Selecting the right motherboard is a critical step in building or upgrading your computer. Your motherboard serves as the central hub where all other components connect, making it essential that the board you choose supports all your current hardware and any future upgrades. Factors like the CPU socket, RAM compatibility, expansion slots, and form factor are all vital considerations that determine your motherboards compatibility with the rest of your system.
When you decide on a motherboard, take into account the specific needs of your build, whether its for gaming, work, or everyday use. Look for a board that can accommodate your processor type, provides enough ports for your peripherals, and has the necessary slots for your RAM and graphics cards. Build quality, warranty, and manufacturer support are also important aspects that can offer peace of mind and longevity for your investment.
Understanding Motherboard Basics
When assembling a PC, the motherboard acts as the central hub connecting all components. To ensure compatibility with your CPU (Central Processing Unit), choose a motherboard with the appropriate socket type. This socket must match your processor’s design, be it Intel or AMD-centric.
Motherboards come with different chipsets, determining which features and technologies your system supports. Its vital to align the chipset capabilities with your computing needs.
The form factor dictates the size and layout of the motherboard. Common formats include:
- ATX: Standard size offering ample expansion slots.
- Micro-ATX: Smaller than ATX, with fewer slots.
- Mini-ITX: Compact form factor suitable for small builds.
| Form Factor | Size | Expansion Slots |
|---|---|---|
| ATX | 12 × 9.6 inches | Up to 7 |
| Micro-ATX | 9.6 × 9.6 inches | Up to 4 |
| Mini-ITX | 6.7 × 6.7 inches | Usually 1 |
Before purchase, consider the motherboards expansion capabilities through available PCI slots, number of RAM slots, and variety of external connection ports. These determine how many and what type of additional cards and memory you can install.
Lastly, keep in mind your future needs. A motherboard with expansion room offers flexibility for upgrades. This way, you won’t need to replace the entire board for new additions to your setup.
Identifying Motherboard Form Factors
When you select a motherboard, knowing the form factor is crucial as it determines the board’s size, layout, and compatibility with computer cases and power supplies.
ATX
The ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) standard is the most prevalent form factor. Measuring 305mm x 244mm, ATX motherboards provide ample space for components and expansion slots. They typically support multiple PCIe slots and RAM modules, making them suitable for powerful builds and future upgrades.
Micro-ATX
Smaller than ATX, the Micro-ATX form factor measures 244mm x 244mm. This form factor strikes a balance, offering enough room for a decent number of PCIe slots and RAM modules while being compact enough for smaller cases. It’s an ideal choice for those who prioritize space-saving without sacrificing too much on expandability.
Mini-ITX
The Mini-ITX form factor is the smallest among the three, with dimensions of 170mm x 170mm. Due to its size, Mini-ITX motherboards often have fewer expansion slots, which could limit upgrade options. However, they’re perfect for small form factor builds where space efficiency and a small footprint are paramount.
Examining Processor Compatibility
When you choose a motherboard, you must ensure that it supports the specific type of processor you plan to use. This compatibility is determined by the CPU socket on the motherboard, which must match the socket type of your CPU.
Intel Processor Sockets
Intel processors are designed to fit into a variety of sockets, with each socket supporting different generations and series of CPUs. For modern Intel CPUs, the prominent socket types you will encounter include:
- LGA 1151: Supports Intel 6th (Skylake) and 7th (Kaby Lake) Generation processors.
- LGA 1200: Compatible with Intel 10th (Comet Lake) and 11th (Rocket Lake) Generation processors.
- LGA 1700: Designed for Intel’s 12th Generation (Alder Lake) processors.
You need to verify the specific socket support for the processor you’ve chosen, particularly because new generations often require different socket types.
AMD Processor Sockets
AMD also uses specific sockets for their processors, which generally see longer compatibility across multiple generations:
- AM4: This socket supports the AMD Ryzen series, including 1000, 2000, 3000, and some 5000 models.
- sTRX4: Catering to the high-end desktop market, this socket is built for AMD’s Ryzen Threadripper series.
With AMD, pay close attention to the chipset and BIOS updates, as these aspects can affect compatibility—even if the socket type matches your Ryzen processor.
