When assembling a computer, many are concerned about the question of which motherboard to choose, because there is a huge variety of models on sale that need to be chosen taking into account the numerous characteristics. It is best to give preference to products of well-known brands, the quality of which there can be no doubt and it is officially sold in our country with a manufacturer's warranty. Reliability and quality are the main criteria when choosing a motherboard, because no one wants to buy a new one every year, or even earlier.

How to choose a motherboard for your computer?

The best motherboard manufacturers at the moment are the following brands:

• Asus;
• Gigabyte.

These are some of the most popular and well-known brands, in the assortment of which you are guaranteed to find a good model. Having decided on the choice of a brand, we turn to how to choose a motherboard for a computer, taking into account its characteristics.

Features of the motherboard design

A motherboard is a special device that contains slots for connecting the rest of the computer, including a video card, RAM, power supply and much more. It will be impossible to use a PC without it.

Basic set of elements present on the motherboard:

1. A socket is a large slot that houses a processor;
2. Chipset - a microcircuit that connects two bridges. The north bridge connects the processor and the video card. Yuzhny is responsible for the functioning of the BIOS, hard drive, mouse, display, keyboard and other external devices;
3. Slots to which RAM and video card are connected;
4. Connectors for a floppy drive and a hard drive;
5. Connectors for power supply, mouse, keyboard and other devices;
6. USB pins, which can be internal or external. They are used to connect the power button on the system unit, reboot, and more.

All components of the computer are connected to the motherboard. Thus, it is used to place them and ensure the interaction of system components with each other.

Choosing a motherboard for Intel processors

While figuring out which motherboard to choose for intel, you probably already noticed that such solutions are significantly more expensive. More sophisticated models are intended for them, supporting the latest RAM standards with a frequency of up to 2864 MHz and even more. Often, such a motherboard contains SATA connectors with a bandwidth of 6 Gb / s. Of course, not every motherboard will have such characteristics, there are also budget solutions, but in general, motherboards for Intel are much better. When choosing them, you need to pay attention to the standard of the slot for the processor, otherwise it may simply not fit.

Benefits:

• Excellent throughput;
• Top-end video cards and high-frequency RAM are supported;
• A wide selection of boards from budget to expensive professional models.

AMD processor motherboard

When figuring out which motherboard to choose for a computer, many choose solutions for AMD chips, which is associated with their affordable cost. But in terms of their parameters, they will be inferior to solutions for Intel. New models are equipped with slots for DDR4 standard RAM, but as a rule, their operating frequency is lower - within 2400 MHz. The bandwidth will also be lower - no more than 3 GB / s, although this is a decent result. Often, such motherboards are equipped with a large number of slots for RAM and are much cheaper.

Benefits:

• Affordable price;
• Supports modern standards of RAM and video cards;
• A large number of slots are available for expanding the amount of RAM.

Disadvantages:

• Often they are not as durable as intel boards;
• They do not have such a high throughput.

Chipset

A chipset is a processor integrated into the motherboard that is responsible for controlling the hardware connected to it. It depends on him how functional and fast it will be - it will allow the filling to function at the limit of its capabilities or become a ballast that limits the capabilities of the system. Let's figure out how to choose the right motherboard for your computer, and what you need to consider. You should choose a chipset for the processor company, but it is equally important that its characteristics correspond to your current needs, for which the PC is going.

Motherboards equipped with Intel chipsets:

• For mid-range computers, the B250 and H270 chipsets are ideal. A more simplified version - B150 and H170 is suitable for assembling a working PC;
• the Z270 chipset is suitable, which supports several top-end video cards at the same time;
• X99 / X299 boards are selected for programming.

AMD keeps up with the competitor, releasing chipsets for various purposes. The only thing is that they are not as powerful and slower. On the other hand, they are cheaper.

• A320 motherboards are intended for assembling an office PC;
• For gaming computers, the B350 chipset has been developed to improve processor performance;
• For professional PCs, the X370 chipset is used, which supports multiple video cards and is faster than others.

Computer motherboard form factor

It will be easier to choose AMD or Intel motherboards if you know their form factor. It predetermines the physical dimensions of the panel, and with it the number of slots provided by the manufacturer. Small boards often have limited capabilities because they cannot accommodate many connectors. According to the form factor, the models being produced now are divided into several types, for each of which a certain system unit is suitable:

• ATX is the most popular format. It is a full-size board that can accommodate the maximum required slots. The dimensions are as follows: 30.5x24.4 cm;
• MicroATX - a reduced board, the size of which does not exceed 24.4x24.4 cm. The number of additional slots in it does not exceed 6;
• MiniATX is the smallest version with dimensions of 17x17 cm. Such a board will fit even in a compact system unit, but there is also a significant drawback - a very limited number of slots and problems with efficient cooling.

