Am4 Motherboards

Kyle Flynn
14 min readSep 8, 2024
Am4-Motherboard-1

Welcome to our roundup of the latest Am4 Motherboards! If you're in the market for a new motherboard that's both powerful and versatile, you're in luck. We've compiled a list of some of the top-rated Am4 Motherboards available, perfect for building your dream PC. From gaming to professional use, these motherboards have got you covered. Get ready to explore the world of Am4 Motherboards!

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Reviews

ASRock B450M Steel Legend AM4 Micro ATX AMD Motherboard

ASRock B450M Steel Legend AM4 Micro ATX AMD Motherboard | Image

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the ASRock B450M Steel Legend Motherboard, and let me tell you, it's a little powerhouse! First off, the built-in RGB light syncing with the heat indicators was a game changer, making it super easy to monitor temperature. And the aluminum alloy heatsink? A total win against overheating issues.

However, I did have a bit of trouble with the installation manual and BIOS guide. It took me a while to figure out how to match certain headers to leads from my case and power supply. I also had a bit of a struggle with installing the fan cooler, but once I got the hang of it, the motherboard worked like a charm.

The ASRock motherboard offers two speedy M. 2 slots, a DisplayPort that delivered 2K resolution at 60fps (which was better than I expected), and even support for both Gen1 and Gen2 USB 3.1, making it perfect for my high-performance needs.

The product's build quality is solid with a sleek and stylish design. The technology used, like DDR4, allowed for stable and reliable performance. But it was the two Type-A and Type-C USB 3.1 Gen2 ports at the rear i/o that really made a difference in using next-gen USB 3.1 devices.

While I appreciated the customer service provided by ASRock when issues popped up, I couldn't ignore the poor installation guide which led me to spend more time than necessary figuring things out. And unfortunately, it did experience an unexpected failure, with the VRMs seeming to have fried my CPU.

In conclusion, the ASRock B450M Steel Legend Motherboard is a powerful, reliable, and stylish piece of tech for tech enthusiasts – if you're willing to put in a bit of elbow grease during the installation process and overlook a few flaws.

MSI B550M-VC Pro WiFi Motherboard: AM4 AMD High-Performance MicroATX

MSI B550M-VC Pro WiFi Motherboard: AM4 AMD High-Performance MicroATX | Image

Experience the latest in motherboard technology with the MSI B550M-VC Pro WiFi AMD AM4 MicroATX Motherboard. This compact powerhouse features the AM4 socket, allowing you to install a wide range of 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors, with support for future CPUs via BIOS update. Packing 4 dual-channel DDR4 RAM slots, you can install up to 128GB of memory for lightning-fast performance and seamless multitasking capabilities.

Take advantage of the ample storage options with support for up to eight SATA III SSDs or HDDs and dual M. 2 PCIe interfaces. Boasting a variety of connectivity options, you can connect a multitude of peripherals with USB 2.0 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2 ports. The VGA HDMI and DisplayPort video out ports, along with the PS/2 combo port, ensure compatibility with legacy peripherals.

Embrace state-of-the-art networking with Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) and a Gigabit Ethernet port, providing you with a reliable and strong connection for uploading, downloading, and streaming. The Bluetooth 5.2 technology enables wireless device usage, offering a cable-free experience for your convenience.

Made for superior audio performance, the motherboard features the Realtek ALC892/ALC897 audio codec and a wide range of BIOS features, including Multilingual BIOS, UEFI BIOS, and MSI ClickBIOS 5. With thoughtfully designed features, including chassis intrusion detection and MSI Audio Boost, this microATX motherboard offers impressive performance at an affordable price point.

MSI B450M PRO-VDH Max Micro-ATX Motherboard: Performance and Power for Enhanced Gaming Experience

MSI B450M PRO-VDH Max Micro-ATX Motherboard: Performance and Power for Enhanced Gaming Experience | Image

The MSI B450 motherboard is well-suited for those looking for a reliable and efficient gaming platform. With its AMD B450 Chipset, it offers enhanced performance and the capacity to support a wide range of processors, from Athlon to Ryzen 3rd Generation. The motherboard also boasts a striking design and excellent cooling capabilities. Its power design features an optimal power design with solid and heavy heatsink, which helps ensure reliable performance and stable operations. Plus, it supports a range of memory speed options to suit your specific needs.

One of the standout features of this motherboard is its USB 3.2 interface, providing high-speed data transfer – perfect for avid gamers and multitaskers. Additionally, the onboard audio and Ethernet connections are top-notch, offering high-quality audio and reliable network connectivity.

