Best Motherboard CPU Combo For All Budgets

When you’re building a PC setup, the entire thing depends largely on having a well-balanced motherboard and CPU combo. These hardware components dictate the full potential and ability of your PC. Depending on what you’re building the PC for, you should get the right kind of motherboard CPU combo.

Keep in mind that any kind of slip-up will severely limit your PC’s performance and require a lot of additional hardware to expand to reach the desired level of specs.

So you should know that getting the perfect CPU motherboard combo for your PC is a really important task. Sometimes you may even end up choosing great models individually that don’t work well together. To help you make the right choice, I have compiled a list of the greatest CPU and motherboard combinations in the market. All you have to do is pick the best motherboard CPU combo for your needs.

PRODUCT IMAGE
Best Seller of 2021
Micro Center Intel Core i9-10850K Desktop Processor 10 Cores up to 5.2...
Editor's Choice
ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming ATX Motherboard and AMD Ryzen 7 3700X...
Budget Pick
Intel Core i7-9700K Desktop Processor & MSI Z390-A PRO LGA1151 (Intel...
Amazon's Choice
Micro Center Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor 3.6GHz 8 Cores...
MOTHERBOARD
ASUS Prime Z490-A ATX
ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming ATX
MSI Z390-A PRO
ASUS Prime Z390-A
PROCESSOR
Intel Core i9-10850K Desktop Processor
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X Processor
Intel Core i7-9700K Desktop Processor
Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor
RAM MEMORY TECHNOLOGY
DDR4
DDR4
DDR4
DDR4
CPU SOCKET
LGA 1200
Amd AM4 socket
LGA 1151
LGA 1151
MEMORY CLOCK SPEED
2933 MHz
2933 MHz
3.6 GHz
2666 MHz
MEMORY STORAGE CAPACITY
128 GB
4 GB
64 GB
128 GB
CHIPSET
Intel 400 Series
AMD 300, 400, 500 series
Intel 300 Series
Intel 300 Series
UNLOCKED
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
RATING
-
-
-
-
Best Seller of 2021
PRODUCT IMAGE
Micro Center Intel Core i9-10850K Desktop Processor 10 Cores up to 5.2...
MOTHERBOARD
ASUS Prime Z490-A ATX
PROCESSOR
Intel Core i9-10850K Desktop Processor
RAM MEMORY TECHNOLOGY
DDR4
CPU SOCKET
LGA 1200
MEMORY CLOCK SPEED
2933 MHz
MEMORY STORAGE CAPACITY
128 GB
CHIPSET
Intel 400 Series
UNLOCKED
Yes
RATING
-
Editor's Choice
PRODUCT IMAGE
ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming ATX Motherboard and AMD Ryzen 7 3700X...
MOTHERBOARD
ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming ATX
PROCESSOR
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X Processor
RAM MEMORY TECHNOLOGY
DDR4
CPU SOCKET
Amd AM4 socket
MEMORY CLOCK SPEED
2933 MHz
MEMORY STORAGE CAPACITY
4 GB
CHIPSET
AMD 300, 400, 500 series
UNLOCKED
Yes
RATING
-
Budget Pick
PRODUCT IMAGE
Intel Core i7-9700K Desktop Processor & MSI Z390-A PRO LGA1151 (Intel...
MOTHERBOARD
MSI Z390-A PRO
PROCESSOR
Intel Core i7-9700K Desktop Processor
RAM MEMORY TECHNOLOGY
DDR4
CPU SOCKET
LGA 1151
MEMORY CLOCK SPEED
3.6 GHz
MEMORY STORAGE CAPACITY
64 GB
CHIPSET
Intel 300 Series
UNLOCKED
Yes
RATING
-
Amazon's Choice
PRODUCT IMAGE
Micro Center Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor 3.6GHz 8 Cores...
MOTHERBOARD
ASUS Prime Z390-A
PROCESSOR
Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor
RAM MEMORY TECHNOLOGY
DDR4
CPU SOCKET
LGA 1151
MEMORY CLOCK SPEED
2666 MHz
MEMORY STORAGE CAPACITY
128 GB
CHIPSET
Intel 300 Series
UNLOCKED
Yes
RATING
-

