Along with the power supply, memory, and storage needed for all popular operating systems, Motherboard also includes the hard drive, graphics card, CPU, and system memory. The Motherboard is one of the most important components when building or upgrading your computer. The Motherboard connects your CPU, RAM, and other components, so getting the right one is essential. But how much should I spend on a motherboard? This blog post will discuss the factors to consider when determining the proper budget for your Motherboard.
Key Takeaways
- The amount you should spend on a motherboard will depend on your specific needs and budget.
- Generally, you must spend almost 10% of your overall budget on the motherboard when building a custom PC.
- A low-end motherboard costs $50-$100, a mid-tier is available at $100-$200, and a high-end one starts from $200.
How much should I spend on a motherboard?
Generally, the number of bucks you should spend on a motherboard is a total of 10% of your entire budget when building a computer. For example, if you have a $1000 budget, you should spend at least $100 on your motherboard. On the other hand, the money you should spend on the motherboard also depends upon some user-based factors like usage, needs, etc. This is because the motherboard prices vary heavily depending on factors like performance, chipset, brand, etc.
Motherboard prices usually start from $50 and go up to even $1500, depending upon the motherboard type. A typical motherboard for primary use can cost $50-$100. A mid-tier can require $100-$200, and a heavy-duty mobo starts at $200 and goes up to $1000 in most cases. Therefore, it’s necessary to know your usage and requirements and choose a motherboard accordingly. The summary of the motherboard prices is as follows:
| Low-end | Mid-tier | Top-tier |
|---|---|---|
| $50-$100 | $100-$200 | $200 + |
Another fact to note is that we all have a limit to spend while making a custom PC. Overspending on a motherboard means we won’t afford to spend on more critical components that directly impact our performance, such as the graphics card and the CPU. Only pay for the necessary, significant features. And that brings us to our next section, where we look at the fundamental features that should determine how much we spend on a motherboard.
Factors to consider when purchasing a motherboard
Price: Price is often one of the most important factors when making any purchase. Before deciding, research motherboards to find which ones offer the features and specs you need while staying within your budget.
Compatibility: It is essential to ensure that the Motherboard you are considering is compatible with the CPU and RAM you have or plan to purchase. Generally, motherboards will be marked as either Intel or AMD compatible, depending on the type of CPU you choose. It is also important to ensure that your RAM modules are compatible with your chosen Motherboard to work together without any issues.
Socket Type: Depending on your processor and Motherboard, consider their socket. Many modern CPUs use sockets such as LGA 1151, AM4, or TR4. Be sure to check this before buying to avoid compatibility issues.
Expansion Slots: Check how many expansion slots your chosen Motherboard offers, as these will determine how many extra components you can add to your PC. This includes graphics cards, network cards, and sound cards.
Form Factor: Motherboards come in different form factors, such as ATX and Mini-ITX. This will determine the size of the Motherboard, which in turn affects the overall size of your computer. Consider what size you need for your build before making a purchase.
Tips for finding the best deals on motherboards
Know what you need.
Before looking for a motherboard, take the time to assess your needs. Consider the type of processor you’ll be using, how many RAM slots it has, and what other components you’ll be connecting. Knowing this information will help you narrow your search and find the best deal for your particular setup.
Research compatible components.
After determining your needs, it’s important to ensure that all of the elements you plan to use are compatible with the Motherboard you’re looking to purchase. If certain elements don’t work with the board, you’re considering, and you may need to look for another option that better fits your needs.
Compare prices.
Once you’ve narrowed your search, it’s time to compare prices. Check online retailers and see if they offer special motherboard offers or discounts. You can also check out websites that specialize in finding the best deals for electronics. Remember to check eBay and other auction sites as well.
Get recommendations from friends.
Another great way to find the best deals on motherboards is to ask your tech-savvy friends and family. They can provide you with helpful advice and recommendations on where to find the best deals on motherboards.
Read reviews.
Finally, before buying any motherboard, read reviews from users who have already purchased the product. This will give you a better idea of how well the Motherboard works and whether it fits your computer setup well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the amount you should spend on a motherboard will depend on your specific needs and budget. A lower-end motherboard may be sufficient if you are building a budget-friendly system. But, if you are building a high-performance system or plan on overclocking, you may need to invest in a higher-end motherboard designed to handle more demanding components. It’s crucial to balance the features you need with the cost of the motherboard.
While it’s tempting to purchase the latest and greatest, ensuring the features you need are compatible with your other components, and future upgrades are essential. It’s also worth looking at the company’s warranty and customer service options in case any issues arise with your motherboard. Ultimately, it’s a good idea to research and compare different motherboards before purchasing to ensure you get the best value for your money.
