The computer industry has evolved enormously in years, and with each passing day, we see a brand-new device that is better than its predecessor. It might sound great, but every advancement costs a lot more, and realistically everyone cannot afford that.
My old laptop with a Core i3 processor brought me to the same situation. By then, I discovered that we could make computers better and more competitive by updating the motherboard. As far as the budget is concerned, it is the best thing to do!
The motherboard is synonymous with the computer’s backbone! It is a platform where all components of your computing device connect, so upgrading it means maxing out the performance of your device. Isn’t it incredible? You don’t need to buy a brand new computer that costs thousands of dollars, but have your hands on the best motherboards for core i3 9100F which are discussed below:
 Top Picks Gaming Motherboards for Core i3 9100F
1. MSI Z390-A PRO LGA1151 – Best Motherboard For i3 9100f
The MSI Z390-A Pro is one of my top preferences as the motherboard for core i3 because it is the most reliable and well-built. It is composed of steel material which is robust and durable but weighs little more than other motherboards. You can increase longevity by taking good care of this motherboard.
The primary thing to look at in a motherboard is “overclocking”, what does that mean? Overclocking is settings in a board that speed up the running potency of your computer. MSI Z390-A Pro has accessible overclocking RAM that makes your working experience effortless. Though it lacks Bluetooth and RGB, overclocking produces better output.
Moreover, it comes with heat-sinking plates that act as a cooling devices. These heat-sinking chips consume all the heat generated to ensure cooling that facilitates smooth functioning. These heatsinks are a lifesaver for gamers and programmers who’ve to work continuously.
Whenever you’re looking for a device, its memory account is the most consideration. The same is the case with the motherboard; it comes with memory slots that play a role in the overall performance of your computer or laptop. The MSI Z390-A Pro comes with 4xDDR4 DIMM slots with the potential of 128 GB storage, which is splendid. Over that, it features a 4400 MHz data transfer speed that helps users relocate their files.
Furthermore, it boasts AMD Crossfire technology which delivers the maximum gaming power to the processor. The Crossfire features the power equivalent to that of two discrete graphics cards, so it not only gives exceptional performance but also saves your extra money, which you might have spent on a graphics card. The addition of GPUs in this system makes it perfect for gamers who demand supremacy in the performance of computers.
- Overclocking is great
- Best performing
- Compatible
- Ideal for gaming
- Lack RGB
In conclusion, the MSI Pro motherboard is best for performance and durability. However, it lacks some fancy features like Bluetooth connectivity, WiFi, or RGB, but that’s okay with its affordable price range. I highly recommend this motherboard to gamers who want to enjoy a smooth experience on their old laptops.
2. ASUS Prime Z390-A – i3 9100f Compatible Motherboard
Here comes the ASUS Prime X390-A—a premium quality motherboard with a top-notch building. I’m pretty impressed with its profile, as it comes in a decent yet durable arrangement.
The first thing that you needs to know about any motherboard is its compatibility. Asus prime X390 A supports the 8th and 8th Intel Generation on that page. It is one of the most reliable choices for core i3 processors; let me explain why!
It is integrated with the Asus “AI Overclocking system” that maximizes performance beyond expectations as it has microcontrollers that uniquely track the temperature and frequency.
With the assistance of these microcontrollers, the overclock cools down the motherboard frequently, helping it function smoother and faster. This whole system is based on advanced coding by experts that enhance the capabilities of this motherboard.
Moreover, this overclocking system is further coupled with “Optimum II,” which adds a ground that improves connectivity and adds memory slots. It has PCB layers: a substrate layer, a copper layer, a solder mask layer, and a silkscreen layer—all those layers make the circuit board more functional and flexible. However, multi-layered boards are a little more expensive than singular ones.
While purchasing a motherboard, it’s imperative to check the ports and connectors. “More the number of ports, the more you get connectivity options,” so always consider a motherboard that has a more significant number of connectors. Thankfully, ASUS Prime Z390 A is one of those because it has four USB 3.1 generation 2, five USB 3.1 generation 1, 2 USB 2.0, and USB 3.0 ports.