10 BEST MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO REVIEW

1

INTEL CORE & ASUS PRIME Z490-A - BEST MICRO ATX MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO

INTEL I9 - BEST MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • Intel LGA 1200 Socket
  • 5-Way Optimization for optimized overclocking
  • ASUS AI overclocking for intelligent automation
  • AI cooling function manages motherboard connected fans
  • M.2 heatsink eliminates throttling problems
  • It has USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A & Type-C
  • Two VRM heatsinks and thermal pads enables heat transfer

cpu Features

  • It is a 10th gen Intel Core i9- 10850k processor
  • 10 cores 20 threads included
  • It is unlocked and also overclockable
  • 400 series chipset
  • It gives up to 5.2Ghz max clock speed
  • Intel Optane memory for smart responsiveness

If you’re looking for a combo to build a multi-purpose PC, then here it is. The 10th Gen Intel Core i9-10850K processor does everything you expect of a CPU and then some more. Get super-fast processor frequencies of up to 5.2 GHz.


There are 10 cores and 20 threads to help you multitask anytime. A solid solder thermal interface material is used to design this processor. This ensures an optimized heat transfer from the processor to the cooler. That way, you can overclock all you want without worrying about the temperatures.

The ASUS Prime Z490-A ATX Motherboard was made with 10th generation Intel Core processors in mind. This motherboard offers 5-Way Optimization. To complement the CPU, you get overclocking and dynamic fan calibration.


Additionally, there are dual M.2 and USB 3.2 connections. The second generation build gives unparalleled transfer speeds. The best part about it is the Aura Sync RGB with addressable headers that give your set up a snazzy look. This is the best combo you can get for your PC.

Pros

  • Both components work well together to overclock.
  • Stays cool during usage.
  • Easy transfer of heat from the processor.
  • System-wide tuning.
  • Maximum speed for transfer.

Cons

  • May have packet loss.

2

ASUS ROG STRIX X570-E GAMING ATX MOTHERBOARD AND AMD RYZEN 7 3700X - BEST VALUE MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • 2.5 Gbps LAN & Wi-Fi 6 (802. 11Ax)
  • Supports PCIe 4. 0, HDMI 2. 0, DisplayPort 1. 2
  • Has ASUS-exclusive aura Sync RGB lighting
  • Active PCH & MOS heatsink for comprehensive cooling
  • Has Dual M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen 2 type-A connectors for gaming connectivity

cpu Features

  • AMD Ryzen 7 3700X processor
  • 8 core and 16 thread included
  • 4.4 Ghz of maximum boost
  • Advanced socket AM4 platform that supports PCIe 4 0
  • 36 MB of game cache

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X boasts that it is the world's most advanced processor in the desktop PC gaming segment and I accept their statement.


If you are an avid gamer, you can choose this processor as it is capable of delivering ultra-fast performance while playing high-end games. Since it is equipped with eight cores and 16 processing threads, data transfer becomes a breeze.

There are no worries about heating issues as it comes with the AMD Wraith Prism cooler. This cooler handles the heating issues and effectively dissipates them, and I must talk about the color-controlled LED support that improves the aesthetics.


Talking about the motherboard, it has an AMD AM4 socket that pairs not only with Zen 3 Ryzen 5000 and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPU's as mentioned but also with higher versions. The gaming connectivity supports PCIe 4.0, HDMI 2.0 and features dual M.2 and USB 3.2 Type-A and Type-C connectors using which you can connect various devices that support smooth online gaming.

