If you want to build a gaming PC without spending too much, it’s important to pick the right motherboard. In 2025, there are many budget-friendly options that give you good features without costing a lot. These motherboards support the latest CPUs and have good internet and video connections.
They will give your gaming setup a strong base. Want to find out which models offer the best value? Knowing your choices helps you build a better, more affordable gaming computer.
TUF Gaming Z790-BTF WiFi 7 Motherboard
- Intel LGA 1700 socket: Ready for Intel Core 14th & 13th Gen Processors, Intel Core 12th Gen, Pentium Gold and Celeron Processors
- Premium power solution: 16+1+1 power stages, six-layer PCB, ProCool sockets, alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power deliver
- Hidden-Connector Design: Delivers an unprecedented lever of cable management to PC DIY enthusiasts
The TUF Gaming Z790-BTF WiFi 7 Motherboard is a great pick for gamers who want good performance without spending too much. Its Hidden-Connector design makes cable management easy and keeps your build looking neat. It supports Intel LGA 1700 sockets for 13th and 14th Gen CPUs. This means you can upgrade your system easily in the future. The motherboard has a strong power system and can support overclocking up to 5.7GHz. It also works with DDR5 memory up to 5600 MHz, which makes your system faster.
With PCIe 5.0, WiFi 7, Thunderbolt 4, and multiple M.2 slots, this motherboard gives you plenty of options to expand and add new devices. It’s built to last and keep your system stable, making it good for gaming and professional work, even after years of use.
Best For: Gamers on a budget who want a reliable, high-performance motherboard with good expandability and smart design features.
Pros:
- Supports the latest Intel LGA 1700 CPUs, including 13th and 14th Gen, so you can upgrade easily
- Strong power delivery and supports overclocking up to 5.7GHz
- Supports fast DDR5 memory up to 5600 MHz
- Many expansion options like PCIe 5.0, WiFi 7, Thunderbolt 4, and multiple M.2 slots for fast storage and peripherals
Cons:
- The price might be high for some people on a small budget
- It doesn’t have a rear Thunderbolt port, so you need extra parts if you want to use Thunderbolt devices
- The motherboard has many features, which might make it a little tricky for first-time builders to set up
This motherboard gives you a good mix of power, expandability, and easy design. It’s a solid choice for gamers and work users who want to build a reliable PC.
MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk Gaming Motherboard + AMD Ryzen 7 5800X Processor
- AMD's fastest 8 core processor for mainstream desktop, with 16 procesing threads. OS Support-Windows 10 64-Bit Edition
- Can deliver elite 100-plus FPS performance in the world's most popular games
- Support for 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors and future AMD Ryzen processors with BIOS update
If you want a gaming PC that is affordable but still powerful, the MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk motherboard combined with the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X processor is a great pick. The processor has 8 cores and 16 threads, which helps it run many games smoothly, often over 100 FPS. This setup supports DDR4 RAM up to 128GB, with speeds up to 4400 MHz when overclocked. It also features fast PCIe 4.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for quick data transfer and good connectivity.
The motherboard is built well and can handle multitasking, gaming, and future upgrades easily. With BIOS updates, it can stay compatible with new Ryzen processors. Many users like this combo because it offers good value for playing games in 1080p and for virtual reality setups. Just keep in mind that the high heat from the Ryzen 7 5800X means you’ll need a good cooling system to keep everything running smoothly.
Best For: gamers and PC builders who want a high-performance system that doesn’t cost too much. It is good for gaming, multitasking, and future upgrades.
Pros:
- Supports up to 128GB DDR4 RAM with speeds up to 4400 MHz (overclocked). This helps with gaming and multitasking.
- Has PCIe 4.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for fast data and device connections.
- Solid build quality and many positive reviews for performance and value, especially for 1080p gaming and VR.
Cons:
- The Ryzen 7 5800X produces a lot of heat, so good cooling is needed.
- You might need to update the BIOS for the motherboard to work with the newest Ryzen processors.
- It has fewer overclocking options compared to high-end motherboards, so overclocking is more limited.
This combo offers a good balance of price and power. It’s perfect if you want to play your favorite games on a budget without sacrificing speed or reliability.
MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi Gaming Motherboard
- Supports 12th/13th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold and Celeron processors for LGA 1700 socket
- Supports DDR5 Memory, Dual Channel DDR5 6800+MHz (OC)
- Lightning Fast Game experience: PCIe 4.0 slot, Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2
Are you looking for a good gaming motherboard that won’t cost a lot? The MSI B760 Gaming Plus WiFi is a solid choice. It works with 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors. That means you can upgrade your PC easily in the future. It uses DDR5 memory and supports dual channels up to 6800+MHz. This makes your gaming smooth and your multitasking faster. The motherboard has PCIe 4.0 and Lightning Gen 4 M.2 for fast storage and graphics. It also offers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for quick wireless connections. Plus, its thermal solutions help keep your system cool during long gaming sessions. Overall, this motherboard offers many features without a high price. It’s great for gamers and builders who want good performance with the latest connectivity.
Best For: gamers and PC builders on a budget who want a reliable and fast motherboard.
Pros:
- Supports new Intel processors for upgrade options
- Fast DDR5 memory up to 6800+MHz (overclocked) for smooth gaming
- Lots of ports and connections, including PCIe 4.0, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3
Cons:
- You might need to update the BIOS for some processors
- Overclocking features are limited compared to high-end boards
- No built-in RGB lighting for colorful looks
ASUS TUF Gaming B850-PLUS WiFi AMD AM5 Motherboard
- Ready for Advanced AI PC: Designed for the future of AI computing, with the power and connectivity needed for demanding AI applications
- AMD AM5 Socket: Ready for AMD Socket AM5 for AMD Ryzen 9000 & 8000 & 7000 Series Desktop Processors
- Enhanced Power Solution: 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages, 8-layer PCB, 8+8 pin ProCool power connectors, alloy chokes and durable capacitors for stable power...
The ASUS TUF Gaming B850-PLUS WiFi AMD AM5 Motherboard is a good choice for gamers and people on a budget. It starts with a solid base for AMD Ryzen processors. The motherboard fits AMD AM5 sockets and works with Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs. It has many input and output options, including support for fast DDR5 memory up to 8000 MHz. But keep in mind, some RAM speeds might need a BIOS update to go beyond 6000 MHz.
The motherboard has 14+2+1 power phases. This helps keep the CPU stable during overclocking and prevents overheating. It features three M.2 slots for SSDs and supports PCIe 5.0 to add graphics cards or other expansion cards. Built-in Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, and many USB ports make it easy to connect to the internet, accessories, and devices. It works well for gaming, AI tasks, and everyday use.
Best For: Gamers and budget builders who want a reliable motherboard with lots of features and good connectivity.
Pros:
- Supports fast DDR5 memory up to 8000 MHz
- Has 14+2+1 power stages for stable and safe overclocking
- Comes with built-in Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, and many USB ports
Cons:
- RAM may only run at 6000 MHz unless you update the BIOS
- Larger heatsinks can interfere with some cooling setups
- BIOS updates might be needed for full support of Ryzen 9000 CPUs
This motherboard gives you a good mix of performance, features, and affordability. It is perfect if you want to play games or build a system on a budget, with plenty of options to expand and connect your devices.
Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II AMD AM4 Motherboard
- AM4 socket: Ready for AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series, plus 5000 and 4000 G-series desktop processors.Bluetooth v5.2
- Best gaming connectivity: PCIe 4.0-ready, dual M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, plus HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.2 output
- Smooth networking: On-board WiFi 6E (802.11ax) and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANGuard
The Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II motherboard is a good choice for gamers and PC builders who want solid features at a fair price. It works with AMD’s AM4 sockets and supports Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors, including powerful chips like the Ryzen 5900X. The motherboard has PCIe 4.0, two M.2 slots with heatsinks, and fast internet options like WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and 2.5Gb LAN. It is built with high-quality parts, supports RAM up to 4000 MHz, and looks sleek. This makes it good for gaming and overclocking. It offers good performance, many connections, and strong build quality at an affordable price.
Best For: Gamers and PC fans who want a reliable, feature-packed motherboard for high-performance AMD Ryzen PCs.
Pros:
- Supports AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series CPUs with strong power delivery
- Has PCIe 4.0, two M.2 slots, and fast networking (WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5Gb LAN)
- Good build quality, a nice design, and many connection options
Cons:
- WiFi and Bluetooth may need manual setup or fixing
- USB boot with many external devices can sometimes have issues
- Not much RGB lighting, so it may not appeal to users who want colorful lights
This motherboard is easy to use and offers good features for a fair price. It helps you build a fast and reliable gaming PC or work computer.
MSI X870 Gaming Plus WiFi Motherboard
- ULTRA POWER - SUPPORTS THE LATEST RYZEN 9000 PROCESSORS IN HIGH PERFORMANCE - The X870 GAMING PLUS WIFI employs a 14 Duet Rail Power System (60A, SPS) VRM for...
- FROZR GUARD - Excellent cooling features such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads, extra choke thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink; Includes chipset heatsink, EZ M.2...
