At the sub-£200 / $200 mark, motherboards are where real-world decisions matter most: you’re balancing features, upgrade headroom, and reliability without overspending. Pick wrong, and you either feel robbed by the board or limit future CPU options. At this price point, it’s less about flashy RGB and more about what keeps your PC stable, flexible, and upgradeable for years.
I’ve tracked prices across UK and US markets, filtered by actual street prices, and leaned on recent reviews to pick five boards that genuinely earn your money. No fluff—just clarity.
1. ASRock B650M Pro RS WiFi (AM5, mATX)
Price: ~£130–150 / ~$140–160
The ASRock B650M Pro RS WiFi stands as a testament to ASRock’s commitment to delivering value without compromising on essential features. In a market where budget often equates to compromise, this motherboard offers a refreshing balance.
Key Strengths:
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Integrated Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3: In an era where wireless connectivity is paramount, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E ensures future-proofing, catering to the increasing demand for high-speed internet access.
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Stable VRMs: The 6+2 phase VRM design is robust enough to handle Ryzen 7000 series processors, ensuring consistent performance under load.
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Compact mATX Form Factor: Ideal for users seeking a balance between expandability and space-saving, this form factor fits comfortably into a variety of cases.
Considerations:
While the board offers a solid foundation, enthusiasts seeking advanced overclocking features or premium aesthetics might find it lacking. However, for the price, these omissions are understandable and do not detract from its overall value.
2. ASRock B650M-HDV/M.2+ (AM5, mATX)
Price: ~$100–120
For those entering the AM5 ecosystem on a tight budget, the ASRock B650M-HDV/M.2+ presents a compelling option. It’s a no-frills motherboard that focuses on delivering the essentials without unnecessary embellishments.
Key Strengths:
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DDR5 Support: Embracing the future of memory technology, this board supports DDR5, ensuring compatibility with next-generation RAM modules.
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PCIe 4.0 M.2 Slot: While not the latest standard, PCIe 4.0 still offers ample bandwidth for most users, making it a practical choice for storage solutions.
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Minimalist Design: The absence of extraneous features means there’s less to go wrong, offering a straightforward and reliable platform.
Considerations:
The lack of integrated Wi-Fi and limited expansion options might deter some users. However, for those who prioritize core functionality and value, these are minor trade-offs.
3. Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 (AM5, ATX)
Price: ~£135–140 / ~$150
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX V2 positions itself as a well-rounded motherboard, offering a blend of features that cater to both gamers and professionals alike.
Key Strengths:
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ATX Form Factor: Provides ample space for expansion cards, additional storage devices, and better airflow, which is crucial for high-performance builds.
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Wi-Fi 6E & DDR5 Support: Ensures high-speed wireless connectivity and compatibility with the latest memory modules, future-proofing the system.
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Dual M.2 Slots: Offers flexibility in storage configurations, allowing users to set up multiple high-speed drives.
Considerations:
While the board offers a plethora of features, some users might find the design to be more utilitarian than aesthetically pleasing. However, its performance and feature set more than compensate for this.
4. ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi (AM5, ATX)
Price: Just under $200, similar in GBP
The ASRock B850 Steel Legend WiFi is a motherboard that doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries. With its robust feature set, it caters to users looking for longevity and high-end readiness.
Key Strengths:
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PCIe 5.0 M.2 Slot: Embraces the latest storage technology, offering unprecedented data transfer speeds.
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Wi-Fi 7 & Bluetooth 5.4: Provides cutting-edge wireless connectivity, ensuring the system remains relevant as networking standards evolve.
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Durable Build: The reinforced design ensures longevity, making it a worthwhile investment for future-proofing.
Considerations:
The price point might be a stretch for some, especially when considering that it’s approaching the $200 mark. However, for users seeking a motherboard that offers top-tier features and longevity, the investment is justified.
5. ASRock B760M Steel Legend WiFi (Intel, LGA1700, mATX)
Price: ~$160
For Intel enthusiasts, the ASRock B760M Steel Legend WiFi offers a compelling choice. It combines the latest features with a compact form factor, catering to users who desire performance without occupying excessive space.
Key Strengths:
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DDR5 Support: Ensures compatibility with the latest memory modules, offering improved performance over DDR4.
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Triple M.2 Slots: Provides ample storage options, allowing users to set up multiple high-speed drives.
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Wi-Fi 6E & Bluetooth 5.3: Offers high-speed wireless connectivity, ensuring seamless internet access.
Considerations:
While the board offers a solid feature set, some users might find the mATX form factor limiting in terms of expansion options. However, for those seeking a compact yet powerful setup, this is a minor trade-off.
Final Thoughts:
Navigating the motherboard market under £200/$200 requires a discerning eye. Each of these boards offers a unique set of features tailored to different user needs. Whether you’re seeking budget-friendly options or high-end features, there’s a motherboard here that caters to your requirements. Always consider your specific needs and future upgrade plans to ensure you choose the motherboard that best aligns with your goals.
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