Pros

  • Comes with a top-notch cooling system.
  • The cores and threads are unlocked.
  • Maximum cooling speed.
  • Great chip for the price
  • Performance beast

Cons

  • Nothing much

3

INTEL CORE I7-9700K DESKTOP PROCESSOR & MSI Z390-A PRO LGA1151 -  BEST MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO FOR GAMING

INTEL CORE I7

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • Has an extended heatsink design
  • PCI-E gen 3X4 interface to maximize performance
  • Support for Windows 10 64 bit
  • Built for reliable operation
  • Supports 2-way AMD crossfire

cpu Features

  • Intel core i7-9700k desktop processor
  • 8 cores/8 thread included
  • Maximum memory support is 64 GB
  • Supports 3.60 Ghz to 4.90 Ghz
  • It is compatible with motherboards based on Intel 300 series chipset
  • Intel Optane memory supported
  • Intel UHD Graphics 630

If you need best components to build a work PC, then this is the combo for you. This processor has 8 cores and 8 threads which are sufficient to work with. This processor has a unique design: the per-core cache memory isn’t divided between multiple threads.


In a lot of functions, this gives it an edge over the competition. With a much lower power consumption and corresponding thermal output, this makes for an efficient CPU. With no security issues to worry about, this is the right choice for any work PC setup.

Every MSI Pro Series motherboard is a mix of quality and reliability. Their advanced performance and innovative business solutions make them the right choice for work PCs. Designed to easily handle long working hours, these motherboards are made to complement 7th Gen Intel processors.


With a long-lasting build and consistent performance, this is a model to watch out for. The Z390-A PRO LGA1151 meets all of your storage compatibility needs. This gives you the option of connecting to an ultra-fast storage device of choice.


All of your PC functions automatically become faster and have no lag. This is the best motherboard CPU combo for work uses and gaming as well.

Pros

  • Fast operation and opening of applications.
  • Efficient and productive functioning.
  • Consumes minimal power.
  • Designed to last for a long time.
  • Reliable and consistent performance that doesn’t fail.

Cons

  • Requires a lot of voltage.

4

INTEL CORE I9-9900K DESKTOP PROCESSOR WITH ASUS PRIME Z390-A MOTHERBOARD

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • 5 way optimization for overclocking
  • x4 PCI Express 3.0/2.0 bandwidth supports high level data tranfer
  • Three thermal sensors for optimize the cooling
  • M.2 heatsink for unthrottled data transfer
  • Next-gen connectivity offers supreme flexibility
  • ASUS Aura Sync easily syncs the RGB lighting

cpu Features

  • 9th gen Intel Core i9-9900k processor
  • 8 cores and 16 threads included for high level performance
  • Up to 5Ghz processor frequency for smooth and detailed gameplay
  • Intel Optane memory supported
  • CPU socket is LGA 115
  • Memory clock speed is 2666 Mhz

Pro gamers need a bit more than an intermediate-level setup. This is the best motherboard CPU combo to build such a PC setup. With eight cores and 16 threads, this is a pretty well-designed processor that can reach the frequency of 5.0 GHz2. Overheating won't be a worry with this model.

This is because it is made using solder thermal interface material. This material helps in maximizing efficient heat transfer from the processor to the cooler. Also, it allows overclockers to push their system to get a lower temperature under heavy load.

Since it is equipped with Intel Optane memory technology, it enhances the computer's responsiveness. Thus you can play high-end games or do video editing tasks easily without any lag.

The Z390-A was specially made for 9th generation Intel Core processors. It offers a customizable configuration and optimized performance. It enhances your performance with AI overclocking and dynamic fan calibration. There are dual M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen2 connection points to give you great speeds with data transfer.

So overall, this CPU and motherboard combo gets well together and works efficiently for high-end tasks.

Pros

  • Unrivaled audio and video quality.
  • Ultrafast connectivity
  • Strong signal integrity
  • Has advanced fan control software.

Cons

  • Heat sink not included with processor.

5

AMD RYZEN 9 3900X DESKTOP PROCESSOR & AORUS ULTRA GAMING MOTHERBOARD

AMD RYZEN 9 - BEST MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • Supports advanced Intel Wifi 6
  • Triple ultra-fast NVMe PCIe 4.0/3.0 along with X4 M.2 with triple thermal guards
  • Advanced thermal design
  • It has a USB turbocharger for fast charging of mobile device
  • Dual channel ECC/ Non-ECC unbuffered DDR4

cpu Features

  • AMD Ryzen 9 3900X processor
  • 12 core and 24 thread for fast performance
  • AMD Wraith prism cooler for ultra cooling
  • Gives 4.6 Ghz max boost
  • 70mb game cache
  • DDR 3200 support

When you’re building a PC for competitive gaming, you’ll need a CPU that leaves the competition in the dust. The 3900x is the perfect model for this.


