Best ATX AM5 Motherboard 2026 — Top Picks for UK PC Builders
The best ATX AM5 motherboard for UK homes in 2026 is the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero, offering robust power delivery and advanced connectivity at £484.99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 ATX AM5 motherboards and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated performance, connectivity, build quality, BIOS features and value. Prices range from £155.95 to £484.99, with models from ASUS and Gigabyte.
We examined 9 ATX AM5 motherboards and analysed over 2,100 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated performance, connectivity, build quality, BIOS features and value. Prices range from £155.95 to £484.99, with models from ASUS and Gigabyte.
Top List5 best ATX AM5 motherboards 2026
Best ATX AM5 Motherboard 2026
#1
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero
Rating9.2/10
A flagship AM5 motherboard packed with premium features, robust power delivery, and extensive connectivity for enthusiasts and overclockers.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which atx am5 motherboard matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Her
ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING
ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WI
ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator Wi
ASUS ROG STRIX X870E-E GAMIN
Price £
484.99
155.95
175.99
444.00
418.99
Chipset
X870E
B650
B850
X870E
X870E
WiFi
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
PCIe 5.0 Support
Yes
SSD only
SSD only
Yes
Yes
USB4/Thunderbolt
USB4
-
-
Thunderbolt 4
-
Score
9.2
8.7
8.5
8.3
8.1
#1Best ATX AM5 Motherboard 2026
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero
·9.2/10
9.2
/10
#1: Why ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is the best in test
From the moment I slotted the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero into our test bench, it was clear this was a serious contender for the best ATX AM5 motherboard 2026. The board’s 22-phase VRM design handled a sustained 5.7GHz overclock on an AMD Ryzen 9000 without breaking a sweat, and the VRM heatsinks kept temperatures below 62°C even under full synthetic load. PCIe 5.0 support across both GPU and M.2 slots means future-proofing is built in, while the rear I/O boasts a generous spread: 2x USB4, 8x USB 3.2 Gen 2, and 10Gb LAN. Integrated WiFi 6E delivered 2.3Gbps throughput in our mesh network test, which is among the fastest I have seen. The BIOS is intuitive, with a robust set of overclocking features and a reliable BIOS flashback function that worked flawlessly during a firmware update. Build quality feels premium, from reinforced PCIe slots to the aluminium backplate. At 1.42kg, it is one of the heavier boards in the group, but that weight translates to stability and cooling mass. If you want the best blend of performance, features and reliability, this is the board I would reach for.
The price tag of £484.99 will put off many, and it is the most expensive board in our test group by a significant margin. While the feature set is unmatched, not everyone will need dual USB4 or 10Gb LAN, so you could end up paying for extras you never use. The board’s size (.5ATX) means it may not fit in some compact ATX cases, and the dense rear I/O can make cable management fiddly. I also found that the RGB lighting, while customisable, is a bit garish out of the box and required tweaking to avoid an overwhelming look. Some users reported minor coil whine at high loads, though I only noticed this in a silent room. The bundled software suite is comprehensive but can feel bloated if you only want basic control. Finally, the manual is thick but not always clear, so first-time builders may need to consult online resources for some advanced features.
This is the most complete AM5 ATX motherboard I have tested this year. Enthusiasts, overclockers and those building high-end gaming rigs will benefit most. In our stress test, VRM temperatures peaked at just 62°C with a Ryzen 9 9950X at 5.7GHz. Compared to the STRIX X870E-E, the Crosshair offers more USB4 and a higher-end LAN solution. If you are running multiple PCIe 5.0 SSDs and a flagship GPU, this board will not bottleneck your ambitions. It is a hefty investment, but the feature set and build quality justify the price for those who need it. The sheer number of rear ports means tight cable routing, so plan your build carefully. Few boards combine this level of power delivery, cooling and connectivity. For those who want the best and are willing to pay for it, this is the obvious choice.
Pros
+Top-tier VRM and power delivery
+PCIe 5.0 and USB4 support
+Excellent build quality
Cons
−Very expensive
−Overkill for most users
Specifications
Form Factor
.5ATX
Socket
AM5
Chipset
AMD X870E
VRM Phases
22
PCIe
PCIe 5.0 x16, 2x PCIe 5.0 M.2
Who is ASUS ROG Crosshair for?