- DDR5 MEMORY, PCIe 5.0 x16 SLOTS - 4 x DDR5 DIMM SMT slots enable extreme memory overclocking speeds (1DPC 1R, 8200+ MT/s OC); 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 SMT slot...
If you want to build a gaming or work PC that performs well but costs less, the MSI X870 Gaming Plus WiFi Motherboard is a good choice. It works with AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 processors on the AM5 socket. The motherboard is built with strong, server-style PCBs, 2 ounces of copper layers, and high-quality soldering to last longer.
It has a 14 Duet Rail Power System. This helps give steady power to your CPU. There are big heatsinks and thermal pads to keep everything cool. You can use fast DDR5 RAM that works over 8200+ MT/s. It has several M.2 slots for speedy storage drives and a PCIe 5.0 slot for your graphics card. For internet and connection, it has Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and USB4 Type-C ports. The I/O options are wide, making it easy to connect all your peripherals.
This motherboard is great for gamers, PC builders, and people who need a fast and reliable setup without spending a lot. It is built to handle heavy workloads and demanding tasks.
Pros:
- Can use the latest AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 processors with strong power and cooling.
- Supports fast DDR5 RAM over 8200+ MT/s and has multiple M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 for SSDs and graphics cards.
- Offers many connection options like Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and USB4 Type-C for easy use of various devices.
Cons:
- Has fewer USB ports, which might limit how many devices you can connect.
- Some users noticed minor damage in the packaging, which may affect how it looks.
- Being a high-performance motherboard, it might need some background knowledge to set up and overclock properly.
If you’re looking for a reliable motherboard with modern features that won’t break the bank, the MSI X870 Gaming Plus WiFi Motherboard is worth considering. It provides good speed, good connectivity, and strong build quality for your gaming or work PC.
ASUS ROG Strix B850-A Gaming Motherboard with WiFi 7 and PCIe 5.0
- Ready for Advanced AI PCs: Designed for the future of AI computing, with the power and connectivity needed for demanding AI applications
- AMD AM5 Socket: Ready for AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 series desktop processors
- Intelligent Control: ASUS AI Advisor, AI Networking II and AEMP to simplify setup and improve performance
The ASUS ROG Strix B850-A Gaming Motherboard is a good choice for gamers and PC builders. It offers strong features like WiFi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support. This means fast internet and quick connections for your graphics card and SSDs. It works with AMD processors that fit the AM5 socket, including Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series.
The motherboard can handle high-speed DDR5 memory—up to 8000 MHz. Its power system and cooling design help keep everything stable, even if you want to overclock. There are multiple M.2 slots for SSDs and many USB ports, including a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C. Plus, it has RGB lighting for a cool look.
Many users like this motherboard for its performance and style at a lower price. It’s rated 4.5 out of 5 stars. It works well for gaming and high-performance PC builds.
Who is it best for? Gamers and PC builders who want a future-ready motherboard with fast load speeds and good connectivity. It is easy to upgrade and maintains stability during intense gaming or work sessions.
Pros:
- Supports new AMD Ryzen processors with AM5 socket.
- PCIe 5.0 for next-gen graphics cards and SSDs.
- DDR5 memory up to 8000 MHz for fast speeds.
- Lots of ports, including WiFi 7, 2.5G LAN, and many USB options.
- Four M.2 slots for fast SSD storage.
Cons:
- Some users find the boot time a little slow, about 20 seconds.
- There can be some BIOS setup issues, especially with AIO coolers.
- The front USB-C header may need a metal adapter, which some people have to buy separately.
This motherboard is a good pick if you want a reliable, stylish, and future-proof board for your gaming or high-performance PC without spending a lot.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Budget Gaming Motherboards
When picking a budget gaming motherboard, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, make sure it works with your CPU. Check if the motherboard supports the type of processor you have or plan to buy. Next, see if it supports the amount of memory you want to use. Also, look at what kind of slots and ports it has for extra cards or drives.
It’s also good to check the connection options like USB ports and Wi-Fi. These features can make your gaming setup easier and more fun. Plus, pay attention to how the motherboard manages heat. Good cooling helps your PC run smoothly, especially during long gaming sessions. Finally, check if it has solid power delivery. This helps keep everything stable and can improve performance.
CPU Compatibility Factors
When choosing a budget gaming motherboard, it’s important to make sure it works well with your CPU. First, check if the motherboard’s socket matches your processor. For example, newer Intel CPUs use LGA 1700, while AMD Ryzen often uses AM4 or AM5 sockets. Next, look at whether the motherboard supports your specific CPU model and generation. Sometimes, you might need a BIOS update to get it to work with the newest chips.
