Intel mobile chipsets. Which chipset should you choose for gaming? Choosing a motherboard chipset

A month ago, along with the announcement of two Intel Skylake-K processors, the company introduced a new logic set -Z170. The Intel Z170 chipset is not only the most functionally rich solution, but also the only one that allows you to overclock the company's processors using any permitted methods and, of course, the most expensive. Today to the announcement of more affordable, as well as mobile versions Skylake Intel has prepared a number of new system logic that will allow the production of motherboards with specified functionality and at a significantly lower price. Motherboards for the Skylake platform are expected to start at around $60 and go well over $400.

The H170/H110 chipsets are aimed at the mass segment. The first one will have 16 lines PCI Express 3.0 instead of 20, like the Z170 kit, and the second one is completely deprived of support for the third one PCI generation Express. The H110 kit has 6 PCI Express 2.0 lanes and cannot boast of support Intel technologies RST (Rapid Storage Technology). Note that the logic (B150/Q1x0) for business platforms will be announced over the next months.

It is reported that Intel has divided all PCI Express lanes in the new logic into five x4 controllers (for the case with 20 lanes). This makes it easy to allocate specific lanes to implement SATA or M.2 ports without limiting the ports' bandwidth. Also, this breakdown makes it possible to implement support for RST technology for three drives (in the maximum configuration).

According to the AnandTech website, additional USB ports 3.1, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort and DockPort can be implemented using the Intel Alpine Ridge controller. In the original, this controller was designed to implement the Thunderbolt 3 port. It is expected that the release of motherboards supporting Thunderbolt 3 will be delayed a little, and the first motherboards with this interface will be released by Gigabyte. The Intel Alpine Ridge controller costs the same as the ASMedia ASM1142 controller, but unlike the competing solution, due to the operation of four PCI Express 3.0 lanes, it provides full speed for two USB 3.1 ports simultaneously (up to 10 Gbps each).

The source also reports that the vast majority of new motherboards based on the new Intel logic are designed to install DDR4 memory modules. In some copies you can find slots for DDR3L memory, but it is not a fact that regular DDR3 memory will work in them. Boards with support for both memory standards are also being prepared, but memory of both standards will not work simultaneously: either DDR4 or DDR3L.

This article will examine and describe in detail the chipsets produced by Intel for the latest generations of processors from this manufacturer. Recommendations regarding the choice of logic will also be given. motherboard when assembling a new computer system.

What is a "chipset"?

The word “chipset” means a set of chips that is installed on the motherboard. It connects together the various components of a computer system. Its second name is system logic. As a rule, it is tied to a specific socket, that is, the processor socket. This article will discuss the most current solutions from Intel that can still be found on sale.

"Sandy Bridge" and 6-series chipsets

The most “ancient” of those produced that can still be found on sale today belong to the 6th series. They were announced at the beginning of 2011, and any CPU of the Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge families can be installed in them. If you install a second family of CPUs, you may need All of these chips were installed in and were often equipped with an integrated graphics solution. Another important feature of this platform was that it consisted of only one chip - the “south bridge”. And here " north bridge"was integrated into the processor. The most affordable among them was the chipset. It allowed the creation of inexpensive office systems. It could also be used to make a good PC for studying. But the combinations “Kor Ai5” or “Cor Ai7” and “H61” look completely ridiculous. It is stupid to install a high-performance processor into a MiniATX motherboard with minimal functionality. This chipset allowed the installation of only 2 RAM modules, was equipped with one PCI-Express 16x v2.0 slot for installing an external graphics accelerator, and had 10 USB ports version 3.0 and 4 SATA port to connect hard drives or an optical disc drive.

The middle segment was occupied by Q65, B65, Q67 (these chipsets did not support Evie Bridge chips). The difference between them and H61 was the number of slots for random access memory(in this case there were 4 of them instead of 2) and ports for drives (5 versus 4). Initially, H67 and P67 were used for the most productive ones. The first of them supported integrated video, but was equipped with only one slot for installing an external graphics accelerator. And the second one was aimed only at use (it had 2 slots for these purposes), but the built-in graphics accelerator did not work on such motherboards. In turn, solutions based on the Z68 combined best sides H67 and P67. This particular chipset can be considered the best for this platform.

