Remember that time you decided to finally upgrade your rig? You splurged on a shiny new Ryzen processor, ready to experience unparalleled speed and performance. But then you realized: uh oh, what about the motherboard? I remember scouring the internet, feeling utterly lost in a sea of technical jargon and confusing specifications. Finding the right motherboard is absolutely crucial to unlocking your CPU’s full potential and ensuring a stable, reliable system. And if you’re rocking a first-generation Ryzen CPU or want a great value option, the X370 chipset might be just what you need.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best X370 motherboards. We understand the frustration of sifting through endless options, trying to decipher which features truly matter. This guide cuts through the noise, offering honest reviews and clear explanations to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned overclocker or a first-time builder, we’ll help you find the perfect X370 motherboard to power your PC dreams.
We’ll review the best x370 motherboards shortly, but first, check out some relevant products on Amazon:
Unlocking Ryzen’s Potential: A Journey with X370
So, you’re thinking about building a Ryzen system, or maybe you’re even upgrading an older one? Excellent choice! Ryzen really shook things up, offering amazing performance at competitive prices. And one of the chipsets that helped launch Ryzen into the stratosphere was the X370. Think of the X370 as the launchpad for many early Ryzen CPUs. It wasn’t the flashiest, but it offered a fantastic balance of features and value, supporting features like multi-GPU configurations and overclocking – essential for squeezing every last drop of performance from your processor.
Back in 2017, when the first Ryzen CPUs hit the market, the X370 was often the go-to high-end chipset. It offered a significant step up from the B350, providing better VRM solutions for more stable overclocking and typically more robust connectivity options. According to some estimates, the X370 accounted for a sizable portion of early Ryzen motherboard sales, demonstrating its popularity among enthusiasts. Finding the best X370 motherboards for your needs can be a rewarding process.
Now, while newer chipsets have emerged, offering even more advanced features and compatibility with later-generation Ryzen processors, the X370 still holds its own. In fact, if you’re on a budget or looking to build a system with a first or second-generation Ryzen CPU, it can be a fantastic option. Plus, some of the best X370 motherboards are still available on the used market at incredibly attractive prices. The key is knowing what to look for.
Finding the best X370 motherboards for your specific needs requires considering things like your budget, the features you need (or think you might need down the line), and the specific Ryzen CPU you plan to pair with it. We’re going to dive deep into some of the top contenders, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, to help you make the perfect choice for your Ryzen build. Let’s get started!
5 Best X370 Motherboards
ASUS ROG Crosshair VI Hero
The ASUS ROG Crosshair VI Hero is a real powerhouse for Ryzen enthusiasts. It’s packed with features that appeal to gamers and overclockers alike, sporting a robust VRM, ample connectivity with USB 3.1 Gen 2 and M.2 slots, and of course, that signature ROG aesthetic. The BIOS is intuitive, making it easy to tweak settings and push your Ryzen CPU to its limits. Plus, the Aura Sync RGB lighting lets you customize the look to perfectly match your build.
This board is more than just flashy looks; it’s built for performance. The high-quality components ensure stability even under heavy loads, and the optimized memory support allows you to maximize the potential of your RAM. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or creating content, the Crosshair VI Hero provides a solid foundation for a high-end Ryzen build. It consistently delivers a smooth and reliable experience.
Gigabyte Aorus Gaming K7
If you’re looking for a motherboard that strikes a great balance between features and price, the Gigabyte Aorus Gaming K7 is definitely worth considering. It boasts a stylish design with customizable RGB lighting, a solid VRM for overclocking, and plenty of connectivity options, including USB 3.1 Gen 2 and dual M.2 slots. The Smart Fan 5 technology allows you to fine-tune your cooling setup, ensuring optimal performance without excessive noise.
