Best am2 motherboard: Computer parts, laptops, electronics, and more

Best AM2+ CPU – 5 Fastest AM2+ Processors

Our computer systems are machines (no matter how attached we may be to them). And, just like any other machine, they need to be upgraded from time to time. This routine will ensure that you have the latest parts and are not trying to make a 19th century part work in 2021. Of course, it may still work but it will be slow and the performance will not be great.

 If you are noticing an overall drop in the performance of your system, it is likely because you have an outdated microprocessor. This delayed performance can hamper productivity and sour your gaming experience. So, why continue with it? We suggest that you upgrade to one of the latest options along with a good socket. Our vote goes to the AM2+ socket. 

What is an AM2+ CPU?

The AM2+ is a socket that is used by multiple AMD processors. It works to provide a secure connection between a microprocessor and the circuit board. Today, you will also see AM3 sockets, which are an upgrade of AM2+ but AM2+ is good enough too. It is a successor of the AM2 sockets and you will see a few distinct characteristics. 

The Benefits of an AM2+ CPU

Here’s why you should buy this particular processor:

• They are known to be highly efficient. They improve speed, lowers latency, and optimizes power consumption.
• They work on advanced technology to stay cool even while using intensive applications.
• They are durable and reliable, well-known to last for a long time.

AM2+ CPU – Buying Guide

There are certain things you should keep in mind while buying an AM2+ CPU because it can get technical and difficult. It is very easy to feel lost during the buying process, which is why we are here to help. Below are the features you must look for in your AM2+ CPU:

• Compatibility: You must remember that AM2+ CPUs are specific in function. This means that you can’t just use any CPU for any system. You must ensure that your processor is compatible with the AM2+ socket and then go ahead. 
• Clock speed: For gamers, we suggest 3.5 GHz. You can also go for 4.0 GHz if you are a pro. Otherwise, anything lower will do too. High clock speed makes performance fast and seamless. That’s very important for gamers. 
• Warranty: Who doesn’t like a long-lasting, durable product? Without a warranty, you will be shooting in the dark, almost risking it. With a warranty, you can be sure that if any problem arises, you can have it repaired or exchanged. 
• Pricing: Needless to say, price is a very crucial factor. Make sure you set a reasonable budget for yourself before making any decisions. 

Contents

Best AM2+ CPU

Now, let’s go ahead and look at some of the best options of AM2+ available on the market today.

1. AMD Phenom X4 9500

The AMD Phenom X4 9500 is a quad-core CPU and a speed of 2.2 GHz. It has the AM2 socket but of course, it is compatible with AM2+. Its general features are as follows:

1. It has a 2 MB cache.
2. The socket works on the 65nm process technology.
3. This is an AMD64 socket with a direct connect architecture.
4. Its 4 cores ensure that you work on processor-intensive tasks with ease and without any lag whatsoever.
5. You can use this CPU for various applications from gaming to running intense applications and creating graphics. 

[i2pc][i2pros]

Ready to install

A very easy upgrade[/i2pros]

[i2cons]

None[/i2cons][/i2pc]

2. AMD Phenom II X4 940 – Black Edition

If you are looking for speed and want a solid upgrade, you will definitely love the AMD Phenom II X4 940. It has an innovative design but it is not complicated at all. You will, in fact, have fun working with it. Some of its specifications are:

1. It works on 3.0 GHz frequency.
2. It has a larger cache size than standard AM2+ CPUs at 6 MB.
3. This is a quad-core CPU.
4. It works on both, 32- and 64-bit operating modes, without any problems.
5. Its CoolCore Technology ensures that you save energy by optimizing usage.
6. It has DDR2 memory. 
7. You get a limited 3-year warranty with this processor.

[i2pc][i2pros]

Excellent quality

Reduces latencies 

Smooth performance[/i2pros]

[i2cons]

The heat sink is not of the greatest quality[/i2cons][/i2pc]

3. AMD Phenom X4 9650

This processor has a 2MB cache and a speed of 2.3 GHz. Let’s take a closer look at why you should buy the AMD Phenom X4 9650:

1. It is a quad-core processor with 16-bit HyperTransport link.
2. It also comes with an 11.5 clock multiplier.
3. This processor is best suited for productivity, modeling, graphic design, gaming, multitasking, and digital media.
4. It comes with a warranty of 3 months.
5. It works on 95 watts.

[i2pc][i2pros]

Easy to install

Speeds up performance[/i2pros]

[i2cons]

None[/i2cons][/i2pc]

4. AMD Phenom II X4 920

The AMD Phenom II X4 920 is another excellent choice with 6 MB L3 cache and a good speed of 2.8 GHz. Below are a few more features:

1. The processor comes with a native quad-core die design.
2. You can use it with the HyperTransport 3 Technology.
3. Its 6 MB cache is shared by the 4 cores along with 512 KB for each core.
4. It has an integrated DDR2 SDRAM memory.
5. It supports the AMD64 technology and the CoolnQuiet Technology to enable excellent performance.
6. You will be able to use this CPU for 64-bit computing.

[i2pc][i2pros]

Fairly priced

Stays cool even while overclocking[/i2pros]

[i2cons]

Installation has been a slight challenge for a few users[/i2cons][/i2pc]

5. AMD Athlon II X4 640

Let’s end with the very popular processor, which everyone has their eye on – the AMD Athlon II X4 640. It is suitable for gamers with 3.0 GHz speed and the following features:

1. This quad-core processor has an AM2+ and AM3+ socket.
2. It has 4 threads and an L2 cache of 2 MB.
3. It works on a power of 95 watts.
4. Its clock multiplier rate is 15.
5. It has 938 pins.
6. The CPU comes with a warranty of 3 months.
7. The package includes a thermal compound to help you with installation. However, you have to buy the fan and heat grease separately.

