Cheapest AM4 Motherboard: Budget-Friendly Picks for 2023
Note: We have researched 13 AM4 motherboards for you.
Last updated on 02.06.24 um 02:01
When assembling a PC, finding ways to stretch your dollar without compromising performance is crucial, especially for those who are mindful of their budget. With the heart of a computer being its motherboard, selecting an affordable yet reliable platform is a top priority. The AM4 socket caters to a variety of needs, offering support for multiple generations of AMD processors.
This guide is tailored for the economically savvy builder eager to maximize value. We've scoured the market to bring you the most cost-effective AM4 motherboards that deliver on performance and essential features. Whether you're building a new PC or upgrading an existing one, these motherboards promise to provide a solid foundation without breaking the bank.
This guide is tailored for the economically savvy builder eager to maximize value. We've scoured the market to bring you the most cost-effective AM4 motherboards that deliver on performance and essential features. Whether you're building a new PC or upgrading an existing one, these motherboards promise to provide a solid foundation without breaking the bank.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
What to Look for in Cheapest AM4 Motherboards
Important criteria
-
Compatible with desired CPU
-
RAM compatibility and capacity
-
Sufficient USB and expansion slots
-
BIOS features and support
-
Build quality and reliability
-
Good VRM and cooling solutions
1.) Compatibility with CPU
When purchasing the cheapest AM4 motherboard, it's crucial to ensure it is compatible with your chosen CPU. AM4 motherboards support AMD processors from the Ryzen series, A series, and others that use the same socket. However, BIOS updates may be necessary for newer CPUs. Therefore, ensure the selected motherboard can support the specific model and generation of your AMD processor to avoid incompatibility issues.
2.) Build Quality and Features
Even when considering cost, don't compromise on build quality and essential features. A low-cost motherboard should still provide reliability and durability. Look for solid capacitors, overvoltage protection, and decent heatsinks to ensure stability and longevity. Also, consider the number of USB ports, expansion slots, memory support, and if it includes features like onboard Wi-Fi or M.2 slots that may be important for your build.
3.) Future Upgrade Path
Plan for the future by considering potential upgrades. While aiming for an affordable solution, ensure the motherboard has room for growth, such as extra memory slots or support for additional storage. This will make it easier to upgrade components down the line, extending the life of your system without the immediate need for a new motherboard.
4.) Brand Reputation and Support
Finally, take into account the reputation of the motherboard's manufacturer and the support offered. Well-known brands often have better customer support and more frequent BIOS updates, which can be crucial for ensuring ongoing compatibility and security. Also, check for warranty periods, as a longer warranty might save costs in the event of hardware failure.
The Cheapest AM4 Motherboards of our Choice
Our Pick
ASRock B550M PG Riptide Motherboard AMD
Properties
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Various color options available for customization.
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface design.
- Quick access to important functions for efficiency.
- Responsive customer support for assistance when needed.
2
MSI B450M-A PRO MAX II ProSeries Motherboard
Type/Color: Black
Properties
- Supports AMD Ryzen 5000, 4000, 3000, 2000, and 1000 Series desktop processors and Athlon with Radeon Vega Graphics desktop processors
- Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 4133 (OC) MHz
- Turbo M.2: Maximizes performance for NVMe SSDs
- Audio Boost: Provides studio grade sound quality
- 2.5G LAN: Upgraded network solution for professional and multimedia use
Price Pick
GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H
Size: Micro ATX
Properties
- Supports AMD Ryzen & 7th gen A series
- Dual channel DDR4, 2 DIMMs supported
- PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2 with NVMe support
- High quality audio capacitors and noise guard
- Realtek Gigabit LAN with cFosSpeed software
4
ASUS Prime B450M-A II AMD AM4
Properties
- AMD AM4 Socket: Compatible with Ryzen 5000, 3rd/2nd/1st Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs.
- Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit, Windows 7 64-bit.
- Designed for Productivity: USB 3.2 Gen 2 with 10Gbps transfer speed, onboard M.2 support, 4xDIMMs support up to 128GB DDR4 with 4400 (O.C.) performance, HDMI 2.0b/DVI/D-Sub.
- Optimized Cooling: VRM and PCH heatsink with extensive surface, thermal pads for heat transfer. Flexible fan controls with ASUS Fan Xpert 2 plus.
