10 Best AM3 Motherboard [2023] – Reviews & Buyer Guide

The faster processing speed of AM3 processors makes them desirable in the eyes of every user. But when the available motherboard does not connect to the processor, immeasurable disappointment hits the individual. Only a suitable AM3 motherboard has the power to turn this disappointing situation around. 

From the expandability of the AM3 motherboards to their stable and efficient overclocking, there are many benefits that they bring to the system.

Not to mention, these motherboards also make it possible for users to upgrade their processors without any need for replacing or upgrading the entire motherboard. 

Best AM3 Motherboard Reviews

Every person who is looking for an AM3 motherboard wants to get their hands on the best possible model for obvious reasons.

To save you from the hassle of searching for hours, I have done the difficult task of finding the best ten models of AM3 motherboards for you. You will also find a buying guide at the end of this article to help you figure out which one is best for you. 

Top Best AM3 Motherboard Comparison

 

1) ASUS M5A97 AMD Motherboard

 

When a product comes with the tag of ASUS, it is bound to perform well. The ASUS M5A97 AMD Motherboard was designed with the needs of users with menial day-to-day tasks in mind and it shows.

This model has an ATX form factor, so you do not have to worry about any port missing from the body. It comes bearing all the essential expansion slots and connectivity ports in numerous amounts.  

The 32GB RAM and storage capacity makes it easier for users to run their system at a smooth pace. They can even play many games without encountering the dilemma of buffering. Moreover, saving data will also not be a source of headaches, as the storage space is even sufficient for multiple games. 

In addition to that, the modern UEFI BIOS of this motherboard adds more stars to the design. It makes the usage of the motherboard smoother as well as convenient for novice users.

Another great feature is that this model comes with full overclocking capabilities which increase its memory speed higher than the regular 1333 MHz. All of these features come wrapped in a sturdy body that has RGB light. Not to mention, these are ASUS RGB lighting, so the users get full control of them, and can customize them easily.

 

Bottom Line

Despite having a couple of shortcomings, this model is one of the best AM3 motherboards at such a reasonable price range. The ATX form factor will make it possible to have a setup with multiple hardware connected to the motherboard. 

 

2) Gigabyte GA-78LMT-USB3 Motherboard

 

Gigabyte GA-78LMT-USB3 Motherboard is a great deal for every person who wants to enjoy nifty features without spending a large sum of money. Gigabyte has designed this motherboard with a sturdy body made with high-grade materials. The glass fabric PCB design of this model makes it capable of being able to resist humidity. 

In addition to that, it comes with an ATX form factor which alone is an amazing benefit. Thanks to the size of this model, it has various PCIe, DIMM, HDMI, USB, SATA, and audio ports available.

My personal favorite feature is the abundance of different USB ports. To make the deal more amazing, the manufacturers have added an anti-surge feature to this model. This feature is a great addition as it makes sure the entire system remains safe from electrical surges. 

Moreover, with the 1333 MHz memory speed, the users will be able to run their files smoothly without even needing to overclock. Of course, the speed will increase with overclocking, which this model allows to be done easily.

Last but not least, the 32GB RAM and storage capacity will make it possible to store and run heavy files easily. 

 

Bottom Line

Considering all the features the Gigabyte GA-78LMT-USB3 Motherboard offers, it is a pretty amazing choice for those looking for a cheap-priced AM3 Motherboard. Its anti-surge features will make sure to keep your entire system secure from sudden electrical surges. 

 

3) ASRock 970 PRO3 R2.0 Motherboard

 

ASRock has provided users with a good choice of AM3 motherboard in the form of ASRock 970 PRO3 R2.0 Motherboard. This model comes is compatible with various AMD processors including the Athlon II, and Phenom II. However, that is not all. Its sturdy body comes packed with many nifty features. 

This model comes with AMD CrossFireX support. Therefore, the users will be able to easily hook multiple AMD graphics cards to their system without any issues. This is a piece of good news for all the gamers out there. Combine that with the 64GB memory storage capacity and RAM and you have got more space along with high-speed performance. Even without overclocking, this model can offer 1600 MHz of memory speed. 

