ratings

ASUS: 4.9, Gigabyte: 4.7, MSI: 4.7

How to choose a motherboard?

Experts recommend that you first decide on the processor on which you will create your own computer system. This will determine indicators such as socket and chipset.

After that, explore the remaining parameters:

1. Size or form factor . This rating will consider two types of boards - large ATX and compact micro-ATX. The latter are good for creating a system in a small package, for standard universal tasks. ATX, on the other hand, supports the most top-end components and whole bundles of them.
2. Cooling . The number of built-in radiators and the ability to install additional fans are the secret to stability and optimal temperature. The more complex the tasks, the more a cooling system is needed.
3. Slots for storage and RAM . In the first case, we are talking about M.2, which is replaced by a solid-state drive (aka SSD). The quality and quantity of this slot allows you to judge the available data transfer speed and how quickly access to files will open. As for RAM, manufacturers most often allocate two or four slots for it, determining the permissible maximum.
4. Net . Either this is a network card for wired Internet with a speed of 1000 Mbit/s or 2500 Mbit/s, or a network card and antenna for Wi-Fi (for newer and more powerful models).
5. RGB backlighting . Used for a beautiful design if you use a transparent or open case, and can also serve as an alert for existing errors using certain light codes.

Rating of the best MSI motherboards

TOP 2 best budget motherboards

ASRock A320M-DVS R4.0

An inexpensive platform for building an office or home computer, as well as an entry-level gaming system .
Due to its compact size, the motherboard fits perfectly into a small case, while the placement of components is maximally optimized and does not cause difficulties even for those who are assembling their own device for the first time.

The board comes with a rear I/O panel plug and two SATA cables.

The entire necessary set of settings can be downloaded from the official website; the BIOS is Russified and intuitive for every user. There is also a fast and stable Internet and two slots for RAM with a permissible frequency of up to 3200 MHz.

Main characteristics:

1. Which socket is it for? AM4.
2. The chipset used is AMD A320.
3. RAM indicators (slots/max) - 2/32 GB.
4. Power supply (base/for chip, in pin) - 24/4.
5. Size - microATX.
6. Cooling is passive.

pros

runs chips straight out of the box;

tested by time and customers;

Compact and stable, with a secure base.

Minuses

Some may not have enough RAM.

GIGABYTE H410M S2H

One of the best budget gaming motherboard options for 2021 .
Sturdy, compact and very reliable, the base does not bend under the weight of the components. Accompanied by a convenient and advanced BIOS with an intuitive design. Dual-channel RAM, up to 64 GB, is located on two slots.

The manufacturer, despite the low-cost device, tried to create the most reliable cooling system, which can be controlled through a proprietary application.

Here you will assess the current temperature of the system, study the forecast for further growth and add power to the fans or, if they are not needed, turn them off altogether.

Main characteristics:

1. For which socket - LGA1200.
2. The chipset used is Intel H410.
3. RAM indicators (slots/max) - 2/64 GB.
4. Power supply (base/for chip, in pin) - 24/8.
5. Size - microATX.
6. Cooling is passive.

pros

accessibility and compactness;

robust design;

good cooling system.

Minuses

no significant ones were found.

Price

Motherboards do not have the same price tag.
The least sellers ask for a product from MSI. This is one of the most affordable gaming motherboards. This must be why it doesn’t have the largest number of features that would set it apart from other top models. But sometimes price decides almost everything.

ASUS products always have a certain markup. So the motherboard we reviewed is a little more expensive than it should be. Especially considering that in the future its owner may also need a sound card (to connect multi-channel acoustics). Well, the most expensive on our list is the Gigabyte B550 AORUS Elite V2. This is understandable, because the board has a number of distinctive features. Perhaps the only thing it lacks are Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules - for that kind of money I would like to get them too.

Ratings

MSI: 4.7, ASUS: 4.6, Gigabyte: 4.4

Which company should you choose?

The most popular and favorite motherboard manufacturers at the moment are:

• MSI is a gaming PC and component development company committed to providing performance, stable overclocking and powerful cooling;
• ASUS is another market leader that produces reliable and stable computer system components with a long service life;
• GIGABYTE is a creator of motherboards (and not only) with a simple installation principle, a reinforced power supply system and a convenient BIOS with flexible settings;
• ASRock has a large selection of devices, many both gaming, powerful and budget models for standard tasks.

Rating of TOP 10 best models

How to choose an MSI motherboard?

When choosing the ideal board, it is recommended to pay special attention to the characteristics of the device, its advantages and disadvantages.

Best MSI Gaming Models

Ideal options for gamers and people who need a powerful motherboard.

MSI B450 GAMING PLUS MAX

High-performance model MSI B450 GAMING PLUS MAX, offering all the necessary functions for comfortable gaming.