[i2pc][i2pros]

The speed improves significantly

Works well for gaming[/i2pros]

[i2cons]

None[/i2cons][/i2pc]

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Here are a few FAQs that will help you understand AM2+ CPUs better.

What is the Fastest AM2+ Processor?

The Phenom II X4 series is currently the fastest.

Can I Put an AM3 CPU in an AM2+ Processor?

Yes, you can, because AM3 CPUs are backwards compatible.

Is AM2 and AM2+ the Same?

Physically, you won’t see a difference but AM2+ sockets are an upgrade. They have HyperTransport 3.0 support and split power planes. 

Will AM4 Fit in AM3+?

No, it cannot. Only AM3 can fit AM3+.

Are CPU Sockets Backwards Compatible?

Most of them are backwards compatible.

How Do I Find Out My Processor Socket Type?

That’s quite easy! You will find it on the motherboard.

Conclusion

Now that you have a clear idea about AM2+ CPUs, we are sure you will be able to purchase the best according to your needs. If you have any other doubts, though, you can always reach out to us.  

Azad Shaikh

Azad Shaikh is an internet geek at heart. From reviews about computer components to playing X-box one games, Azad takes pleasure in writing about anything and everything about computers. He is a computer engineering graduate and certified ethical hacker. In his leisure time, he reads and explores the internet.

Supertest: Motherboards for AMD AM2+ platform

AMD Phenom generation processors are structurally compatible with Athlon 64 predecessors in Socket AM2 version. These CPUs work stably in older generation motherboards with updated BIOS. At the same time, Phenom features Cool’n’Quiet 2.0 and HyperTransport 3.0 technologies, which will require advanced products to unlock their full potential.

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In addition, the TDP of these processors is somewhat higher than that of their predecessors, which puts forward special requirements for the power subsystem. There are also differences in terms of Phenom overclocking — thanks to the additional features of the AM2 + boards, they will be able to achieve better results. This is partly why the market already has a sufficient number of models based on new chipsets from both AMD and NVIDIA. Note that backward compatibility has also been preserved — Athlon 64 CPUs will work in these products, and the user gets an extension of the computer’s functionality due to a small upgrade.

Motherboard specifications table

This material is devoted to the study of the features and capabilities of new motherboards — representatives of the AM2 + platform from leading manufacturers.

Contents

• 0.1 ASUS M3A
• 1 ASUS M3A
  • 1. 1 ASUS M3A78-EH
• 2 ASUS M 3A78-EH
  • 2.1 ASUS M3A32-MVP Deluxe/WiFi-AP
• 3 ASUS M3A32-MVP Deluxe/WiFi-AP
  • 3.1 Biostar TA780G M2+
• 4 Biostar TA780G M2+
  • 4.1 Biostar TPower N750
• 5 Biostar TPower N750
  • 5.1 Foxconn A78AX-S
• 6 Foxconn A78AX-S
  • 6.1 Gigabyte GA-MA74GM -S2H
• 7 Gigabyte GA-MA74GM-S2H
  • 7.1 Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
• 8 Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H
  9 0020 8.1 Gigabyte GA-MA790FX-DQ6
• 9 Gigabyte GA- MA790FX-DQ6
  • 9.1 MSI K9A2 Platinum
• 10 MSI K9A2 Platinum
  • 10.1 MSI K9A2GM-FIH
• 11 MSI K9A2GM-FIH
  • 11.1 MSI K9N2 Diamond
• 12 MSI K9N2 Diamond
  • 12.1 MSI K9N2GM-FIH
• 13 MSI K9N2GM-FIH
  • 13.1 Sapphire PC-AM2RD790
• 14 Sapphire PC-AM2RD790
  • 14. 1 Sapphire PC-AM2RX780
• 15 Sapphire PC-AM2RX780
  • 15.1 Sapphire PI-AM2RS780G
• 16 Sapphire PI-AM2RS780G
  • • 16.0.1 Test method .2 Pins

ASUS M3A

$95

Verdict

Powerful power subsystem; good overclocking results; affordable price

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Limited voltage adjustment

Product provided by MTI; «Navigator»; TechnoPark

Based on the AMD 770 chipset, the ASUS M3A motherboard provides users with the basic functionality of the Phenom family of processors. Its features are a powerful five-phase power system and excellent overclocking results for both new CPUs and their predecessors. However, the board is unlikely to be suitable for serious boosting the system, since it has limitations in adjusting the supply voltages of the main computer components. Let’s also note the behavior atypical for PCs based on AMD CPUs when saving settings in the BIOS: ASUS M3A, like products for Intel processors, operate in the Start-Stop-Start mode, restarting the computer several times.

The board under consideration showed average performance results for the memory subsystem. However, this product, due to its fairly affordable cost, will definitely find its buyer.

ASUS M3A78-EH

$90

Verdict

New chipset; Hibrid CrossFire technology support

Poor overclocking results; weak power subsystem; low speed

Product provided by MTI

Outwardly, this board does not stand out among the products for AM2+ processors. However, when getting acquainted with the M3A78-EH, it turned out that AMD 780G is used as the north bridge on the board, although the manufacturer did not realize the capabilities of integrated graphics — there are no video outputs on the rear panel. Thus, ASUS engineers have obtained a representative of the AM2 + line with basic characteristics.