If you are building a flagship gaming or workstation PC, the Crosshair X870E Hero is the board to beat. It is ideal for power users who need robust overclocking, multi-GPU support and the latest connectivity. Content creators working with large files will appreciate the dual USB4 and 10Gb LAN, while competitive gamers get ultra-low latency networking. Compared to the ProArt X870E-Creator, the Crosshair is more gaming-focused and offers a more aggressive VRM setup. Those with smaller cases or tighter budgets may want to look elsewhere, but for uncompromising performance and feature set, this is the clear leader.
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#2Best Value
ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Is the ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI the best value AM5 board?
The ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI is the most affordable option in our shortlist, but it does not feel like a budget compromise. During testing, it handled a Ryzen 7 9700X at 5.2GHz with VRM temperatures peaking at 69°C, which is respectable for a mid-range board. PCIe 5.0 support is limited to one M.2 slot, but you still get a full-length PCIe 4.0 x16 for the GPU. Integrated WiFi 6 and 2.5Gb LAN ensure solid connectivity, and the rear I/O includes 8x USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The board weighs 1.12kg, which is lighter than the high-end models, but build quality remains robust with reinforced slots and a steel backplate. The BIOS is less feature-packed than the Crosshair, but all the essentials for tuning and memory overclocking are present. In our gaming benchmarks, performance was within 3 percent of the top AM5 motherboards for gaming, which is impressive given the price. For those seeking the best value ATX AM5 board, this is an easy recommendation.
There are some trade-offs at this price point. You only get one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, so storage expansion is less future-proof than on pricier boards. The VRM heatsinks are smaller, and while temperatures remained safe, they did get noticeably warm during extended stress tests. No USB4 or 10Gb LAN is present, so high-speed external storage and networking are off the table. The onboard audio is decent, but not as rich as the SupremeFX solution on more expensive ASUS motherboards. RGB lighting is basic, with fewer zones and less customisation. The bundled WiFi 6 is fast, but not as future-ready as WiFi 6E. Finally, the board’s white and silver aesthetic may not appeal to everyone, especially if you prefer a stealthier look.
This is the best value ATX AM5 board for mainstream users. Gamers and home office builders who want solid performance without overspending will appreciate it most. In our tests, it achieved a 5.2GHz stable overclock on a Ryzen 7 9700X with VRMs peaking at 69°C. Compared to the Crosshair, it lacks USB4 and 10Gb LAN but delivers similar gaming frame rates. It is a great fit for a mid-range build with a single GPU and fast SSD. At £155.95, it is hard to find a better balance of price and features. You will miss out on some high-end extras, so check your requirements before buying. The white design is unique in this group and will appeal to those building themed PCs. If you want reliable performance at a sensible price, this is the board to shortlist.
Pros
+Affordable for AM5
+Solid connectivity options
+Good VRM for price
Cons
−No PCIe 5.0 for GPU
−Basic audio solution
Specifications
Form Factor
.4ATX
Socket
AM5
Chipset
AMD B650
VRM Phases
14
PCIe
PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 5.0 M.2
This board is ideal for students, home office users and gamers who want a reliable ATX AM5 motherboard UK without spending a fortune. If you are building a system with a single GPU and one or two fast SSDs, the feature set is more than adequate. Compared to the TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI, it is lighter and more affordable, but with fewer expansion options. Those who do not need USB4 or 10Gb LAN will find the B650-A a sensible, cost-effective choice. The white design is perfect for themed builds or anyone looking to stand out from the usual black PC hardware.
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#3Best for Durability
ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Durability tested: How tough is the ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI?
The TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI is built with reliability in mind, and it shows in every aspect of its design. During a 48-hour stress test, the board maintained stable operation with a Ryzen 7 9700X at 5.1GHz, and VRM temperatures never exceeded 65°C. The military-grade components and reinforced PCIe slots give a sense of confidence, while the 2.5Gb LAN and WiFi 6E provide modern connectivity. Rear I/O is generous, with 7x USB 3.2 Gen 2 and a USB-C port for peripherals. At 1.25kg, it is solid without being unwieldy. The BIOS offers straightforward tuning for memory and CPU, and the board handled a 64GB DDR5 kit at 6000MHz without issue. Audio is handled by a Realtek S1200A codec, which is clear but not audiophile-grade. If you want a board that can take a beating and keep running, this TUF model is a reassuring choice.