"Ivy Bridge" and motherboards for them

The new generation of Ivy Bridge CPUs came in 2012 to replace the Sandy Bridge. There were no fundamental differences between these generations of chips. The only thing that has essentially changed is the technological process. The previous generation of processors was manufactured using 32 nm technology, and the new one is manufactured using a 22 nm process technology. The socket for these chips was the same - 1155. Entry-level systems in this case were also built on the Intel H61 chipset, which perfectly supported both generations of semiconductor crystals. But the middle and premium segments in this case have changed significantly. Although the characteristics of the Intel7 series chipsets indicate that they were practically no different from their predecessors. The mid-level solutions in this case included B75, Q75, Q77 and H77. All of them were equipped with 1 slot for a video card and had 4 slots for installing RAM. The B75 has the most modest parameters: 5 SATA 2.0 ports and 1 SATA 3.0 port for organizing the disk subsystem and 8 USB 2.0 ports and 4 USB 3.0 ports. By the way, all 7 series chipsets could boast exactly the same amount of USB 3.0. The Q75 differed from the B75 only in the number of USB 2.0 ports, of which in this case there were already 10 instead of 8. The H77 and Q77, unlike the Q75 and B75, could boast of having two SATA 3.0 ports. The premium segment in this case was represented by the Z75 and Z77. If the previous four chipsets only allowed overclocking the CPU and graphics accelerator, then these two semiconductor crystals could also increase the RAM frequency. Also in this case, the number of slots for video cards increased. There were 2 of them in solutions based on Z75, and 3 in Z77.

Haswell, Haswell Refresh and its system logics

In 2013, it was replaced by 1150. Its processors did not make any revolutionary changes. The only exception in this regard was the power consumption of the chips, which in this particular family of CPUs was significantly redesigned and this made it possible, without changing the technological process, to significantly reduce the thermal package of semiconductor crystals. New sets of system logic were released for the new socket. Their parameters have much in common with the previous generation of the 7 Series. There were 6 chipsets in total: H81, B85, Q85, Q87, P87 and Z87. The most modest in terms of parameters was the H81. It has only 2 slots for RAM, 2 SATA 3.0 ports, 2 SATA 2.0 ports and 1 video card slot. Also, the number of USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports was 8 and 2, respectively. Celeron and Pentium chips were usually installed in motherboards based on this set of system logic. The Intel B85 chipset differed from the H81 in the increased number of RAM slots (there were already 4), USB 3.0 and SATA 3.0 ports (4 pieces in both cases versus 2). Q85 could, in comparison with B85, boast only 10 USB ports version 2.0. These two chipsets are most often used in conjunction with Cor I3 chips. The characteristics of the Q87, P87 and Z87 are identical. They have 4 RAM slots, 8 USB 2.0 ports, 6 USB 3.0 ports and 6 SATA 3.0 ports. The Q87 and P87 chipsets were perfect for Core I5 ​​and Core I7 with locked multipliers. But the Z87 was focused on chips with the “K” index, that is, they were built on its basis computer systems to overclock the CPU.

Broadwell and chipsets for it

In 2014, the Haswell generation was replaced by new chips codenamed Broadwell. They are manufactured using a new 14 nm process technology and are not fully compatible with 8 series logic sets. Few processors themselves were released and, as a result, there was no specific update of the chipsets. Only 2 of them were produced - H97 and Z97. The first of them was intended for a CPU with a locked multiplier and completely repeated the parameters of the P87. Well, the Intel Z97 chipset was an exact copy of the Z87, but supported 5th generation Kor processors. By the way, the same motherboards can also install 4th generation chips, that is, Haswell.

System logic for Skylike

A total of 5 sets of system logic were presented for the latest generation of CPUs, codenamed “Skylike”: H110, B150, H170, Q170 Z170. A comparison of Intel chipsets of the eighth and hundredth series clearly indicates the positioning of the latter. Wherein technical specifications they are almost identical. The first of them - H110 - is intended for use in budget and office computer systems along with Celerons and Pentiums. B170 and H170 are aimed at “Cor Ai3”, “Cor Ai5” and “Cor Ai7” with locked multipliers. Well, with the “Kor I5” and “Kor I7” multipliers unlocked (that is, a CPU with the index “K”), it is most correct to install it in Z170-based motherboards. There is one important difference in this family of chipsets, which is the support for a new type of RAM - DDR4. But all earlier versions of system logic from this manufacturer supported only DDR3.