The board in question showed poor overclocking results, which can be partly explained by a mediocre power subsystem. ASUS M3A78-EH was the outsider of our RAM performance test. At a reasonable price, it could be of interest to budget-minded users who are looking for an inexpensive Socket AM2+ motherboard. However, for the money that it costs, it is not difficult to find more attractive offers.

ASUS M3A32-MVP Deluxe/WiFi-AP

$220

Verdict

Rich package; original CO for memory modules; functional BIOS; good overclocking capabilities

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High cost

Product provided by MTI; «Navigator»; TechnoPark

The top product from ASUS, designed for AM2+ processors, is based on the AMD 790FX chipset. The M3A32-MVP Deluxe/WiFi-AP board stands out for its maximum functionality typical for devices of this level. Of the interesting innovative features, we note an additional heatsink for cooling memory modules, which is connected by heat pipes to the common CO of the board. The

M3A32-MVP Deluxe/WiFi-AP showed good overclocking results, hitting 340MHz FSB with the AMD Athlon X2, and 270MHz with the Phenom processor. The speed of the system built on the board in question is quite high, albeit not a record one. The overall impression is slightly spoiled only by the price of this product, which is quite high for systems based on AMD processors.

Biostar TA780G M2+

$90

Verdict

Functional BIOS; smart design RSV

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Northbridge multiplier change function not working properly

Product provided by Compass

TA780G M2+ motherboard despite being based on 78 integrated chipset 0G, belongs to the TForce overclocker series. It is equipped with a modern SB700 southbridge and has good expansion possibilities. We note the high quality of workmanship and the use of solid capacitors in the processor power system. A functional BIOS completes the overall picture. However, we note that during overclocking, the board resets all settings, returning the nominal values.

The Biostar TA780G M2+ proved to be quite productive. The results of overclocking the Athlon 64 X2 processor on the bus are very good for a solution of this level, however, the performance when forcing the Phenom is not so impressive. The incorrectly working function of changing the multiplier of the north bridge affects.

Biostar TPower N750

$180

Verdict

Powerful CO chipset and power elements; DVI-HDMI adapter included

Sub-optimal layout; poor overclocking capabilities; price

Provided by Compass

The Biostar product in question is one of the few on the market today based on the NVIDIA nForce750a SLI chipset. The board represents a new line called TPower, and it is primarily aimed at enthusiasts. This is confirmed by the powerful CO of the chipset and power elements, Power and Reset buttons, LEDs indicating power supply and errors in the system, bright coloring. Despite its orientation, the board showed average results when boosting the PC. Like the Biostar TA780G M2+ model, overclocking resets all settings to nominal values. Among the atypical features, let’s also highlight the implemented capabilities of the integrated video (DVI connector) — now you can expect this on all products using modern NVIDIA chipsets.

Foxconn A78AX-S

n/a

Verdict

Affordable price; modern southbridge

Low productivity; not the best potential for overclocking; meager BIOS settings

Provided by Foxconn representative office in Ukraine

Although many motherboards based on the AMD 770 chipset use the outdated AMD SB600 as the south bridge, there are models with the new SB700, which has more functionality. The Foxconn A78AX-S model was the first officially announced motherboard that uses such a bundle. The product will not please overclockers — the BIOS settings lack many necessary options for fine-tuning, and the actual overclocking results are not very good. In addition, after forcing, there are sometimes problems with starting the PC during a “cold” reboot. The performance of the memory subsystem is low, and the expansion options are limited — the board has only two slots for DDR2 modules. However, the price in this case will probably serve as an excuse — it is quite low, and good overclocking features are not in demand by all users.

Gigabyte GA-MA74GM-S2H

$85

Verdict

Excellent functionality for an integrated solution; high performance

No support for ATI Avivo HD

Provided by from Gigabyte; K-Trade

This board is based on the integrated AMD 740G chipset, which determines the positioning of the product. The GA-MA74GM-S2H will primarily interest those who assemble HTPC computers, as it is equipped with analog, digital and HDMI video outputs. However, unlike the older AMD 780G chip, there is no UVD (Unified Video Decoder) here, so the processor must be sufficiently productive to view HDTV. Let’s note the results of GA-MA74GM-S2H in overclocking — these figures are as close as possible to the record ones. However, overclockers should not get carried away — the heating of power elements in the forced mode is quite noticeable, and problems may arise with processors with a high TDP. The speed of the memory subsystem of the board under consideration is also very high, and given the cost and good equipment, this is a worthy choice in its segment.

Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H

$110

Verdict

Excellent equipment; high functionality; great option for HTPC

Small supply voltage adjustment range; high heat PWM

Provided by from Gigabyte; K-Trade

If earlier motherboards with integrated video were considered as budget solutions, the situation has changed with the release of the AMD 780G chipset. An example of this is this model. The point here is not even the price, it is just not the lowest, but the quality of performance and functionality. A full set of video outputs is available: DVI, HDMI and D-sub, there is FireWire and eSATA, the Realtek ALC889 audio codec is useda, which allows you to simultaneously play two streams of sound, the optical S / PDIF-out is not forgotten. Let’s complement this set of advantages with low power consumption, as well as a smart fan speed control system — and we have an excellent platform for a media center. Although the board was able to show some of the best overclocking results, it is not worth considering it as the best choice for such purposes. This is due to the limited range of voltage adjustment and the CPU power subsystem.

