Before you buy a motherboard for your PC, it is vital that you pick the right option since it can significantly affect overall performance. If you are in the market for the first time, the specifications and terms might seem confusing to you.
To help you out, we have assembled a detailed guide that will explain all the terms in detail and also the things you need to know before you buy a motherboard. So without further ado, let’s get started.
What is a Motherboard?
A motherboard is one of the vital aspects of a PC that ensures communication between the CPU and other components of the PC. You will find a wide range of motherboards in the market; designed to fit a certain PC model and size. It is difficult to find a motherboard that fits every PC. Therefore, it is essential to do the research to make an informed decision.
If you are looking to buy motherboard in UAE, make sure to visit ZGames.ae. Our website features extensive options for you to build your dream PC.
Different Motherboard Specs and Terms You Should Know
Buying a motherboard can be an overwhelming experience; especially if you don’t know the terms and specs. Below we have identified some important terms that you should know before you buy a motherboard:
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Form Factor
The form factor refers to the layout, size, and dimension of a motherboard. It determines different aspects such as the shape and how many components it can fit. Some of the form factors include:
- Standard-ATX
- Micro-ATX
- Mini ITX
- Nano ITX
- Pico ITX
The ATX version of motherboards is the largest and can accommodate plenty of accessories including more RAM. Mini ITX is the scaled-down version of ATX and is used for PC with small cases.
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Chipset
A chipset is another essential factor that links together all the hardware components. It also determines other aspects such as the number of USB ports, speed of data transfer, and the overall PC performance.
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RAM Slots and Types
The RAM slots in a motherboard indicate how much RAM you can fit in a PC. Most of the motherboards usually have 2-8 RAM slots. Another thing you need to know is what kind of RAM your motherboard can support.
Most of the motherboards support DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5 RAM. It is important to know whether the motherboard you wish to buy supports the type of RAM you want to use.
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Socket Type
Another vital feature is the socket which determines what kind of CPU you can install. For instance, Intel CPUs will only fit in Intel specific-sockets and AMD CPUs will suit AMD-specific sockets.
So before buying a motherboard, check whether the motherboard’s socket fits the CPU you wish to use.
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Ports
The motherboard determines the type and number of ports you are going to get with the PC. Here are a few common motherboard ports that you will need for your PC:
- USB ports (with USB-A and USB-C ports)
- HDMI
- Display port
- VGA
- Ethernet
- SATA ports
- Audio inputs
- M.2 Ports
Make sure that a motherboard has all these ports before you buy it.
4 Tips to Buy a Motherboard for Your PC
Now that you know some of the basic terms, it is time to offer you some additional tips to help you buy the right motherboard.
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Choose the Right CPU and Chipset
The first decision that you will make is what CPU you want to use. The two most straightforward choices are either Intel’s or AMD’s CPU. If you want amazing game performance then go for AMD but for general use and lightning-fast speed, pick Intel’s CPU.
Going for an ASUS motherboard is also a decent choice since it offers amazing features at a budget-friendly price.
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Choose the Features you Need
Buying a mohterboard will require you to note down the features you need on your PC. Below are some of the most important features you need to consider:
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Upgrade Path
If you wish to upgrade your CPU anytime in the future, be sure to buy a new chipset that will support the upgrade. The newer chipsets of AMD and Intel can support many CPU generations on their motherboard socket.
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Port Selection
If you need plenty of USB ports for usage, be sure to check out the specs list of the motherboard. Every motherboard is built differently with a different number of ports.
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Cooling
If you plan on building a gaming PC, it is vital that you pick a motherboard with an optimum cooling system. A high-end CPU will require a decent cooling system which can prevent overheating problems.
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Choose the Aesthetics
You can make your PC stand out by choosing a motherboard with integrated RGB lights. This is a common feature in gaming PCs. Even if you are looking to build a PC without glittering lights, you would want a design that is nice and clean.
Motherboards with RGB lights are often expensive compared to the ones that provide limited RGB design.
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Choose your budget
Now that you’ve considered the features, aesthetics, and performance, it is time to calculate your budget. If you want a cost-effective option, you can go for mid-range motherboards that can work well with mainstream gaming processors such as Intel, ASUS, and AMD.
Make sure to avoid the cheapest ones since they can hinder CPU performance and cooling. If you want to buy motherboard in UAE, make sure to visit our website and place an order.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the motherboard you pick will make plenty of difference in terms of performance. Make sure to go for a motherboard that fits your PC needs. Often, customers end up paying a lot for reputable brands with the same features as other cheaper motherboards.
Make sure to keep this list in mind before you buy motherboard in UAE. Shop smart with plenty of research and you will have a perfect motherboard in no time