Socket

The socket is an important factor in the selection that determines the usable processor.

• Intel offers several variants of LGA1150 and LGA2011-3. This is an obsolete format. which is still in use, but it is better to pay attention to the more modern socket 1151. In the future, you can easily replace the processor with a new, more efficient one;
• When figuring out how to choose a motherboard for an AMD processor, it is better to order a model with the current AM4 socket or the still in-demand AM3 + and FM2 +. The newer the socket, the easier it will be in the future to select a replacement processor, so it is better to give preference to the newest socket.

Now that you know how to choose a motherboard for a processor, let's move on.

Number of slots for RAM

The more slots, the better, because this opens up ample opportunities for upgrading your PC in the future. If we talk about the memory standard, then it should be DDR4. DDR3 strips may be cheaper, but they work less efficiently and may soon disappear from the market. When figuring out which motherboard to choose in 2018, you need to take into account what frequencies it supports, otherwise the part can slow down the system.

• Budget models support 2400-2600 MHz, which will be enough for an ordinary user;
• To build a gaming and professional PC, the frequency must be above 3000 MHz. As a rule, it is possessed by motherboards of the middle price segment and premium models.

Of great importance is the number of slots, of which there are 4 in a full-sized board, and only 2 in Micro and Mini. Keep this in mind, the possibility of expanding the memory capacity will never be superfluous.

Other connectors that the board can be equipped with

Understanding the question of which gaming motherboard to choose, you will notice that most models come with connectors for video cards such as PCI Express 16. There can be from 1 to 4 such slots, which is useful when assembling a computer for gaming and mining. A spare slot to accommodate an additional graphics card is never superfluous. You can also connect additional equipment there, such as a modem, solid state drive and much more.

You also need to pay attention to other slots to make it comfortable to work with your computer:

• USB 3.0 and 2.0 - Used to connect external devices such as a keyboard and mouse. It is desirable that there are at least 5 of them;
• PS / 2 is a legacy connector that was previously widely used to connect a keyboard. Now its presence does not make sense, since all peripherals come with a USB connector;
• DVI - intended for connecting a monitor and is present exclusively in models with an integrated video card. HDMI is used for the same purpose, but a TV can also be connected to it;
• BIOS reset key. Used to reboot it;
• eSATA - connector for external hard drives;
• RJ-45 - port for connecting an Internet cable;
• Audio output for headphones and microphone.

Inline elements

Modern motherboards can be equipped with a wide range of modules, including built-in sound and video card Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and much more. Accordingly, if they are already integrated into the board, then you do not have to buy them separately. But as a rule, integrated modules turn out to be worse and weaker than those that you can buy separately and install yourself. Therefore, such savings are questionable.

Electronics

Low-cost boards use simple capacitors that can behave unpredictably. In the event of overheating or power outages, the electrolyte in them swells, but the circuit continues to function. Solid capacitors will be more reliable, but also expensive.

Hello everybody! Sometimes it becomes necessary to replace the processor in your computer. The reason for this could be a breakdown or an upgrade. And in this article I will tell you how to choose a processor.

Let's first figure out how to choose a processor. The processor is selected based on the following criteria:

1. Manufacturer
2. Processor cache
3. Those. process
4. Embedded video

Now let's look at each parameter separately.

1. Let's start with the manufacturer. There are only two processor manufacturers: Intel and AMD. No one can say which one is better, because both firms are good. Which processor to choose is an individual matter, I can only say that AMD processors are cheaper. Choose based on your computer configuration. If for a powerful gaming computer, it's better to take Intel. For others, AMD will do too. I wrote an article in more detail.

2. Next is the number of cores. If you have a computer for gaming, you need at least 4 cores. For computers with an average configuration, a dual-core is suitable (because most programs use only 2, and even if you have 4 of them, the program will still use 2). You will not find fewer cores in any processor (from the new ones, not counting the old used processors).

Let me explain as clearly as possible: the higher the frequency, the faster the processor will think. That is, the higher the frequency, the more it can perform operations in one second. Try to look for a processor with a minimum frequency of 2.6-2.7 GHz.

In my opinion, this is the most important point. Beginners especially need to know, otherwise 100% will buy the wrong processor. In general, a socket is. There are a lot of them: intel has Socket 1150, Socket 1155; AMD has Socket AM3, AM3 +, FM2. This is not all, these are just examples. The processor socket name must match the socket name on the motherboard. Otherwise, you simply cannot insert the processor into the socket.

5. Processor cache... It is one of the main parameters when choosing! There are 1, 2 and 3 level caches. This is, so to speak, the processor's RAM, the more it is, the more information will be processed faster. 1st is the fastest and smallest, and 3rd is the slowest and largest.

Sometimes only 2 levels are found on weaker processors. Bottom line: the larger the cache, the better.