Gigabyte GA-MA790FX-DQ6

$240

Verdict

Functionality; speed; power subsystem; maximum acceleration; delivery set

Minor firmware flaws; rather high cost

Product provided by Compass

This model stands out for its rich functionality, providing excellent expansion prospects. The GA-MA790FX-DQ6 board boasts a ten-phase processor power subsystem and good CO for high-heating components. The brainchild of Gigabyte is equipped with four full-profile PCI Express slots designed for installing video cards. We also note the wide possibilities of adjusting the main parameters of the system in the BIOS and record overclocking results.

Gigabyte GA-MA790FX-DQ6 lacks only minor flaws in the firmware and the traditionally high cost for products of this level. However, you always have to pay for quality. The product in question certainly outperforms those we have tested and is therefore deservedly awarded the Editors’ Choice: Best Quality mark.

MSI K9A2 Platinum

$175

Verdict

Well equipped; democratic price; efficient cooling system

BIOS settings could be better

The product is provided by MSI office in Ukraine. Four PCI Express x16 slots are located through one, alternating with PCI and PCI Express x1 slots. Thanks to this, you can use a bunch of CrossFireX of four video cards equipped with dual-slot cooling systems. The board is equipped with a very efficient and effective looking CO, the Circu-Pipe. However, there is not much work for her here — the chipset has a low power consumption, and the processor power subsystem, built according to a five-phase pulse-width modulation scheme, has a high efficiency (according to MSI, it reaches 95%). The use of only a 4-pin ATX 12V auxiliary power connector looks strange. Although the BIOS settings are quite extensive, there are no opportunities to achieve maximum overclocking, which affected the results with Phenom.

MSI K9A2GM-FIH

$85

Verdict

Quality workmanship; well equipped

No DVI; only four SATA

Product provided by MSI representative office in Ukraine

This board does not have the usual DVI — only HDMI is available from digital video outputs, which immediately suggests the scope of this model — HTPC. If it is DVI that is needed, and buying an HDMI-DVI adapter is a problem, then there is a K9A2GM-FD modification equipped with DVI instead of HDMI, but, unfortunately, without IEEE 1394. There are some comments on the layout of the board — if you install a fairly large discrete video card , then it will overlap the top row of SATA connectors, and there are only four of them anyway. The BIOS has a number of shortcomings related to the functioning and overclocking of Phenom processors. For serious overclocking recommend K9A2GM-FIH does not allow the power system, although, given the positioning of the board, this can hardly be called a significant drawback.

MSI K9N2 Diamond

$275

Verdict

Excellent equipment; separate sound card X-Fi Xtreme Audio

Breakthrough performance; BIOS flaws; high price

Product provided by MSI office in Ukraine

The fact that motherboards with built-in video will most likely become the standard in the future, as it already happened with integrated sound, is perfectly confirmed by this model. The board belongs to the elite Diamond line and is based on the NVIDIA nForce 780a SLI chipset, which has an integrated graphics core. With Hybrid SLI, you can share the built-in GPU and graphics card from NVIDIA. The main advantage here is the ability to turn off a discrete card during light load to save energy and reduce noise. The PCB has Power and Reset buttons, CMOS reset buttons, as well as LED indication of malfunctions of individual system components. Unfortunately, BIOS flaws are confusing, especially if we take into account the positioning of the product. But it is worth considering that the board has just come out, and, probably, they will be fixed.

MSI K9N2GM-FIH

$ 95

Verdict

Decent equipment

low performance; lack of DVI

Provided by MSI office in Ukraine

In response to the very successful AMD 780G chipset, NVIDIA released the GeForce 8200 on which this board is based. It has slightly higher power consumption and lower 3D performance, but boasts HDMI support for the latest HD audio formats, which is important for home theater applications. Like the AMD 780G model, this board has modifications with DVI or HDMI and IEEE 1394a. There was also a problem with the overlap of the upper SATA connectors when installing a video card. Yes, and the BIOS also has some roughness: bus frequencies over 292 MHz are ignored by it; when using Phenom, changing parameters sometimes causes the system to freeze, and the inability to set the northbridge multiplier negatively affects overclocking. Although the board cannot be recommended for this due to insufficiently powerful PWM.

Sapphire PC-AM2RD790

$215

Verdict

Very rich BIOS settings; excellent equipment; record-breaking memory performance

No automatic reset system

Product provided by Kvazar-Micro

This model is the twin brother of the LanParty UT 790FX-M2RV board manufactured by DFI, which has earned fame among enthusiasts. The BIOS settings are very rich, but for inexperienced users, understanding some of them may not be so easy. Of the flaws in the firmware, it is worth noting the lack of an automatic reset system during overclocking. This has to be done manually using a jumper or simultaneously pressing the Power and Reset buttons located on the PCB, which also has a two-character LED POST indicator. The digital seven-phase PWM is responsible for the stability of the power supply of top processors. The bundle and equipment are top notch — two gigabit network ports, a sound card on a Realtek ALC 888T chip and a VoIP card. And from the pleasant bonuses there are plumes glowing in the ultraviolet spectrum.

Sapphire PC-AM2RX780

$97

Verdict

Price; CrossFire support; good performance of the memory subsystem

Potential for overclocking is not very high; BIOS flaws

Product provided by Kvazar-Micro

Although PC-AM2RX780 is based on the AMD 770 chipset, Sapphire engineers implemented two PCI-E x16 slots on the board, which allows using a bunch of ATI video cards in CrossFire mode. An interesting feature: if only one graphics adapter is installed, then to switch the upper PCI Express x16 slot to full-speed mode in the lower PCI-E x16, you need to insert a special key card that comes with the motherboard. The potential for overclocking turned out to be rather average, which somewhat reduces the attractiveness of this model for enthusiasts who want to get CrossFire for a modest amount. However, if the BIOS had proper functionality, the level of overclocking with Phenom could be improved. As with other Sapphire boards I’ve tested, there is no automatic reset when overclocked. Among the disadvantages is the use of the old southbridge SB600.

