How to Buy a Motherboard

Introduction

Whether you're building a new PC or overhauling an old one, a new motherboard is the place to start. And with boards packing everything from FireWire (IEEE 1394) and USB 2.0 ports to six-channel sound chips and RAID controllers, you might not need to add much else these days.

The Big Picture
What factors are most important when comparing motherboards--the processor? The chip set? Storage? Find out how these and other features will affect your system's performance. more

The Specs Explained
Is the fastest processor always the best choice? What type of memory should you look for? We explain which specs are most important, and why. more

Motherboard Shopping Tips
You'll want to consider the price, performance, and priority of several features before you look for a new motherboard. Our tips help you find the best value. more