Does A Motherboard Affect PC Performance?

The advancement and incorporation of all premium features in the CPU compel users to think, Does a motherboard affect PC performance? 

Previously, a motherboard managed all the traffic, but now the significant job of the motherboard is to connect all other components such as CPU, GPU, or RAM. Considering this factor, one may wonder whether to invest in a high-end motherboard or build a PC using a cheap motherboard with a high-processing CPU.

With this insight, you will be able to choose the right motherboard for your specific needs and understand the importance of the motherboard and its impact on performance, especially in a high-performing task like gaming.

What is Motherboard?

A motherboard is like the heart of the computer. It regulates power and supplies it through different power connectors effectively to hardware components of the computer system, similar to how the heart supplies blood to the body’s organs. It allows communications between different components such as CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), storage drives, etc, and ensures that they are functioning properly. 

In the past, ‌a motherboard was meant to manage ‌data transfer between the CPU, GPU, and RAM. But with time and advanced technology, this feature is included in the CPU to make it more powerful with high functionality. 

Although the CPU plays a significant role in determining the efficiency of data flow, the motherboard is still essential for smooth operation and interconnecting different components through Printed Circuit Board (PCB). Considering ‌anatomy, a motherboard consists of crucial components, including form factors, CPU sockets, expansion slots, and connecting ports described below:

Form factors:

A motherboard comes in various shapes and sizes, known as form factors, which define its dimensions and layout. They can vary and ensure compatibility with different PC cases and other components. The ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended), micro ATX, Extended ATX, and mini ITX are different form factors used in desktop computers. However, laptop motherboards have different form factors depending on the laptop’s size and design. 

CPU socket:

The motherboard often includes a CPU socket that is a connection point for processors. Different processors support different sockets and are specific to form factors, compatibility, and pin configurations. For example, socket types like LGA1151, LGA1700, or LGA2066 are designed for Intel, while AMD has used socket types like AM4, TR4, or sTRX4.

Expansion slots and Connecting ports:

Expansion slots are required for components like graphics cards, sound cards, and networking cards. Connectors are available for USB, Ethernet, audio, and other onboard peripherals. It also features memory slots for RAM and various storage interfaces such as SATA and M2 for connecting SSD, HDD, and mother devices. 

How Does a Motherboard Affect PC Performance?

A motherboard, being a crucial component in the computer system, may not directly impact the performance of a computer, but it indirectly influences performance through Thermal Design Power (TDP), VRM design, BIOS design, Memory modules, and PCIe generations. 

Thermal Design Power (TDP)

Thermal Design Power (TDP) is one of the primary factors to consider when assessing motherboard performance. TDP measures the maximum heat a component, such as a CPU, will dissipate when under load. It is an important indicator of heat generated, not power consumption. It helps determine ‌the required cooling solution to keep the overall temperature optimized. While a motherboard is typically socket-defined, certain motherboards may have their own TDP limits, which can impact the performance of high-power components. For instance, exceeding the motherboard’s TDP limit by using a High TDP CPU could result in unstable system operation, overheating, performance issues, or even component damage.

Also, Check the latest article How to Clean a Motherboard

Voltage Regulation Module (VRM)

Voltage Regulation Module (VRM) design is another significant aspect influenced by the motherboard, especially concerning overclocking. VRM, as the name suggests, is responsible for regulating the voltage by converting a higher voltage into a lower stable voltage, ensuring efficient and ripple-free power delivery. Critical components of VRMS affecting PC performances include power phases (MOSFETs, chokers, capacitors), heatsinks and cooling solutions, and PWM controllers to monitor power phases.

For example, a higher-end motherboard such as ASUS ROG CROSSHAIR VIII DARK HERO, designed for overclocking, often features high-quality components and efficient cooling mechanisms, providing better power delivery, stability, and thermal management. 

In contrast, the ASUS Prime B450M-A serves as an example of a low VRM motherboard that offers basic functionality and features a 4+2 power phase design, which is considered relatively minimal compared to higher-end models.

To read a review for ASUS ROG CROSSHAIR VIII DARK HERO

BIOS Design

A BIOS design of a motherboard also indirectly affects performance. BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware that acts as the first software to initiate whenever the computer is powered on. It further helps to facilitate the boot process, configure hardware components, and modify multiple settings. For improved compatibility with new hardware, enhanced performance, and functionality, the BIOS can be updated by flashing or replaced by UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface).

Inadequate BIOS firmware can result in fluctuating CPU and RAM voltages, leading to system instability and performance degradation. However, advanced BIOS features, such as those in the ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming (Wi-Fi), allow users to overclock their CPUs, adjust voltages, and tweak other settings to optimize performance.

Memory Channels

The number of channels for memory is another factor that may affect performance. Higher memory channels mean higher memory modules are utilized to maximize the performance of high-performing workstations. Some motherboards support dual-channel memory beneficial for tasks such as gaming, editing, etc. While high-end models offer triple or quad-channel memory configurations used in data processing, content creation, video editing, etc.

