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01Best AMD motherboard for RTX 4080ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme
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02Runner up motherboard for RTX 4080ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
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03Best Budget motherboard for RTX 4080ASUS Prime X670E-Pro-Wifi
The release of the highly anticipated RTX 4080 has generated immense excitement among gamers and content creators. However, before investing a significant amount of money on a brand new RTX 4080, it’s crucial to ensure that your existing technology is compatible. Today, we address the question: “What is the best motherboard for RTX 4080?”
Given that the RTX 4080 is currently the second most powerful GPU available, it’s logical to expect that a robust PC setup is required to fully harness its potential.
Best motherboard for RTX 4080
Here are the three best motherboards for gaming that we have chosen to be the best motherboards for the RTX 4080.
Best motherboard for RTX 4080 – ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme
ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme
Form Factor
EATX
Socket
AM5
Connectivity
5x M.2 PCIe 5.0 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, USB4, Wi-Fi 6, 10GB Ethernet
Memory Type
DDR5
- Strong power stages
- Unlimited overclocking potential
- Robust build quality
- Expensive
The Asus X670E ROG Crosshair Extreme sets itself apart as a powerhouse among AM5 motherboards, rivaling leading brands such as GIGABYTE and MSI in terms of high-end performance.
One standout feature of the X670E Crosshair Extreme is its impressive VRMs, which utilize the Infineon ASP2205 power management IC (PMIC) and Vishay SIC850 110A smart power stages. With a robust 20 + 2-stage power delivery system, this motherboard ensures exceptional stability and efficiency.
Embracing the cutting-edge DDR5 RAM standard, the Crosshair Extreme bids farewell to outdated memory technology and welcomes the super-fast DDR5, thereby enhancing overall performance.
In terms of storage and GPU communication, this motherboard excels. It supports full PCIe Gen 5 on its 16x slot, enabling lightning-fast data transfer. Additionally, it offers PCIe Gen 5 support for compatible M.2 drives, ensuring ultra-fast storage performance. This motherboard looks like it was made for the RTX 4080.
Looking towards the future, the Crosshair Extreme features forward-looking connectivity options. It boasts two USB4 ports, providing versatile and high-speed data transfer capabilities. Furthermore, it includes 10GbE Ethernet for ultra-fast networking, an advanced audio system for immersive sound, and Wi-Fi 6E adapters for high-speed wireless connectivity.
Combining all of these exceptional features, the Asus ROG Crosshair Extreme emerges as an exciting and impressive choice for enthusiasts seeking top-of-the-line performance and future-proof connectivity.
Runner up motherboard for RTX 4080 – ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
CPU socket
LGA 1700
RAM technology
DDR5
Chipset type
Intel Z790
Memory clock speed
7000MHz
- 24+1 phase VRM design
- 10 GbE LAN port
- 5 M.2 slots
- DDR5
- PCIe Gen 5
- Expensive
Introducing the Z790 Maximus Hero, a formidable motherboard meticulously engineered to deliver unparalleled performance and cater to the discerning needs of enthusiasts. This motherboard sets new benchmarks in overclocking capabilities with its robust power delivery system, featuring a 24 + 1 power stage setup rated for an impressive 105A. Fortified by dual ProCool II power connectors, high-quality alloy chokes, premium metallic capacitors, and substantial heatsinks, it guarantees exceptional stability even during intense overclocking sessions.
A standout feature of the Z790 Maximus Hero is its full support for PCIe Gen 5, ensuring lightning-fast speeds for both GPUs and NVMe SSDs. This enhanced support extends beyond a single M.2 SSD slot and encompasses both PCIe X16 slots, providing optimal performance for high-speed devices.
Additionally, the Maximus Hero embraces DDR5 support, enabling speeds of up to an astonishing 7600MHz. With this cutting-edge feature, your 13th-gen Intel CPU receives the ideal foundation for achieving peak performance.