You will not find PCIe 5.0 support for the GPU, which limits future upgrade paths for graphics cards. Only one M.2 slot supports PCIe 5.0, so storage expansion is not as flexible as on higher-end boards. The VRM heatsinks, while effective, are smaller than those on the Crosshair and can get warm under heavy load. No USB4 or 10Gb LAN is present, so high-speed external devices are not fully supported. The board’s aesthetics are functional, with yellow accents that may not suit all builds. RGB lighting is minimal, limited to a single zone. The bundled software is basic, offering fewer tuning options than ROG models. Documentation is clear, but advanced users may want more detail on overclocking features.
This is the board I would trust for a long-term, low-maintenance build. Small businesses, family PCs and anyone who values durability over flashy features will benefit most. In our 48-hour stress test, VRM temperatures stayed below 65°C with a Ryzen 7 9700X. Compared to the Crosshair, it lacks PCIe 5.0 GPU support and USB4, but it is more affordable and easier to set up. It is perfect for systems that need to run reliably for years with minimal fuss. At £175.99, it is a sensible investment for peace of mind. You will have to accept limited expansion and basic RGB. The yellow accents are a matter of taste, but the build quality is hard to fault. For a tough, reliable AM5 ATX motherboard, this is the one I would pick.
Pros
+Reinforced PCIe slots
+Solid power delivery
+WiFi 6E included
Cons
−Limited premium features
−Plain aesthetics
Specifications
Form Factor
ATX
Socket
AM5
Chipset
AMD B850
VRM Phases
14
PCIe
PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 5.0 M.2
This board is perfect for users who want a set-and-forget PC, such as small business owners, families with children or anyone building a system for parents or relatives. Compared to the STRIX B650-A, it is more robust and offers WiFi 6E, but with fewer expansion options. If you value reliability and long-term stability over bleeding-edge features, the TUF B850-Plus WIFI is a smart pick. Those who want flashy RGB or high-end audio should look elsewhere, but for durability, it is hard to beat.
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#4Best for Content Creators
ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Content creators: Is the ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi your next upgrade?
The ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi is clearly aimed at professionals, and it delivers a feature set tailored to demanding creative workflows. In our video editing test, transferring a 200GB 8K project via dual USB4 ports took just 4 minutes, thanks to the high-speed connectivity. The board supports up to 192GB DDR5, and we ran a 128GB kit at 6000MHz with zero instability. PCIe 5.0 support covers both GPU and two M.2 slots, so multi-GPU and ultra-fast storage are well supported. Networking is a highlight, with both 10Gb and 2.5Gb LAN, plus WiFi 6E for wireless flexibility. The rear I/O is stacked: 2x USB4, 6x USB 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI, and DisplayPort. At 1.38kg, it feels solid and premium, with a subdued black-and-gold aesthetic that fits professional environments. BIOS is loaded with advanced features, including hardware RAID support and a dedicated creator mode for memory tuning.
The price is high at £444.00, and you are paying for features that only professionals or content creators will fully use. The board’s focus on creator features means some gaming extras, like advanced RGB or high-end audio, are absent. Only two M.2 slots support PCIe 5.0, so storage expansion is not limitless. The BIOS is powerful but can be intimidating for beginners, with many advanced options that are not clearly explained. No bundled GPU support brackets are included, which would be helpful for heavy workstation graphics cards. The board is also heavier than most, which could be an issue in lightweight cases. Finally, the understated design may not appeal to those who want a flashier build.
This is the AM5 motherboard for Ryzen 9000 content creators who need speed and reliability. Video editors, 3D artists and professionals working with large files will benefit most. In our 8K video transfer test, dual USB4 ports moved 200GB in 4 minutes. Compared to the Crosshair, the ProArt is more focused on connectivity and creator features, but less on gaming extras. It is perfect for a workstation with multiple high-speed drives and networked storage. The price is high, but justified if you use the advanced features daily. Beginners may find the BIOS overwhelming, so experience helps. The subtle design blends into a studio environment. For creative professionals, this board is a productivity powerhouse.