In addition to that, it comes with an ATX form factor which means the users get easy expansion with the help of various slots. From different PCIe to SATA, DIMM, and even different USB ports, this motherboard has everything. Furthermore, this model comes with AMD 970 chipset and uses DDR3 RAM technology. Every novice gamer building their own system needs to invest in this model. 

 

Bottom Line

The ASRock 970 PRO3 R2.0Motherboard is the ideal fit for beginner-level gamers who are looking for a good AM3 motherboard at a low cost. This model has all the features that a beginner needs with an easy-to-use BIOS. 

 

4) ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z Motherboard 

 

Designing a reliable product that will never fail to amaze is what ASUS is known for. They have accomplished that with the production of the ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z Motherboard. This motherboard makes it possible for the users to do day-to-day tasks as well as play games on their PC with quite ease. 

It comes with 4 DDR3 slots that support up to 32GB RAM. Combine the storage capacity with it and it will be possible to store larger files on the system without having to delete the previous ones.

The 1333 MHz memory speed will ensure that the users can open files without encountering any lag. The 8+2 phase power design of this motherboard will allow users to overclock their system easily. 

The addition of multiple PCIe slots of various types is a perk that every user will be grateful for. Moreover, the model also comes with SATA, USB, HDMI ports, and audio jacks. The presence of SupremeFX III will give you enhanced sound quality, so say goodbye to static.

Not to mention, the Fast Boot Switch will see to it that your system boots way faster than other models. The Intel Gigabit LAN and the Extreme Engine Digi+ II are some other perks that are present in the design. 

Bottom Line

ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z Motherboard is what you need to add to your system if you are looking for high-speed performance from a reliable model. It does cost a bit more than other models, but you are also getting some amazing features in the deal which makes it a steal. 

 

5) ASRock 760GM-HDV Motherboard

 

Reliability is the one feature which is present in every ASRock product, and the same can be said about their nifty motherboard that we will be discussing now. The ASRock 760GM-HDV Motherboard may seem like any ordinary motherboard, but it is far from it. The first perk of this model is the reasonable price range that extends its accessibility to users of every budget group. 

ASRock has added support for multiple AM3 processors in the design of this motherboard, which is a rather handy feature. This eliminates the need to search for a specific processor for the motherboard.

The audio quality of this model isn’t very good, but what it lacks in audio, it makes up for in other features. The Micro ATX form factor of this motherboard ensures that it does not take up much space, and still offers various slots and port choices. 

In addition to that, this model also supports AMD Quad CrossFireX which brings the power of multiple graphics cards to the design. This feature single-handedly takes the gaming experience to a whole new level.

Therefore, when you add the ASRock Full Spike Protection feature to the mix, you get protection from electrical surges for your entire system. The 32 GB RAM, and 1800 MHz memory speed are some other benefits that come with this motherboard. 

 

Bottom Line

This model is the perfect fit for users who need a reliable motherboard that will not cost them an arm and a leg. Despite being a part of the low-priced motherboards, this model has everything from high-speed performance to sufficient RAM capacity that will give users hassle-free usage. 

 

6) ASUS M5A99FX PRO Motherboard  

 

The catchy combination of black and blue hues in the body of this motherboard is the first eye-catching feature. So, when you add a sturdy construction to the design, the sleekness of this model becomes even more attractive. The best part is that it does not even come with a very expensive price tag. 

Moving towards the specifications of this model, it has an ATX form factor, so, at a reasonable cost, you get various expansion and connectivity slot options. It comes bearing multiple PCIe, SATA, HDMI, LAN, USB, DVI, VGA, and different audio ports. Even though there are no Bluetooth or WiFi options, with the help of these ports, you will be able to use other means of connectivity. 

In addition to that, the ASUS M5A99FX PRO Motherboard also comes with the famous UEFI BIOS of ASUS. The major benefit of this BIOS is that along with being advanced, it also offers EZ mode which is perfect for novice users.

The presence of SLI and CrossFire technologies will see to it that the gaming experience of this motherboard is at a whole new level. The 32 GB RAM, with 1333 MHz memory speed will ensure that the user can store files and run them at a good speed. 

Bottom Line

ASUS has designed this model specifically for users who need a simple AM3 motherboard that will allow them to do all the basic tasks. However, this model also offers a couple of features that fall outside the limitations of basic such as the SLI and CrossFire technologies. Not to mention, the price range is also quite reasonable. 