Sapphire PI-AM2RS780G

$85

Verdict

High quality power system; excellent potential for overclocking; price; good performance

No HDMI and PCI-E x1; BIOS flaws

Provided by Kvazar-Micro

This motherboard is a very interesting product — although it is based on the 780G chipset, which AMD does not position as the basis for high-performance PCs, the PI-AM2RS780G may well be suitable for such purposes. Thanks for this you need a high-quality 4 + 1-phase processor power system, which is able to “feed” the top Phenom models with a TDP of 125 W without any problems. We were surprised to see the POST codes indicator on the PI-AM2RS780G, but it turned out that the manufacturer gave this hint for a reason. Although there are not many advanced settings in the BIOS, and some shortcomings did not allow achieving maximum results with Phenom, the overclocking potential of this model is quite good. And if the necessary options are added to the new firmware, then the board can rightfully be considered one of the best overclocking solutions in the mATX format for AM2+.

Testing methodology

When searching for the «ultimate megahertz» we used Athlon 64 X2 6000+ and Phenom X3 8750. The processors were set to x9 multiplier, and if necessary — x8. The HT frequency, and in Phenom also the CPU NB, were kept close to the nominal frequencies in order to reveal exactly the potential of the motherboard.

All models were flashed with the latest BIOS version available on the manufacturer’s website at the time of testing. As a rule, “childish” diseases are fixed in fresh firmware, overclocking potential is improved and support for the latest CPU models is provided.

Although the integrated memory controller should significantly reduce the influence of the motherboard on the performance of this subsystem, the results of tests with Phenom surprised — the differences in performance are very large. Sufficiently loyal timings were used because they are programmed into the SPD of the memory modules, and it turned out to be completely impossible to set more aggressive 5-5-5-15 on several motherboard models. Therefore, equal conditions were created for all devices.

Terminals

First of all, we note a significant improvement in the overclocking potential of the new models — most of the devices have overcome the 300 MHz threshold with Athlon X2. However, things are not so rosy with the new AMD Phenom. Unfortunately, on many motherboards, even top ones, there is no way to increase the voltage on the north bridge of Phenom processors and (or) change its multiplier. The latter often negatively affects the maximum overclocking and puts such devices almost on a par with AM2, where there are no such settings.

Chipsets with built-in graphics adapters are making huge progress. Motherboards based on AMD 780G are an excellent platform for non-gaming computers (although 3D performance is very good for integrated video). Even in terms of overclocking, they are not inferior to models based on discrete chipsets. The only limitation is often that power systems are not powerful enough to work with chips with a TDP of 125W. However, this does not apply to model Sapphire PI-AM2RS780G , which is an excellent choice for compact PCs, and thanks to its attractive price, it wins the Editors’ Choice: Best Buy award .

On the other hand, in AMD 780G-based HTPC systems, thanks to the UVD unit responsible for the video hardware, a high-performance, and therefore high-power consumption, processor is not needed for HDTV viewing. Therefore, you can save a little on PWM and invest in additional controllers and equipment. This approach was used in Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-S2H , which wins the «Editor’s Choice: Best Quality» award due to its excellent functionality for devices in this class. Among full-format motherboards, we note the Gigabyte GA-MA790FX-DQ6 with a similar sign — excellent performance, equipment and the best overclocking results in this test.

Products provided by

AMD	AMD, www. amd.ua
	TNG, www.tng.com.ua
be quiet!	Revoltec, www.revoltec.com.ua
Leadtek	MTI, www.mti.ua
Team, Zalman	Eletek, www.eletek.ua

See also:
Supertest: 22 motherboards for Yorkfield
nForce 750i SLI chipset — «we have the same one, but without wings»
790FX — AMD’s flagship chipset

Choice motherboard for gaming configuration (Socket AM2)

December-2007

We continue the series of materials devoted to the analysis of the motherboard market. In testing, we are accustomed to evaluate certain technical features of boards and assess their suitability for the group of users for which this board is oriented by the manufacturer. But the market forms its own «hit parade», sometimes very different from what could be compiled based only on tests and specifications. And, in our opinion, it’s very interesting to see which motherboards eventually became really popular, to discuss the reasons, perhaps, to discover some patterns.

Modern «heavy» games definitely need a powerful graphics subsystem, in particular, considering the next powerful video card, testers no longer say that it makes no sense to buy it, since there is nothing to realize its potential. On the contrary, it is easy to see in the tests of Call of Juarez, Crysis, World in Conflict and other high-tech games that even at not the highest resolution (1280 × 1024, or even 1024 × 768), with all graphic effects turned on, the power reserve is not detected and the most expensive video cards. Really reliable support is provided only by SLI and CrossFire systems from such cards. Although, unfortunately, we must admit that support for multiprocessor rendering is not implemented equally effectively in all games, progress is being observed and, in general, the second card can already be safely called, albeit costly, but a sure way to increase performance, and, most importantly, in overall increase in comfort and enjoyment of the game.