PCIe Generations:

Additionally, the motherboard’s support for PCIe generations increases performance and can influence performance by providing faster data transfer. A newer motherboard, such as the MSI MEG Z690 GODLIKE, features support for PCIe Gen 5, which offers twice the bandwidth of PCIe Gen 4. While high-powered graphics cards may not fully utilize PCIe Gen 5/4, M.2 NVMe SSDs can take advantage of the increased bandwidth. Bandwidth is determined by several lanes, such as x1, x4, x8, and x16, in which PCIe x16 offers the highest bandwidth, resulting in reduced loading times and improved performance, particularly in tasks involving asset loading.

Also Check: Orange Light On Motherboard

Impact of Cheap vs. Expensive Motherboard on Performance

The performance of a cheap or expensive motherboard may vary depending on the specific components and features offered by each motherboard and the chipset used in it. 

A motherboard chipset is a crucial component because it helps determine the capabilities of a computer and signifies its overall performance. The chipset regulates data flow, determines CPU and memory compatibility, and influences system stability, expandability options, overclocking capabilities, and I/O ports. In this section, we exhaustively discussed these key factors to determine their effects on performance.

System Stability

High-quality components maintain stability for efficient power systems that indirectly enhance performance. A premium motherboard often features high-quality capacitors, power regulation, PCB construction, and robust voltage regulator modules (VRMs). These components ensure a stable and consistent power supply to critical components such as the CPU and RAM, resulting in improved system stability and performance. On the other hand, a cheaper motherboard with lower-quality components, such as insufficient or poor-quality VRMs, may ‌lead to system crashes, instability, and even permanent damage in extreme cases. 

Expandability

Expandability is another crucial aspect influenced by the motherboard chipset that differentiates a high-end motherboard from its low-end counterpart. A high-end motherboard generally offers more expansion options, including additional PCIe slots, SATA ports, and M.2 slots. This allows users to connect multiple storage devices, add expansion cards, or accommodate future upgrades without limitations. A cheaper motherboard offers only the essential features, fewer expansion options necessary for basic computer setup, and limits the overall flexibility and upgrade potential of the system. 

Overclocking

Overclocking is the process of operating a processor at higher speeds than its default specifications to achieve efficient system performance. If you’re someone who performs heavy, dusty tasks such as gaming, video editing, etc., you should consider this feature. A high-end motherboard offers more advanced BIOS options and voltage tweaking features, allowing users to achieve better overclocking results. This is particularly valuable for advanced users who want to push their system’s performance beyond stock settings. The ability to fine-tune voltages, adjust LLC (Load Line Calibration), and set up XMP (Extreme Memory Profile) profiles can significantly affect gaming performance. However, it’s worth noting that overclocking should only be pursued by experienced users who understand the associated risks like overheating.

Chipsets like Intel’s Z and X series and AMD’s X and B series are designed to support overclocking. However, motherboards in these series may differ from one another based on their overclocking features. 

I/O Features

I/O features also contribute to the performance, resulting in price variation between motherboards. A low-end motherboard often comes with minimal features in order to keep costs down. In contrast, a high-end motherboard offers a wide range of I/O options, such as fast USB ports, Thunderbolt support, dual LAN, high-quality heat pipes and cooling solutions, BIOS Flashback, additional motherboard headers, and even premium features like 10Gbe networking. These additional features cater to specific user needs and can justify the higher price for those who require them. For example, professionals who work with high-speed external storage devices may benefit from a motherboard with Thunderbolt support, while gamers might prioritize high-speed USB ports for connecting peripherals.

Do you Need an Expensive Motherboard for Better Performance?

High-end motherboard chipsets offer unique features, premium materials, or specialized functionality, but these niche functions or luxury features do not necessarily translate to significantly higher performance.

High-end motherboard chipsets, like Intel’s Z790 or AMD’s X670, may surprise you that they are unnecessary unless you have specific requirements because they may not directly skyrocket system performance. The performance improvements you might see are mainly in areas like transfer speeds from storage devices, LAN bandwidth, rendering times, and overall system stability. However, these gains are not substantial enough to warrant the hefty price tag of a benchmark motherboard.

In fact, investing in a good mid-range motherboard that offers a balance between price, features, and quality is usually sufficient, even if you are using a high-end CPU such as a Ryzen 9 or an Intel Core i9, without breaking the bank. It is important to note that a mid-range motherboard is often better than cheaper high-ends because the performance gains from a high-end motherboard are often minimal compared to their inflated prices, making them a less cost-effective choice for most users.

Conclusion: 

A good motherboard is an indispensable part of a computer system. While it is true that the motherboard itself may not have a significant impact on performance in most cases, there are certain factors to watch out for that can affect your CPU’s performance and overall system stability.

However, a mid-range motherboard that meets the requirements of its components and peripherals will suffice for most users. There are advantages to investing in a higher-end motherboard for those who seek maximum stability, performance potential, and future expandability. It ultimately depends on individual needs, preferences, and budget considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions