Exploring the Best Extended ATX Motherboards: High Performance and Budget-Friendly Options
The world of PC building constantly evolves, and one critical component at the heart of every high-performance system is the motherboard. Among the plethora of options available, Extended ATX (E-ATX) motherboards stand out for their expansive features, robust build quality, and support for powerful hardware configurations. In this comprehensive article, we delve into the latest and best E-ATX motherboards, offering detailed insights into each model to aid enthusiasts and professionals alike in making informed decisions for their builds.
ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme E-ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme is a flagship motherboard designed for Intel’s 10th and 11th generation processors, delivering uncompromising performance, advanced features, and unparalleled customization options. Built on the Z490 chipset, it boasts a robust power design, cutting-edge connectivity options, advanced cooling solutions, integrated RGB lighting, and premium audio features.
Pros:
- Supports Intel’s 10th and 11th generation processors
- Features a 16-phase power design
- Equipped with PCIe 3.0 support, multiple M.2 slots, Thunderbolt 3 ports, and USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Includes extensive heatsinks, multiple fan headers, and integrated water cooling support
- Aura Sync RGB lighting with customizable effects and synchronization options
- Provides immersive audio with high-quality components, ESS DAC, and Sonic Studio software enhancements
Cons:
- Premium features come at a premium price, making it suitable
- Extensive overclocking and tuning options may require technical expertise to fully utilize
- E-ATX size may not fit in all cases, limiting compatibility with smaller builds
Check out the ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE Gaming E-ATX Motherboard
The MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE is a gaming-centric E-ATX motherboard that represents the pinnacle of MSI’s engineering prowess. Designed for AMD’s latest AM5 socket and equipped with DDR5 memory support, PCIe 5.0 compatibility, and a host of cutting-edge features, it’s poised to deliver unmatched performance for gamers and enthusiasts alike. With extensive connectivity options, advanced thermal design, and customizable RGB lighting, it’s a true flagship motherboard for the most demanding gaming setups.
Pros:
- Future-proof design with support
- PCIe 5.0 supports
- Advanced thermal design with robust cooling solutions for optimal performance
- Comprehensive connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6E, dual LAN, and USB 3.2 Gen 2
Cons:
- Premium price point may not be suitable for budget-conscious users
- Requires a spacious case to accommodate the E-ATX form factor
- Overkill for users not utilizing high-end gaming hardware
Check out the MSI MEG X670E GODLIKE E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z690 HERO E-ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z690 HERO is a premium E-ATX motherboard designed for Intel’s latest 12th generation Alder Lake processors. As part of the ROG (Republic of Gamers) lineup, it offers cutting-edge features and top-tier performance for gaming enthusiasts and overclockers. With robust power delivery, advanced cooling solutions, and extensive connectivity options, the MAXIMUS Z690 HERO is tailored for high-performance gaming rigs and enthusiast PC builds.
Pros:
- Designed for Intel’s 12th generation Alder Lake processors
- Features AI-powered overclocking and optimization tools
- Delivers immersive audio experiences with SupremeFX S1220A codec, ESS ES9018Q2C DAC, and Sonic Studio III software
- Equipped with multiple fan headers, VRM heatsinks, and an integrated water pump header
- Offers customizable RGB lighting zones with Aura Sync compatibility, allowing users to synchronize lighting effects
- Includes PCIe 5.0 slots, USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, Thunderbolt 4 support, dual Ethernet ports, WiFi 6E connectivity, and multiple M.2 slots
Cons:
- As a premium motherboard, the MAXIMUS Z690 HERO comes with a premium price tag
- The extensive overclocking and optimization features may be overwhelming for novice users
Check out the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z690 HERO E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master E-ATX Motherboard
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master is a flagship motherboard compatible with Intel’s 12th and 13th generation processors. It offers exceptional performance, advanced features, and extensive connectivity options. Featuring a Z790 chipset, it boasts a robust power delivery system, advanced cooling solutions, PCIe 5.0 support, multiple M.2 slots, Thunderbolt 4 ports, 10GbE LAN, customizable RGB lighting, and premium audio components.