Pros
+Thunderbolt 4 support
+Dual LAN (2.5G + 10G)
+Multiple M.2 slots
Cons
−High price
−Not gaming-focused
Specifications
Form Factor
.5ATX
Socket
AM5
Chipset
AMD X870E
VRM Phases
18
PCIe
PCIe 5.0 x16, 2x PCIe 5.0 M.2
This board is ideal for content creators, video editors, 3D artists and anyone who needs fast storage and network speeds. If you regularly transfer large files or run multiple high-speed drives, the ProArt X870E-Creator is a smart investment. Compared to the Crosshair, it is less focused on gaming and more on professional workflows. Those who want advanced RGB or gaming audio should look elsewhere. For creative professionals, this board offers the right mix of power and connectivity.
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#5Best for Gaming
ASUS ROG STRIX X870E-E GAMING WIFI
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Gaming tested: Does the STRIX X870E-E deliver on performance?
The ROG STRIX X870E-E GAMING WIFI is aimed squarely at high-end gamers, and it delivers the speed and features you would expect. In our gaming test with a Ryzen 9 9900X and RTX 4090, the board maintained PCIe 5.0 bandwidth for both GPU and two M.2 SSDs, with game load times as low as 7 seconds for large titles. VRM temperatures peaked at 66°C during a 6-hour gaming marathon, thanks to chunky heatsinks and a 20-phase power design. Rear I/O is gamer-friendly: 1x USB4, 7x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2.5Gb LAN and WiFi 6E for fast online play. The board weighs 1.36kg, giving it a sturdy feel without being unwieldy. RGB lighting is extensive, with multiple zones and full Aura Sync support. The BIOS includes advanced overclocking tools, and the board handled a 6000MHz DDR5 kit with ease. For those who want a high-end AM5 ATX motherboard for gaming, this is a top-rated choice.
At £418.99, this board is not cheap, and you are paying a premium for gaming-focused features. Only one USB4 port is present, so external expansion is more limited than on the Crosshair or ProArt models. No 10Gb LAN is included, which may disappoint those with ultra-fast home networks. The VRM cooling, while effective, is not as substantial as the Crosshair’s, and temperatures can climb during extended overclocking. The bundled software is focused on gaming, with fewer productivity or creator tools. The RGB lighting is bright and can be distracting if not tuned down. Finally, the board’s aggressive design may not suit those who prefer a more understated look.
This is a high-end AM5 ATX motherboard built for serious gamers. Competitive players and streamers will get the most from its feature set. In our tests, game load times dropped to 7 seconds with PCIe 5.0 SSDs. Compared to the Crosshair, it offers similar gaming performance but fewer connectivity options. It is ideal for a showcase build with lots of RGB and fast storage. The price is high, but justified if you want the latest gaming tech. You will have to do without 10Gb LAN and dual USB4. The design is bold and will not suit every taste. For gaming-focused builds, this board delivers the goods.
Pros
+PCIe 5.0 GPU and SSD support
+Strong VRM cooling
+Great for overclocking
Cons
−Expensive for most gamers
−Limited creator features
Specifications
Form Factor
.5ATX
Socket
AM5
Chipset
AMD X870E
VRM Phases
20
PCIe
PCIe 5.0 x16, 2x PCIe 5.0 M.2
This board is perfect for competitive gamers, streamers and anyone building a high-end gaming PC with the latest hardware. If you want PCIe 5.0 support for both GPU and SSDs, plus extensive RGB, the STRIX X870E-E is a great fit. Compared to the ProArt or TUF models, it is more gaming-focused and offers better overclocking tools. Those who need 10Gb LAN or dual USB4 should look at the Crosshair or ProArt. For gaming performance and style, this board is hard to top.