- Overclocking is fascinating
- Multi-layered board
- Versatile
- Noisy
In a nutshell, the ASUS motherboard is extraordinarily flexible and compatible. It comes with an advanced overclocking system that features smooth functioning without heating issues. I appreciate the increased number of ports and connectors of this motherboard, making the board more adaptive and compatible.
3. MSI ProSeries H310 LGA 1151 – Best Budget i3 9100f
Then comes the MSI H310M PRO-VDH Plus, one of the cheapest motherboards out there for core i3 processors. Its low price doesn’t mean any decline in its efficiency, as it is best performing too.
It is compatible with 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors. However, it has no M2 SSD slot, so buyers willing to use SATA-connected SSD should consider this motherboard.
While considering the specifications of a motherboard, memory can’t be skipped. The H310M Pro VDH Plus comes with dual DDR4 memory slots, which supports upto 32 GB of data. The DDR4 is an upgraded version of DDR3, and of course, is better in terms of speed.
The maximum speed-up value of DDR4 is up to 2666 MHz, which is enormous. In a few words, memory functioning is excellent for gaming and multiple tasking.
“32 GB”—This figure might be puzzling your mind that above we’ve talked about motherboards that support 128 GB storage, so comparatively that’s pretty low, but concerning the price range, you’ve to compromise on such things.
But, fortunately, you have got an option to upgrade that memory slot. Shortly, it’s similar to the fact that sweet flavor enhances upon adding more and more sugar!
The physical connectivity options of this motherboard, through ports and connectors, are of great use. For example, PCIe ports connect the motherboard with parts of your computer to continue functioning. These connectors supply customized functions, too, like enhanced graphics, storage, and more. In this way, the motherboard with more ports and connectors is in demand, especially for editors and designers.
Fortunately, H310M Pro VDH Plus comes with a PCIe 3.0×16 slot, dual PCIe 2.0 slots, four USB 3.1 generation 1 connector, six USB 2.0 slots, and SATA space. Isn’t it incredible? Through these connectors and ports, you can multiply your computer’s storage and graphics, which are what other latest computer models offer.
- Affordable
- Multiple ports
- Storage is upgradeable
- Lacks M.2 SSD
Briefly, this motherboard is a perfect choice for budget-conscious buyers. It boasts a fast overclocking function, number of ports and connectors, upgradeable memory, and a lot more. Therefore, there is no need to buy a brand new laptop when you can upgrade your previous one at a low cost!
Sure, I apologize for the confusion earlier. Here are three more motherboard options with their pros and cons listed in the same format as before:
4. Gigabyte B360M DS3H – Budget-Friendly i3 9100F Compatible Motherboard
The Gigabyte B360M DS3H is an affordable yet highly functional motherboard for the Intel core i3 9100F processor. It supports both 8th and 9th generation Intel processors, so you can easily upgrade your existing system.
One of the best features of this motherboard is its support for Intel Optane Memory, which enhances the overall speed and performance of your computer. It also comes with a solid power delivery system that ensures stable and reliable performance.
Another advantage of the Gigabyte B360M DS3H is its 4 RAM slots that support up to 64 GB of memory, making it an excellent choice for heavy multitasking and gaming. It also has a variety of connectivity options, including PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2, USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A, and HDMI 1.4, among others.
- Affordable price
- Supports Intel Optane
- Memory Stable and reliable performance
- 4 RAM slots with up to 64 GB of memory support
- No support for SLI or Crossfire
5. ASRock B365M Phantom Gaming 4 – Versatile i3 9100F Compatible Motherboard
The ASRock B365M Phantom Gaming 4 is another excellent option for those looking for a versatile and reliable motherboard for their core i3 9100F processor. It supports both 8th and 9th-generation Intel processors and comes with a variety of features to enhance your gaming experience.