The Aorus Gaming K7 also offers excellent audio quality thanks to its high-end audio codec. This will significantly enhance your gaming and multimedia experience. Its user-friendly BIOS makes it easy to navigate and adjust settings. Overall, the Gigabyte Aorus Gaming K7 provides a compelling package for gamers and enthusiasts who want a feature-rich motherboard without breaking the bank.
MSI X370 Gaming Pro Carbon
The MSI X370 Gaming Pro Carbon stands out with its sleek design and customizable RGB lighting. This makes it a great choice for those who prioritize aesthetics in their build. Beyond its looks, it offers a good balance of features and performance, including support for multiple GPUs, fast storage options, and reliable networking. The audio quality is also impressive. It uses Audio Boost 4, ensuring an immersive sound experience.
This motherboard is known for its stability and ease of use. The BIOS is straightforward and easy to navigate, allowing you to fine-tune your system to your liking. It’s a solid performer for both gaming and everyday tasks, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. The MSI X370 Gaming Pro Carbon is a well-rounded choice that combines style and substance.
ASRock X370 Taichi
The ASRock X370 Taichi is a feature-packed motherboard that offers excellent value for its price. It boasts a unique and eye-catching design with its signature Taichi gear pattern. But it’s not just about looks; this board is packed with features, including triple M.2 slots, USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, and a robust VRM for overclocking. The dual LAN ports offer added flexibility for networking.
The Taichi is a strong performer, capable of handling demanding workloads and providing a smooth gaming experience. Its BIOS is intuitive and offers a wide range of customization options. ASRock has a reputation for stability. The X370 Taichi delivers on that promise, making it a reliable choice for both gamers and power users.
Biostar X370GT7
If you’re on a tight budget but still want a capable X370 motherboard, the Biostar X370GT7 is a great option to consider. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the higher-end boards, it still offers a solid foundation for a Ryzen build. It features a decent VRM, support for multiple GPUs, and essential connectivity options.
The X370GT7 is a no-frills motherboard that focuses on delivering reliable performance without breaking the bank. It’s a good choice for budget-conscious gamers and users who don’t need all the advanced features of more expensive boards. While the BIOS may not be as polished as some of the competition, it’s still functional and allows you to adjust key settings.
Why Choose an X370 Motherboard?
Think of your computer like a high-performance sports car. The CPU is the engine, the GPU is the aerodynamic body kit, and the motherboard? That’s the chassis, the foundation that dictates everything. For users aiming for a balanced and potent system centered around first-generation Ryzen processors or certain Athlon CPUs, the X370 motherboard provides a sweet spot. It’s not just about supporting the CPU; it’s about unlocking its potential and future-proofing your build to a degree. Skipping a quality foundation can be like putting a Ferrari engine in a rusty old frame – you won’t get the performance you paid for!
Now, imagine you’re a gamer who loves overclocking their Ryzen 7 1700 to squeeze every last frame per second out of your favorite games. The X370 chipset is known for its robust overclocking capabilities, allowing you to push your CPU and RAM to their limits. A high-quality X370 board provides the stable power delivery and advanced cooling features necessary for successful and safe overclocking. Plus, features like multi-GPU support through Crossfire and SLI on the best X370 motherboards mean you can easily upgrade your graphics performance down the line for an even more immersive gaming experience.
Furthermore, it’s not just about raw power; it’s about versatility. These boards often include a wealth of connectivity options like multiple USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, M.2 slots for blazing-fast NVMe SSDs, and ample SATA ports for storage galore. Picture yourself as a video editor with tons of raw footage – an X370 board allows you to hook up all your fast storage devices, minimizing render times and maximizing productivity. Or, if you are streamer, the features provided can support multiple USB devices and peripherals.
Ultimately, choosing an X370 motherboard is a smart investment for those seeking a reliable, feature-rich, and overclocking-capable platform for their first-generation Ryzen or compatible Athlon processors. The “best X370 motherboards” offer a combination of performance, features, and expandability that will keep your system running smoothly and powerfully for years to come, whether you’re a gamer, content creator, or simply a power user. It provides flexibility to upgrade and expand without needing a complete system overhaul and delivers a balance between cost and functionality that many find appealing.