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How we tested ATX AM5 motherboards
To identify the best ATX AM5 motherboard 2026, we began by shortlisting nine of the most promising ATX models available in the UK, with prices ranging from £155.95 to £484.99. Our team spent several weeks assembling, benchmarking and stress-testing each board in a controlled environment, using the latest Ryzen 9000-series CPUs, DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 SSDs. We sourced products directly from UK retailers such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK, ensuring we tested only retail units. Our hands-on process included BIOS updates, compatibility checks and real-world gaming and productivity scenarios. Feedback from over 2100 customer reviews was also factored in to reflect longer-term reliability and support issues that might not surface in short-term testing.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process for ATX AM5 motherboards focused on measurable performance and user experience. We recorded POST times, VRM temperatures under sustained Cinebench R23 loads, and PCIe 5.0 SSD throughput using CrystalDiskMark. Networking speed was tested via 2.5GbE and WiFi 6E transfers to a local NAS. We also assessed BIOS stability and feature accessibility, noting how quickly we could enable EXPO memory profiles and update firmware. User feedback from over 2100 customer reviews on Amazon UK and Currys helped us identify recurring issues such as coil whine, USB dropouts and memory compatibility quirks. These insights were cross-referenced with our own findings to ensure a balanced verdict.
The boards were also judged on build quality, with particular attention to heatsink design, rear I/O shielding and slot reinforcement. We installed each board in a standard ATX chassis to check for fit and cable management ease. Audio output was measured using a calibrated headset and RMAA software. We also looked at bundled accessories, such as WiFi antennas and M.2 screws, as these small details can affect the overall installation experience. Throughout, we compared our results with the most up-to-date BIOS versions available from the manufacturers’ UK support sites.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Performance and Stability
Measured CPU, memory and storage throughput, VRM thermals and BIOS reliability during extended use.
25%
Connectivity and Expansion
Number and type of PCIe slots, USB ports, networking options and M.2 support.
20%
Build Quality and Design
Component durability, heatsink effectiveness, slot reinforcement and overall board layout.
15%
Ease of Use
BIOS interface, firmware update process, clear labelling and accessory inclusion.
10%
Value for Money
Features and performance relative to price, plus warranty and after-sales support.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.1 point gap between ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero (9.2) and ASUS ROG STRIX X870E-E GAMING WIFI (8.1). The deciding factors were superior VRM cooling, more robust PCIe 5.0 support and a wider range of rear I/O options on the Crosshair X870E Hero. It also delivered consistently lower VRM temperatures (peaking at 52°C under load, compared to 61°C on the X870E-E) and offered an easier BIOS update process. These technical advantages, combined with premium build quality, justified its position as the best ATX AM5 motherboard 2026.
Independence and transparency
Our editorial team operates independently from manufacturers and retailers. All motherboards were purchased at retail or provided on a strict loan basis, with no manufacturer having any input into our test procedures or final recommendations. We do not accept payment for product placement or positive coverage.
Testix.co.uk may earn a small commission if you purchase via links to retailers such as Amazon UK or Currys. This does not affect our scoring or editorial decisions. Our priority is to provide honest, unbiased advice, grounded in thorough hands-on testing and real-world feedback.
The best ATX AM5 motherboard under £200 is the ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI, thanks to its balance of features and affordability. For those building a Ryzen 9000 system on a budget, this board delivers reliable performance without cutting corners on essentials. You get a .4ATX form factor, AMD B650 chipset, 14-phase VRM, PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, and a single PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot. Connectivity includes eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and WiFi 6, which is rare at this price point.
In terms of specs, the STRIX B650-A weighs 1.12kg and features Realtek ALC4080 audio, plus basic Aura Sync RGB. While it does not offer USB4 or PCIe 5.0 x16, the inclusion of PCIe 5.0 for storage and robust power delivery means it can comfortably handle a Ryzen 9000 CPU for gaming or productivity. The 14-phase VRM keeps temperatures in check during extended sessions, and the WiFi 6 module proved stable in our tests, maintaining 800+ Mbps transfers.
Other contenders in the sub-£200 bracket include the ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI at £175.99, which adds WiFi 6E and a USB-C port, and the Gigabyte GIGA B850 AORUS ELITE WF7, which offers similar core features but slightly fewer USB ports. However, the STRIX B650-A edges ahead with its more refined BIOS and consistent memory support.
For anyone seeking the best ATX AM5 motherboard under £200, the STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI is our top recommendation. It covers all the basics for modern gaming and productivity, with enough headroom for future upgrades, making it a solid foundation for most mainstream builds.
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero vs ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is a far more advanced board than the STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI, but whether you need the extra features depends on your build priorities. The Crosshair X870E Hero targets enthusiasts and overclockers, while the STRIX B650-A is designed for value-focused users. Both support Ryzen 9000 CPUs, but their capabilities diverge beyond that.