Core Boost is responsible for high performance and multi-core processor support.

Radiators cool the system efficiently. The cards are protected from electromagnetic interference and various damages.

Built-in audio system that supports high sound levels.

Specifications:

• socket: AM4;
• processor support: AMD Ryzen 1st, 2nd and 3rd Gen;
• chipset: AMD B450;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 1866-4133 MHz;
• slots: 2xPCI-E x16, 4xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• there are COM and LPT ports;
• does not overheat during operation;
• quite low price compared to competitors;
• high-quality cooling system;
• accessible and understandable BIOS.

Flaws

• only 1 m.2 slot;
• Type-C is not provided;
• low overall sound quality.

MSI MPG X570 GAMING PLUS

The improved model MSI MPG X570 GAMING PLUS, which has all the necessary functions, is ideal for lovers of powerful work.

Stunning conditions have been created for a multi-core processor: a digital power system with a high-quality cooling system and exclusive technologies.

The backlight system provides the user with millions of different colors. High-quality sound is created using Audio Boost 4.

Specifications:

• socket: AM4;
• processor support: AMD 2nd and 3rd Gen Ryzen/Ryzen with Radeon Vega Graphics/2nd Gen Ryzen with Radeon Graphics;
• chipset: AMD X570;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 1866-4400 MHz;
• slots: 2xPCI-E x16, 3xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• impressive build quality;
• a large number of BIOS settings;
• presence of two M2 connectors;
• high-quality cooling system;
• overclocking capability.

Flaws

• monotonous lighting;
• low speed of sata with ssd;
• weak power system.

MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK

Stable operation and versatility are suitable even for novice gamers.

Technologies contribute to achieving maximum power and high performance.

The larger radiator cools the entire system more efficiently.

There is digital power regulation, which will allow you to work without interruption even in the most extreme conditions.

Specifications:

• socket: AM4;
• processor support: AMD 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen;
• chipset: AMD B550;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 1866-4866 MHz;
• slots: 2xPCI-E x16, 2xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• support for next generation Ryzen processors;
• there is support for PCI ex 4.0;
• high-quality software for Windows;
• a large number of ports for all occasions;
• decent technical equipment in general.

Flaws

• 2.5 Gbit network does not work under Ubuntu 20.04;
• the backlight is not visible due to the video card;
• quite high price among competitors.

MSI MPG Z390 GAMING PLUS

Multifunctional model in a unique red design.

Supports 8th and 9th generation processors.

Built-in oversized radiator for maximum cooling and improved performance.

Provides protection against damage and electromagnetic interference. There is support for the Wi-Fi module.

Specifications:

• socket: LGA1151 v2;
• processor support: Intel Core 9000 Series/8th Gen Core/Pentium Gold/Celeron;
• chipset: Intel Z390;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 2133-4400 MHz;
• slots: 3xPCI-E/SATA 3.0.

Advantages

• DDR4 support up to 4400 MHz;
• unusual and unique design;
• BIOS is easy to configure;
• overclocking capabilities;
• a large number of connectors.

Flaws

• rather flimsy design;
• removable plug;
• no radiators on the upper vrms.

The best models in terms of price and quality ratio

The presented models are suitable for those who do not want to overpay for additional functions and other “bells and whistles” that make the device more sophisticated.

MSI Z390-A PRO

The enlarged radiator and stylish design make the model unique.

The system is completely protected from physical damage.

The audio system consists of the highest quality elements, which helps create good sound.

Enlarged radiators ensure efficient cooling of the entire system. Supports the latest processors.

Specifications:

• socket: LGA1151 v2;
• processor support: Intel 9th/8th Gen Core/Pentium Gold/Celeron;
• chipset: Intel Z390;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 2133-4400 MHz;
• slots: 2xPCI-E x16, 4xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• overclocking capability;
• there is an additional connector for powering the processor;
• a large number of USB ports;
• attractive price compared to competitors;
• simple and intuitive installation.

Flaws

• lack of WiFi and Bluetooth on board;
• lack of heatsink on M2 SSD;
• no backlight.

MSI B460M-A PRO

The professional model helps the device work more efficiently at an attractive price.

There is the possibility of individual, finer settings for true enthusiasts.

Radiator M.2 Shield Frozr. provides high-quality cooling.

There are a large number of opportunities to change the computer configuration and configure everything individually.

Specifications:

• socket: LGA1200;
• processor support: Intel 10th Gen Core/Pentium Gold/Celeron;
• chipset: Intel B460;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 2133-2933 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 2xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• good work with various components;
• incredible cheapness;
• it is possible to reduce the speed on 3pin coolers down to a complete stop;
• compactness;
• elaborate design.

Flaws

• small number of connectors for case fans;
• problems loading the BIOS when connecting a screen using HDMI;
• gets very hot.