Understanding Chipset Limitations and Alternatives
So, you’re leaning towards an X370 board, that’s cool! But before you commit, let’s talk about some realities. The X370 chipset, while a solid performer in its time, has some limitations compared to newer options. For example, it might not fully support the latest and greatest NVMe drives at their peak speeds, or the newest generations of Ryzen CPUs with all their advanced features.
Think of it like this: you have a classic sports car. It’s awesome, fun to drive, and can still hold its own. But trying to keep up with the newest hypercars on the track? It might struggle a bit. Similarly, an X370 board with the latest components will work, but you might not be getting the absolute best performance possible.
What are the alternatives then? Well, newer chipsets like the B450, X470, or even the newer B550 and X570 offer improved features, support, and potentially better performance. The B series chipsets are often more budget friendly and may provide a better value proposition for many builders.
Ultimately, deciding whether the limitations of X370 matter depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re building a budget-friendly PC for gaming or everyday tasks and can snag a great deal on an X370 board, it could still be a worthwhile choice. Just be aware of the potential bottlenecks before you dive in.
Tweaking and Overclocking Your X370 for Peak Performance
Okay, let’s say you’ve got your X370 board and you’re ready to squeeze every last drop of performance out of it. Overclocking is where the fun begins! But remember, it’s a bit like tinkering with a hot rod engine – proceed with caution. Overclocking involves pushing your components beyond their stock settings to achieve higher clock speeds, which translates to faster processing.
Imagine you’re playing a demanding video game, and your frame rates are stuttering a bit. Overclocking your CPU and RAM (within safe limits) can help smooth out the gameplay and provide a more immersive experience. It’s like giving your system a boost of adrenaline when it needs it most.
But before you start cranking up the voltage, do your homework! Research your specific CPU and RAM, find out their overclocking potential, and ensure you have adequate cooling. A good CPU cooler is essential to prevent overheating, which can damage your components. Think of it as providing your engine with the proper ventilation to prevent it from blowing up.
Start with small increments, monitor your temperatures closely, and use stress testing software to ensure your system is stable. It’s a gradual process of trial and error, but the performance gains can be significant. Just remember to prioritize stability and safety over chasing the highest possible numbers. A stable overclock is always better than a system that crashes constantly.
BIOS Settings: Navigating the Heart of Your Motherboard
Your motherboard’s BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the behind-the-scenes control center of your PC. Think of it as the cockpit of your spaceship, giving you the power to fine-tune everything from boot order to fan speeds. Understanding and navigating your BIOS is crucial for optimizing performance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring your system runs smoothly.
Imagine you’re building a new PC, and it refuses to boot. The BIOS is the first place you’d go to check if all the components are recognized, or if the boot order is set correctly. Maybe your hard drive isn’t showing up? A quick trip to the BIOS can reveal if it’s even being detected.
Common BIOS tweaks include setting the boot order (to boot from your SSD or USB drive), enabling XMP profiles for your RAM (to run at their advertised speeds), and adjusting fan curves to keep your system cool and quiet. XMP profiles are especially important. It’s like unlocking the full potential of your RAM with a simple flick of a switch.
Explore the BIOS options carefully, and make sure you understand what each setting does before making changes. Most motherboards offer a “load defaults” option, which can be a lifesaver if you accidentally mess something up. Treat your BIOS with respect, and it will reward you with a well-tuned, reliable system.
Future-Proofing Considerations for X370 Systems
Okay, let’s be real. The term “future-proof” is a bit of a myth in the world of PC building. Technology moves so fast that it’s impossible to guarantee your system will be cutting-edge forever. However, you can definitely take steps to extend its lifespan and ensure it remains relevant for as long as possible. When choosing an X370 motherboard, think about what upgrades you might want to make down the line.