The B450 PRO VDH Max motherboard also offers a practical layout and quality components within its compact micro-ATX design. It comes with 4 RAM slots that allow for memory expansion up to 64 GB. Users also appreciate the simplicity of the BIOS interface and the ease of setting everything up.

However, some users have reported minor issues with RAM seating or have had to use splitters for fans to accommodate their system. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MSI B450M PRO-VDH Max remains a reliable and powerful option for gaming enthusiasts on a budget.

MSI B450M-A Pro Max II: AM4 Micro-ATX Motherboard

MSI B450M-A Pro Max II: AM4 Micro-ATX Motherboard | Image

The MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard is a great choice for those looking for a stable and high-quality motherboard that can handle professional workflows. With its 2.5G LAN solution, users can enjoy a better network experience. The AMD Turbo USB 3.2 Gen 1 power provides an uninterrupted connection with added stability and faster speeds.

This motherboard is built with a PRO Series design that combines stable functionality and high-quality assembly, making it ideal for businesses and office use. Featuring AMD architecture with Core Boost, DDR4 Boost, Turbo M. 2, and USB 3.2 Gen1, it offers a wide range of features for its users.

Some of the highlights include dual channel memory architecture, A-XMP support, and MSI Audio Boost. This motherboard provides easy overclocking and a great BIOS for its users. However, it is lacking some fan headers and M2 slots, which may be an issue for those requiring more expansion options.

Overall, the MSI B450M-A Pro Max II Micro-ATX Motherboard is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly motherboard with great features and performance. Despite some minor drawbacks, users will appreciate the stability, ease of setup, and overall functionality of this motherboard.

Gigabyte B550 Aorus Elite AX V2 AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard - High-Performance, Feature-Rich PC Building Solution

Gigabyte B550 Aorus Elite AX V2 AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard — High-Performance, Feature-Rich PC Building Solution | Image

Experience seamless gaming with the Gigabyte Aorus Elite AX V2 Motherboard, designed for top performance and connectivity. This motherboard is perfect for building your next gaming PC, as it comes equipped with an AMD B550 chipset and an AM4 socket, allowing you to choose from a wide array of Ryzen processors. The B550 AORUS Elite AX V2 Motherboard offers enhanced multitasking capabilities, supporting up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM with overclocking speeds up to 4733 MHz. It boasts numerous storage connections, including SATA III and M. 2, as well as a range of PCIe and USB ports for unparalleled connectivity. With built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 support, this motherboard ensures a smooth and fast PC experience, making it a top choice for gaming enthusiasts.

ROG Stixx Gaming ATX AMD AM4 Motherboard by Asus

ROG Stixx Gaming ATX AMD AM4 Motherboard by Asus | Image

The Asus B550-F ROG Strix Gaming AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard is a powerful, feature-packed motherboard designed for gaming enthusiasts. It's equipped with the latest PCIe 4.0 technology, offering lightning-fast data transfer speeds and optimal performance for all your gaming needs.

One standout feature is the 2.5Gb LAN connectivity, providing ultra-fast and stable network connections. This is especially beneficial for competitive gamers who require lightning-fast response times in online gaming. The BIOS Flashback feature also simplifies updates, ensuring compatibility with the latest technologies and optimizing performance.

The motherboard's aesthetics are noteworthy too, with customizable RGB lighting and Aura Sync compatibility. You can create stunning lighting effects that synchronize with other Aura Sync-compatible components, elevating the visual appeal of your gaming setup.

However, the installation process was a bit of a hurdle for some users. The well-labeled connectors and ATX form factor helped ease the setup process, but the comprehensive user manual and intuitive interface would have been even more helpful in simplifying the installation.

In conclusion, the Asus B550-F ROG Stix Gaming Motherboard offers advanced features for a superior gaming experience. While there are minor challenges in setting it up, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. It's a solid choice for anyone seeking a powerful and feature-rich motherboard for their gaming rig.

MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard for High-Performance Gaming

MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard for High-Performance Gaming | Image

Experience the power and efficiency of the MSI B550 Gaming Gen3 AMD AM4 ATX Motherboard. With support for Ryzen processors and DDR4 memory, this motherboard delivers exceptional performance and expansion options. Enjoy seamless connectivity with its SATA 6Gb/s ports, PCIe x16 slots, and M. 2 Key M slot. Customize your gaming experience with impressive features like Total Fan Control and MSI Steel Armor for an unparalleled gaming experience. The B550 Gaming Gen3 is perfect for enthusiasts with easy access to advanced cooling solutions and reliable connectivity options.

ROG Strix Asus AM4 ATX Gaming Motherboard

ROG Strix Asus AM4 ATX Gaming Motherboard | Image

As a gamer, I was intrigued by the vibrant gaming ambiance that the ASUS ROG Strix B550-A Gaming AM4 ATX Motherboard promised with its RGB lighting. The first thing that caught my attention was the DDR4 RAM, which boosted the execution speed for lag-free multitasking. I installed the board in my gaming setup and was pleased by its easy setup process.

One of the key features that stood out was the Radeon graphics, which provided an immersive gaming experience. I found that the motherboard performed well under pressure, offering smooth and stable performance even during intense gaming sessions. The power delivery was impressive, ensuring that the system ran without any hiccups.

However, I did notice that the motherboard could get quite warm during extended gaming sessions, which could be a concern for some users. Temperature control might be an area where the ASUS ROG Stix B550-A Gaming Motherboard could improve. Overall, it's a solid board for gaming enthusiasts, but it may not be the best choice for those looking for advanced temperature control features.

Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard - Ultimate Gaming Experience

Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard — Ultimate Gaming Experience | Image

The Asus Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard offers enhanced cooling and ultrafast connectivity in a compact form factor. This motherboard supports first and second-generation socket AM4 AMD Ryzen processors and includes six SATA III ports for ample storage. The VGA, DVI-D, and HDMI ports accommodate various display configurations, while a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot supports dedicated graphics cards or other PCIe-based hardware.

A key advantage of the Asus Prime B450M-A II is its 5X Protection III technology, which includes a range of safeguards such as CrashFree BIOS 3, SafeSlot Core, and LANGuard. The motherboard also features Aura Sync RGB lighting, providing an attractive and customizable touch to your system. In addition, the board integrates Realtek ALC 887-VD2 8-channel HD audio for high-quality sound output.

The motherboard's compatibility with Athlon and Ryzen processors makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of users. Its UEFI BIOS type and support for a variety of memory speeds ensure optimal performance. With multiple expansion slots, an M. 2 slot, and a 24-pin ATX12V connector, this motherboard provides easy access to storage and power management options.

While the Asus Prime B450M-A II offers comprehensive cooling and ultrafast connectivity, some users have reported compatibility issues with Windows 11. Overall, the motherboard delivers reliable performance, flexible configuration options, and an attractive design. With its combination of robust build quality, ample features, and user-friendly setup, this motherboard is well-suited for both gaming enthusiasts and professionals seeking a powerful and versatile platform.

MSI Gaming Plus Max: High-Performance AMD Motherboard for Ultimate Gaming Experience

MSI Gaming Plus Max: High-Performance AMD Motherboard for Ultimate Gaming Experience | Image

For avid gamers, the MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max AM4 ATX AMD Motherboard offers a thrilling, immersive experience. I was excited to dive into this gaming motherboard, so I started by setting up my custom color scheme with the MSI Mystic Light utility. The unlimited color options allowed me to create a dynamic and visually stunning system.

One of the most essential aspects of gaming is the ability to consistently maintain optimal performance. On this board, the cooling system was top-notch, ensuring my PC was always running smoothly. The advanced performance components used allowed me to experience seamless gameplay even during intense sessions.

However, there were some aspects that could have been improved. The build quality could have been a bit better, providing a stronger and more durable product. I noticed that the motherboard was a bit on the heavy side, which could have caused some issues during transportation.

Overall, the MSI B450 Gaming Plus Max AM4 ATX AMD Motherboard offers a high-quality gaming experience, although there might be some minor drawbacks. It's definitely worth considering if you're a serious gamer looking for a reliable, high-performance motherboard.

Buyer's Guide

When it comes to choosing the right AM4 Motherboard for your needs, there are several important features, considerations, and pieces of advice to take into account. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner just dipping your toes into the world of computing, this guide will help you make an informed purchase.

Important Features to Consider

When shopping for an AM4 Motherboard, some key features you should look out for include: compatibility with your processor and memory, the number of expansion slots (PCIe), the number and type of USB ports, and the audio and networking capabilities. Understanding these features can help you determine which motherboard best fits your requirements.

Understanding System Compatibility

Before purchasing an AM4 Motherboard, you need to ensure that it is compatible with your existing components, including your processor and memory. Not all motherboards support all processors, so it's essential to check the compatibility before making a purchase. It's also important to consider future upgrades, as you don't want to buy a motherboard that won't support newer processors down the line.

Expansion Slots and Ports

Another important aspect to consider is the number and type of expansion slots and ports available on the motherboard. For example, if you plan to use multiple high-speed PCIe devices, you'll need a motherboard that supports multiple PCIe x16 slots. Similarly, if you require a large number of USB ports, you should look for a motherboard with plenty of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 connections.