It’s also good to check the motherboard’s VRM quality. VRM stands for voltage regulator module, and it helps keep your CPU stable. Better VRM means your system can handle overclocking and run smoothly. Make sure the motherboard can handle your CPU’s maximum TDP, which is the power your CPU uses. This helps prevent overheating and cooling problems.
Finally, think about future upgrades. Pick a motherboard that can support newer CPUs later. This way, you can upgrade your processor without buying a new motherboard. Making sure all these parts fit well together will give you a reliable and fun gaming setup that lasts longer.
Memory Support Limits
Making sure your motherboard can handle the amount and speed of RAM you need is important for good gaming performance on a budget. Cheap gaming motherboards usually support DDR4 or DDR5 RAM. DDR4 speeds go from 3000 MHz up to 5600 MHz, while DDR5 can reach up to 6800 MHz. How much RAM they support is often between 32GB and 128GB. Most motherboards have two or four slots, so you can add more RAM later if needed.
Some low-cost motherboards might not let you overclock RAM easily. This means RAM speeds stay at the rated level and don’t go higher. Also, using new types of RAM may need a BIOS update to work well. If a motherboard supports less memory, it can slow down games or apps that need a lot of data transfer. So, pick a motherboard that matches your gaming needs and future plans.
Expansion Options Availability
When shopping for a budget gaming motherboard, it’s important to look at its expansion options. First, check how many PCIe slots it has. These slots let you add graphics cards or other add-in cards. Make sure the slots support the latest standards, like PCIe 3.0, 4.0, or 5.0, so your upgrades stay compatible. Next, look at the M.2 slots. These are for your SSDs, which help your system run faster. If you want to add more SSDs, see if there are enough M.2 slots. Also, check if the slots have heatsinks or cooling features, to keep your drives from overheating.
Then, look at the SATA ports. These ports connect traditional hard drives and SSDs. Make sure there are enough ports if you plan to add more storage later. Next, check the USB ports. See if there are enough USB 3.x ports and a USB-C port for your external devices. These are common for connecting phones, external drives, or gaming accessories.
Finally, look for headers and slots for Wi-Fi antennas, sound cards, or capture cards. These allow you to add wireless internet or improve your sound system easily. Choosing a motherboard with good expansion options helps you build a better gaming PC and make upgrades simple and affordable.
Connectivity Features Offered
When choosing a budget gaming motherboard, look closely at its connectivity features. These features tell you how easy it is to connect your devices and improve your gaming.
Make sure it has USB 3.2 ports, either Gen 1 or Gen 2. These ports let you transfer data quickly to your mouse, keyboard, or external drives. Check if it has two M.2 slots with heatsinks. These are needed for fast SSDs that help load games faster and run smoothly.
A good Ethernet port with 2.5Gbps or higher speeds helps you stay connected online without lag. Many motherboards also support Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7. This means a faster, more reliable Wi-Fi connection for online games.
Look for multiple USB Type-C and Type-A ports, with speeds from 5Gbps to 20Gbps. These ports let you connect many peripherals at different speeds. Some motherboards also come with HDMI, DisplayPort, or front USB headers. These help connect monitors or VR gear easily, without adding extra costs.
Cooling and Power Design
A motherboard’s power design and cooling features are important for keeping your computer running smoothly during gaming. A good power system has many phases and uses high-quality parts. This helps deliver steady voltage, so your game runs without hiccups and allows for overclocking if you want it. Good cooling solutions, like heatsinks on VRMs and M.2 slots, help remove heat. This stops parts from getting too hot when your system is working hard. The quality of power stages and heatsinks matters because it affects how long your system lasts, especially when overclocking. Proper thermal management tools, such as AI cooling and well-planned layouts, help keep components cool. This reduces thermal throttling, which slows down your system when it gets hot. Keeping components cool makes your system last longer and stay steady during long gaming sessions. Focusing on good power and cooling makes sure even a budget motherboard can handle heavy gaming without overheating or crashing.
Price and Build Quality
Choosing a budget gaming motherboard means you need to find a good balance between price and build quality. These motherboards usually cost between $80 and $200. Even at lower prices, some models use strong parts like alloy chokes, solid capacitors, and reinforced PCIe slots. These parts help the motherboard last longer and work better. A well-made motherboard stays stable during gaming and reduces the chance of crashes or hardware problems. Picking a motherboard with good build quality helps your computer run smoothly and keeps it safe from damage. By choosing carefully, you get a motherboard that is both affordable and reliable, giving you the best value for your gaming setup.
Last update on 2025-07-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!