Pros:
- Supports 12th and 13th gen Intel processors
- Features a 20+1+2 power phase design
- Large heatsinks, Smart Fan 6 technology, and liquid cooling support
- RGB Fusion 3.0 offers various lighting effects and synchronization options
- Built-in ESS SABRE DAC and audio capacitors deliver immersive sound quality
- Compatible with high-speed DDR5 memory modules
Cons:
- High-end features come at a premium, making it suitable
- Extensive overclocking options may require advanced knowledge
- ATX size may not fit in all cases, limiting compatibility with smaller builds
Check out the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS E-ATX Master Motherboard on Amazon
MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX E-ATX Motherboard
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX is a high-end motherboard designed to support both Intel’s 12th and 13th generation processors, offering exceptional performance, advanced features, and robust build quality. Built on the Z790 chipset, it boasts a powerful power delivery system, extensive connectivity options, advanced cooling solutions, customizable RGB lighting, premium audio components, and support for high-speed memory modules.
Pros:
- Features a 20-phase power design with premium components
- Equipped with PCIe 5.0 support, multiple M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and 2.5G LAN
- Includes large heatsinks, multiple fan headers, and support
- Mystic Light RGB lighting with a variety of effects and synchronization options
- Built-in Audio Boost HD technology with high-end audio components
- Supports high-speed DDR5 memory modules
Cons:
- High-end features come with a premium price tag
- Extensive overclocking and tweaking options may require advanced knowledge
- E-ATX size may not fit in all cases, limiting compatibility with smaller builds
Check out the MSI MEG Z790 ACE MAX E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
ASUS ROG Zenith Extreme Alpha X399 HEDT E-ATX Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Zenith Extreme Alpha X399 motherboard is a high-end desktop (HEDT) motherboard designed for AMD’s Threadripper processors, offering unparalleled performance, advanced features, and extensive customization options. It boasts a 16-phase power design, comprehensive connectivity options, advanced cooling solutions, integrated RGB lighting, and SupremeFX audio technology.
Pros:
- Supports up to 64 cores and 128 threads, ideal
- Ensures stable power delivery and optimal overclocking performance
- Includes quad-channel DDR4 support, multiple PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, dual M.2 slots, and USB 3.1 Gen2 ports
- Features integrated water cooling support, extensive heatsinks, and active VRM cooling
- Customizable lighting effects with ASUS Aura Sync compatibility
- Delivers high-fidelity sound with premium components and software enhancements
Cons:
- Higher cost may be prohibitive
- E-ATX size may not fit in smaller cases
- Extensive overclocking features may require technical expertise
Check out the ASUS ROG Zenith Extreme Alpha X399 HEDT E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
EVGA X570 Dark E-ATX Motherboard
The EVGA X570 Dark is a high-performance motherboard designed for AMD’s Ryzen processors, offering exceptional power delivery, connectivity, and overclocking capabilities. Featuring the AMD X570 chipset and AM4 socket, this EATX motherboard is built for enthusiasts and gamers seeking uncompromising performance and reliability. With support for PCIe Gen4, SATA 6Gb/s, 2.5Gb/s LAN, Wi-Fi 6, USB 3.2 Gen2x2, and extensive storage options, it’s a powerhouse for demanding workloads and gaming.
Pros:
- Support for AMD’s Ryzen processors
- PCIe Gen4 support for ultra-fast data transfer speeds
- Comprehensive connectivity options including 2.5Gb/s LAN, Wi-Fi 6, and USB 3.2 Gen2x2
- Advanced power delivery and cooling solutions for stable overclocking
- EATX form factor with ample expansion and connectivity options
Cons:
- Higher price point may not be suitable for budget-conscious users
- Overkill for users not utilizing high-end gaming hardware
- Limited availability compared to mainstream brands
Check out the EVGA X570 Dark E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
ASRock X670E TAICHI E-ATX Motherboard
The ASRock X670E TAICHI motherboard is a premium E-ATX motherboard designed for AMD’s Ryzen processors, offering exceptional performance, advanced features, and extensive connectivity options. Boasting a robust power delivery system, next-generation PCIe 5.0 support, and high-speed networking capabilities, the X670E TAICHI is tailored for enthusiasts, gamers, and content creators seeking uncompromising performance and reliability.