At the same time, rarely does anyone have an unlimited budget in real conditions (and if they have a surplus, they are usually interested in investing in such a way that the purchase will please them for as long as possible). Fortunately, the conscious choice of SLI or CrossFire system does not mean at all that other components should be chosen according to the principle of redundancy (for fear that the computer does not realize its potential). For example, we willingly believe that quad-core processors will eventually be used in games to the fullest, but now this is not observed, on the contrary, in most games that have become so unbearable for the graphics subsystem, replacing a quad-core processor with a twice cheaper dual-core one does not affect comfort. However, it would be incorrect to agitate for any extremes, but with all certainty we can say that when choosing a processor and motherboard for a gaming computer at the moment, you can show reasonable moderation and even save money, and spend the rest of the money on strengthening the video subsystem, get a computer , more adapted to modern games.

Such a computer may not earn maximum scores in 3DMark and will not break the record in Super-Pi and other synthetic tests (or maybe it will beat the whole trick in choosing a test), but for the user, you see, this is the smallest sadness. Accordingly, when formulating the task of choosing a motherboard for a gaming platform, we decided not to limit ourselves to any price criteria. Fortunately, everyone knows that the performance of an AMD-based processor is in no way limited by the motherboard and chipset (since the memory controller is integrated into the processor), meanwhile, even the most inexpensive motherboards with SLI and CrossFire support for Socket AM2 today support the «symmetrical» organization mode graphics slots (x8 + x8), that is, they are quite suitable for organizing a combine of modern video cards. Well, for those who are especially suspicious and want to squeeze the maximum out, there are options with x16 + x16 mode, and more recently with PCI Express 2.0, that is, with double the bandwidth of graphics ports, among which there are also attractive ones in terms of cost. In a word, when choosing boards for this review, we were guided only by the presence of support for two (or more) graphic ports, the more interesting it is to see how «motley» such a selection turned out to be in other parameters.

Chipsets

NVIDIA nForce4 SLI, nForce 500 SLI, 560 SLI, AMD 480X (ATI Xpress 1600 CrossFire, RD480)

chipsets with analogues from new lines continue to exist sometimes for a very long time, occupying ever cheaper segments. And the absolute leader in affordability in the area of ​​boards we are considering is nForce4 SLI, a board with two equal graphics ports (corresponding to PCI Express x8 in terms of bandwidth) on this chipset can be bought at a price of $70, like, for example, ASUS M2N4-SLI or Gigabyte M55SLI -S4. In fact, boards based on a relabeled version of this chipset (nForce 500 SLI) cost the same, and despite the same characteristics, the most active manufacturers released boards based on both versions (for example, ASUS also has the M2N-E SLI model).

In terms of functionality, this chipset looks quite up-to-date, because at one time NVIDIA put even redundant features into it, suffice it to mention 4 SATA II ports with the maximum set of supported RAID modes (0, 1, 0 + 1 and 5), an integrated gigabit MAC- adapter capable of hardware processing of TCP/IP traffic and hardware-software firewall. The presence of two PATA channels, although it is already considered outdated, from the user’s point of view, it only adds to the attractiveness of any motherboard. There are only two arguments against. Firstly, the chipset is produced according to an outdated technical process and, taking into account the functional saturation, was even criticized at one time for relatively high heat dissipation, or rather the need for intensive heat dissipation, and, secondly, only obsolete AC’9 is supported as integrated audio7. Nevertheless, these disadvantages in some cases are negated, because the boards mentioned above (and not only them) get by with passive cooling of the chipset due to a radiator with an increased area, and the low quality of integrated audio for gamers is just an additional incentive to purchase a sound card with hardware support for modern versions of EAX, which will qualitatively improve the gaming experience compared to any integrated option. Finally, boards based on the nForce 560 SLI chipset, which is an exact copy of the same nForce4 SLI, but made according to a relatively modern 90 nm process technology. Since this is still a rather exotic combination, and the chipset itself was released quite recently, boards based on it were released only by ASUS and ASRock, and due to their novelty, their cost turned out to be higher than that of boards based on nForce 570 SLI, which practically excludes them from the list of candidates for consideration.

The AMD 480X chipset (ATI Xpress 1600 CrossFire) does not have the listed disadvantages (and in combination with the SB600 southbridge and any of its own), in addition, when a single video card is installed, the corresponding graphics port is automatically reconfigured to PCI Express x16 mode (for two video cards uses a similar nForce 4 SLI bundle x8+x8). But motherboards based on this chipset from top brands are a little more expensive (and, on the contrary, the JetWay M2A480-VP-PB model is the cheapest on the market with two graphics ports). The disadvantage in this case, as has been repeatedly noted, is the low prevalence of the boards themselves, in fact, in addition to JetWay, only ASUS M2A-MVP and ASRock ALiveXFire-eSATA2 reviewed on our website can be found in retail. The chipset was produced by ATI under the same name in small volumes, and AMD, apparently, did not increase its production, preferring to concentrate on the release of its own chipsets (at first 690-family with integrated graphics, and now the 700th for systems with discrete graphics).

NVIDIA nForce 570 LT SLI, 570 SLI, AMD 580X (ATI Xpress 3200 CrossFire, RD580)

What do manufacturers offer as the «golden mean», the most attractive price category, as a rule, in terms of opportunities obtained for their price ?

At NVIDIA these are already well-deserved representatives of the nForce 570 family, and the truncated model with the LT suffix is ​​present only in the list of chipsets, no boards based on it have yet appeared. However, there is no need, the most inexpensive models based on the full-fledged nForce 570 SLI have come close in price to the representatives of the previous group.