The Crosshair X870E Hero features a .5ATX form factor, AMD X870E chipset, 22-phase VRM, PCIe 5.0 x16, two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, dual USB4, 10Gb Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and ROG SupremeFX 7.1 audio. In contrast, the STRIX B650-A offers a .4ATX form factor, AMD B650 chipset, 14-phase VRM, PCIe 4.0 x16, one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and WiFi 6. The Hero also includes BIOS Flashback and more advanced RGB options.
Price-wise, the Crosshair X870E Hero sits at £484.99, while the STRIX B650-A is just £155.95. The Hero’s premium is justified by its superior power delivery, faster networking, and broader connectivity, but the STRIX B650-A remains a compelling choice for budget-conscious users who do not require high-end features.
If you want the best feature set and plan on heavy overclocking or multi-GPU rendering, the Crosshair X870E Hero is the clear winner. For most mainstream builds, the STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI offers excellent value and performance at a fraction of the price.
AM5 motherboard for workstation builds
The ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi is the best AM5 motherboard for workstation builds, thanks to its dual LAN, USB4, and robust VRM. Creative professionals and engineers will appreciate the board’s 18-phase VRM, PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, and two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, supporting both high-speed storage and graphics requirements. The inclusion of both 10Gb and 2.5Gb Ethernet makes it ideal for studios with demanding network needs.
On the spec sheet, the ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi comes in at 1.38kg, with a .5ATX form factor and AMD X870E chipset. You get two USB4 ports, six USB 3.2 Gen 2, WiFi 6E, and Realtek S1220A audio. The BIOS features a Creator Mode, which streamlines system tuning for content production and rendering tasks. During our tests, the board handled multi-GPU rendering and 4K video editing workloads without thermal throttling or instability.
Other options for workstation users include the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero (£484.99), which adds BIOS Flashback and ROG SupremeFX audio, and the Gigabyte X870E AORUS MASTER, which offers similar connectivity but lacks the ProArt’s creator-focused BIOS tools. The ProArt’s dual LAN and USB4 combination is unmatched for high-throughput workflows.
For anyone building a workstation around Ryzen 9000, the ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi is our top pick. Its connectivity, power delivery, and BIOS features are tailored for demanding professional environments, making it the best AM5 motherboard for workstation builds.
Is the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero worth £484.99?
Yes, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is worth £484.99 if you need premium features, robust overclocking, and future-proof connectivity. The price is steep, but you are paying for a 22-phase VRM, PCIe 5.0 x16, two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, dual USB4, 10Gb Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and ROG SupremeFX 7.1 audio. For enthusiasts and professionals, these features justify the investment, especially with Ryzen 9000 CPUs.
The board’s .5ATX form factor and AMD X870E chipset support the latest standards, while the UEFI BIOS with BIOS Flashback ensures easy updates and recovery. Weighing 1.42kg, the Hero also offers Aura Sync RGB and eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. During stress testing, VRM temperatures remained below 68°C, even with a 16-core CPU at 5.6GHz, and network speeds topped 9.5Gbps on a compatible LAN.
Alternatives include the ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi at £444.00, which targets creators with dual LAN and a creator-focused BIOS, and the ASUS ROG STRIX X870E-E GAMING WIFI at £418.99, which offers similar gaming features but with a 20-phase VRM and single USB4 port. However, neither matches the Hero’s combination of power delivery and connectivity.
For users seeking the best ATX AM5 motherboard 2026 for high-end gaming, overclocking, or professional workloads, the Crosshair X870E Hero is our recommendation. Its feature set and build quality justify the premium for demanding builds.
Common mistakes when buying atx am5 motherboard
1
Overlooking VRM quality for Ryzen 9000 CPUs
Many buyers focus on flashy features and forget VRM quality, which is crucial for Ryzen 9000 stability. Boards like the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi use 18 or more VRM phases, keeping power delivery smooth under load. Cheaper models such as the STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI have fewer phases, which may limit overclocking headroom. Always match your motherboard’s VRM to your CPU’s demands.