The connectivity options on the Z790 Maximus Hero are truly impressive. It offers Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C and front-panel connectors, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C and front-panel connectors with Quick Charge 4+ (supporting up to 60W), eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots. This abundance of connectivity ensures seamless integration with a wide range of peripherals and high-speed devices, making the Maximus Hero a versatile and future-proof choice for any user.
In summary, the Z790 Maximus Hero stands as a powerhouse motherboard that combines exceptional performance, robust overclocking capabilities, extensive connectivity options, and future-proof features. It serves as a testament to ASUS’ unwavering commitment to delivering top-of-the-line products that meet the demands of enthusiasts and elevate the computing experience to unprecedented heights.
Best AMD budget motherboard for RTX 4080 – ASUS Prime X670E-Pro-Wifi
ASUS Prime X670E-Pro-Wifi
Form Factor
ATX
Socket
AM5
Connectivity
PCle 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, front USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C, USB4 header support
Memory Type
DDR5
- Power Stages 14 + 2
- Affordable
- Lots of connectivity
- less features than more premium boards
ASUS Prime motherboards strike the perfect balance between performance and affordability, making them an ideal choice for budget-conscious builders who seek cutting-edge technologies at accessible price points.
The ASUS Prime X670E stands out with its robust 14 + 2 power stage design, delivering comparable power delivery to the TUF Gaming motherboard. Surprisingly, it retains premium features like the Dynamic OC switcher and Core Flex functionality, allowing users to enjoy high-end capabilities without breaking the bank.
Supporting AMD EXPO DDR5 memory and offering compatibility with XMP and D.O.C.P, the Prime motherboard ensures seamless integration and overclocking options.
In terms of design, the Prime showcases an elegant white aesthetic, making it one of the most visually appealing and clean-looking motherboards available. It’s worth mentioning that ASUS should produce more white motherboards, as they truly make a statement.
When it comes to connectivity, the Prime doesn’t disappoint. It provides a PCIe X16 slot and a PCIe M.2 slot, both supporting PCIe Gen 5 connectivity. While it may not offer the extensive connectivity options of some other ASUS models, it still serves its purpose as a reliable motherboard. It includes plenty of USB 2.3 Gen 2 and Gen 2×2 ports, HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, USB Type-C, SATA ports, and 2.5GB Ethernet. However, it’s worth noting that the gold-plated audio jacks are absent in this model.
In summary, the ASUS Prime X670E strikes an exceptional balance between performance, affordability, and stylish design. It provides reliable power delivery, compatibility with the latest memory technologies, and PCIe Gen 5 connectivity, making it an excellent choice for budget-oriented builders in search of a high-performing motherboard.
Best Budget Intel motherboard RTX 4080 – ASUS PRIME Z790-A WIFI
ASUS PRIME Z790-A WIFI
CPU Socket
LGA 1700
RAM technology
DDR5
Chipset type
Intel Z790
Memory clock speed
7000 MHz
- Cost effective
- Compatible with 12 and 13th gen CPUs
- Less features then premium boards on lesser chipsets
Introducing the ASUS Prime motherboard, a simplified yet reliable powerhouse that delivers stable power with its 16 + 1 DrMOS power stage design. While it may not be explicitly geared towards overclocking, the ASUS Prime effortlessly enables the CPU to reach its maximum boost speed without any obstacles.
When it comes to memory support, the Prime accommodates DDR5 memory up to DDR5 7000MHz. Although this may be slightly lower than some other motherboards, it’s important to consider the competitive price point at which the ASUS Prime is positioned, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious builders.
As expected from a Z790 motherboard, the ASUS Prime maintains robust support for PCIe Gen 5, offering it on a single PCIe x16 GPU slot. However, it’s worth noting that the M.2 SSD slots do not provide PCIe Gen 5 support, which contributes to the motherboard’s cost-efficient design.