The more heat dissipation, the more efficient it will be. Accordingly, the less the better.

Technologies that increase productivity. For example, SSE 2,3,4, 3DNow, NX Bit and many others ... I was especially pleased with the Intel vPro technology, thanks to which you can even ask those. intel support lock your laptop if it is suddenly stolen.

8. Tech. process.I will not fool you with all sorts of semiconductors, as described everywhere ... You can read the scientific description in Wikipedia. In a simple version, the fewer the process, the smaller the parts used in the processor, which means that with the minimum size, more power can be achieved. The smaller the size the better, in my i7 tech. 22 nm process ... Intel threatens to introduce 10 nm by 2018 ...

9. And the last - the presence of a built-in graphics core. I will be brief and explain as simply as possible. When the processor has an integrated graphics core, it means that there is an integrated graphics card. Built-in video cards are available on many motherboards, but they will only work if there is an integrated graphics core in the processor. But not all integrated video cards need this kernel. In principle, this point is not very important, but it will not be superfluous.

That's all! The main thing is to choose the latest socket, large cache, and the rest of your needs and you can choose a great processor! Good luck!

I think everyone knows that the motherboard is considered the connecting link in the design of the system unit. Therefore, you need to consider some criteria. You can learn how to choose the right inexpensive and good motherboard from this article. Or watch a special video that I have selected for you. Here is a summary of the article below:

• Main components
• How to choose a motherboard manufacturer
• Choosing a form factor
• Chipset selection
• PCI-Express and memory slot
• External connectors
• Supporting capabilities

Video instruction how to choose a motherboard

Main components

To better understand its structure, I propose to consider its structure with a specific example. Let's take one of the highest quality models - Sapphire Pure Z77K as a sample. Of course, in order to consider in detail the main elements of the part, you can take any model. But we will focus on this one.

In the picture, numbers indicate not only the main components of the motherboard, but the elements that are characteristic only of overclocking options.

• The number (1) is the processor socket, which is the main element of the device. It is important to ensure that the processor socket is absolutely socket compatible. The number (0) indicates a "double" heatsink responsible for the elements of the power converters of the integrated graphics core, processor and CPU VTT, namely, for their cooling. Such heatsinks are found only in overclocking motherboards. No cooling element is needed on conventional ones.
• The number (2) indicates the PCI-Express slots. The printed circuit board contains three such X16 slots version 3.0. These connectors are needed to install one or more video cards. The older version of the slot - 2.0 is numbered (3).
• Number (14) indicates PCI-E X1 slots. They are intended for the installation of devices that require high bus bandwidth. One line X1 is enough for this. An example of such devices are TV tuners, various controllers, audio, and others.
• Number (4) is the chipset. It is located behind the cooling radiator. Slots numbered (5) are required to install DDR3 RAM. They are usually colored black or blue. Connectors are intended for installing memory modules, which significantly increases operating efficiency. Number (6) is the CMOS battery that powers the BIOS CMOS chip. This way the microcircuit does not lose its settings after the computer is turned off.
• (8) and (12) are 24-pin and 8-pin connectors. The first is the main 24-pin power connector. It is through it that most of the components are powered.
• Numbers (9) and (10) indicate the SATA 3 (6 Gb / s) and SATA 2 connectors. They are located on the edge of the connector, intended for connecting devices to the side for stands. Made in the style of an overclocking connector. The SATA 2 connector is needed to connect a hard drive, drives, and various SSD drives. Regular models have connectors that are front-facing and off-center. Therefore, it is convenient to use them within the system unit of a "non-overclocking" system.
• Number (11) indicates a non-standard element - an indicator of POST codes. It shows the temperature of the processor, but with minor inaccuracies.

• The rear panel with external connectors is shown at (13). This panel has connectors that are needed to connect various peripherals, keyboard, mouse, headphones, speakers and many other add-ons.

So we figured out the main components, now we will analyze the individual blocks, and also consider the parameters that need to be considered when buying.

Which company to choose a motherboard

With this choice, oddly enough, it is not necessary to consider its performance. You need to rely on trust in the manufacturer. The most famous are MSI, Gigabyte, Biostar, Intel, ASRock and Asus. And the sample that we are considering today is also worthy of attention. It happens that some models have an awkward layout or the supplied kit from a manufacturer is not wide enough. All the same, flaws come across that some users would not like to see. But such shortcomings do not give reason to write off motherboard manufacturers. In the end, their equipment is not always the same for all manufacturers, so it is impossible to say which company to choose or which is the best.

Take my advice to you:

• which suits you for the price
• convenient location
• with good reviews on major portals

The chipsets come from AMD and Intel, so the features are very similar. The only things to notice are real customer reviews and detailed motherboard reviews. So you can at least somehow determine the variety of products.