What's next?

The life cycle of the 100th series of Intel chipsets is just beginning. These decisions will be relevant for exactly another 2 years. And the replacement process itself will not be so fast in the future. But, in any case, its successors will have a similar division into niches. Even their designations will be similar.

Solutions for enthusiasts

Separately, it is necessary to consider system logic sets for enthusiasts from Intel. The 2011 platform chipsets were different from all previously described ones. The first of them was X79. It allowed the installation of the most productive chips of the Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge families. It was replaced in 2014 by the X99, which was intended for the installation of Haswell solutions. Among other differences, it is necessary to highlight in the latter the support for RAM of the DDR 4 standard, while the X79 could only work with DDR 3. Also, these processors, in comparison with the previously described chips, could boast an improved memory controller (4 channels) and an increased number of computing modules (the most productive solutions included 8 such blocks).

Motherboard chipsets Intel boards clearly distributed among niches. It is recommended to build the least productive solutions on the basis of H81 and H110. The most productive PCs for computer enthusiasts are best built on the Z87, Z97 and Z170. The remaining chipsets are aimed at mid-level computer systems. Their performance will definitely be enough for the next 2-3 years, but at the same time the possibility of overclocking is reduced to a minimum. well and Latest updates BIOS generally indicate that such an option will no longer exist. The chipset manufacturer itself blocks it. From the point of view of novelty, it is better to choose solutions from the hundredth series, which are now just beginning to actively appear on store shelves. But if you save your budget, you will have to purchase more affordable 80 series motherboards.

Results

This article examined in detail the system logic sets released since 2011 by Intel Corporation. This semiconductor giant updates its chipsets almost every year. As a result, each new generation of CPU requires the purchase of an updated motherboard. On the one hand, this increases the cost of the PC, and on the other hand, it allows you to constantly improve its characteristics.

All other components are connected to the motherboard; the service life and stability of the entire computer depend on it. In addition, it should allow you to connect all the necessary devices and provide the opportunity to improve your computer in the future.

Some of the best motherboards are made by ASUS, but they are also the most expensive. Today, MSI motherboards are the best in terms of price/quality ratio, and I will recommend them first. As more budget option You can consider motherboards from ASRock and Gigabyte, they also have successful models. Gaming motherboards have better sound And network card.

For Intel processors on socket 1151 v2

Best option:
MSI B360M MORTAR motherboard

Or a gaming motherboard: MSI B360 GAMING PRO CARBON
MSI B360 GAMING PRO CARBON motherboard

Or an analogue: MSI Z370 KRAIT GAMING
MSI Z370 KRAIT GAMING motherboard

For AMD processors on socket AM4

Best option: Gigabyte B450 AORUS M
Maternal Gigabyte board B450 AORUS M

Or full size: Gigabyte B450 AORUS PRO
Gigabyte B450 AORUS PRO motherboard

2. Basics of choosing the right motherboard

You should not install a powerful processor on the cheapest motherboard, as the motherboard will not withstand heavy load for a long time. And vice versa, the weakest processor does not need an expensive motherboard, since it is money thrown away.

The motherboard must be selected after all the others have been selected, since it determines what class the motherboard should be and what connectors it should have for connecting the selected components.

Each motherboard has its own processor that controls all the devices connected to it and is called a chipset. The functionality of the motherboard depends on the chipset and is selected depending on the purpose of the computer.

3.1. Chipset developers

Chipsets for modern motherboards are developed by two companies: Intel and AMD.

If you chose an Intel processor, then the motherboard must be on an Intel chipset, if AMD - on an AMD chipset.

3.2. Intel chipsets

To the main modern chipsets Intel include the following:

  • B250/H270 – for office, multimedia and gaming PCs
  • Q270 – for the corporate sector
  • Z270 – for powerful gaming and professional PCs
  • X99/X299 – for very powerful professional PCs

They are being replaced by promising chipsets with support for 8th generation processors:

  • H310 – for office PCs
  • B360/H370 – for multimedia and gaming PCs
  • Q370 – for the corporate sector
  • Z370 – for powerful gaming and professional PCs

For most computers, motherboards with B250/H270 and B360/H370 chipsets are suitable. H chipsets have more PCI-E lanes than B chipsets, which is only important when installing more than two video cards or several ultra-fast PCI-E SSDs. So for the average user there is no difference between them. Chipsets Q differ from B only in support special functions security and remote control, which is used only in the corporate sector.