This CPU has the standard operating speeds as the market; however, its advantage lies in having 50% more cores and a humongous amount of cache. The Zen 2 architecture is ideal for bringing out the highest frequencies in RAMs.


When you’re performing multi-core intensive tasks, you’ll feel the full capacity of the 3900x. Even though this model has a high TDP, it is undoubtedly cooler than all competitive models in the same class.

The X570 Aorus ultra gaming motherboard fits like a glove when it comes to gaming setups. It is compatible with both PCIe 4.0 and USB Type-C. This motherboard produces refined audio, has high-speed Ethernet connectivity, and a cutting-edge WIFI design.


Every element of this motherboard, right from the advanced power and thermal design, is built to unlock the full ability of AMD Ryzen 3000-series processors. This is why the X570 and the 9 3900X are seen as the best combo for gaming and for high video editing works.

Pros

  • The motherboard is specifically designed for this processor.
  • Highest score count in the market.
  • Large cache in L3
  • Optimized responsiveness in the PC.
  • Easy to use interface.

Cons

  • Nothing much

6

INTEL CORE I5-9600KF DESKTOP PROCESSOR & MSI MPG Z390 GAMING PLUS

INTEL CORE I5

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • Processors that can fit in LGA 1151 socket
  • Support Windows 10 64-bit
  • Supports Intel CNVi WiFi module
  • Supports dual channel DDR4 Memory
  • Extended Heatsink

cpu Features

  • Intel Core i5-9600KF Desktop processor
  • 6 cores and 6 threads
  • Supports 3.70 Ghz up to 4.60 Ghz of max turbo frequency
  • It is compatible with motherboards with Intel 300 series chipsets
  • Supports Intel Optane memory

If you are looking for a CPU motherboard combo for streaming, E-sports and gaming, then this can be your ideal choice. With 6 Cores and 6 threads unlocked, this processor is ideal for beginners.

 
It can operate at speeds starting at 3. 70 GHz and reach up to 4. 60 GHz Max Turbo Frequency. Additionally, this CPU has a capacity of 9 MB Cache.

MPG Z390 Gaming Plus can enhance your gaming experience. When you’re gaming online, you’ll have a distinct advantage over your opponents with MSI Gaming tools. You get a range of innovative hardware & software tools.


These will help you game better by letting you adjust the settings to your needs. This motherboard is complacent with all of the current storage requirements. This makes it compatible with every ultra-fast storage device.


As a result, you will have a super-fast and smooth gaming experience. All things considered, it is the best motherboard CPU combo for every level PC setup.

Pros

  • Easy to install.
  • User-friendly interface.
  • Comes with gaming tools from MSI
  • Supports all the latest storage standards.

Cons

  • There is no cooling system included.

7

AMD RYZEN 3970X UNLOCKED DESKTOP PROCESSOR WITH MSI  MOTHERBOARD

AMD RYZEN

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • 10G Super LAN for next level speed and secure networking
  • Has a premium layout that supports more cores
  • Supports latest wireless technology like WIFI 6 and delivers speeds up to 2400Mbps.
  • Has a premium thermal design that has an extended heatsink and heat-pipe

cpu Features

  • AMD Ryzen Threaddripper CPU Processor
  • 32 Cores 64 processing Threads for high end works
  • Incredible 4.5 Ghz max boost frequency
  • Supports Windows 10 64-bit Edition, Ubuntu X86 64-bit

If you’re looking to have a professional PC setup, then these are the components for you. Every creator needs to have the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X is at the heart of their PC setup. With a whopping 32 cores, 64 threads, multitasking is child’s play for this processor.


A monstrous 144MB of combined cache delivers blazing speeds and an optimized performance that can’t be matched.