Audio and Networking Capabilities

Finally, the audio and networking capabilities are also essential considerations when purchasing an AM4 Motherboard. High-quality audio and networking are crucial for smooth and efficient communication. Look for a motherboard with built-in high-fidelity audio and networking features to ensure the best performance possible.

FAQ

What is AM4 Motherboard?

AM4 is a socket type for motherboards designed for AMD Ryzen CPUs and Ryzen APUs. It was first introduced in 2017 and is the successor to the AM3+ socket. AM4 motherboards support both desktop and mobile CPUs, offering a versatile platform for AMD enthusiasts and computer builders looking for a high-performance, power-efficient solution.

AM4 motherboards come in a range of styles, from budget-friendly Micro ATX and Mini ITX options to high-end ATX and X299 TR44-based Threadripper boards. There are also various chipset options like the X370, B350, X470, and B450, which cater to different user requirements, feature sets, and price points.

What is special about the AM4 motherboard lineup?

AM4 motherboards are known for their superior compatibility with a wide range of CPUs and cooling solutions. Unlike Intel's LGA1151 platform, AMD's AM4 platform supports liquid and air CPU cooling out of the box. Additionally, AM4 motherboards offer multiple M. 2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and several SATA 6Gb/s ports for storage devices. Moreover, the AM4 platform is optimized for high-speed memory, offering support for up to 128GB of DDR4 memory at speeds up to 3200 MHz.

Another highlight of the AM4 platform is its extended lifespan due to the modular nature of the design, allowing for an easier upgrade path. Users can replace the CPU without needing to change the motherboard, making it more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. Lastly, the AM4 platform supports PCIe 4.0, providing twice the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0 for faster data transfer to compatible devices.

What are some popular AM4 motherboards currently available in the market?

There are numerous AM4 motherboards available, catering to different needs and budgets. Some popular options include the ASRock X470 Taichi, ASUS ROG Strix 470-F Gaming, MSI X470 GAMING PLUS, Gigabyte GA-AB350M-DS3H, ASRock B450M Steel Legend, ASUS Prime B450M-A/CSM, and Gigabyte B450M DS3H. These boards offer a mix of features, durability, and aesthetics, making them suitable choices for AMD enthusiasts and builders.

It is essential to compare specifications, performance, and price points when choosing an AM4 motherboard. Consider factors such as chipset, VRM quality, expansion slots, PCIe lane configuration, and onboard audio and network controllers. These elements can greatly impact the overall performance, flexibility, and value for money of the chosen motherboard.

Are there any downsides to AM4 motherboards?

While AM4 motherboards offer numerous advantages, there are a few downsides to consider. Firstly, the platform is heavily reliant on software optimization, with some older software and hardware combinations not being fully compatible or performing optimally. This can result in compatibility issues or reduced performance in certain scenarios.

Additionally, AM4 motherboards lack the wide range of I/O options of some Intel platforms. Many AM4 motherboards lack support for Thunderbolt, which can be a significant downside for users requiring ultra-fast data transfer or display output. Furthermore, some users may find the absence of multi-GPU support a restriction.

Which AMD CPUs are compatible with AM4 motherboards?

AM4 motherboards support a wide range of AMD Ryzen CPUs, including both desktop and mobile variants. These include Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, Ryzen 9, Ryzen Pro (Threadripper), Ryzen APU (APU), Ryzen 3, and Ryzen 5 (APU). The compatibility list is constantly expanding, with newer CPUs being added regularly. It is crucial to check the motherboard's supporting CPU list before making a purchase to ensure the desired CPU is compatible.

Note that older AM4 motherboards may have limited support for newer AMD Ryzen CPUs. It is essential to check the motherboard's supported CPU list and compatibility with the desired CPU before making a purchase, to ensure optimal performance and compatibility across your build components. Consult the motherboard manufacturer's website or user manual for more accurate information on CPU compatibility.

What is the future of AM4 motherboards?

AM4 motherboards and the AMD Ryzen platform continue to evolve, with new CPU models being released regularly. The AM4 platform is expected to receive support for 3rd Gen. Ryzen CPUs (AMD Zen 3) in the coming months, which promise even better performance and power efficiency. Additionally, the platform is likely to support PCIe 4.0 for enhanced data transfer speeds, making the AM4 motherboards a more alluring choice for enthusiasts and builders.

In conclusion, the future of AM4 motherboards looks promising, with ongoing innovation and optimization. The platform's compatibility, versatility, and flexibility make it an attractive choice for many users, especially with the release of new Ryzen CPUs and planned support for PCIe 4.0. Stay updated on the latest developments and be prepared to upgrade your system to take advantage of these exciting enhancements.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, we receive compensation through qualified purchases at no cost to you!

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