Z chipsets have even more PCI-E lanes than H chipsets, allow overclocking of processors with the “K” index, support memory with frequencies above 2400 MHz and combining from 2 to 5 disks in RAID array, which is not available on other chipsets. They are more suitable for powerful gaming and professional PCs.

Motherboards based on X99/X299 chipsets are needed only for heavy-duty and expensive professional PCs with processors on sockets 2011-3/2066, respectively (we'll talk about this below).

3.3. AMD chipsets

The main modern AMD chipsets include the following.

  • A320 – for office and multimedia PCs
  • B350 – for gaming and professional PCs
  • X370 – for enthusiasts
  • X399 – for very powerful professional PCs

The A320 chipset does not have the ability to overclock the processor, while the B350 has such functionality. The X370 is additionally equipped big amount PCI-E lines for installing multiple video cards. Well, X399 is designed for professional processors on the TR4 socket.

3.4. How do chipsets differ?

Chipsets have a lot of differences, but we are only interested in their conditional division by purpose in order to select a motherboard that matches the purpose of the computer.

We are not interested in the remaining parameters of the chipsets, since we will focus on the parameters of a specific motherboard. After choosing a chipset to suit your needs, you can start choosing a motherboard based on its characteristics and connectors.

4. Motherboard manufacturers

Best motherboards in price range above average are produced by ASUS, but they are also the most expensive. This company pays less attention to entry-level motherboards and in this case it is not worth overpaying for the brand.

MSI motherboards across the entire price range have a good price/quality ratio.

As a more economical option, you can consider motherboards from Gigabyte and ASRock (a subsidiary of ASUS); they have a more loyal pricing policy and they also have successful models.

It is also worth noting that Intel itself produces motherboards based on its chipsets. These motherboards have consistent quality, but low functionality and a higher price. They are in demand mainly in the corporate sector.

Motherboards from other manufacturers are not so popular and have more limited the lineup and I don’t think it’s advisable to purchase them.

5. Motherboard form factor

The form factor is the physical size of the motherboard. The main form factors of motherboards are: ATX, MicroATX (mATX) and Mini-ITX.

ATX(305×244 mm) – full-size motherboard format, is optimal for a desktop computer, has the largest number of slots, and is installed in ATX cases.

MicroATX(244x244 mm) – a smaller motherboard format, has fewer slots, can be installed in both full-size (ATX) cases and more compact cases (mATX).

Mini-ITX(170x170 mm) – ultra-compact motherboards for assembling very small PCs in appropriate cases. It should be taken into account that such systems have a number of restrictions on the size of components and cooling.

There are other less common motherboard form factors.

Processor socket is a connector for connecting the processor to motherboard. The motherboard must have the same socket as the processor.

Processor sockets are constantly undergoing changes and new modifications appear from year to year. I recommend purchasing a processor and motherboard with the most modern socket. This will ensure that both the processor and motherboard can be replaced in the next few years.

6.1. Intel processor sockets

  • Obsolete: 478, 775, 1155, 1156, 2011
  • Obsolete: 1150, 2011-3
  • The most modern: 1151, 1151-v2, 2066

6.2. AMD processor sockets

  • Obsolete: AM1, AM2, AM3, FM1, FM2
  • Obsolete: AM3+, FM2+
  • The most modern: AM4, TR4

Compact motherboards often have 2 slots for installing memory modules. Large ATX boards are usually equipped with 4 memory slots. Free slots may be needed if you plan to add memory in the future.

8. Memory type and frequency supported

Modern motherboards support DDR4 memory. Inexpensive motherboards are designed for a lower maximum memory frequency (2400, 2666 MHz). Medium and high class can support memory with more high frequency(3400-3600 MHz).

However, memory with a frequency of 3000 MHz and higher is significantly more expensive, but does not provide a noticeable performance increase (especially in games). In addition, there are more problems with such memory; the processor may work with it less stably. Therefore, it is advisable to overpay for a motherboard and high-frequency memory only when assembling a very powerful professional PC.

Today, the most optimal price/performance ratio is DDR4 memory with a frequency of 2400 MHz, which is supported by modern motherboards.

9. Connectors for installing video cards

Modern motherboards have a PCI Express connector (PCI-E x16) latest version 3.0 for installing video cards.