Actually, in terms of SLI support, this chipset offers a configuration similar to those mentioned above (x8 + x8), the only difference is that when a single video card is installed, the main graphics port becomes full-speed. And the most pleasant differences are observed in the peripheral functionality, or rather in the integrated network controller, of which there are two in this chipset, and they are gigabit, and have full proprietary functionality, including bandwidth pooling and traffic prioritization (read more in the chipset description). The number of SATA and PATA ports is 6 and 1 instead of 4 and 2. Among the boards reviewed on our site are Foxconn N570SM2AA-8EKRS2H, Gigabyte M57SLI-S4 and MSI K9 boardsN SLI Platinum.

The AMD 580X chipset moves to the middle category from the highest category due to the appearance of AMD 790 chipsets with PCI Express 2.0 support, however, motherboards based on it are luxurious in terms of equipment, and the speed formula in CrossFire mode is maximum x16 + x16, as Examples of boards include ASUS M2R32-MVP and ECS KA3 MVP, occasionally MSI K9A Platinum appears on sale.

NVIDIA nForce 590 SLI, AMD 790X, 790FX

NVIDIA is only preparing chipsets with PCI Express 2. 0 support, so the most equipped (except for server and multiprocessor platforms) chipset from NVIDIA remains nForce 590 SLI, like AMD 580X, which has two graphic ports constantly operating in x16 + x16 mode, but since the chipset itself is richer in functionality (in terms of peripheral functionality), motherboards based on it are on average more expensive, but they are much more widely sold. This is obviously a consequence of the greater (so far) popularity of SLI systems compared to CrossFire. For the boards reviewed on our site, a final review was released, to which we refer for details.

AMD 790X motherboards are just starting to appear on sale, as well as in our laboratory, so it’s too early to analyze yet. However, one cannot fail to note the starting prices, for example, for MSI K9A2 CF-F below $120, which can be considered quite a moderate fee for PCI Express 2.0. As for the 790FX, the quite natural desire of retailers to make money on the first deliveries manifested itself in not the most pleasant initial prices, but with an increase in supply, prices began to move down, and in early December, the most affordable Gigabyte MA790FX-DS5 could be bought for less than $240, and the Gigabyte MA790FX-DQ6 equipped to the maximum cost about $300, which more than compares well with the prices of, for example, motherboards based on the Intel X38 chipset, the characteristics of which are clearly more modest (except for the «immodest» heat dissipation ). In a word, so far we can only state that in terms of the pricing policy for the “complete platform”, AMD is going to continue to adhere to the declared more attractive ratio compared to competitors, which cannot but rejoice in itself. We’ll look at what motherboards based on the new chipsets will turn out to be the most popular in future analytical articles.

Motherboards

Let’s move on to the practical part, the actual analysis of the market supply in this segment of motherboards.

It should be emphasized that all boards mentioned as popular in the market segment under consideration are selected according to a single criterion — the number of offers based on price.ru search results, and do not reflect the preferences of the author or the editors. We only state “in fact”, and in no case do we urge you to follow the “majority opinion” and buy boards selected in this way without getting acquainted with the characteristics and without making sure that the board meets your own preferences.

9052 1 AC’97, C-Media (7.1)

9 0521 nForce 590 SLI

9 0521 2 PATA133

Board	Chipset	Memory slots and max. capacity	Expansion slots	CF and SLI modes	PATA	SATA	FireWire	Network controller	Sound controller	Medium current price (number of offers)
ASUS M2N-E SLI	nForce 500 SLI	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 2 PCIEx1, 2 PCI	SLI (x8+x8), PCI Express 1.0	4 PATA133	4 SATA300 RAID (0, 1, 0+1 and 5)	+	Gigabit (PHY)	N/A(0)
ASUS M2A-MVP	AMD 480X	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 2 PCIEx1, 2 PCI	CF (x8+x8), PCI Express 1.0	2 PATA133	4 SATA300 RAID (0, 1 and 0+1)	+	Gigabit (PCIE)	HDA, Realtek (5.1)	N/A(0)
Foxconn N570SM2AA-8EKRS2H	nForce 570 SLI	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 2 PCIEx1, 2 PCI	SLI (x8+x8), PCI Express Real tek (7. 1+2)	N/A(0)
Gigabyte M57SLI-S4	nForce 570 SLI	4 DDR2, up to 16 GB	2 PCIEx16, 3 PCIEx1, 2 PCI	SLI (x8+x8), PCI Express 1.0	2 PATA133	6 SATA300 RAID (0, 1, 0+1 and 5)	+ 9 0522	Gigabit (PHY )	HDA, Realtek (7.1+2)	N/A(0)
MSI K9N SLI-2F	nForce 570 SLI	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 2 PCIEx1, 3 PCI	SLI (x8+x8), PCI Express 1.0	2 PATA133	6 SATA300 RAID (0, 1, 0+1 and 5)	−	2 Gigabit (PHY)	HDA, Realtek (7.1+2)	N/A(0)
ASUS M2N-SLI Deluxe	nForce 570 SLI 9052 2	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 2 PCIEx1, 3 PCI	SLI (x8+x8), PCI Express 1.0	2 PATA133	6 SATA300 RAID (0, 1, 0+1 and 5) + 2 SATA300 RAID (0, 1)	+	2 Gigabit (PHY)	HDA, ADI (7. 1)	N/A(0)
ASUS M2R32-MVP	AMD 580X	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 2 PCIEx1, 2 PCI	CF (x16+x16), PCI Express 1.0	2 PATA133	4 SATA300 RAID (0, 1 and 0+1 )	+	Gigabit (PCIE)	HDA, ADI (7.1)	N/A(0)
Foxconn C51XEM2AA-8EKRS2H	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 1 PCIEx1, 1 PCIEx4, 2 PCI	SLI (x16+x16), PCI Express 1.0	2 PATA133	6 SATA300 RAID (0, 1, 0+1 and 5)	+	2 Gigabit (PHY)	HDA, Realtek (7.1+2)	N/A(0)
ASUS M2N32 -SLI Deluxe/WiFi	nForce 590 SLI	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 1 PCIEx1, 1 PCIEx4, 2 PCI	SLI (x16+x16), PCI Express 1.0	6 SATA300 RAID (0, 1, 0+1 and 5) + 2 SATA300 RAID (0, 1)	+	2 Gigabit (PHY)	HDA, ADI (7. 1)	N/A(0)
MSI K9A2 CF-F	AMD 790X	4 DDR2, up to 8 GB	2 PCIEx16, 1 PCIEx1, 2 PCI 90 522	CF (x8+x8), PCI Express 2.0	2 PATA133	4 SATA300 RAID (0, 1 and 0+1) and eSATA300	+	Gigabit (PCIE)	HDA, Realtek (7.1+2) 905 22	N/A(0)
Gigabyte MA790FX-DQ6	AMD 790FX	4 DDR2, up to 16 GB	4 PCIEx16, 1 PCIEx1, 2 PCI	CF (x16+x16 or x8+x8+x8+x8), PCI Express 2.0	2 PATA133	4 SATA300 RAID (0, 1 and 0+1), 2 SATA300 RAID (0, 1) and 2 SATA300 RAID (0, 1)	+	Gigabit (PCIE)	HDA, Realtek (7.1+2)	N/A(0)