- Built to Last: LANGuard, DRAM overcurrent and overvoltage protection, SafeSlot Core safeguards, stainless-steel back I/O. Supports 1000+ compatible devices, undergoes 8000+ Validation Hours.
- PC DIY Friendly: BIOS Flashback, ASUS exclusive UEFI BIOS.
- Outstanding Gaming Audio: Dedicated audio PCB layers, premium Japanese audio capacitors, audio shielding for analog/digital separation, reduced interference.
- Aura Sync RGB and Armoury Crate Utility: ASUS Armoury Crate synchronizes LED effects, RGB LED and RGB header for customization.
- Please ensure up-to-date BIOS for compatible Ryzen 5000 series CPUs. Visit ASUS site for motherboard model support and latest BIOS download.
5
GIGABYTE B550M AORUS Elite AX
Size: B550M AORUS ELITE AX
Properties
- Supports AMD Ryzen Processors
- Dual Channel DDR4 Compatible with ECC
- Sturdy 5+3 Power Design for Stability
- PCIe 4.0 x16 Slot and Dual M.2 Connectors
- RGB FUSION 2.0 for Customizable Lighting
- Smart Fan 5 for Efficient Cooling
- Q-Flash Plus Update BIOS Easily
- Supports CPU, Memory, and GPU
6
ASRock B450M-HDV R4.0 AM4 AMD Promontory
Properties
- Socket: AM4
- Power Phase: 6 design
- CPU Support: up to 105W
- Chipset: AMD B450
- Slots: PCIe 3.0 x16, PCIe 2.0 x1
- Audio: Relate ALC887 7.1-Channel
- LAN: Relate RTL8111H PCIE x1
- Ethernet: Gigabit Controller
- Certification: CE Approved
7
GIGABYTE B550 UD AC
Size: B550 UD AC
Properties
- Supports AMD Ryzen processors: Ryzen 5000 Series, Ryzen 5000 G-Series, Ryzen 4000 G-Series, and Ryzen 3000 Series
- Compatible with DDR4 memory: Dual Channel ECC/Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4, 4 DIMMs
- Sturdy Power Design: 10 plus 3 Phases Digital Twin Power Design with Low RDS(on) MOSFETs
- Connectivity options: PCIe 4.0 x16 Slot, Dual Ultra-Fast NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 x4 M.2 Connectors, Realtek GbE LAN chip
- Fine Tuning Features: RGB FUSION 2.0, Supports Addressable LED and RGB LED Strips, Smart Fan 5, Q-Flash Plus Update BIOS without installing, CPU, Memory, and GPU
8
MSI B550-A PRO ProSeries Motherboard
Properties
- Supports 3rd Gen and future AMD Ryzen processors
- Realtek ALC892/ALC897 Codec for audio ports (Rear)
- Dual channel DDR4 memory support up to 128 GB (4400 MHz)
- Fast gaming experience with PCIe 4.0 and Lightning Gen 4 M.2
- Precise and steady current delivery to CPU with Core Boost
- Studio grade sound quality for immersive gaming experiences
- Premium thermal solution with high-quality components
- Flash BIOS Button for easy BIOS flashing
- Powerful design with advanced features and technologies
9
ASRock A520M-HDV Supports AMD AM4 Socket Ryzen™ 3000
Properties
- Supports 3rd Gen AMD AM4 Ryzen and Future AMD Ryzen Processors
- 6 Phase Power Design
- Supports DDR4 4733+ (OC)
- 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Graphics Output Options: D-Sub, DVI-D, HDMI
- Not compatible with AMD Ryzen 5 3400G and Ryzen 3 3200G
10
MSI B550 Gaming GEN3 Gaming Motherboard
Properties
- Supports AMD Ryzen 5000 and 4000 G-Series processors
- Supports DDR4 Memory, up to 4400(OC) MHz
- Turbo M.2 Gen3 x4 for fast gaming experience
- AMD Turbo USB 3.2 GEN 2 for speedy performance
- Enhanced Power Design with Core Boost, DDR4 Boost
- MULTI-GPU support for AMD Crossfire with STEEL ARMOR PCI-E slots
11
MSI MAG B550 Tomahawk MAX WiFi
Size: MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI
12
MSI ProSeries AMD Ryzen 2ND and 3rd
Properties
- Supports 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen/Ryzen with Radeon Vega Graphics and 2nd Gen AMD Ryzen with Radeon graphics/Athlon with Radeon Vega Graphics desktop processors for Socket AM4.
- Supports DDR4 memory, up to 3466+ (OC) MHz.
- Turbo M.2: Runs at PCIe Gen3 x4 for maximum performance with NVMe based SSDs.
- EZ Debug LED: Easiest way to troubleshoot.
- Core Boost: Premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance.
13
ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi
Properties
- AM4 socket: Good for AMD Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series, and 5000 and 4000 G-series desktop processors
- Bluetooth v5.2
- Gaming connectivity: PCIe 4.0-ready, dual M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.2 output
- Smooth networking: WiFi 6E (802.11ax), Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANguard
- Robust power solution: 12+2 teamed power stages, ProCool power connector, high-quality alloy chokes, durable capacitors
- Renowned software: Bundled 60 days AIDA64 Extreme subscription, intuitive UEFI BIOS dashboard
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Budget AM4 Motherboard Picks for Various Needs
Budget-Conscious Gamer
Looking for a motherboard that supports your gaming without breaking the bank? Explore options that balance price with performance for a smooth gaming experience.
Home Office Setups
Upgrade your home office computer with an affordable AM4 motherboard. Find models that provide reliability and stability for everyday tasks.
PC Building Enthusiasts
Dive into PC customization with an entry-level AM4 motherboard. Great for DIY enthusiasts looking for a project base.
First-Time Builders
Begin your PC building journey with an AM4 motherboard that's both affordable and user-friendly. Perfect for learning the ropes without a huge investment.
Questions You Might Ask
An AM4 motherboard is a type of PC motherboard that supports AMD processors with the AM4 socket. These motherboards are compatible with AMD Ryzen and older 7th generation A-series and Athlon processors.
When buying an AM4 motherboard, consider the size of the motherboard (ATX, MicroATX, Mini-ITX), the chipset and its features (such as overclocking support), the number of RAM slots and maximum supported memory, the number of PCIe slots, USB and storage interfaces (like M.2 and SATA), networking options, and any additional features like RGB lighting or built-in Wi-Fi.
Yes, the chipset determines the motherboard's capabilities and features, including support for overclocking, SLI or CrossFire multi-GPU setups, and connectivity options. Common AM4 chipsets include the A320, B450, B550, X470, and X570, each offering different levels of features and performance.
Compatibility depends on the specific motherboard and CPU. While AM4 is a unified socket, newer Ryzen processors may require a BIOS update to work with older motherboards. Some older motherboards might not support the latest CPUs at all due to power delivery limitations or manufacturer support. Always check the motherboard manufacturer's CPU compatibility list before upgrading.
An M.2 slot on an AM4 motherboard allows you to connect an M.2 solid-state drive (SSD), which provides faster data transfer speeds compared to traditional SATA SSDs. This can significantly improve system boot times, application load times, and overall system responsiveness.
Currently Active Poll
How to Select the Cheapest AM4 Motherboard
Our Pick: ASRock B550M PG Riptide Motherboard AMD
Navigating the world of PC building can be a thrilling adventure, especially when you're on a quest to find the most cost-effective components without compromising quality. The heart of your system, the motherboard, requires special attention. If you're building an AM4 socket-based PC, this guide will lead you through the essentials of picking the most wallet-friendly motherboard that still meets your performance and quality standards. Let's make sure your build gets the perfect foundation without breaking the bank!
Understand Your Needs
Before diving into the sea of AM4 motherboards, it's important to self-reflect on your computing needs. Are you looking to build a no-frills office PC, or perhaps a modest gaming rig? The scope of your needs will significantly influence your decision. Knowing whether you'll require support for high-speed RAM, multiple PCIe slots, or additional USB ports can narrow down your options considerably.
Consider the future of your system. While opting for the cheapest motherboard may save you money now, ensuring that your motherboard has room for upgrades can keep it relevant longer. Having options like overclocking support and the capacity for more powerful CPUs can extend the lifespan of your investment.
