The motherboard determines which processor you can use, how much RAM it supports, and how many upgrade options you’ll have down the line. Here are eight models currently available on Amazon.es, for both AMD and Intel, from most affordable to most premium.

Which socket do I need?

The motherboard’s socket has to match your processor’s, so it’s the first filter before looking at anything else. On AMD, current Ryzen processors use the AM5 socket. On Intel, most recent-generation processors use the LGA 1700 socket. If you’ve already picked a processor, check its socket first before looking at any other feature.

Format: ATX or Micro-ATX

ATX is the most common format and offers the most upgrade options (more slots for the graphics card, RAM, and storage). Micro-ATX is somewhat smaller and cheaper, with fewer slots, but plenty for most everyday or gaming PCs. Before choosing, it’s worth checking that your PC case supports the motherboard format you pick.

Is it worth paying more?

Below around €150, the quality difference between motherboards with the same socket is usually small: what mainly changes is the extra connectivity (WiFi, more USB ports, more M.2 slots) and the looks. It’s only worth spending more if you’ll actually use that extra connectivity, want serious overclocking, or your chosen processor genuinely needs it.