Choosing the Right Chipset
When assembling a custom PC, selecting the right chipset is crucial as it determines your system’s capabilities and future upgrade paths. You have a range of options from both AMD and Intel, which cater to varying needs and budgets.
AMD Chipsets: For a high-end build, consider the AMD X570 chipset. It supports PCIe 4.0, offering faster data transfer rates a boon for high-speed SSDs and future-proofing. The X570 works with the latest Ryzen processors, ideal if you’re aiming for top-tier performance.
Intel Chipsets: On the Intel side, the Z590 chipset is a popular choice for enthusiasts. It supports 11th Gen Intel Core processors and is compatible with PCIe 4.0 lanes from these CPUs. This chipset also provides extensive connectivity options and is tailored for overclocking.
Compatibility: Your chosen processor dictates the compatible chipsets. Ensure that the socket on the motherboard matches your CPU. For example, Intel’s LGA 1200 works with 10th and 11th Gen Core chips, whereas AMD’s AM4 socket accommodates the latest Ryzen CPUs.
Considerations:
- Check if the chipset supports the number and type of USB ports, SATA ports, and expansion slots you need.
- Verify the motherboards format matches your case size.
- Assess the chipset’s support for memory types and speeds.
- Understand the overclocking potential if you’re interested in pushing your CPU beyond its rated performance.
- High-end chipsets support multiple GPUs, but ensure your chosen chipset has this feature if it’s in your plans.
Choose a chipset that not only fits your current requirements but also offers room for future upgrades.
Evaluating RAM Support
When selecting a motherboard, you must consider the memory types it supports, how many RAM slots are available, and its maximum RAM capacity.
RAM Types
Your motherboard determines the type of RAM it can support. DDR4 is the prevalent standard, but DDR5 is emerging in newer models. Ensure the RAM type of your chosen motherboard matches your needs. A motherboard does not support RAM types that precede its own; for example, a DDR4motherboard cannot use DDR3 memory sticks.
RAM Slots
The number of RAM slots on a motherboard affects both expandability and potential memory configurations. Typically, motherboards come with 2, 4, or more DIMM slots. Before purchasing, verify the number to understand how much RAM you can install. You may find motherboards with dual-channel support, where you install RAM in pairs to optimize performance.
Maximum RAM Capacity
To ascertain your system’s potential peak performance, check the motherboard’s supported maximum RAM capacity. This figure can range from 32GB to 128GB or more in high-end motherboards. Your motherboard specification will list the maximum amount of memory you can install, which is crucial for applications requiring substantial memory resources. Consider future needs to ensure your system won’t fall short as software demands increase.
Expansion Slot Analysis
Your motherboard’s capacity to support additional hardware depends largely on the types and number of expansion slots available. These slots are critical for customizing and enhancing your PCs functionality by adding expansion cards like sound cards, Wi-Fi adapters, or extra USB ports.
PCI Express Slots
PCI Express (PCIe) slots are the current standard for expansion cards. Different sizes are designated by the terms x1, x4, x8, and x16, referring to the number of lanes they support which affects data transfer rates. A PCIe x16 slot offers the highest bandwidth, making it ideal for graphics cards, while smaller slots like PCIe x1 are suitable for other cards such as sound, network, or additional USB ports.
| PCIe Type | Usage | Length |
|---|---|---|
| x1 | Network cards, sound cards | Short |
| x16 | Graphics cards, high-speed storage | Long |
PCI Slots
Although now largely outdated, PCI slots were once standard for expansion cards. You might still encounter these in older systems or specialized equipment. They’re characterized by a longer slot than PCIe x1 but offer slower data transfer rates compared to PCIe slots.
Graphics Card Slots
For graphics cards, specifically, the most relevant slot is the PCIe x16 slot. It provides the bandwidth necessary for graphics data to flow smoothly. When you’re building a gaming or video editing PC, ensure your motherboard has at least one PCIe x16 slot. For those interested in multi-GPU setups, look for motherboards with multiple x16 slots, although running secondary cards in x8 mode is often supported and sufficient.
Assessing Storage Connectivity
When selecting a motherboard, you must consider the types and number of storage connections it offers. This ensures compatibility with your storage devices and future expandability.
