Right now, the 10th generation processors lineup from Intel is their best and most powerful offering. To be able to install one of these CPUs in your upcoming build, you will have to get your hands on a decent LGA 1200 type of motherboard. LGA 1200 is an Intel microprocessor socket that was released last year and can be used for all Intel comet lake processors. Here are some common factors that you will usually come across while purchasing a new motherboard:
Form Factor: The size of the motherboard does not usually affect its compatibility or performance. But, it is crucial to know the required form factor of your motherboard before you buy the cabinet for your system. You can choose from a variety of motherboard form factors such as ATX, Micro ATX, and even Mini ITX for compact builds.
Chipset Type: As we are focusing on LGA 1200 motherboards, you might already own or looking forward to getting an Intel 10th gen processor for your build. Even within the LGA 1200 range, you will find a couple of different types of chipsets that are designed for different series of processors. Your processor must be compatible with the chipset type for it to be operational with the motherboard.
Application: Another important thing is to consider what you are going to do with your PC before you select the motherboard. There are many different types of motherboards that are designed for various applications such as gaming, content creation, and heavy workstations.
Due to the large number of brands providing several different models for each CPU, selecting a perfectly compatible motherboard for your build is quite a difficult task. Also, the motherboards have lots of factors such as size, chipset type, expansion slots, and RAM capacity that makes the choice even more confusing for new buyers. Hence, we are giving you the best choices for LGA 1200 motherboards that you can buy right now. Also, check out our “Buying Guide” for the best LGA 1200 motherboards to make a perfect choice.
Best LGA 1200 Motherboards 2023
Best LGA 1200 Motherboards Reviews
1. ASUS Prime Z490-A LGA 1200 ATX Motherboard
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We are all quite familiar with the brand Asus as it offers a great range of high-end desktop PC components along with their prime series motherboards for heavier applications. The ASUS Prime Z490-A is available as our 1st pick for today’s list as it is the most premium LGA 1200 motherboard from our selection. Not only does its Z490 chipset support all series of 10th generation Intel CPUs, but it can also overclock these CPUs for extended performance. This is an ATX motherboard packed with 12+2 DrMOS power stages that increase the efficiency of the motherboard by integrating the driver and MOSFETs in a single package. It is also one of the most heavy-duty options with alloy chokes and highly durable capacitors needed for stable power delivery. As you probably will be overclocking with this motherboard, it allows you to efficiently manage the temperatures with VRM and PCH heatsinks and hybrid fan connections with Fan Xpert 4 utility. You will be able to install up to 128 GB RAM on this motherboard and it is backed by 3 years of warranty. Key Features:
Chipset: Intel Z490 Form Factor: ATX CPU support: Intel 10th Gen Memory Speed: 4600 MHz Supported RAM size: 128 GB DDR4 Expansion slots: 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 Storage Interface: 2 x M.2 22110 PCIe 3.0 x4 mode Ports: 2 x USB 2.0, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Warranty: 3 Years
Pros:
Great build quality Advanced chipset type Long warranty period
Cons:
Expensive price tag
2. MSI Z490-A PRO ProSeries ATX Motherboard
If you are looking for the high-end features of a z490 chipset type under a comparatively affordable budget range, You should take a look at this offering from MSI. MSI is also a well-known brand in the industry that serves highly capable components for intermediate builds. We have placed the MSI Z490-A PRO ProSeries ATX Motherboard as our 2nd choice on this list for its exciting range of features offered under an affordable budget range. For just little addition over the B series motherboard, you can get your hands on a Z490 chipset motherboard that also supports up to 128 GB RAM with dual-channel support. It can also house one of the fastest storage drives in the industry with a maximum speed capacity of up to 32 GB/s thanks to the Twin Turbo M.2 Shield Frozr slots. In case of overclocking, the core boost technology on this motherboard will supply a balanced and stable current to the CPU to maintain its high-performance levels. As for the connectivity, you will have access to a 2.5 G LAN port paired with a Gigabit LAN port and WiFi 6 for wireless connectivity. It only has 2 years warranty period, which is justifiable with its price point. Key Features:
Chipset: Intel Z490 Form Factor: ATX CPU support: Intel 10th Gen Memory Speed: 4800 MHz Supported RAM size: 128 GB DDR4 Expansion slots: 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 Storage Interface: 2 x M.2 22110 PCIe 3.0 x4 mode, 6x SATA III Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Type C, 6 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Warranty: 2 Years
Pros:
Many USB ports available The comparatively affordable price tag Multiple storage drives can be installed
Cons:
The warranty period is shorter
3. GIGABYTE Z490 Vision G