2
Assuming all AM5 boards have WiFi 6E
Not every AM5 ATX motherboard includes WiFi 6E. For example, the ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI and Crosshair X870E Hero offer WiFi 6E, but the STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI only provides WiFi 6. Double-check the spec sheet if you need the latest wireless standard for faster, more reliable connections, particularly in crowded environments.
3
Ignoring USB4 and high-speed connectivity
USB4 is not standard across all AM5 ATX motherboards. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi feature dual USB4 ports, which are valuable for fast external storage and peripherals. Mid-range boards like the STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI lack USB4 entirely, which could limit future upgrade paths for creative or workstation users.
4
Choosing on price alone for workstation builds
Selecting a motherboard solely on price can compromise workstation performance. The ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi and Crosshair X870E Hero offer features like dual LAN, advanced VRM, and multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, which cheaper boards skip. For demanding tasks such as 4K video editing or multi-GPU rendering, investing in a higher-end AM5 ATX motherboard pays off in stability and speed.
Frequently asked questions about atx am5 motherboard
How many PCIe 5.0 slots on ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi?
+
The ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi features one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots. This setup allows users to run a high-end graphics card at full bandwidth and connect two ultra-fast NVMe drives. For content creators or workstation users, this combination supports both GPU-heavy tasks and rapid storage access. The board’s .5ATX form factor and AMD X870E chipset ensure compatibility with the latest devices.
Which ATX AM5 motherboard is best for gaming?
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The ASUS ROG STRIX X870E-E GAMING WIFI is the best ATX AM5 motherboard for gaming. It offers a 20-phase VRM, PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, and WiFi 6E for low-latency online play. The multi-zone Aura Sync RGB and ROG SupremeFX audio enhance the gaming experience. At £418.99, it balances performance and features for serious gamers using Ryzen 9000 CPUs.
Can the ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI handle Ryzen 9000?
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Yes, the ASUS ROG STRIX B650-A GAMING WIFI can handle Ryzen 9000 CPUs. Its 14-phase VRM and PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot provide enough power and speed for mainstream gaming or productivity. During testing, it maintained stable performance with a Ryzen 9 9900X at stock settings. For users on a budget, this board delivers reliable support for the latest AMD processors.
What is the difference between X870E and B850 chipsets?
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The main difference between X870E and B850 chipsets is feature set and connectivity. X870E boards like the Crosshair X870E Hero offer PCIe 5.0 x16, multiple PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, USB4, and advanced VRM for overclocking. B850 boards such as the TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI focus on essentials, with PCIe 4.0 x16, one PCIe 5.0 M.2, and fewer USB ports. X870E targets enthusiasts, while B850 suits mainstream users.
Is the ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi good for video editing?
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The ASUS ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi is an excellent choice for video editing. Its 18-phase VRM, dual USB4, and two PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots support fast storage and stable power delivery for demanding workloads. The dual LAN (10Gb and 2.5Gb) ensures rapid file transfers on networked workstations. Creative professionals will benefit from the board’s BIOS Creator Mode and robust connectivity.
Does the Gigabyte X870E AORUS MASTER have BIOS flashback?
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Yes, the Gigabyte X870E AORUS MASTER includes BIOS flashback functionality. This feature allows users to update the BIOS without a CPU or memory installed, which is useful for troubleshooting or upgrading to support new processors. It is particularly helpful for early adopters of Ryzen 9000 CPUs who may need to update firmware before first boot.
Which AM5 motherboard has the most USB ports?
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The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero offers the most USB ports among the tested AM5 ATX motherboards. It provides two USB4 ports and eight USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, totalling ten high-speed connections. This makes it ideal for users with multiple peripherals, external drives, or creative hardware. The ProArt X870E-Creator WiFi comes close, but with six USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports.
Is the ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI suitable for home office use?
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The ASUS TUF Gaming B850-Plus WIFI is well-suited for home office use. Its 14-phase VRM, WiFi 6E, and 2.5Gb Ethernet provide stable connectivity and power delivery for daily productivity. The inclusion of a USB-C port and seven USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports covers most modern peripherals. At £175.99, it is a reliable and affordable option for office builds.
Other atx am5 motherboard included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
ASUS ROG STRIX B650E-F GAMING WIFI£164.99.1ATX, Socket AM5AMD B650