Choosing a form factor

The right form factor will help you avoid many problems in the future. Most popular form factors:

• ATX - full size
• Micro-ATX - a stripped-down option

The form factor determines the future expandability of the system. Micro-ATX usually has a small number of PCI-E and PCI expansion slots for graphics cards and other devices. Often such models are equipped with only two slots for installing memory modules. This fact severely limits the expandability of RAM. And not only in terms of quantity, but also in terms of convenience. The main advantage of Micro-ATX is its low price. Choosing from two standards, we can safely say that Micro-ATX is a budget option for office and home systems.

The size of the board is also very important. The ATX form factor is larger. It is imperative to take into account the compatibility of the case and the motherboard in size!

How to determine the motherboard socket

After choosing a processor, you need to choose the right motherboard. The first step is to pay attention to the socket. It is he who ensures the compatibility of the motherboard and processor. So, for a processor with an LGA 1155 socket, only an LGA 1155 motherboard is suitable. Supported sockets and a processor can be viewed on the manufacturers' official websites, but for AMD it is AM3 or AM3 +.

Chipset selection

The chipset is the link in the interaction of the entire system. This component largely determines the capabilities of the motherboard. It has always been thought that a chipset is a set of system logic chips consisting of a south and north bridge. But now the views are slightly different.

The most popular chipsets are the 7th Intel series and the AMD 900th. Nvidia is famous for its small assortment of chipsets, but not less popular.

Intel's seventh series differs from the standard representation of chipsets because they consist only of a north bridge. But this does not affect the functionality of the motherboard, because some controllers have been transferred to the processor. This can be understood from the example of a PCI-Express 3.0 bus controller and a DDR3 memory controller. In this case, the North Bridge received SATA, USB, PCI-Express control. The block diagram of the Z77 chipset clearly shows what the elements are tied to and on which buses:

Z, H and B represent the positioning of the chipset for market segments.

Chipsets from AMD have two microcircuits, it has north bridges 990X, 990FX and 970 and north bridge SB950.

The 990FX gives the chipset support for 42 PCI-Express lanes. Therefore, four video cards can be connected to the lines in the Cross Fire bundle. But not everyone needs such opportunities. The other two north bridges support 26 lines, but this loss is not noticeable.

Supporting capabilities

Additional functions include those that are not always necessary. For the average user, they are not very much in demand:

• ESATA - some models have an interface for connecting removable drives. Very useful for owners of external drives.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth module for wireless networking and data transmission. They greatly enhance the functionality of the motherboard.
• Thunderbolt - Provides 10 Gb / s data transfer and peripheral connectivity. Transfers data several times faster than USB 2.0, USB 3.0. Today it is needed by units, but in the future it will become more popular.
• Additional buttons and indicators for overclocking, proprietary technologies and manufacturer elements.

Rating of the best motherboards of the year

As you can see, choosing a motherboard is not an easy task. Based on the listed parameters, you need to choose an option that would suit you both in cost and in functionality. Of course, the parameters of the motherboard are individual for each user. But still, for more convenience, you can see the rating of the best motherboards for 2015-2016. Guided by the basic parameters and the best models, you can make a truly correct choice. Below is a video on this difficult topic for a better understanding.

Best motherboard socket 1150 (2016)

• MSI Z87 XPOWER
• MSI B85-G43 GAMING is the best buy
• ASUS B85M-E is an inexpensive and good motherboard for a mid-range computer
• MSI B85-G43 - price-quality
• ASUS VANGUARD B85
• GIGABYTE GA-Z97X-Gaming GT - Recommended for Gamers

Best motherboard socket 1155 (2016)

• ASRock B75 Pro3-M Best Buy of the Year
• GIGABYTE GA-H61M-S2PV (rev. 2.2
• ASUS H61M-G
• ASRock H61M-VG4
• MSI H61M-P20 (G3)
• GIGABYTE GA-H61M-S2PV (rev. 2.0)

Best motherboard socket 2011 (2016)

• ASUS P9X79-E WS (s2011, Intel X79, PCI-Ex16) - the coolest buy
• Asus Rampage IV Extreme (s2011, X79, PCI-Ex 16)
• ASUS P9X79 WS (s2011, Intel X79, PCI-Ex16) - the best price-performance ratio
• MSI X79A-GD65 (8D) (s2011, Intel X79, PCI-Ex16)

Best Motherboard 2011-3 (2016)

• ASUS RAMPAGE V EXTREME / U3.1 Best Buy
• Asus X99-Deluxe
• MSI X99A SLI PLUS - the best choice for quality and price
• GIGABYTE GA-X99-UD3 (rev. 1.0)
• ASRock X99 Extreme4

Most Powerful Dual Processor Gamer Motherboard - Asus Z9PE-D8 WS (2 x LGA2011, Intel C602, PCI-Ex16)