Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 2600X

The AMD Ryzen 5 2600X is a chip that offers high-end performance at a cost-effective price. To unveil its potential, however, you need to pair it with a motherboard that can supply it with ample power. 

Luckily, you don’t have to break the bank to pair your CPU with a reliable motherboard, as there are plenty of budget-friendly options. Continue reading to learn about the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 2600X. 

7 Best Motherboards for Ryzen 5 2600X (Our Review)

1. Asus ROG Strix X470-F Gaming

The ROG (Republic of Gamers) lineup of motherboards from Asus offers only two X470 boards: X470-F and X470-E. The former is a motherboard that strikes a nice balance between premium and standard features, while the latter is a pimped out motherboard that’s made for enthusiasts, which makes it more expensive than the X470-F.

Considering the Ryzen 5 2600X is a mid-range CPU that costs under $200, we wouldn’t advise investing in the X470-E. However, if you’re a dedicated gamer that’s looking for a premium unit, you can go for the X470-E, as it’ll offer you better overclocking capabilities than the X470-F. 

Aesthetically, the Strix X470-F is a sleek and attractive motherboard that balances its matte-black PCB layout with colorful cyber-text patterns and RGB lighting. You get to enjoy lots of personalization options with the aid of Aura Sync RGB. Note that there are 2x RGB headers and a single addressable header. 

The ROG Strix X470-F features 3x PCIe x16 slots that flaunt SLI and CrossFireX support. This means you can integrate multiple GPUs from AMD and Nvidia without any issues. You can use 2x Nvidia cards and 3x AMD cards. The slots are sturdy enough to accommodate larger GPUs without the risk of damage. 

The board flaunts 4x DIMM slots with an ability to handle 64GB of DDR4 RAM. You can OC your memory modules up to 3466MHz. Unfortunately, the DIMM slots aren’t armored, so be careful as you’re fiddling with them. You’ll notice a group of fan headers covering the board’s layout as well as a Type-C front panel header. 

There are 6x SATA ports for storage on the left-hand side of the board. For ultra-fast storage, the board features 2x M.2 sockets that you can use for SSDs. One of the M.2 slots features a dedicated heatsink, whereas the other is left uncovered. The rear I/O panel offers 2x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A, 5x USB 3.1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.0 USB Type-C, HDMI 2.0, and, more. 

The motherboard offers wired networking capabilities, but it’s not equipped with Wi-Fi or even Bluetooth technology. The I/O shield is pre-mounted, so this is surely a DIY-friendly board. As far as audio, the board utilizes the SupremeFX S1220A codec and Sonic Studio III technology to deliver an immersive audio experience. 

Key Features:

• ATX form factor
• SupremeFX S1220A
• SLI and CrossFireX
• Dual M.2 connectors
• Aura Sync RGB

Pros	Cons
Admirable overclocking performance Allows for a multi-GPU configuration Offers plenty of connectivity options Impressive audio processing abilities Aesthetically pleasing construction	Doesn’t feature Wi-Fi connectivity

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2. Gigabyte B450 AORUS M

Not fond of larger rigs and you’re looking for a motherboard that you can fit inside a smaller PC cabinet? Look no further, as the Gigabyte B450 AORUS M is a feature-packed Micro-ATX board that’s listed at a reasonable price under $100. 

Unlike many Micro-ATX motherboards, the Gigabyte B450 AORUS M doesn’t look cluttered at all. It’s very aesthetically pleasing and space-efficient. There’s ample clearance between all of its components, which is great because you’ll be able to integrate peripherals without bumping into other components. 

Despite its small size, this motherboard is equipped with a powerful VRM solution that has an 8+3-phase configuration, but since it uses doublers, it’s technically a 4+3-phase VRM. This is potent enough to power and overclock your Ryzen 5 2600X chipset without overheating. 

The motherboard features 4x SATA ports, 2x PCIe x16 expansion slots, and a single M.2 port. Please keep in mind that if you utilize the M.2 port, you won’t be able to use up to three of the SATA ports based on the speed of the peripheral integrated into the M.2 port, which is likely to be an SSD. 

As far as the cooling configuration, the VCore portion of the motherboard flaunts a dedicated aluminum heatsink that does an awesome job of dissipating heat. Sadly, the overhead power phases aren’t equipped with a heatsink. Nevertheless, the board is able to maintain excellent operating temperatures even as it’s overclocking. 

There are 4x DIMM slots that are compatible with DDR4 memory. As far as USBs, the rear I/O panel is fitted with 6x USB 3.1 Gen1, 2x USB 3.1 Gen2, and 6x USB 2.0 connectors, so you’re able to integrate as many USB peripherals as you want. Further, there isn’t a shortage of USB or RGB headers whatsoever, allowing numerous customization options. 

The board offers fast and stable networking capabilities using the exclusive 8118 Gaming LAN from Gigabyte. Also, it utilizes the 8-Channel HD codec with high-quality audio capacitors and an audio noise guard to provide a pleasant and immersive audio experience. Lastly, you get to enjoy a multi-display setup with this board, as it features DVI-D and HDMI ports. 