One of the standout features of this motherboard is its support for AMD Quad CrossFireX technology, which allows you to install multiple AMD graphics cards for even better gaming performance. It also comes with 4 RAM slots that support up to 64 GB of memory, making it a great choice for multitasking and gaming.
The ASRock B365M Phantom Gaming 4 also has a variety of connectivity options, including M.2 slots, USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A, and HDMI 1.4. It also has a high-quality audio system and comes with several software tools to help you optimize your gaming experience.
- Supports AMD Quad Cross
- FireX technology 4 RAM slots with up to 64 GB of memory support
- High-quality audio system
- Software tools to optimize gaming performance
- No built-in WiFi or Bluetooth
Consider the Factors in Buying Guide Before Upgrading Your System
RAM
Random Access Memory, short for RAM, is a hardware device that temporarily stores data in any form. In simple words, users need to consider RAM while buying the best motherboard because it is directly associated with the speed of your electronic device.
If your motherboard’s RAM is not good enough to store and manage data, your computer’s functioning would be slow.
That speed or frequency is measured in megahertz (MHz), so the higher the frequency, the faster would be your computer. A perfect motherboard for core I 3 9100 F can run up to 4400 MHz or more, for instance, MSI Z390-A PRO LGA1151.
However, the motherboards with high-frequency rates cost more, so users who perform office or university tasks should consider the one with average RAM.
Overclocking
Overclocking is settings in a board that speed up the running potency of your computer. While purchasing a motherboard, make sure to address that it can handle the tasks you’re planning to perform on your PC.
In short, it is always a good idea to prefer your suitability. A motherboard should have add-ons to support the functioning of a computing device, and this is something onto which you can’t compromise.
Power
Performance is the primary thing in any electronic device, and the motherboard is no exception because its performance also determines the functionality of your PC.
Thus, we all should buy chipboard that fastens our computers more than before because this is what we’re spending for! If a motherboard doesn’t meet those demands, it is simply of no use. So, it is imperative to consider a more powerful motherboard than your previous one.
On the same note, some associated elements, too, like thermal processing and compactness of a motherboard. When a motherboard processes, it generates a certain amount of heat that needs to be cooled down to maintain a device’s efficiency and performance.
For that purpose, a motherboard’s power and cooling devices work simultaneously to keep a board cool and, thus, best performing! Therefore, always consider the best motherboard which features heatsinking capabilities.
Cores
The Intel cores (core i3, i5, i7, or i9) work with specific processors (generation 2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9). The increase refers to upgrade capabilities like faster clock speed, more storage options, improved connectivity, more cache, and convenient handling.
In a few words, one should buy a motherboard that is compatible with their PC’s Intel core and processor. In this blog, I have discussed the motherboards that work best with Intel core i3 9100F.
Additional Features
After considering the main features that count for your device’s overall performance, some extra features also need to be considered. For example, connectors and ports provide space to customize your computer’s memory, connectivity, and graphics.
You’ll get more of those in the expensive motherboards, but make sure to address your requirements first; in my case, a USB add-out is necessary.
FAQs
Can I overclock i3-9100F?
Yes, the Intel Core i3-9100F can be overclocked. However, please note that the i3-9100F is a locked processor, which means that it is not designed for overclocking. Overclocking it may void the warranty and also comes with potential risks, such as decreased lifespan or stability issues. Additionally, you will need a motherboard with a Z-series chipset to overclock the processor. If you are not experienced with overclocking, it is recommended to avoid it or seek guidance from an experienced user.
Do i3-9100F motherboards support RAM?
Yes! The motherboards for core i3 9100F are RAM-supportive. There is a built-in memory space of 32 to 128 GB or more. You can also upgrade it using storage slots like SATA connect SSD to increase the original space.
Is the i3 9100F good for gaming in 2024?
As far as price is concerned, the core i3 9100F processor is the best of all! This processor is suitable for routine technical tasks and even some games which are not too intensive to be processed. But, there are games like Stellaris and Civilization, which demand high-end processors.