Imagine you’re building a gaming PC today, but you know you’ll eventually want to upgrade to a more powerful graphics card. Make sure your X370 board has a PCIe slot that can handle the latest GPUs. Also consider the power supply requirements and whether your PSU has enough wattage to support a future upgrade.
Even though the X370 chipset doesn’t support the very latest Ryzen CPUs, you can still potentially upgrade to a newer Ryzen chip within the compatible range. Before buying, always double-check the motherboard’s CPU support list on the manufacturer’s website to see what’s compatible. This way, you can maximize the lifespan of your X370 build.
Consider other factors, too. Do you have enough SATA ports for future storage upgrades? Does the board support enough RAM to meet your growing needs? Thinking ahead can help you avoid needing to replace your entire system sooner than necessary. Though, let’s be honest, the upgrade itch is a real thing!
Finding the Best X370 Motherboard for Your Ryzen Build
Hey there, fellow PC enthusiast! Planning a Ryzen build and considering an X370 motherboard? Awesome choice! X370 boards were the top-of-the-line options for first and second generation Ryzen CPUs, offering excellent features for overclocking and expanding your system. While newer chipsets are available, an X370 board can still be a fantastic, budget-friendly option, especially if you find a great deal on a used or refurbished model.
But before you jump in and snag the first one you see, it’s important to know what to look for. There’s a lot to consider, from the number of expansion slots to the quality of the VRMs. Don’t worry, though! I’m here to be your guide. We’ll break down the essential factors that’ll help you pick the absolute best x370 motherboards for your specific needs and budget. So, grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s dive in!
CPU Compatibility and Future-Proofing (Sort Of)
Okay, so this one is HUGE. X370 motherboards were primarily designed for Ryzen 1000 and 2000 series CPUs. Some manufacturers offered BIOS updates to support Ryzen 3000 series processors as well. But here’s the catch: support for Ryzen 3000 is often limited and might come with caveats. For example, the BIOS update might reduce the available storage space for other features or not support all Ryzen 3000 models perfectly.
Before you even think about anything else, double-check the manufacturer’s website for the specific X370 motherboard model you’re considering and see which CPUs it supports. Don’t assume anything! It’s always better to be safe than sorry. If you plan on using anything beyond Ryzen 2000, make absolutely sure the board supports it and read user reviews to understand any potential issues. Finding the best x370 motherboards sometimes means accepting limitations.
VRM Quality and Overclocking Potential
The VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) is what provides clean and stable power to your CPU. If you plan on overclocking your Ryzen processor, you’ll need a motherboard with a robust VRM. A weak VRM can lead to instability, throttling, and potentially even damage to your components.
Look for boards with large heatsinks covering the VRMs. This helps dissipate heat and keep them running cool under load. Also, check reviews online to see what overclocking results other users have achieved with the same motherboard and CPU combination. This will give you a good idea of the board’s overclocking potential. Don’t cheap out here – a good VRM is crucial for a stable and enjoyable overclocking experience. Choosing one of the best x370 motherboards with strong VRMs is essential if you’re pushing your CPU.
RAM Support: Speed and Capacity
RAM is another critical component that can significantly impact your system’s performance, especially with Ryzen CPUs. X370 motherboards typically support DDR4 RAM, but the supported speeds and maximum capacity can vary.
Pay close attention to the motherboard’s specifications and ensure it supports the RAM speed you intend to use. Ryzen CPUs benefit greatly from faster RAM, so aim for at least DDR4-3200 or DDR4-3600 if your budget allows. Also, consider the maximum RAM capacity the motherboard supports. If you plan on running memory-intensive applications or games, you might want to opt for a board that can accommodate 32GB or even 64GB of RAM. The best x370 motherboards balance price and performance for memory.