SATA Connectors
Your motherboard needs sufficient SATA connectors to connect all your storage devices. SATA III ports are common, supporting transfer rates up to 6 Gb/s, ideal for hard drives and solid-state drives. Most motherboards offer between four to eight SATA ports—check the specs to confirm the number. Here’s a brief rundown:
- Hard Drives: Typically, these require one SATA port each.
- Solid-State Drives: Many SSDs also use SATA, though they can benefit from newer connection types for optimal performance.
NVMe Support
For faster storage options, ensure your motherboard includes M.2 slots for NVMe solid-state drives. NVMe drives surpass traditional SATA SSDs in speed, offering rapid data transfer rates conducive to decreasing load times dramatically. They’re directly connected to the PCIe bus, eliminating the bottleneck of SATA interface.
- M.2 Slots: Check for the number of available slots and their maximum supported length of M.2 drives, usually listed as 2280, 22110, etc.
- PCIe Lanes: Ensure the motherboard provides enough PCIe lanes to support full speeds of all NVMe drives you plan to install.
Considering Graphics and Sound
Choosing the right motherboard ensures you have the necessary slots and ports for your graphics and sound needs. Pay close attention to onboard features and expansion capabilities.
Integrated Graphics
If you’re not planning to install an additional GPU, ensure your motherboard has integrated graphics. Integrated graphics allow you to perform basic tasks without the need for a dedicated graphics card. Look for motherboards with a chipset that supports onboard graphics.
Sound Cards
While most motherboards come with built-in audio, your specific needs might demand a separate sound card. Ensure the motherboard has sufficient PCIe slots to accommodate a sound card, especially if youre aiming for high-quality audio production or an immersive gaming experience.
Video Outputs
Your motherboards video outputs dictate how and to what you can connect your display. Common video output ports include:
- HDMI: Ideal for HD displays and commonly used for monitors and TVs.
- DisplayPort: Supports higher resolutions and refresh rates than HDMI.
- VGA: An older standard that is less common on modern displays.
Select a motherboard with the video outputs to match your monitor’s input capabilities for maximum compatibility and performance.
Peripheral Connections
Selecting the right peripheral connections on your motherboard ensures that you can connect all your devices and peripherals seamlessly.
USB Ports
Your motherboard should provide a variety of USB ports to cater to different devices and their transfer speeds. Primarily, look for multiple USB 3.0and USB 2.0 ports. The USB 3.0 ports are faster and ideal for external hard drives and other high-speed peripherals. Consider motherboards that include USB-C ports as well, since they offer reversible plug orientation and can carry Thunderbolt signals for rapid data transfer.
- USB 3.0: Minimum 4 ports for optimal peripheral connection
- USB 2.0: Additional ports for keyboard and mouse
- USB-C: At least 1 port for newer peripherals
Ethernet Ports
An Ethernet port on a motherboard provides a reliable high-speed internet connection. You should ensure that the motherboard has at least one Ethernet port, typically a Gigabit Ethernet port for fast network speeds. For advanced setups or servers, looking for motherboards with dual Ethernet ports could be beneficial.
- Ethernet Ports: Minimum 1 Gigabit Ethernet port
Additional Connectivity
Other ports to consider on a motherboard include audio ports for speakers and microphones, as well as PS/2 ports for older keyboards and mice. For high-resolution displays or daisy-chaining monitors, ensure your motherboard has display outputs like HDMI or DisplayPort. If you need fast external storage options or specialized peripherals, find a motherboard that includes Thunderbolt support, often found in conjunction with USB-Cconnectors.
- HDMI/DisplayPort: Check for at least one
- Thunderbolt: Optional, for high-speed peripherals
Networking and Communication Options
When selecting a motherboard, consider the various networking and communication features it offers. These essential features determine how your system connects and interacts with networks and other devices.
Ethernet Ports: Most motherboards come equipped with at least one Ethernet port, providing a stable wired connection to networks. The Gigabit Ethernet connection, offering speeds up to 1 Gbps, is quite common, but some motherboards may support 10 Gigabit Ethernet for even faster data transfer rates. Assess your networking needs to decide what speed is sufficient for your tasks.
- Wi-Fi Capabilities: Wi-Fi connectivity is an important feature for wireless internet access. Look for a motherboard with built-in Wi-Fi, preferably supporting the latest standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 or 6E, for improved bandwidth and speed.