Finally, do not overlook the importance of compatibility. Cross-check the motherboard's chipset to ensure it pairs well with your chosen CPU, taking advantage of its features. Similarly, make sure there's sufficient support for your existing or planned RAM, storage, and peripherals.
Research the Market
With a clear idea of your requirements, start researching what's out there. Keep an eye on renowned brands like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock—they all offer budget-friendly AM4 motherboards. However, don't disregard lesser-known brands that might offer competitive pricing for similar features.
Online retailer listings, tech forums, and user reviews are gold mines of information. They can provide insight into how a motherboard performs in the real world and reveal any common issues users may face. Pay close attention to feedback concerning build quality, BIOS stability, and after-sales support.
Look out for sales, refurbished models, or even second-hand motherboards from reliable sources. A gently used motherboard can provide significant savings, but be sure to check its condition and warranty status before committing to purchase.
Balance Features and Price
Cheapest doesn't always mean 'best value.' Scrutinize the specifications of each candidate motherboard to assess which offers the most bang for your buck. A slightly higher price might yield beneficial extras, such as better audio codecs, more robust VRMs for future CPU upgrades, or additional high-speed connectivity options.
Also, consider the motherboard's aesthetics, especially if the look of your build matters to you. LED lighting and color schemes might enhance the overall appeal of your setup without necessarily impacting the cost significantly. However, prioritize functional features over visual enhancements when on a tight budget.
Stick to motherboards with solid warranty terms; it's an aspect often overlooked in the pursuit of savings. A longer warranty period or a more accommodating return policy can save you from headaches and unforeseen expenses down the line should any issues arise.
Don't Compromise on Quality
While you're hunting for deals, be wary of motherboards that come at an unusually low price point. Such units can sometimes be stripped of essential features or may have substandard build quality that can jeopardize the entire system's stability and longevity.
It's worth noting that power delivery is a critical aspect of motherboard quality. Poor power regulation can lead to system instability or limit the performance of your CPU. Check for trusted reviews that discuss VRM quality even on budget models to ensure you're not cutting corners where it matters most.
A balance between price and quality is key. The cheapest AM4 motherboard that aligns with your performance and feature requirements, while still maintaining a standard of durability and reliability, will truly offer the greatest value. Remember, going too cheap can become expensive if it results in needing to replace components prematurely.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
This section provides carefully curated resources to inform you about the most affordable AM4 motherboards available in the market. We have sourced trustworthy reviews, authoritative forum discussions, popular Reddit threads, and informative video content for your convenience. These resources are organized into four distinct categories, allowing you to easily navigate through the various types of information and viewpoints on this topic.
Jul 13, 2023 — AMD B550 Chipset: PCIe 4.0 for the Rest of Us · 1. Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming Wi-Fi · 2. NZXT N7 B550 · 3. Gigabyte B550 Aorus Master · 4. Asus...
Dec 6, 2023 — The best gaming motherboards for AMD CPUs, including Ryzen 7000 and 5000, follow our Intel picks below. If you're after an older AM4 board, you ...
Feb 24, 2021 — Specifically, we'll be looking at the ASRock B550M-HDV ($80.99 ), Gigabyte's B550M DS3H ($94.99), the MSI B550M Pro-VDH Wi-Fi ($109.99), and our...
Jul 13, 2023 — We've tested several AMD boards to find the best X570 motherboard for your Ryzen PC build needs.
forums.tomshardware.com
Gigabyte b550m ds3h, for 103 bucks, A520M-E for 80, A520M-E for 80, A520M-A for for 85, B450 Aorus M for 93, B450 Aorus elite for 110. Best ...
There's an AM4 motherboard on Newegg for $ 54...there's a few on eBay for around $50...
If you're willing to use mATX mobos, I'd recommend the MSI B550M PRO-VDH Wi-Fi : AUS PCPartPicker lists it for $180, which is listed as the...
I don't know if it's the best, or even one of the better ones, but I got a good deal on a used ROG STRIX B450i about a year and a half ago...
b550, the Arous Elite or Tuf Gaming b550M are your best options, good but relatively cheap. I would go for this one
Cheapest AMD B650 Boards Tested, VRM Thermals - YouTube
19:17 - Final Thoughts Read this feature on TechSpot