In order to optimize manufacturing costs, ASUS Prime has streamlined its connectivity options. Nevertheless, it still includes essential features that cater to the needs of the average PC gamer. USB 3.2 ports, USB Type-C ports, audio connections, DisplayPort, and 2.5GB/s Ethernet are all available, ensuring seamless integration with a variety of peripherals and providing ample networking capabilities.
Best motherboard for RTX 4080 – things to consider
When selecting the ideal motherboard for the RTX 4080, it is crucial to consider several key factors. By meticulously evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific requirements and ensures optimal performance for your system.
Can motherboard choice affect the performance of the RTX 4080?
Yes, the choice of motherboard can affect the performance of a GPU like the RTX 4080 to some extent. The primary factor that determines the GPU’s performance is the PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) slot on the motherboard. The PCIe slot provides the connection between the GPU and the rest of the system.
Different motherboards may support different PCIe generations (such as PCIe 3.0 or PCIe 4.0) and different numbers of PCIe lanes. A higher PCIe generation and a higher number of lanes generally offer greater bandwidth and can potentially improve the GPU’s performance.
Furthermore, some motherboards may have additional features specifically designed to enhance GPU performance. For example, they may have reinforced PCIe slots to prevent GPU sagging, improved power delivery systems to ensure stable power supply to the GPU, or built-in features for overclocking.
It’s important to note that while the motherboard can have an impact on GPU performance, the difference is typically minimal compared to other factors like the GPU model, CPU, and RAM. It’s crucial to consider the overall system configuration and ensure compatibility between the GPU, motherboard, and other components for optimal performance.
Should you upgrade your motherboard for the RTX 4080?
If you’re facing any of these upgrade reasons, it’s essential to consider upgrading your motherboard. Having an outdated CPU or a motherboard with a PCIe Gen 3 GPU slot calls for an upgrade.
Typically, both situations coincide as most PCIe Gen 3 motherboards are significantly older than the recent releases of CPUs like the Ryzen 5000 series or Intel’s 12th gen.
To ensure your brand new RTX 4080 performs optimally and remains effective for the next 5 to 7 years, investing a little extra in a future-proof rebuild is highly recommended. Acquire a motherboard with PCIe Gen 5 and a CPU to match that motherboard. You don’t want to be creating a bottleneck, do you?
Useful links
Here is a bank of useful motherboard links.
- Best motherboard for gaming
- Best DDR5 motherboard
- Best 13th gen motherboard
- Best B660 motherboard
- Best X670 motherboard
Final word
In conclusion, selecting the right motherboard for the RTX 4080 is crucial to unleashing its full potential. While several options are available, some stand out as excellent choices.
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme emerges as a powerhouse motherboard, offering a robust power delivery system, DDR5 RAM support, and extensive connectivity options. Its PCIe Gen 5 support ensures optimal GPU and storage performance, making it an ideal match for the RTX 4080.
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is another top contender, boasting exceptional overclocking capabilities, PCIe Gen 5 support, and a wide range of connectivity options. Its design and performance make it a reliable choice for enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance.
For budget-conscious AMD users, the ASUS Prime X670E-Pro-Wifi offers a compelling option. With its affordable price point, robust power delivery, and PCIe Gen 5 support, it provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for the RTX 4080.
Similarly, the ASUS PRIME Z790-A WIFI serves as a budget-friendly option for Intel users. While it may lack extensive overclocking features, it delivers stable power delivery, DDR5 memory support, and PCIe Gen 5 connectivity at a competitive price.
When considering motherboard upgrades for the RTX 4080, it’s important to prioritize compatibility and future-proofing. Upgrading to a motherboard with PCIe Gen 5 support and ensuring compatibility with the latest CPUs will help avoid bottlenecks and maximize the GPU’s performance potential.
Ultimately, selecting the best motherboard for the RTX 4080 involves evaluating factors such as power delivery, memory support, PCIe generation, connectivity options, and budget considerations. By making an informed decision based on these factors, users can create a high-performing system that fully leverages the capabilities of the RTX 4080.