Bluetooth: For connecting wireless peripherals like mice, keyboards, and headphones, ensure your motherboard includes Bluetooth support. This can eliminate the need for additional dongles and reduce cable clutter.
Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:
| Feature | Purpose | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Ethernet Ports | Wired network connections, internet access, file transfer | Preferably 1 Gbps or higher |
| Wi-Fi | Wireless internet connectivity, networking | Look for Wi-Fi 6 or 6E |
| Bluetooth | Connecting wireless peripherals, transferring files | Adds versatility |
Prioritize a motherboard with quality network and communication options that cater to both your current and future needs. Remember, the motherboard acts as the foundation of your system, so ensure it provides robust connectivity options for an uninterrupted experience.
Power Supply Compatibility
When you’re choosing a motherboard, ensuring compatibility with your power supply (PSU) is paramount. Check these key factors:
- Form Factor: Your motherboard and power supply must share the same form factor for proper fitting within the PC case. Most common are ATX and microATX, which align with the majority of PSUs on the market.
- Power Connectors: Motherboards require specific power connectors to operate. Typically, you need a 24-pin main power connector and an 8-pin CPU power connector. Verify that your PSU has these.
- Wattage: Calculate the total wattage needed by all your components. Choose a PSU providing slightly higher wattage than this amount to ensure reliability and the potential for future upgrades.
Here’s a simple compatibility checklist:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Form Factor | Align the motherboard and PSU form factors (ATX, microATX, etc.). |
| Connectors | Confirm a 24-pin main and an 8-pin CPU power connector at minimum |
| Wattage | Total your components’ wattage; select a PSU that exceeds this number |
Remember, a compatible and reliable PSU is crucial for the stability and longevity of your PC. It’s essential to research and understand your motherboard’s needs to make an informed decision on the power supply.
Motherboard Cooling Options
When assembling your PC, selecting a motherboard that supports adequate cooling is crucial. Your motherboard’s cooling options protect vital components and ensure stable performance under load.
Passive Cooling Components
- Heatsinks: Typically made from aluminum or copper, these attach to the chipset and VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) to dissipate heat efficiently.
- Heat Pipes: Often connect larger heatsinks, improving thermal transfer away from hotspots.
Active Cooling Solutions
- Fans: Some motherboards include small onboard fans for active airflow.
- Water Cooling: High-end boards may offer water block integration enabling liquid cooling loops to cover VRMs.
Cooling Headers
- Multiple fan headers allow you to connect case and CPU fans directly to the motherboard. Look for
- PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): Provides precise fan speed control.
- DC (Direct Current): Fans that will run at a fixed voltage/speed.
Thermal Sensors offer real-time temperature data, aiding in optimized cooling control. The BIOS settings usually allow you to configure fan curves based on these sensor readings.
To maximize longevity and avoid thermal throttling, consider motherboards with robust cooling features aligned with your cases airflow capacity and your processors thermal demands. Remember to check compatibility between your cooling system and the motherboard to ensure seamless hardware synergy.
Overclocking Features
When you’re aiming to overclock your CPU, the motherboard’s capabilities are crucial. A well-suited motherboard ensures stability and performance when you push the processor beyond its rated speeds.
Chipsets: Start with a chipset that supports overclocking. For Intel CPUs, look for motherboards with chipsets designated as ‘Z’ series, like the Z790. AMD users should aim for ‘X’ series chipsets, such as the X570 which allow for tweaking and tuning.
Power Delivery: A robust power delivery system is essential. Motherboards designed for overclocking feature enhanced power phases and cooling solutions to handle increased power demands. Look for high-quality VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules) and heatsinks that efficiently manage heat dissipation.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| High-Quality VRMs | Improved Voltage Regulation |
| Enhanced Heatsinks | Optimizes Cooling Efficiency |
BIOS Settings: Access to an intuitive BIOS with advanced control over frequencies, voltages, and timings is a must. The level of granularity in BIOS settings can greatly influence your overclocking success.
Expansion Slots: Ensure you have enough PCIe slots with sufficient spacing to accommodate high-performance components without thermal interference.
Lastly, verify the compatibility with high-speed memory and the availability of other overclocking tools provided by the motherboard manufacturer. While high-end motherboards come with a premium price, they offer the necessary foundation for safe and effective overclocking. Remember, achieving optimal results also depends on the quality of your other components, including the CPU cooler and power supply.