Can I upgrade my current motherboard to a newer one?
Yes, you can upgrade your current motherboard to a newer one, as long as it is compatible with your processor and other components. However, you should also consider if the cost of upgrading the motherboard is worth it compared to buying a new computer or laptop altogether.
What is the difference between DDR3 and DDR4 RAM?
DDR4 RAM is the upgraded version of DDR3 RAM, and it has higher speed and better performance. DDR4 RAM also consumes less power than DDR3, making it more energy-efficient. DDR4 RAM is also more expensive than DDR3 RAM.
Do all motherboards support overclocking?
No, not all motherboards support overclocking. Overclocking requires specific hardware features, such as a robust power delivery system, a good cooling solution, and BIOS/UEFI options to adjust CPU and memory settings. Motherboards that are specifically designed for overclocking typically have higher-end components and better cooling solutions. It’s important to check the specifications of your motherboard to determine if it supports overclocking before attempting to do so.
What is Crossfire technology?
Crossfire is a technology developed by AMD that allows multiple graphics cards to work together to render a single image.
Crossfire technology is designed to increase the performance of a computer’s graphics processing unit (GPU) and provide a smoother gaming experience.
Crossfire works by splitting the graphics processing workload across multiple GPUs, allowing each card to render a portion of the image simultaneously.
This can lead to a significant increase in performance and allows users to achieve higher frame rates and better graphics quality in games and other graphic-intensive applications.
Crossfire is compatible with many AMD Radeon graphics cards and requires a compatible motherboard with multiple PCI Express (PCIe) slots to work.
However, it’s important to note that not all games and applications are optimized for Crossfire, and some may even experience a decrease in performance when using multiple GPUs.
What is the difference between PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0?
PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0 are two different versions of the PCI Express interface, which is used for connecting various components in a computer such as graphics cards, storage devices, and network cards.
The main difference between PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0 is the amount of data that can be transferred per second.
PCIe 3.0 has a maximum data transfer rate of 8 gigatransfers per second
Do all motherboards have built-in WiFi and Bluetooth?
No, not all motherboards have built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. Some motherboards have these features built-in, while others do not. It depends on the specific model and the manufacturer. When purchasing a motherboard, it is important to check the specifications to see if it includes these features or not. If you require WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, you can purchase a separate adapter or a motherboard with these features built-iN.
What is the importance of the number of RAM slots in a motherboard?
The number of RAM slots in a motherboard determines how much memory you can install on your computer. More RAM slots mean you can have more memory on your computer, which can improve performance for multitasking and gaming.
What is the purpose of heat-sinking plates in a motherboard?
Heat-sinking plates, also known as heatsinks, are used in motherboards to help dissipate the heat generated by various components such as the processor, chipset, and voltage regulators. These components generate a lot of heat as they operate, and if the heat is not dissipated properly, it can lead to thermal throttling, reduced performance, and even component failure.
The heat-sinking plates are typically made of metal, such as aluminum or copper, which have high thermal conductivity. They are designed to transfer heat from the hot components to the surrounding air by increasing the surface area of the component in contact with the air.
Heat-sinking plates are attached to the motherboard using thermal paste or thermal pads, which help to fill the gaps between the plate and the component, and improve heat transfer.
Conclusion
A motherboard can enhance your personal computer’s operating speed, efficiency, and overall performance. It saves you extra money, which a brand new prebuild PC demands. In short, the best-performing motherboard is a lifesaver for core i3 users who are tight on budget. This article brings you three unsponsored best motherboards for core i3 9100F, but if your mind is still puzzled, then here is my top preference:
- MSI Z390-A PRO LGA1151 is exemplary for overclocking speed, compatibility, and performance.
As I said earlier, motherboards are backbones. So, your decision must be wise. Therefore, I also included some key factors that require your primary consideration before purchasing the best motherboard. In the end, I must say that compatibility and your requirements mean a lot to find the best for you!