 

7) Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2P Motherboard

 

Gigabyte always designs its products according to the needs of users, and this one is right up the alley of novices and beginners. The Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2P Motherboard may seem like a simple gadget to professionals, but for beginners, this is straight out of a dream. The simple BIOS of this model will make sure that no user experiences any difficulty while setting up and using this motherboard. 

In addition to that, this AM3 motherboard is compatible with AMD Athlon II and Phenom II processors. This broadens the processor’s choices for the users.

Moreover, as this model comes with a Micro ATX form factor, there are different connectivity and expansion slots and ports available. The list includes USB 2.0, SATA, PCIe, LAN, and audio jacks. The presence of CPU and system fan headers adds more stars to the design as it makes sure that the motherboard remains cool at all times. 

Furthermore, Gigabyte has also added the perk of Dual BIOS to this model, so in case of any system failure the backup BIOS will kick in. Thanks to the presence of SATA 3.0 support, this motherboard is fully capable of transferring data at a very high speed.

Last but not least, this motherboard comes with the nifty Easy Energy Saving feature. This feature constantly adjusts the power consumption, therefore, ensuring the system consumes low power than any other motherboard. 

 

Bottom Line

The Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2P Motherboard is an ideal fit for those users who need a motherboard for doing basic tasks. As it comes at an affordable price, the users are able to take advantage of its nifty features without paying a handsome sum of money for it. 

 

8) ASUS M5A97 EVO Motherboard 

 

ASUS claims to provide their users with the best possible gadgets and this claim has been proven with the construction of the ASUS M5A97 EVO Motherboard. The motherboard comes with a pretty solid exterior that will ensure that the user can take advantage of its benefits for a longer period of time. 

Speaking of benefits, this motherboard comes bearing the famous ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors. The presence of this feature alone will give a boost to the stability of the system, energy consumption, and the overall performance of the motherboard.

Thanks to the multiple GPU support, the users of this motherboard will be able to enjoy an amazing gaming experience, with better graphics and smoother performance. 

Add the 32GB RAM to the mix and you have got more than enough space for your lighter games, and other files. The 2133 MHz memory speed is another cherry on top. In addition to that, this model has an ATX form factor, so not only is it wider in size, but it also comes with a wider range of slots and ports.

The list starts from multiple USB 2.0 and 3.0 and includes various PCIe, SATA, LAN, and audio jacks etc. My personal favorite is the presence of various fan headers and the Fan Xpert technology in the design that keeps the entire system safe from overheating. 

 

Bottom Line

The ASUS M5A97 EVO Motherboard is a great option for those users who are looking for high performance at a meagre cost. The CrashFree BIOS 3 technology and Fan Xpert technology are some of the many benefits that come with this motherboard, and that too at an unbeatable cost. 

 

9) Gigabyte GA-970A-DS3P Motherboard

 

The list of the best AM3 motherboard is incomplete without the Gigabyte GA-970A-DS3P Motherboard. The all-black design of this model gives it an appealing look, but this motherboard has a lot more to it than mere looks. The ATX form factor gives the model quite a wider design. However, the silver lining to that is that it also has many expansion slots and connectivity ports of different types. 

The 32 GB RAM is more than enough for day-to-day menial computing tasks as well as for playing some lighter games. With a maximum of 2000 MHz memory speed, you will be able to transfer files at a higher speed than other models.

The best benefit of this model is that it works with AMD 970 as well as the SB950 chipset. Not to mention, this motherboard also has the Realtek ALC887 codec audio system, which will give you enhanced audio while gaming. 

The other nifty features of this model include AMD CrossFire technology that will further improve the graphics of the system. Say hello to smooth gameplaying with this motherboard.

Moreover, the Smart Recovery system will come in handy in case of any abrupt power surges, keeping the entire data secure. Gigabyte has gone the extra mile and added Dual BIOS to the design of this motherboard that will provide you with an additional backup system in case of any system failure.

 

Bottom Line

The price range of the Gigabyte GA-970A-DS3P Motherboard is a bit higher than other models, but it is worth the money if you are looking for an enhanced gaming experience. The sound system combined with the enhanced graphics thanks to the AMD CrossFire technology make this a great purchase. 