Considering Aesthetics
When selecting a motherboard, aesthetics can play a significant role, especially if you’re aiming for a custom build with visual appeal. You’ll encounter a variety of designs, some with plain colors while others boast intricate decals and RGB lighting. Keep in mind, color schemes and lightingcan be crucial for a themed build.
Opt for a motherboard that complements the interior of your case and meshes with other components. Here’s a quick list to consider:
- Color Coordination: Ensure the motherboard’s hues match your case, RAM, and other peripherals.
- RGB Lighting: If your setup includes RGB, pick a motherboard that supports RGB headers and offers customization through software.
- Design Features: Sleek heat sinks and stylish circuit lines can enhance the overall look.
Remember, the visual design shouldn’t overshadow functionality. Verify that aesthetic choices do not interfere with the board’s performance or cooling efficiency. Motherboards with extensive RGB features may require additional software to manage lighting effects, which can be a deciding factor based on your preference for system simplicity or customization.
In your quest for the perfect visual fit, also consider the form factor. It should align with your case size and leave ample room for airflow and future upgrades. Whether it’s for a showpiece or a personal statement, the aesthetics of your motherboard can transform a mere assembly of components into a cohesive work of art. Prioritize designs that resonate with your style, but always align them with the technical requirements of your build.
Selecting a Manufacturer and Model
When you choose a motherboard, the manufacturer and model have a significant impact on your PC’s performance and compatibility. Researching the brand reputation and understanding their warranty and support services are critical steps.
Brand Reputation
You should assess the reputation of manufacturers by considering their history in the market, the quality of their products, and user reviews. Leading manufacturers like ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock are known for their reliability and performance. Models from these brands often come with excellent build quality, advanced features, and strong compatibility with a wide range of components.
- ASUS – Well-regarded for high-end motherboards and innovative features.
- MSI – Offers a range of models known for robust gaming performance.
- Gigabyte – Valued for dependable motherboards across various price points.
- ASRock – Recognized for budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
Warranty and Support
Investigating warranty terms and support services is essential prior to finalizing your motherboard selection. You need to ensure that you have a safety net in case of defects or issues.
- Warranty Length: Look for warranties that provide at least a 3-year term, ensuring adequate coverage over your motherboard’s most vital years.
- Support Offerings: Confirm the availability of comprehensive support, which should include access to technical assistance, detailed product manuals, and an easy-to-navigate support website.
Professional and efficient customer service plays a crucial role, so consider manufacturers that offer multiple support channels, such as phone, email, and live chat.
Cost Considerations
When selecting a motherboard for your PC, you must consider the price as a significant factor. Motherboards come in various price ranges, largely influenced by the features and performance they offer.
Budget Boards:
- Under $150:
- Adequate for basic builds.
- Usually lack support for overclocking.
- Limited PCIe 4.0 availability.
- Fewer ports and connectivity options.
Mid-Range:
- $150 to $250:
- Balance between cost and features.
- Suitable for moderate overclocking.
- Include more USB and storage ports.
- Some may offer PCIe 4.0 support.
High-End:
- Over $250:
- Targeted at enthusiasts.
- Extensive overclocking support.
- Abundant connectivity, including multiple PCIe 4.0 slots.
- Often equipped with built-in Wi-Fi.
While assessing your budget, consider not just the current cost, but also how the motherboard will serve future upgrades. A slightly higher initial price may afford you additional PCIe slots or RAM capacity, postponing the need for a complete system overhaul.
Remember, the motherboard binds your entire PC together. Choose one that aligns with both your immediate needs and your long-term computing goals. Balance the cost against the potential to expand and upgrade components without the need for a new board later on.
Upgrade Potential
When selecting a motherboard, its capability to accommodate future upgrades is essential. You should consider the upgrade path for critical components like the CPU, RAM, and GPU. Start by examining the socket type of the motherboard, ensuring it matches your chosen CPU and has room for potential processor upgrades.
CPU Compatibility: Your motherboard must have the correct socket for your CPU, but also look ahead for newer generation processors. Investigate the manufacturer’s support for upcoming CPUs to secure longevity.
