Hey everyone, I'm in the process of upgrading my PC and I need some solid advice on choosing a new motherboard. Below are my current specs, followed by what I'm hoping to upgrade to and the specific requirements I'm looking for. I'd love your suggestions, especially if you know any boards that might fit the bill beyond the ones I've already looked at.
**Current Specs:**
- Case: O11D
- Motherboard: ASRock B550m Steel Legend
- CPU: AMD 5800X3D
- Cooler: Corsair H150i Elite Capellix
- GPU: MSI 5080
- RAM: 32GB (16x2) of 3200MHz DDR4
- Storage: 2x 2TB M.2 SSDs, 2TB HDD
- PSU: Seasonic 1000W Modular
**Upgrade Goals:**
- Planning to upgrade to a 9800X3D or maybe something better if I find a good deal.
- Aiming for 64-128GB of DDR5 RAM (either 32x2, 64x2, or 32x4).
**Budget:**
- Ideally, I'd like to spend between $200 to $250, but I can go up to $300 if it ticks all the boxes right.
**Key Storage Requirements:**
- Need at least 2 M.2 slots that won't interfere with the main PCIe slot or disrupt SATA ports.
- Prefer the main M.2 slot to be 4x4 or better.
**PCIe Needs:**
- Main PCIe slot must be 5x16 and not disturbed by other components.
- Secondary slot should handle at least 3x4.
**USB Requirements:**
- A minimum of 8 USB-A ports and at least 2 USB-C ports.
**Miscellaneous:**
- Would really prefer an ATX board, though micro is okay if necessary.
- WiFi 7 and a fast Ethernet port (2.5G or better) would be great.
I'm currently focusing on B850 and X870 series motherboards, but I haven't explored the X870E options yet, so I'm open to suggestions! I also have a few specific questions about some boards I've been considering.
Thanks for any help you can provide!
2 Answers
Sounds like you've got quite the upgrade plan! For my money, I'd go with the MSI MAG B850 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI. It's got an awesome 14-phase VRM and is priced around $210. If you're willing to spend a bit more, the ASUS TUF GAMING X870-PLUS WIFI and Gigabyte X870 AORUS ELITE WIFI7 are fantastic choices at around $270. They're a bit overkill but offer great features. If you're considering something over $300, the Gigabyte X870E AORUS ELITE is solid too—I've got one, and it comes loaded with USB ports and a strong VRM setup. Just my two cents, but be cautious with ASRock; I’ve heard mixed reviews about compatibility with your new CPU.
Definitely avoid pairing the 9800X3D with an ASRock board. There have been some serious issues reported—boards literally frying the CPU. I’d suggest sticking to the ASUS options from your list. Better safe than sorry!
I get where you're coming from. Have there been any official reports or is it more anecdotal? I want to make sure I'm making a decision based on solid info.