Key Features:

• M-ATX form factor
• RGB Fusion
• 4+3-phase VRM
• 8-Channel HD audio
• M.2 thermal guard

Pros	Cons
Plenty of connectors for its sizeModest overclocking capabilitiesAllows for a multi-display setupGreat cooling and power deliveryListed at a budget-friendly price	Doesn’t have a USB 3.1 Type-C port

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3. ASRock B450M Steel Legend

In the realm of Micro-ATX motherboards, it’s very hard to overshadow the popular B450M Steel Legend from ASRock. The board is built from high-quality components, offers modern features, and it’s one of the most visually appealing units on the market today, thanks to its camo-inspired layout and colorful RGB lights. Best of all, the board is listed at a budget-friendly price tag. 

Obviously, this motherboard won’t be as packed with features as a standard ATX board. It has fewer storage options and offers only one PCIe x16 slot, but then again, this board is designed for mid-range rigs, so it’s satisfactory. 

Alongside the PCIe x16 slot, the motherboard features 1x PCIe x4 and 1x PCIe x1 expansion slots, enabling you to install more than one GPU via CrossFireX. Unfortunately, the unit doesn’t support SLI, so you’ll have to do without Nvidia graphics cards. 

There are 4x DIMM slots that support DDR4 memory with a maximum capacity of 64GB. RAM can be overclocked up to 3533MHz, which is very impressive for such a small motherboard. In terms of storage options, the board features 4x SATA slots and 2x M.2 slots 

Connectivity-wise, the rear I/O panel is packed with modern connectors, including 6x USB 3.1 Gen1 and 2x USB 3.1 Gen2 (Type-A and C) ports. Further, there’s a PS/2 combo for mouse + keyboard combos. For the display, you have an HDMI port that supports 4K resolution at 60Hz, a DisplayPort 1.2 out, and an optical SPDIF out.  

As far as audio, the motherboard adopts the Realtek ALC892 codec with content protection technology. It’s not as impressive as the ALC1220 codec, but it still offers an excellent audio experience. 

When it comes to networking, there’s an RTL8111H PCIe x1 Ethernet controller. Unfortunately, the motherboard doesn’t offer Wi-Fi connectivity, which is hard to find in M-ATX B450 boards anyway.  

Key Features:

• M-ATX form factor
• Realtek ALC892
• CrossFire support
• USB 3.1 Gen2
• Gigabit Ethernet

Pros	Cons
Best-looking M-ATX motherboard Superb overclocking performance Plenty of next-gen connectors Very enjoyable audio experience Listed at a reasonable price tag	Doesn’t feature Wi-Fi connectivity

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4. Gigabyte B450 AORUS Elite

The B450 AORUS Elite is a sleek-looking motherboard that’s designed to support 1st and 2nd-Gen Ryzen processors. It sports a matte-black PCB layout accentuated with hints of grey and white. There are 4x DIMM slots that are designed to accommodate non-ECC DDR4 RAM with a maximum capacity of 64GB.

The motherboard features an integrated I/O shield that makes it easier for beginners to set it up. And to maximum durability, the motherboard incorporates high-quality materials such as anti-sulfur transistors and glass fabric for humidity protection. The board flaunts full RGB support via RGB Fusion, which grants you full control over the LEDs performance. 

The board features ultra-fast M.2 drives that you can use to integrate NVMe SSDs. There’s also an M.2 thermal guard that helps prevent the throttling of M.2 devices. The cooling configuration is accentuated with Smart Fan 5 technology, which enables you to interchange the fan headers in order to reflect thermal sensors.

Thanks to the board’s NVMe support with the aid of U.2 or M.2 connectors and the ability to accommodate heavier dedicated GPUs, the Gigabyte B450 AORUS Elite is ready for VR performance. We also like the fact that the board allows for a multi-GPU configuration via AMD CrossFire.

Connectivity-wise, the I/O panel is packed with USB 3.1 connectors. It also features DVI-D and HDMI ports that allow for a multi-display configuration. For audio, the board uses the 8-Channel HD codec, which offers a modest audio experience. 

Key Features:

• ATX form factor
• 2-way CrossFire
• RGB Fusion
• 8118 Gaming LAN
• Smart Fan 5

Pros	Cons
Great overclocking capabilities Excellent connectivity options Sleek and sturdy construction Supports 2-way GPU setups Excellent use of RGB lighting	Awkwardly placed primary M.2 port

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5. MSI X470 Gaming Plus

The MSI X470 Gaming Plus is a powerful motherboard that’s designed to power 1st and 2nd-Gen Ryzen CPUs. We absolutely love the motherboard’s red-and-black layout. It looks very unique compared to the rest of the units on this list.

We also like the implementation of RGB lights on this board. It’s not overpowering like a lot of MSI boards. The unit relies on Mystic Light Sync for RGB personalization. You have 7 colors and 7 lighting effects to choose from. 

The motherboard is compatible with DDR4 memory, and with the aid of DDR4 Boost technology, you can OC a high-quality memory module up to 3466MHz. The board also features Core Boost technology, so you’ll be able to overclock your Ryzen 5 2600X chip without compromising stability. 