RAM Slots: More RAM slots mean increased memory capacity. Aim for a motherboard with at least four slots, allowing you to start with what you need and expand later.
GPU Considerations:
- PCIe Slots: Ensure there are multiple PCIe slots for graphics card upgrades. At least one should be PCIe x16 for maximum bandwidth.
- SLI/CrossFire Support: If you’re interested in multi-GPU configurations, confirm SLI (for NVIDIA) or CrossFire (for AMD) capability.
Future-Proofing Ports:
- USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports offer advanced connectivity options.
- Sufficient number of SATA and M.2 slots for storage expansion is advantageous.
Review the maximum supported RAM and whether the motherboard supports high-speed memory profiles like Intel XMP or AMD AMP, which allow you to extract the most performance from your RAM modules. The presence of these features on your motherboard prepares you for component upgrades, ensuring you won’t need a new board for each improvement.
Checking Compatibility with Other PC Components
When choosing a motherboard for your PC build, it’s crucial to ensure compatibility with various components. Begin by matching the motherboard’s CPU socket to your chosen processor. For example, an Intel CPU with an LGA 1200 socket needs a motherboard with the same socket type.
RAM compatibility also needs attention. Motherboards support specific types and speeds of memory. Confirm that your motherboard has the appropriate slots for the DDR4 or DDR5 RAM you plan to use, and that it can handle the speed, measured in MHz.
For expansion capabilities, check the number and types of slots and connectors. A typical motherboard includes:
- PCI Express slots for graphics cards
- SATA connectors for storage drives
- USB headers for additional ports
Ensure the motherboard offers enough of these to accommodate your current and future needs.
Moreover, if you intend to overclock your CPU or RAM, verify the motherboard supports this feature. Overclocking-friendly motherboards will have more robust power delivery systems and tuning options.
Lastly, take note of the physical size of the motherboard, known as the form factor. Your computer’s case must have the corresponding size to house the motherboard, whether it’s ATX, Micro-ATX, or Mini-ITX.
By systematically checking these aspects, you will secure a compatible and robust foundation for your PC build.
Reading Documentation and User Reviews
When you’re selecting a motherboard, thoroughly reviewing the documentation provided by the manufacturer is crucial. It details the motherboard’s layout, compatibility information, and specific installation instructions. Approach each manual with a keen eye for essential components such as:
- CPU socket type
- RAM compatibility and slots
- Expansion port types and numbers
Ensure the documentation aligns with your build requirements. This careful examination prevents you from overlooking critical aspects that could affect your build’s performance.
Additionally, sift through user reviews to gauge the reliability and performance of the motherboard from real-world scenarios. Reviews often shed light on:
- User experiences with the board’s durability
- Compatibility with other hardware
- Overclocking capabilities and heat management
- Quality of customer support
Create a simple pros and cons list from these reviews to make an informed decision. Be discerning, as not all reviews are made equal. Prioritize those that are detailed and reflect various use cases to help understand the motherboard’s performance over time.
Remember, documentation offers the raw specifications and setups, while user reviews bring the practical insight you wont find on spec sheets. Balancing both sources of information equips you with a well-rounded view of your potential motherboard choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section aims to address common inquiries about selecting a motherboard for your computer, ensuring compatibility, and understanding the impact of different features and form factors.
What features should I consider when selecting a motherboard?
When choosing a motherboard, you should consider the number of USB ports, the type of RAM supported, expansion slots, and onboard features like audio and networking capabilities.
How do I determine if a motherboard is compatible with my CPU?
Check the motherboard’s CPU socket type and chipset. These must match your CPU’s requirements to ensure they can work together.
What are the differences between motherboard brands?
Differences between brands lie in the build quality, customer support, and additional features such as overclocking tools or proprietary software.
Which motherboards are recommended for high-performance gaming?
For gaming, choose motherboards with advanced cooling options, support for high-speed memory, multiple graphics cards, and those offering high data-transfer speeds.
How does motherboard size (form factor) impact my build?
The form factor determines the size of the motherboard and dictates which computer case it will fit into, as well as the number of expansion slots available for additional components.
What should I look for when comparing motherboards for my use case?
Base your comparison on the required ports, RAM capacity, quality of the audio and networking components, and the motherboards ability to support future upgrades.