Built with an AMD TRX40 chipset, the very purpose of this motherboard is to complement the Ryzen Threadripper 3970X. You can store up to 256GB of quad-channel DDR4 memory. Get your work done instantly with overclocked speeds of up to 4666 MHz.


With four PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, this board can support up to 3-way graphic cards of the highest configurations. You can even store it in multiple ways. Namely the SATA III ports and three M.2 slots. An M.2 Xpander-Aero Gen4 card comes with this motherboard for additional storage. This is the best motherboard CPU combo a professional can have.

Pros

  • Fastest processor- motherboard combo.
  • Helps multitask with ease.
  • Made for high-grade professional use
  • Has large storage.
  • Optimal and stable performance.

Cons

  • Nothing much

8

INTEL CORE I7-10700K DESKTOP PROCESSOR WITH ASUS PRIME Z490-A ATX MOTHERBOARD

INTEL ASUS

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • Intel LGA 1200 Socket
  • 5 way optimization for optimized overclocking
  • Next gen connectivity supports Intel 2.5 Gb ethernet
  • Asus Aura Sync for more controlled RGB lighting
  • In built VRM heatsink & M.2 heatsink for enhanced cooling
  • Robust power design

cpu Features

  • 10th Gen Intel i7-10700K CPU Processor
  • 8 Cores 16 Threads promises ultra-fast data transfer
  • Loaded with Intel Optane memory enhance fast gaming
  • Intel Hyper threading for lag-free multitasking
  • The CPU can support Maximum Memory Capacity of 128 GB, DDR4 2933 MH

If you’re building an entry-level work PC, then this is the combo for you. The Intel Core i7-10700K has an adequate 8 Cores 16 Threads to handle your needs. The speed can go from 3.80 GHz up to 5.1 GHz Turbo. The 16 MB Intel Smart Cache storage is more than enough to speed up tasks.

The ASUS Prime Z490-A MB is constructed on the Intel LGA 1200 Socket. It is made to extract the best out of 10th Gen Intel Core processors. This motherboard has the amazing ASUS Optimum II feature. Thanks to this, you’ll have some amazing DRAM overclocking stability.


So you can handle heavy workloads without a hitch. So this is truly the best motherboard CPU combo to build a work PC with.

Pros

  • Gives you maximum fps
  • Comes with optimized software.
  • Runs smoothly no matter the function.
  • Provides stable overclocking.

Cons

  • The motherboard is not long-lasting.
  • No cooling system included.

9

AMD RYZEN 7 3800X DESKTOP PROCESSOR & X570 AORUS ULTRA GAMING MOTHERBOARD

AMD RYZEN 7

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • Supports AMD 2nd and 3rd Gen Ryzen and 2nd Gen Ryzen with Radeon Vega graphics
  • It has dual channel ECC/ Non-ECC unbuffered DDR4
  • Advanced thermal design
  • Supports Intel WiFi 6
  • Has a USB turbocharger for mobile device
  • Triple ultra-fast NVMe

cpu Features

  • It is a AMD Ryzen 7 3800X processor
  • 8 core, 16 thread included
  • Wraith prism LED cooler included
  • You get 4.5 Ghz of maximum boost
  • 36 MB of game cache
  • Promises ultra fast 100+ FPS performance

If you’re a tech aficionado, then you’ll need a CPU that is futuristic enough for your needs. The Ryzen 7 3800X is made with the world’s most advanced 7nm manufacturing technology.


Despite delivering blistering speeds, they don’t overheat, thanks to the wraith coolers. No workload is too much for neural-net intelligence. The trademark on-chip throughput that every Ryzen processor comes with is built to give an amazing performance.

The X570 Aorus ultra gaming motherboard is the ideal base to build any kind of PC setup. You can connect it with both PCIe 4.0 and USB Type-C.


This motherboard has the best in class audio production, a blazing fast Ethernet connection, and advanced WIFI design. Every aspect of the X570 is it the advanced power or the thermal design, is made to cater to AMD Ryzen 3000-series processors.


This is why the X570 and the 7 3800X are the best motherboard CPU combo for anyone looking to build a futuristic PC setup.