 

10) ASUS M5A78L-M LX PLUS Motherboard

 

The last item on my list of the greatest AM3 motherboards of all time is the ASUS M5A78L-M LX PLUS Motherboard. This nifty motherboard comes with a stylish body that contains polymer capacitors making it highly durable, and increasing its overall lifespan simultaneously. The splash of blue with the matte black makes this motherboard an attractive option for any setup. 

This model also contains quite a few PCIe expansion slots along with USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports, SATA, LAN, DVI-D, VGA, and a couple of audio jacks. ASUS has gone above and beyond to ensure the safety of your system by adding the ASUS Anti-Surge Protection feature to this model.

As the name indicates, this feature alone will keep the system safe from abrupt electrical surges. Furthermore, the EPU power-saving technology keeps the energy consumption of this motherboard on the lower side. 

In addition to that, this motherboard also contains the Advanced Q-Fan technology which constantly keeps the CPU temperature in check and automatically adjusts the fan speed accordingly.

Moreover, the AI Suite II software and the ASUS Turbo Key are some other great perks that are found in this model. With the help of the latter, overclocking will be a piece of cake. Last but not least, the 16GB RAM with a maximum of 1866 MHz memory speed make this an even more appealing deal. 

 

Bottom Line

Every beginner who is looking for a motherboard that delivers high performance with a simple-to-navigate BIOS needs to spend their bucks on the ASUS M5A78L-M LX PLUS Motherboard. The low storage capacity is a small setback, but with the advanced features ASUS has incorporated in the design, you can easily look past it. 

 

Buying Guide: Buying the Best AM3 Motherboard

After reading about all of the ten best AM3 motherboards, you may experience some confusion as to which model is the best for your system. This is what the buying guide below is for.

It will help you shortlist the ten choices down to a few that will be perfect according to your system’s requirements. So, without any more delay, let’s find out which factors are the most important when picking an AM3 motherboard. 

• CPU Socket 

When you are searching for the best AM3 motherboard, then the first feature that you need to look for is the CPU socket of every model. Make sure that the one you are eyeing comes with an AM3 CPU socket, as no matter how good a model is if it does not have your required CPU socket, it will be useless as it will not get hooked to your system. 

• Expansion Slots and Connectivity Ports 

Expansion slots and connectivity ports are a very important part of every motherboard. Each and every model available in the market comes with its own number of slots and ports.

Similarly, every user has their own need for any specific port or slot. Therefore, if you need a specific slot in your system, then you should make sure to look for that slot before finalizing a motherboard and spending money on it. 

• Form Factor 

Every model of AM3 motherboard has its own form factor, out of the major three. Some models have an ATX form factor, while others come with Micro ATX or Mini ITX form factor. The form factor not only influences the size of the model but; hence, the space it will occupy. But, it also affects the number of ports and slots.

Being the largest, the ATX form factor has a wide range of ports, while the Mini ITX has the lowest number. This is quite an important factor that you need to check before picking a model of AM3 motherboard for your system. 

• RAM and Storage Capacity 

The RAM of every motherboard is its most critical feature. It determines how much storage and data-saving capacity a motherboard is capable of offering, as well as affects the speed of the model.

So, if you are a beginner who is going to use the motherboard for basic computing tasks, then even 8GB RAM and storage capacity will be sufficient for you. However, if you need a motherboard for computing tasks along with gaming purposes, then you need to opt for a model that comes bearing 32GB RAM and storage capacity. 

Also Checkout RAM vs. Storage

• Fans and Heatsinks 

The last factor that many users neglect is the fans and heatsinks of the motherboard. The importance of this factor hits users when they are using the motherboard, and the entire system shuts down due to overheating. The only way to tackle this dilemma is through the help of fans and heatsinks.

Always make sure that the model of motherboard you spend your bucks on comes with a couple of heatsinks and fans that will keep the entire system cool down. Along with checking the presence of the fans, you also need to make sure the control system of the fans should be automatic, such as the Q-Fan technology that ASUS provides. 

Conclusion 

With that, I conclude my list of the ten best AM3 motherboards available in the market. In the list above you will find every type of model, from high data processing and transferring speed, and high RAM capacity, to affordable choices. Do not worry about any of these models failing you, as they have been picked after careful consideration.