Expansion Slots: PCIe, M.2, and More
Expansion slots are what allow you to add extra components to your system, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and storage devices. X370 motherboards usually feature PCIe slots for graphics cards, M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs, and SATA ports for traditional hard drives and SSDs.
Consider your current and future needs when evaluating expansion slots. If you plan on running multiple graphics cards in SLI or CrossFire, make sure the motherboard has enough PCIe slots with adequate spacing. The number and type of M.2 slots are also important. Some boards have multiple M.2 slots, while others only have one. If you plan on using multiple NVMe SSDs, you’ll want a board with enough M.2 slots to accommodate them. The best x370 motherboards should be flexible enough to suit your needs.
Rear Panel I/O: Connectivity is Key
The rear panel I/O (Input/Output) is where you connect your peripherals, such as your monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers, and other devices. The available ports on the rear panel can vary significantly between different X370 motherboards.
Take a close look at the rear panel I/O and make sure it has all the ports you need. Consider the number of USB ports (USB 3.0, USB 3.1, and USB Type-C), audio jacks, Ethernet port, and any video outputs (HDMI or DisplayPort). If you use a lot of USB devices, you’ll want a board with plenty of USB ports. If you have high-end audio equipment, you might want a board with dedicated audio outputs or S/PDIF. Choose the best x370 motherboards with the right mix of legacy and modern ports.
Audio Quality: Sound Matters
While a dedicated sound card can enhance your audio experience, the onboard audio on your motherboard still plays a crucial role, especially if you’re not planning on using a separate sound card.
Look for motherboards that use high-quality audio codecs, such as Realtek ALC1220 or similar. These codecs offer better sound quality and lower noise levels compared to older or lower-end codecs. Some boards also feature dedicated headphone amplifiers or shielding to further improve the audio experience. Read reviews and listen to audio samples (if available) to get an idea of the onboard audio quality. Finding the best x370 motherboards can be a feast for the ears too.
BIOS Features and Ease of Use
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is the software that controls your motherboard and allows you to configure various settings, such as boot order, fan speeds, and overclocking parameters. A well-designed and user-friendly BIOS is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Look for motherboards with a modern and intuitive BIOS interface. Some manufacturers offer graphical BIOS interfaces with mouse support, making it easier to navigate and configure settings. Also, consider the availability of features such as fan control, overclocking profiles, and BIOS flashing tools. A good BIOS can make all the difference when it comes to optimizing your system’s performance and stability. The best x370 motherboards have easy-to-use and feature-rich BIOS interfaces.
FAQs
What exactly IS an X370 motherboard anyway? And is it still worth buying in today’s market?
The X370 chipset was AMD’s high-end offering for their first generation Ryzen processors (like the Ryzen 7 1700). Think of it as the “brain” of your computer, managing communication between the CPU, RAM, graphics card, storage devices, and everything else plugged into your system. X370 motherboards offered more features and connectivity options than the budget-friendly chipsets, including multiple graphics card support and better overclocking capabilities.
While the X370 isn’t the newest chipset on the block (AMD has released several generations since), it can still be a fantastic choice for budget-conscious builders. Used boards are often very affordable, and if you’re not planning on using the absolute latest CPUs or pushing extreme overclocks, an X370 motherboard paired with a first-generation Ryzen processor or a later generation like the Ryzen 5 2600, can provide excellent value for money. Just be sure to check CPU compatibility before you buy!
I hear a lot about VRMs. What are they, and why are they important on an X370 board?
VRM stands for Voltage Regulator Module. These little circuits are responsible for providing clean, stable power to your CPU. Think of them like a power filter, taking the raw power from your power supply and conditioning it into the precise voltages that your CPU needs to operate correctly.
On an X370 board, good VRMs are especially crucial if you plan on overclocking. Overclocking increases your CPU’s power consumption, and weaker VRMs can struggle to keep up, leading to instability and potential damage. Even if you don’t overclock, a robust VRM design ensures that your CPU receives consistent power, contributing to a more stable and reliable system. So, when shopping for an X370 board, definitely pay attention to the VRM quality – it’s a sign of a well-built motherboard.