Pros

  • Ultra-fast performance.
  • Wide bandwidths
  • Adapts to your workload.
  • Always cool and silent during operation.
  • Great combo to work with editing applications.

Cons

  • Some applications will require complete overclocking.

10

AMD RYZEN THREADRIPPER 3990X WITH STRX4 EATX MOTHERBOARD

AMD RYZEN - BEST MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO

MOTHERBOARD Features

  • SupremeFX S1220 and ESS SABRE9018Q2C for industry leading ROG audio
  • Optimized power solution
  • VRM heatsink & PCIe-zone for enhanced cooling
  • WiFi 6 (802. 11ax) with MU-MIMO for high performance networking

cpu Features

  • AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3990X processor
  • 64 Cores and 128 Processing Threads makes massive data transfer a breeze
  • Get an incredible 4.3 Ghz max boost frequency
  • Automatic overclocking feature
  • Quad-Channel DDR4 and 99 total PCIe for max bandwidth

When you work long hours, you’ll need a dependable processor. The Threadripper 3990X is that and Nick more. It has 64 cores and 128 threads to effortlessly deal with a heavy workload. There are 88 total PCIe 4.0 lanes to cater to heavy GPU and NVMe requirements. You can instantly access the data sets with 288MB of combined cache.

ROG Zenith II Extreme Alpha is the ideal base to unleash the monstrous power of all 64-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper CPUs. It comes with 16 brand-new high-current 90A power stages.


Apart from delivering the best in class efficiency, you get enhanced headroom for overclocking. The best part is the maxed-out lane bandwidth.


With the help of which you can connect up to 33 devices at the same time. Overall it is the best motherboard CPU combo when it comes to dependency.

Pros

  • Ideal for video editors.
  • Best in class multitasking
  • Good for long working hours.
  • Always dependable when it comes to performance.

Cons

  • Does not support RDIMMs
  • BIOS needs to be upgraded for Linux
  • ECC UDIMMs for this is rarely available

ADVANTAGES OF BUYING MOTHERBOARD CPU COMBO


Buying the best motherboard CPU combo will definitely save you some bucks than buying each one separately. Also, you will find a lot of this combo in various budgets. So you can choose the best one in accordance to your budget.

Each motherboard CPU combo has some unique attributes, and thus, you need to check them before purchase. Whether you choose an Intel or AMD, choose which combo suits your needs and preferences.

If you do low-end works like surfing or regular typing jobs, then a normal combo is enough, and on the other end, you must check the specifications that can suit high-end works. So before you invest, check all the possibilities and then start buying it.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • How to choose the best compatible CPU for your motherboard?
    First, you need to check your motherboard socket type compatibility. This is because the socket is the place in your motherboard where you will plug in your processor. Apart from this, you must also check the memory compatibility, chipset, and RAM compatibility as well.
  • How much budget is needed to get a good motherboard?
    It depends on your budget capacity and your requirement as well. If you perform any high-end tasks like high-graphics demanding games, video editing works, content creation, etc., then you might need good RAM, graphics card supports, etc. So if that is your case, you need an advanced processor and a motherboard that supports it. Overall, you must be ready to give a hefty price.
  • Do motherboards come with a CPU?
    No. The motherboards don't come with a CPU. Both come separately, but you can buy them as a combo like the ones listed in this article.

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re looking for a gaming rig or a working PC build, at the heart of your setup is going to be a motherboard and a processor. In order to build the ideal PC, you’ll need to get the best motherboard CPU combo for your needs.

Now just pairing a processor with any compatible motherboard doesn’t do the trick. You’ll need to ensure that the motherboard you choose has the capacity to extract the best out of your processor. Now since this is a rather tricky task, we’ve handled that part for you. All you have to do is choose the right combination for your requirements. 

Peter
 

Hey friends I am Peter, greeting my post. My goal is to provide the most up-to-date and complete info on tech products and other accessories. So, those who are spending more time in researching the best product can reduce their searching time and can start to enjoy using the latest trending tools and accessories. Just give a read to my blog and save your time.