If your motherboard has several of these connectors, you can install multiple video cards to improve gaming performance. But in most cases, installing one more powerful video card is a better solution.

Also, free PCI-E x16 slots can be used to install other expansion cards with a PCI-E x4 or x1 slot (for example, a fast SSD or sound card).

10. Slots for expansion cards

Slots for expansion cards are special connectors for connecting various additional devices such as: TV tuner, Wi-Fi adapter and etc.

Older motherboards used PCI slots to accommodate expansion cards. Such a connector may be needed if you have such boards, for example, professional sound card or TV tuner.

Modern motherboards use PCI-E x1 slots or extra PCI-E x16 slots to install expansion cards. It is desirable that the motherboard have at least 1-2 such connectors that are not overlapped by the video card.

IN modern computer PCI connectors of the old type are not necessary, since you can already purchase any device with a new PCI-E connector.

The motherboard has many internal connectors for connection various devices inside the case.

11.1. SATA connectors

Modern motherboards have universal SATA 3 connectors, which are perfect for connecting hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs) and optical drives.

Several of these connectors can be placed in a separate block, forming a combined SATA Express connector.

This connector was previously used to connect fast SSDs, but you can also connect any SATA drives to it.

11.2. M.2 connector

Also, many modern motherboards are equipped with an M.2 connector, which is used primarily for ultra-fast SSDs.

This connector has mounting brackets for installing boards various sizes what needs to be taken into account when choosing an SSD. But now only the most common size 2280 is usually used.

It would also be good if the M.2 connector supports both SATA and PCI-E modes, as well as the NVMe specification for fast SSDs.

11.3. Motherboard power connector

Modern motherboards have a 24-pin power connector.

All power supplies are equipped with a similar connector.

11.4. CPU power connector

The motherboard may have a 4 or 8 pin processor power connector.

If the connector is 8-pin, then it is desirable that the power supply has two 4-pin connectors, which are inserted into it. If the processor is not very powerful, then it can be powered by one 4-pin connector and everything will work, but the voltage drops on it will be higher, especially during overclocking.

11.5. Location of internal connectors

The picture below shows the main internal motherboard connectors that we talked about.

12. Integrated devices

In addition to the chipset and various connectors for connecting components, the motherboard has various integrated devices.

12.1. Integrated graphics card

If you decide that the computer will not be used for games and do not purchase a separate video card, then the motherboard must support processors with a video core and have the appropriate connectors. Motherboards designed for processors with a video core may have VGA, DVI, DisplayPort and HDMI connectors.

It is desirable to have a DVI connector on the motherboard for connecting modern monitors. To connect your TV to your computer, you need an HDMI connector. Please also note that some budget monitors only have a VGA connector, which in this case should also be on the motherboard.

12.2. Integrated sound card

All modern motherboards have an HDA (High Definition Audio) class audio codec. Budget models are equipped with the appropriate audio codecs (ALC8xx, ALC9xx), which, in principle, are sufficient for most users. More expensive gaming motherboards have better codecs (ALC1150, ALC1220) and a headphone amplifier that provide higher sound quality.

Motherboards usually have 3, 5 or 6 3.5mm jacks for connecting audio devices. Optical and sometimes coaxial may also be present digital audio exit.

For connecting speakers of a 2.0 or 2.1 system. 3 audio outputs are quite enough.
If you plan to connect multi-channel speakers, then it is advisable that the motherboard have 5-6 audio connectors. An optical audio output may be required to connect a high-quality audio system.

12.3. Integrated network card

All modern motherboards have a built-in network card with a data transfer rate of 1000 Mbit/s (1 Gb/s) and an RJ-45 connector for connecting to the Internet.

Budget motherboards are equipped with appropriate network cards manufactured by Realtek. More expensive gaming motherboards may have better Intel, Killer network cards, which has a positive effect on ping in online games Oh. But often the operation of online games depends more on the quality of the Internet than on the network card.

It is highly advisable to connect to the Internet through, which will repel network attacks and increase the motherboard’s protection from electrical breakdowns on the part of the provider.

12.4. Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Some motherboards may have built-in Wi-Fi and bluetooth adapter. Such motherboards are more expensive and are used mainly for assembling compact media centers. If you don’t need this functionality now, you can purchase the necessary adapter later if the need arises.