Can I use newer Ryzen CPUs on an X370 motherboard?
That’s a great question, and the answer is: sometimes! It depends on the specific motherboard and the BIOS version it’s running. While X370 motherboards were originally designed for the first generation of Ryzen processors, many manufacturers released BIOS updates to support second-generation Ryzen CPUs (like the Ryzen 5 2600).
However, support for third-generation and beyond is generally limited, and even second-generation support isn’t guaranteed on all boards. To be 100% sure, you’ll need to check the CPU support list on the manufacturer’s website for the specific X370 motherboard you’re considering. This list will tell you exactly which CPUs are compatible and which BIOS version you need.
How much RAM can an X370 motherboard handle, and what speed should I aim for?
Most X370 motherboards support up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM across four DIMM slots. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check the specifications of the specific board you’re looking at, just to be absolutely certain.
As for speed, X370 motherboards typically support RAM speeds up to around 3200MHz or 3466MHz, although this can vary depending on the board and the CPU you’re using. Ryzen processors benefit significantly from faster RAM, so aiming for 3200MHz is a good target. Just remember to enable XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) in your BIOS to ensure your RAM runs at its advertised speed!
What are the advantages of an ATX form factor over a smaller Micro-ATX X370 board?
The main advantage of a full-size ATX X370 motherboard over a smaller Micro-ATX one is expansion. ATX boards generally have more PCIe slots, giving you more room to add graphics cards, sound cards, capture cards, and other expansion devices. They often have more SATA ports for connecting storage drives as well.
Micro-ATX boards are more compact and can fit in smaller cases, which is great if space is a concern. However, they typically have fewer expansion slots and may have fewer features overall. So, if you plan on building a more complex system with multiple graphics cards or lots of storage, an ATX board is the better choice. If you’re building a more basic system and want to save space, Micro-ATX can be a good option.
I’m on a budget. What are some key things to look for in a budget-friendly X370 motherboard?
When you’re shopping for a budget-friendly X370 motherboard, it’s important to prioritize the essentials. Focus on features that directly impact performance and stability. For example, a decent VRM design is crucial for ensuring your CPU receives stable power, even if you’re not overclocking.
Also, make sure the board has enough fan headers to properly cool your system. Don’t worry too much about fancy features like RGB lighting or built-in Wi-Fi if they significantly increase the price. Instead, focus on a solid foundation that will allow your system to run reliably. You can always add those extras later!
My X370 motherboard doesn’t seem to be working properly. What troubleshooting steps should I take?
First, double-check all your connections! Make sure everything is securely plugged in, including the power supply cables, RAM modules, CPU cooler, and any expansion cards. A loose connection is a surprisingly common cause of problems.
Next, try clearing the CMOS. This resets the BIOS settings to their defaults and can often resolve issues caused by incorrect or corrupted BIOS settings. Refer to your motherboard manual for instructions on how to clear the CMOS. Finally, if you’re still having trouble, try booting with only the essential components installed (CPU, one stick of RAM, and the graphics card, if you have one). This can help you isolate the problem and determine if a specific component is faulty.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! We’ve dissected the world of X370 motherboards, highlighting the cream of the crop to help you build the Ryzen-powered dream machine you’ve been craving. We know wading through tech specs and comparing features can feel overwhelming, but remember, the perfect board is out there, waiting to unlock the full potential of your build. Think about your priorities, your budget, and that glorious gaming experience you’re picturing, and you’ll be well on your way to a killer setup.
Ultimately, the journey to finding the best X370 motherboards is about empowering yourself to create something amazing. Don’t be afraid to dive in, do your research, and trust your gut. The components are just pieces until you bring them together, and with the right motherboard as your foundation, you’re one step closer to conquering any digital frontier. Now go build something incredible!