Here, we have but one more high-end motherboard coming from one of the most popular brands, Gigabyte. While it is also one of the premium picks from our list, it surely has a lot to offer in terms of features and specifications. The GIGABYTE Z490 Vision G is our 3rd pick for the best LGA 1200 motherboards as it is one of the latest arrivals from the batch. As most overclock compatible computers suffer from overheating problems, the GIGABYTE Z490 Vision comes with an advanced thermal design to address this problem. With the micro block surface and next-generation direct touch heat pipe, you will not have to worry about heating issues ever again. It also offers dual-channel RAM support for up to 128 GB DDR4 RAM installed on Non-ECC unbuffered slots. In case you find the need to upgrade your system in the future, you will find the multi graphics support and dual-mode M.2 design very handy on this motherboard. Whether you are playing an intensive game or editing a high-resolution video, the 12 phase digital VRM here will offer you the highest stability and performance according to your specifications. It has a 3 year long warranty period from Gigabyte which is suitable for its price range. Key Features:
Chipset: Intel Z490 Form Factor: ATX CPU support: Intel 10th Gen/Intel 11th Gen Memory Speed: 4400 MHz Supported RAM size: 128 GB DDR4 Expansion slots: 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 x PCI x1 Storage Interface: 2 x M.2, SATA Ports: 4 x USB 3.1, 3 x USB 3.1, 1 x USB 3.1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C Warranty: 3 Years
Pros:
The warranty period is long Multiple expansion slots available Most heavy-duty LGA 1200 motherboard
Cons:
Quite an expensive price tag
4. Gigabyte H410M S2H
Gigabyte not only offers premium solutions for high-end desktop units but also great value for the money entry-level options such as the H series motherboard given below. The Gigabyte H410M S2H is the cheapest LGA 1200 motherboard from our picks that can support a 10th gen Intel processor. Thus, it is a suitable pick for a future proof desktop system. It has a dual-channel non-ECC unbuffered DDR4 RAM slot with a maximum capacity of 64 GB which should be good for most applications. Other than that, it offers a fast M.2 drive slot for a similarly faster storage drive. It can also be a good choice for budget gaming computers as it offers Gigabyte’s exclusive 8118 Gaming LAN port that allows bandwidth management according to your requirements. Although, the H410 chipset on this motherboard does not allow overclocking and limits the performance of the processor. But, you should not feel any difference in regular usage whether it is gaming or casual desktop use. The motherboard has smart fan 5 technology that includes temperature sensors to provide automation to the cabinet fans. Key Features:
Chipset: Intel H4120 Form Factor: Micro ATX CPU support: Intel 10th Gen Memory Speed: 2933 MHz Supported RAM size: 64 GB DDR4 Expansion slots: PCIe Gen3 x2 Storage Interface: Ultra-Fast M.2 with PCIe Gen3 X2 & SATA Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, 4 x USB 2.0 ports Warranty: 3 Years
Pros:
Entry-level motherboard 10th gen Intel processor supported at the cheaper price tag Supports ultra-fast M.2 drive
Cons:
Supported RAM speed is low
5. ASROCK B460M PRO4 Motherboard
Asrock is a highly valued brand and certainly gives you the best option for a gaming-focused motherboard. The Asrock LGA 1200 motherboard mentioned below can be your next gaming motherboard so don’t miss it. In the end, we have reserved the perfect option for a gaming computer. The ASROCK B460M PRO4 has a B460M chipset which is available under a comparatively affordable price range and still features many high-end features similar to Z series motherboards. For starters, it has a 9 power phase design and supports 10th gen Intel processors without any problem. It also offers you the maximum RAM capacity of 128 GB so that the RAM can be upgraded later on if needed. Even though this motherboard is specifically designed for 10th gen Intel processors, it offers AMD Quad CrossFireX technology that allows you to pair multiple AMD based graphics cards on a single motherboard for extra performance. It offers many different connectivity options that include 7 USB 3.2 Gen1 ports and 7.1 CH HD Audio I/O ports. You will be getting a 3 year long warranty period with this board that makes it perfect for long term use. Key Features:
Chipset: Intel B460 Form Factor: Micro ATX CPU support: Intel 10th Gen Memory Speed: 2933 MHz Supported RAM size: 128 GB DDR4 Expansion slots: 2 PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 PCIe 3.0 x1 Storage Interface: 6 SATA3, 1 Ultra M.2 Ports: 7xUSB 3.2 Gen1 Warranty: 3 Years
Pros:
Connectivity options are great Polychrome SYNC available Maximum RAM capacity is similar to high-end options
Cons:
Supported RAM speed is limited
Buying Guide For The Best LGA 1200 Motherboards
Taking a look at the current generation of games, you will realize that older generation of CPUs are no longer capable of providing the best performance and severely affects the gaming performance. Even with a highly powerful graphics card, you will need an equally powerful CPU so that you do not face bottleneck issues on your system. To be on the safe side, the best option right now is to buy a 10th generation Intel processor. For that, you will have to buy a suitable LGA 1200 motherboard. Up until now, you have read the selection and key features of the best LGA 1200 motherboards. In case you want to know more about such motherboards in general, kindly refer to our buying guide provided below.