13. External motherboard connectors

Depending on the number of integrated devices and the class of the motherboard, it may have different connectors on the rear panel for connecting external devices.

Description of connectors from top to bottom

  • USB 3.0– a connector for connecting fast flash drives and external drives, it is desirable to have at least 4 such connectors.
  • PS/2– the old connector for connecting a mouse and keyboard, which is no longer available on all motherboards, is optional, since modern mice and keyboards are connected via USB.
  • DVI– connector for connecting a monitor on motherboards with built-in video.
  • Wi-Fi antenna connectors– available only on some expensive boards with a Wi-Fi adapter.
  • HDMI– connector for connecting a TV on motherboards with built-in video.
  • DisplayPort– connector for connecting some monitors.
  • BIOS reset button– optional, used when the computer freezes during overclocking.
  • eSATA– used for external drives with a similar connector, optional.
  • USB 2.0– a connector for connecting a keyboard, mouse, printer and many other devices, 2 such connectors are enough (or USB connectors 3.0). Also, modern motherboards may have USB 3.1 connectors (Type-A, Type-C), which are faster, but still rarely used.
  • RJ-45– connector for connecting to local network or the Internet, required.
  • Optical audio output– for connecting high-quality acoustics (speakers).
  • Audio outputs– for connecting audio speakers (2.0-5.1 system).
  • Microphone– connection of a microphone or headset is always available.

14. Electronic components

Cheap motherboards use the lowest quality electronic components: transistors, capacitors, chokes, etc. Accordingly, the reliability and service life of such motherboards are the lowest. For example, electrolytic capacitors can swell after 2-3 years of computer operation, which leads to malfunctions and the need for repairs.

Mid- and high-end motherboards can use electronic components that are more High Quality(for example, Japanese solid capacitors). Manufacturers often emphasize this with some slogan: Solid Caps (solid-state capacitors), Military Standard (military standard), Super Alloy Power (reliable power system). These motherboards are more reliable and can last longer.

15. Processor power supply circuit

The power supply circuit of the processor determines how powerful a processor can be installed on a specific motherboard without the risk of overheating and premature failure, as well as power loss when overclocking the processor.

A mid-range motherboard with a 10-phase power supply can handle non-extreme overclocking of a processor with a TDP of up to 120 W. For more voracious stones, it is better to take a motherboard with a 12-16 phase power system.

16. Cooling system

Cheap motherboards either have no heatsinks at all, or have a small heatsink on the chipset and sometimes on the mosfets (transistors) near the processor socket. In principle, if you use such boards for their intended purpose and install the same weak processors on them, then they should not overheat.

On mid- and high-end motherboards, which are equipped with more powerful processors, it is desirable that the radiators were larger.

17. Motherboard firmware

Firmware is the built-in firmware that controls all functions of the motherboard. Many motherboards have already switched from BIOS firmware with a classic text menu to a more modern UEFI with a convenient graphical interface.

In addition, gaming motherboards have a number of advanced features, which distinguishes them from more budget solutions.

18. Equipment

Typically, the motherboard comes with: a user manual, a disk with drivers, a plug for the rear panel of the case and several SATA cables. The complete set of the motherboard can be found on the website of the seller or manufacturer. If you are collecting new computer, then calculate in advance how many and what kind of cables you need, so that if necessary, order them immediately.

Some motherboard models have an extended configuration, which may include many different cables and brackets with connectors. For example, such motherboards from ASUS used to have the word Deluxe in their names, but now they may be some Pro versions. They cost more, but usually all these add-ons remain unclaimed, so it makes more sense to buy a better motherboard for the same money.

19. How to find out the characteristics of the motherboard

All characteristics of the motherboard, such as supported processors and memory, types and number of internal and external connectors, etc. Check the manufacturer's website for the exact model number. There you can also see images of the motherboard, from which you can easily determine the location of the connectors, the quality of the power supply and cooling system. It would also be a good idea to look for reviews of a specific motherboard on the Internet before purchasing.

20. Optimal motherboard

Now you know everything you need about motherboards and can choose the right model yourself. But I will still give you some recommendations.

For office, multimedia or gaming computer mid-class (Core i5 + GTX 1060) an inexpensive motherboard on socket 1151 with an Intel B250/H270 or B360/H370 chipset (for 8th generation processors) is suitable.

