5 Best Motherboards for AMD Ryzen 9 9950X

Here are the 5 best motherboards for your Ryzen 9 9950X that will be able to run the CPU without thermal constraints.

5 Best Motherboards for AMD Ryzen 9 9950X
Image showing two motherboards (Image via ASUS | Gigabyte)

The Ryzen 9 9950X is a 16-core 32 32-thread Zen 5 processor with incredible multi-threading capabilities. Surprisingly, its power requirement remains much lower than the competition. With proper tuning, the CPU can unlock its performance and efficiency potentials. The motherboards below make a good pair and will help you tune the 9950X hassle-free.

Also Read: 5 Best Motherboards for Intel Core Ultra 5 245K

1. ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi

An image showing the Strix Motherboard (Image via ASUS)
An image showing the Strix Motherboard (Image via ASUS)

The Strix X870E-E is for enthusiastic gamers, content creators, and system integrators who do not wish to compromise on their motherboard choices. The VRM section is competent, with 18 phases. Running the 9950X at unlimited power, alongside a negative frequency curve, will yield the best combo one can achieve. ASUS AI overclocking is also on offer for individuals preferring a one-click approach.

SpecificationsDetails
VRM18 phases
ChipsetAMD X870E
Socket typeAM5 (LGA 1718)
Memory4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 256GB, DDR5 up to 8400+ MT/s (OC) with Dual Channel and EXPO
NVMe Storage5 x M.2 slots
GPU support1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (x16 mode), 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (x4 mode)

2. Gigabyte X670E Aorus Elite WiFi

Image showing the Aorus Elite motherboard (Image via Gigabyte)
Image showing the Aorus Elite motherboard (Image via Gigabyte)

The X670E Aorus Elite is for individuals who prefer buying last-gen motherboards and then BIOS flashing to install the 9950X. VRM-wise, this board is competent; just upgrading the BIOS will ensure everything is in order. In the process, it saves a lot of money by not paying a premium for the new chipset.

SpecificationsDetails
VRM16+2+2 phases
ChipsetAMD X670E
Socket typeAM5 (LGA 1718)
Memory4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 256GB, DDR5 up to 8600 MT/s (OC) with Dual Channel and EXPO
NVMe Storage4 x M.2 slots
GPU support1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (x16 mode), 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (x4 mode)

3. ASRock Phantom Gaming X870E Nova WiFi

An image showing the Phantom Gaming motherboard (Image via ASRock)
An image showing the Phantom Gaming motherboard (Image via ASRock)

The Phantom Gaming Nova is for system tuners and integrators looking for a stylish motherboard packed with tons of features. VRM-wise, this board will handle the 9950X at unlimited power without any issues. Regarding storage, there are ample slots on offer.

SpecificationsDetails
VRM20+2 phases
ChipsetAMD X870E
Socket typeAM5 (LGA 1718)
Memory4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 256GB, DDR5 up to 7400 MT/s (OC) with Dual Channel and EXPO
NVMe Storage5 x M.2 slots
GPU support1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (x16 mode), 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (x4 mode)

4. MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk WiFi

An image showing the Tomahawk motherboard (Image via MSI)
An image showing the Tomahawk motherboard (Image via MSI)

The X870 Tomahawk is for budget buyers who want the benefits of the X870 series chipset but are budget-restrained. The X870 chipset is slightly inferior to the X870E, and the motherboards are less costly. VRM-wise, the 14+2+1 phase foundation is more than enough to drive the 9950X at unlimited power. As for storage, it also doesn’t disappoint. Gamers and content creators alike should choose this board and consider upgrading to a better GPU or RAM to maximize their budget.

SpecificationsDetails
VRM14+2+1 phases
ChipsetAMD X870
Socket typeAM5 (LGA 1718)
Memory4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 256GB, DDR5 up to 8400 MT/s (OC) with Dual Channel and EXPO
NVMe Storage5 x M.2 slots
GPU support1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (x16 mode), 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (x4 mode)

5. ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi

An image showing the AM5 Mini-ITX motherboard
An image showing the AM5 Mini-ITX motherboard (Image via ASRock)

The B650E PG-ITX is designed for small form factor system builders looking to create a portable powerhouse with the 9950X. The VRM is also excellent, meaning there won’t be any issues driving the 9950X. A negative curve optimizer is highly recommended to yield the best performance out of this board and maintain thermals in the process.

SpecificationsDetails
VRM10+2+1 phases
ChipsetAMD B650E
Socket typeAM5 (LGA 1718)
Memory2 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 128GB, DDR5 up to 6000 MT/s (OC) with Dual Channel and EXPO
NVMe Storage2 x M.2 slots
GPU support1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (x16 mode)

Verdict

All of the motherboards are an excellent fit for the 9950X with unlimited power and possibly a negative curve optimizer applied. System builders should opt for the X870E Nova or the ROG Strix X870E-E. Gamers can consider the X870 Tomahawk WiFi, and SFF builders should consider the B650E PG-ITX.

Also Read: 5 Best CPUs for AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT


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