Form Factor
The form factor of a motherboard does not affect the performance of your CPU or any other component of your configuration. Therefore, you have the option to select the best-suited form factor of your motherboard according to your preferred or currently owned cabinet. You can find the motherboard form factors mentioned as ATX, Micro ATX, Mini ITX, etc. The same rating can be found with the cabinets that describe its compatibility with the motherboards. Generally, high capacity motherboards should be preferred with ATX size whereas Micro ATX is best suited for entry-level rigs.
Type of Chipset
The CPU of a system is always bought first as the CPU decides the application of the system. After confirming the CPU that you want for your system, your next task is to buy a motherboard that can house the CPU without any problem. You will not necessarily need an LGA 1200 motherboard if you are not looking forward to installing a 10th gen Intel processor in your system. But, having one allows you to have options for upgrading in the future so that you can upgrade the CPU only without needing to upgrade the motherboard.
RAM Compatibility
The RAM is also a similarly important part of your system as it directly affects the speed of your desktop computer and its usability regarding heavy applications. The RAM has 2 major features that are its speed and capacity, both affected by the type of motherboard. Most motherboards offer up to 128 GB of total RAMA capacity which is more than enough even for a workstation for content creators. But, you need to pay attention to the supported RAM speed as well. The RAM speed is provided in “MHz” units where a higher RAM speed support will be advantageous for heavier use.
Expansion Slots
Coming to the next important parameter of desktop computers, the graphic cards that play a very important role in both gaming and other graphically heavy applications. The PCIe expansion slot not only supports GPUs but also many other PCIe based external cards such as capture cards, LAN cards, sound cards, etc. So, having an additional expansion slot apart from the GPU will allow you to install additional cards in your system in case the default on your motherboard gets damaged.
Storage Drive Slots
The storage capacity is always an issue for heavy users as they tend to run out of storage capacity pretty quickly. In 2022, 1 TB of hard drive storage is not enough for gamers as the current generation games go up to 100 GB or even more in size. In such a case, you will have to install additional storage drives in your systems such as extra SATA SSD or HDDs. You can also install extra M.2 drives on many motherboards to keep the speed on your system intact irrespective of its storage capacity. Thus, it is crucial to have multiple storage options available on your LGA 1200 motherboard.
USB Connectivity
Now that we have concluded the internal storage drive topic, let’s talk about the external storage devices. These devices are quite handy for instant data transfer across multiple devices. Thus, high-speed USB ports are more than necessary in this era that allows a high transfer rate of up to 10 Gbps for instant data transfer. Apart from storage devices, you will be needing USB ports for a number of different USB powered devices on your computers like a mouse, keyboard, sound cards, decorative LED, and much more. Therefore, the more USB ports you have on your motherboard, the better.
BIOS Configuration
Apart from Windows or any other operating system, motherboards have their own software called BIOS that allows you to configure critical aspects of the motherboard without booting up the whole system. The BIOS has always been somewhat complicated to navigate for an average user. Also, a mistake in setting up the BIOS could potentially damage your motherboard. But, new generations of motherboards like the LGA 1200 come with a simpler BIOS mode that makes it easier to understand and update. You will have to visit the BIOS section of the motherboard a lot of times if you are going to overclock your system. So keep that in mind while buying the motherboard.
Conclusion
A good motherboard not only confirms the compatibility of your system with a variety of components but also defines its sustainability regarding future applications. Right now, the LGA 1200 motherboards are one of the highly recommended choices from many experienced PC enthusiasts and reviewers. This is because of the wide range of features and compatibility of these motherboards with 10th gen Intel CPUs. Today, we have given you a comprehensive description of various high-end LGA 1200 motherboards and a helpful buying guide that will help you navigate through our choices easily. In case you are looking for a motherboard for a particular application, check out our top recommendations given below.
Gaming computers are currently the most trending machines in the market. If you are also building a gaming computer, then the ASROCK B460M PRO4 will be an ideal choice for you. The B460 chipset on this motherboard manages the perfect balance between a high-end system and an affordable price tag. This motherboard will give you access to 2 PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, 1 PCIe 3.0, 1 M.2 slot, and a 7.1 CH HD audio port for precise audio performance. On the other hand, if you are on a tight budget and looking for a simple desktop computer for your home, the Gigabyte H410M S2H is a perfectly suitable pick. This motherboard is one of the entry-level options for 10th gen Intel processors and available under a very affordable price tag. It is also offered in a micro ATX form factor so that it can be used for compact cabinets. Lastly, we will recommend the most powerful option from our list which is the ASUS Prime Z490-A. This option is only suitable if you are building a workstation that will be used for many heavy applications such as content creation, streaming, or rendering. It has a Z490 chipset type so that it can sustain overclockable CPUs without any problem. It is also a full-sized ATX board for optimum heat dissipation.
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