For a powerful gaming computer (Core i7 + GTX 1070/1080), it is better to take a motherboard on socket 1151 with a powerful processor power supply based on the Intel B250/H270 or Z270 chipset (for overclocking). For 8th generation processors, you respectively need a motherboard with an Intel B360/H370 or Z370 chipset (for overclocking). If you want to better sound, network card and funds allow, then take the motherboard from game series(Gaming, etc.).

For professional tasks, such as video rendering and other heavy applications, it is better to take a motherboard on socket AM4 for multi-threaded AMD Ryzen processors on the B350/X370 chipset.

Select the format (ATX, mATX), types and number of connectors as needed. Manufacturer - any popular one (ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ASRock) or based on our recommendations (this is more a matter of taste or budget).

21. Setting up filters in the online store

Thus, you will receive a motherboard with the optimal price/quality/functionality ratio that meets your requirements at the lowest possible cost.

22. Links

MSI H370 GAMING PRO CARBON motherboard
Maternal Asus board ROG Strix B360-F GAMING
Gigabyte H370 AORUS GAMING 3 WIFI motherboard

Intel with release fourth generation processors (Haswell) and the transition to a new socket (LGA 1150) launched new line motherboards (Lynx Point). Now there are five different chipsets Z87, H87, Q87, Q85, B85 (the Z75 did not have a receiver), divided, as always, into two segments: business and consumer. Consumer segment (Z87, H87) with a number of features designed to improve overall performance. The business segment (Q87,Q85,B85), on the one hand, has fewer options, but it contains a lot of useful information for IT departments of large and small companies.

Latest Intel processors(including Haswell) are designed to move more and more functionality from the motherboard to the processor itself. For example, built-in graphics (where it was), RAM controller, controllers PCI-E bus.and DMI, as well as processor power management are no longer located on the motherboard. This means that things like onboard video and RAM compatibility now depend more on the CPU than on the specific motherboard's chipset. Based on this, the differences between chipsets will now be small, mainly in options and the number of supported peripherals.

The most important changes in fact in the new chipset are support for up to six SATA 6Gb/s and up to six USB3.0. Thunderbolt is not yet integrated into Haswell-generation chipsets, but can be added with a separate controller on the motherboard.

Consumer segment(Z87,H87)

Z87



The z87 set is the most functionally rich and the only one that offers capabilities for overclocking the processor (K-series processors). The chipset also supports SLI/Crossfire connections with three configurations.

As for other features, the Z87 supports Rapid Storage Technology, Smart Response Technology (SSD Caching), six SATA 6Gb/s and six USB 3.0 ports. Also, when using Smart Response Technology (SSD Caching), it optimizes the operation and power consumption of the SSD.

H87



The H87 chipset is very similar to the Z87, but it lacks some very important features: processor overclocking and support for triple SLI/Crossfire configuration.

The H87, like the Z87, supports Rapid Storage Technology, Smart Response Technology (SSD Caching), six SATA 6Gb/s and the same six USB 3.0. However, unlike the Z87, this chipset has support for Small Business Advantage.

Overall, the H87 provides almost all the same features as the Z87, without overclocking, but most likely you will choose the z87 as manufacturers mother cards they are simply pushing towards this, cutting down the number of ports and USB outputs.

Business segment (Q87,Q85,B85)

Q87



The Q87 chipset is the most functionally rich among the business line; it supports technologies such as vPro, Active Management, Intel TXT. Plus, six SATA 6gb/s and six USB 3.0 in addition to 14 USB 2.0. This chip will definitely suit you if you use vPro or AMT or TXT or just want a board that supports them.Q87

Q85



The Q85 chipset is very similar to the Q87, but does not support these great business technologies. Also, 85-series chipsets, unlike the others, do not support Rapid Storage technology, which allows you to reduce power consumption and increase operating speed when using multiple disks. If you don't need these technologies, you're looking for a cheaper platform but don't want to buy the weakest one, then this is the choice for you.

B85



The B85 is a budget business solution that not only does not support business technologies, but it also has four USB 3.0 and Serial ATA 600 ports, unlike six ports in other versions of the chipsets. B85 is an excellent option for budget processors (Core i3, Pentium, Celeron).

Conclusion


Note: To be able to use these technologies, your processor must support them.

We can conclude that fragmentation has decreased, there are fewer chipsets, but this does not make the choice any easier, the differences are minimal, and often additional logic on motherboards eliminates them completely.