As far as connectivity, the board is equipped with plenty of ultra-fast connectors, including Turbo M.2, USB 3.1 Gen2, and StoreMI technology. For audio, the board uses Audio Boost technology with NAHIMIC, ensuring an immersive audio experience. 

The board’s PCIe slots are reinforced with Steel Amor, allowing for a multi-GPU configuration via 3-way AMD CrossFIRE. Further, the motherboard is optimized for VR performance. This is a gamer’s motherboard, as it’s equipped with many gaming-oriented features, from Game Boost and X-Boost to Gaming Hotkey. 

One of the things we like the most about this motherboard is that it’s equipped with an EZ Debug LED, which makes it easier for users to troubleshot. Further, we love how easy it is to navigate the BIOS 5 software, thanks to its search function and high-resolution font.  

Key Features:

• ATX form factor
• AMD CrossFire
• Core Boost 
• DDR4 Boost 
• Mystic Light RGB

Pros	Cons
Great overclocking performanceVery unique black-and-red layoutPCIe slots are fitted with Steel ArmorBIOS is super easy to navigateMany gaming-oriented features	Not the most future-proof board

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6. Gigabyte B450-I AORUS Pro

The Gigabyte B450-I AORUS Pro is a Mini-ITX motherboard that’s designed to accommodate 1st and 2nd-Gen Ryzen CPUs, which makes it a perfect fit for the 2600X. This isn’t the most colorful motherboard out there, but it remains aesthetically pleasing, thanks to its sleek layout. 

The motherboard features 2x DIMM slots that support dual-channel DDR4 RAM, both ECC and non-ECC modules. Memory can be overclocked up to 3600MHz. Being an M-ITX board, you can easily fit the B450-I AORUS Pro into smaller PC cabinets. Also, it’s one of the few smaller units on our list that features onboard Wi-Fi. It also flaunts Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity. 

The rear I/O panel is packed with next-gen USB 3.1 Gen2 connectors. The connectors boast backward compatibility, meaning you can use them as USB 3.1 Gen1 or USB 2.0 ports. The panel also features HDMI ports and DisplayPort for a multi-display configuration.

The board features only one M.2 port that you can use to integrate an SSD. Audio-wise, the board adopts the Realtek ALC1220-VB codec, making it one of the best boards on our list in terms of audio processing capabilities. 

Key Features:

• Mini-ITX form factor
• Onboard Wi-Fi
• USB 3.1 Gen2
• ECC RAM support
• 2x HDMI and 1x DP

Pros	Cons
Highly effective M.2 heatsinkFlaunts 3 outputs for displaySuperior overclocking chopsFeatures Wi-Fi connectivityDoesn’t need a large cabinet	Doesn’t have a USB Type-C port

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7. ASRock B450 Pro4

While it might come across as small, the ASRock B450 Pro4 is an ATX motherboard. It’s just dimensionalized a bit different from other ATX counterparts. Nevertheless, you can still fit it into any standard-sized PC cabinet. 

Design-wise, the ASRock B450 Pro4 isn’t going to win any beauty awards. It’s pretty bland and dark, with RGB lighting whatsoever. However, this motherboard packs a serious punch when it comes to power delivery, as it’s equipped with a 9-phase power design. 

Further, it supports Summit Ridge, Pinnacle Ridge, and Raven Ridge water cooling, so you can go to overclocking extremes without worrying about overheating. The board features 4x DIMM slots that support up to 64GB of DDR4 memory, both ECC and non-ECC, up to 3200MHz. 

As far as expansion slots, the board offers 4x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and 4x PCIe 2.0 x1 slots. For storage, you have 4x SATA III ports. There’s a pair of USB 3.1 Gen2 connectors, both Type-A and Type-C. There’s also a single M.2 slot for SSD integration. 

Key Features:

• ATX form factor
• ECC RAM support
• Supports NCQ
• PCIe 3.0 interface
• M.2 and SATA III

Pros	Cons
Lots of headers for personalization Equipped with 2x ultra-fast M.2 ports Allows for a 3-way display setup Excellent 9-phase power design Listed at a wallet-friendly price tag	Not the most aesthetically pleasing

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Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 2600X (FAQ)

Is the Ryzen 5 2600X Good for Gaming?

Compared to its Intel competitors from the same class, the AMD Ryzen 5 2600X offers superior single-core and multi-core performance, which makes it an excellent processor for gaming and among the top Ryzen 5 motherboards.

How Much RAM Do I Need for Ryzen 5 2600X?

Ideally, you want to pair your Ryzen 5 2600X chip with 64GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM. We recommend opting for modules that can be overclocked up to 2933MHz. 

Should I Buy Ryzen 5 2600 or 2600X?

If you’re a system builder who wants to enjoy a powerful performance without the need to OC or fine-tune, the 2600X is your best bet. However, if you don’t mind overclocking, you could save a considerable amount of money by investing in the top motherboard for Ryzen 5 2600.

Additional readings:

• Great motherboards for Ryzen 5 1600
• Best motherboard for Ryzen 5 2400g
• Top motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600
• Top motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600x