and differences in functionality chipsets, has a lot in common (of course, apart from support for CrossFire or SLI, which served as a selection criterion in this case). Manufacturers consider it necessary to equip “game” boards with a gigabit network controller, and if the chipset does not contain a MAC adapter, the network controller is connected exclusively via PCI Express (whereas boards from other categories are still often equipped with PCI controllers that do not allow gigabit exchange speeds on practice). Also, almost all boards support FireWire, and Foxconn C51XEM2AA-8EKRS2H is even equipped with two controllers supporting standard FireWire 400 and the most modern FireWire 800.

8-channel HD Audio predominates as audio codecs, and only ASUS is experimenting with products from different manufacturers, while the rest have settled on Realtek codecs. And, I must say, the position of ASUS, especially the choice in favor of Analog Devices codecs, causes conflicting assessments, some users deliberately choose such boards, noting a higher sound quality, but there are also negative reviews regarding the quality of drivers and the implementation of digital outputs. Of course, those who want to get a full-fledged sound picture in games are still forced to turn to sound cards (in PCI or external version), and exclusively from Creative, since only they support modern versions of EAX at the hardware level, and effects are supported in integrated sound controllers surround sound is in its infancy.

In terms of «inheritance» of components with interfaces that are currently being replaced (PATA, PCI), the situation is also approximately the same, only the nForce 500 board offers a pair of PATA channels for four drives, in other cases it is possible to connect only two devices to a single channel (I’m glad that in all cases this is a full-fledged chipset channel, that is, there are no problems with connection and compatibility, unlike the cases when PATA support is implemented using an external controller). Also, the vast majority of boards allow the installation of only two PCI cards, and if both graphics ports are occupied by video cards with bulky cooling systems, only the last PCI slot remains available.

Despite the fact that this time the motherboards are on average more expensive, we did not find any special additions in the delivery kits, with the exception of the most expensive motherboard from Gigabyte, which has a bracket with additional connectors for external SATA devices and ASUS M2N32-SLI Deluxe with a Wi-Fi controller, in other cases there is only a set of loops, the number of which, however, reaches an excessive number for most users.

If you pay attention to the list of manufacturers whose motherboards are the most represented in retail, you can see the predominance of ASUS products, this company showed up with motherboards based on all the chipsets under consideration, and in some cases, there are simply no alternative options on sale. However, ASUS is not the first everywhere, so with the start of deliveries of products based on new AMD chipsets, at least to the Russian market, this company is late, Gigabyte is the clear leader here. Of the non-top three manufacturers, it’s very nice to see Foxconn products, both motherboards, which have gained popularity among consumers, are distinguished by an attractive price-functionality ratio. But ECS was not included in the list, which is explained by several probable factors: both the orientation of this company to a greater extent on the market of ready-made systems, and a clearly noticeable recent departure from the course that was outlined to conquer the segment of expensive boards, nevertheless, the products of this manufacturer are among consumers is associated mainly with inexpensive practical boards.

Conclusions

We started the article by mentioning games that are too heavy even for the most powerful single-processor video cards, when graphics settings are set to maximum, in a word, we touched on the issue of obtaining a configuration with two video cards from the point of view of an uncompromising player who, even realizing some kind of irrationality (or rather, no urgent need) to expand the bandwidth of the PCI Express bus, is more likely to pay attention to boards from the second part of the table. At least in view of the better equipment with peripheral interfaces, proprietary options and overclocking capabilities.

But there is another «use» of SLI and CrossFire, which is becoming more and more relevant — combining several video cards from the middle of the lineup. The fact is that the most intense competition, and hence lower prices and the emergence of products with the most attractive combination of price and performance, is now observed in the middle segment, while in the upper segment there are clear signs of stagnation.