MSI MAG B365M MORTAR

“Military” design and an enlarged radiator increase the uniqueness of this model.

Specially developed applications will help you better configure and understand the device.

All the latest solutions aimed at advanced users have been implemented so that they can more precisely customize the system to suit their needs.

Modern standards for connecting data storage devices are supported.

Specifications:

• socket: LGA1151 v2;
• processor support: Intel 9th/ 8th Gen Core/Pentium Gold/Celeron;
• chipset: Intel B365;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 2133-2666 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 2xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• a large number of USB ports;
• 6 sata ports;
• 4 slots for RAM;
• modern BIOS interface;
• a large number of utilities for Windows.

Flaws

• complex BIOS setup;
• low RAM frequency;
• size too small.

MSI B450M PRO-M2 MAX

Universal model, supporting most modern technologies.

The thoughtful design is ideal for those who want to build their dream computer themselves.

A large number of fan connectors and absolute control over their operation provides the user with a powerful cooling system.

Widely compatible with many elements.

Specifications:

• socket: AM4;
• processor support: AMD 1st, 2nd, 3rd Gen Ryzen/Ryzen with Radeon Vega Graphics/2nd Gen Ryzen with Radeon Graphics/Athlon with Radeon Vega Graphics;
• chipset: AMD B450;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 1866-4133 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 2xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• incredibly low price;
• decent AM4 socket;
• Turbo M.2 supports custom speed;
• Ryzen 3600 support out of the box;
• overclocking capability.

Flaws

• excessively close location of memory slots to the processor;
• long BIOS startup;
• location of the Clear CMOS jumper under the video card.

The best inexpensive models

Such models are suitable for office or home computers that do not have increased requirements for performance and speed.

MSI A320M-A PRO

A model with a standard set of functions at a low price.

Enhanced sound quality is achieved through Audio Boost technology. Socket AM4 supports a large number of processors, everyone will find a suitable one.

Provides protection against electromagnetic interference. Thanks to modern technologies, it supports the latest multi-core processors.

Specifications:

• socket: AM4;
• processor support: AMD RYZEN 1st, 2nd and 3rd Generation;
• chipset: AMD A320;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 1866-3200 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 1xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• compactness;
• universal and interesting design;
• incredibly low price;
• supports pretty good sound;
• simple and straightforward to install.

Flaws

• poor acceleration;
• lack of third generation support without BIOS update;
• Quite an unreliable design.

MSI H310M PRO-VDH PLUS

Stable and durable model for little money.

A large number of connection connectors allow you to install any number of controlled fans to cool the system.

It is possible to connect to both modern video cards and older analogues.

Professional sound quality is ensured by a special audio system.

Specifications:

• socket: LGA1151 v2;
• processor support: Intel Core/Pentium/Celeron;
• chipset: Intel H310;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 2133-2666 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 2xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• increased compactness;
• pretty good sound;
• There are enough connectors for all connections;
• low cost;
• simplicity and ease of installation.

Flaws

• poor overclocking capability;
• not suitable for more or less serious tasks;
• Quite an unreliable design.

MSI B365M PRO-VH

Model with standard assembly for basic tasks.

Exclusive technology will protect against problems with unstable operation of memory slots.

High quality radiators and a large number of connectors will help you set up proper cooling.

Wide compatibility with other components of the future computer.

Specifications:

• socket: LGA1151 v2;
• processor support: Intel 9th/8th Gen Core/Pentium Gold/Celeron;
• chipset: Intel B365;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 2133-2666 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 2xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• incredibly low cost;
• fits easily into the case due to its compactness;
• there are all the necessary connectors;
• presence of Nvme m.2 slot;
• pretty good sound quality.

Flaws

• poor location of some ports;
• slow OS loading;
• quite fragile design.

MSI A520M-A PRO

A device from the professional line allows you to improve the performance of your computer.

Software control of fan operation is provided using detailed and understandable visualization.

There are excellent options for expanding the device configuration.

There is support for both modern devices and quite old ones.

Specifications:

• socket: AM4;
• processor support: AMD Ryzen 3 Matisse/Ryzen 5 Matisse/Ryzen 7 Matisse/Ryzen 9 Matisse/Ryzen 3 PRO Renoir/Ryzen 5 PRO Renoir/Ryzen 7 PRO Renoir/Ryzen 5 Vermeer/Ryzen 7 Vermeer/Ryzen 9 Vermeer;
• chipset: AMD A520;
• Storage: DDR4 DIMM, 1866-4600 MHz;
• slots: 1xPCI-E x16, 1xPCI-E x1.

Advantages

• pretty good overclocking for this type of board;
• good sound;
• there are enough connectors for all necessary connections;
• compactness;
• ease of installation.

Flaws

• flimsy design;
• slow OS loading;
• not suitable for serious tasks.