Pros:
- Optimized for AMD’s Ryzen processors, providing support for PCIe 5.0, USB 4.0, and DDR5 memory
- Features a premium 16 power phase design with high-quality components
- Offers next-generation connectivity options, including PCIe 5.0 slots, USB 4.0 ports, and Thunderbolt 4 support
- Equipped with ASRock’s advanced cooling solutions, including large heatsinks, M.2 Shield Frozr, and active VRM cooling
- Features 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E connectivity options for high-speed networking, low-latency online gaming, and seamless streaming experiences
- Delivers immersive audio experiences with high-quality audio components, including a high-fidelity audio codec, Nichicon audio capacitors, and isolated audio circuitry, ensuring crystal-clear sound
Cons:
- As a flagship motherboard, the X670E TAICHI comes
- The E-ATX form factor may not fit in smaller PC cases
- The extensive overclocking and customization features may be overwhelming
Check out the ASRock X670E TAICHI E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
MSI MEG Z790 ACE E-ATX Motherboard
The MSI MEG Z790 ACE motherboard is a high-end E-ATX motherboard designed for Intel’s 12th & 13th generation Alder Lake processors. Boasting cutting-edge features, robust power delivery, and extensive connectivity options, the MEG Z790 ACE is engineered to meet the demands of enthusiasts, gamers, and content creators alike.
Pros:
- Tailored for Intel’s 12th & 13th generation Alder Lake processors, offering support
- Features a premium 16+2+1 power phase design with high-quality components, ensuring stable power delivery
- Equipped with MSI’s Frozr Heatsink Design
- Offers customizable RGB lighting with Mystic Light Infinity II
- Delivers immersive audio experiences with a high-quality ESS DAC, Nahimic audio enhancer, and isolated audio circuitry
- Features 2.5G LAN and WiFi 6E connectivity options for high-speed networking, low-latency online gaming, and seamless streaming experiences
Cons:
- As a flagship motherboard, the MEG Z790 ACE comes with a premium price tag
- The E-ATX form factor may not fit in smaller PC cases, limiting compatibility with certain builds or setups
- The extensive overclocking and customization features may be overwhelming
Check out the MSI MEG Z790 ACE E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
Gigabyte X570 AORUS XTREME D4 E-ATX Motherboard
The Gigabyte AMD AM4 X570 AORUS XTREME D4 is a flagship E-ATX motherboard designed for AMD Ryzen processors, offering top-tier performance, advanced features, and extensive connectivity options. With its premium build quality, robust power delivery, and innovative cooling solutions, the X570 AORUS XTREME D4 is tailored for enthusiasts and overclockers looking to push the limits of their Ryzen-based systems.
Pros:
- Designed for AMD Ryzen processors, offering support for PCIe 4.0 and high-speed connectivity options
- Features a robust power delivery system with a direct 16-phase VRM design and 70A power stages
- Equipped with an integrated VRM water block, finned heatsinks, and multiple fan headers
- Offers four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots with thermal guards
- Features Intel WiFi 6E (802.11ax) wireless connectivity and a 10GbE LAN port
- Offers customizable RGB lighting zones with RGB Fusion 2.0 software, allowing users to synchronize lighting effects with other compatible components and peripherals
Cons:
- As a flagship motherboard, the X570 AORUS XTREME D4 comes with a premium price tag
- The E-ATX form factor may not fit in smaller PC cases, limiting compatibility with certain builds or setups
- The extensive overclocking and customization features may be overwhelming
Check out the Gigabyte X570 AORUS XTREME D4 E-ATX Motherboard on Amazon
Conclusion
In conclusion, the realm of Extended ATX motherboards offers a plethora of options catering to diverse needs and preferences. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer pushing for maximum performance or a content creator demanding reliability and versatility, there’s a motherboard on this list to suit your requirements. However, it’s crucial to consider factors such as budget, intended use case, and compatibility with existing hardware before making a decision. With the right E-ATX motherboard at the helm, your PC build is poised for excellence.
