This category holds motherboards for older Intel processors, covering LGA1200 and earlier sockets. They suit anyone repairing or upgrading an existing PC, or building a simple office system. Most of the boards here are from BIOSTAR, with further models from ASRock and Fujitsu.
How to choose an older Intel motherboard
Processor socket. The processor and the board must share the same socket. LGA1200 is made for 10th and 11th generation Intel Core processors, while earlier generations use other sockets such as LGA1151 or LGA1150. Even within one socket, a board may not support every generation.
Chipset and BIOS. The chipset decides how many connections the board offers and which processors it accepts. Sometimes a newer processor will only start after a BIOS update, so check the manufacturer's list of supported processors before buying.
Memory type. Most LGA1200 boards use DDR4 memory, while the oldest platforms often work with DDR3. The two are not interchangeable. Also check the number of memory slots and the maximum amount the board supports.
Form factor. The board has to fit your case: ATX, micro-ATX and mini-ITX differ in size and in the number of expansion slots. Some manufacturer boards were designed for specific branded PCs and may use a non-standard power connector or mounting, so they will not always fit a standard case.
Storage and video outputs. Older boards may have no M.2 slot, in which case an SSD has to connect through SATA. If you plan to use the processor's integrated graphics, check whether the board has an HDMI, DisplayPort or VGA output.
Brands we carry
- BIOSTAR: a Taiwanese manufacturer known for straightforward boards for home and office computers.
- ASRock: a Taiwanese manufacturer that began as a division of ASUS and now makes boards ranging from basic to enthusiast models.
- Fujitsu: a Japanese company that designs boards for its own PCs and servers, which is why they are often used as replacement parts when repairing those systems.
Frequently asked questions
Does an LGA1200 motherboard support 12th generation Intel processors?
No, 12th generation Intel Core processors use the LGA1700 socket and will not fit an LGA1200 board. LGA1200 is made for 10th and 11th generation processors. Always compare the socket of the processor with that of the board before buying.
What memory do LGA1200 motherboards use?
Most LGA1200 boards use DDR4 memory. DDR5 is not used on this platform. The exact supported type, speed and maximum capacity are listed in the specification of each board.
Is it worth buying an older motherboard instead of a new platform?
It is worth it when you already own a processor and memory that match the socket, or when you are repairing an existing PC. For a brand new build, think about upgrade options: an older platform usually lets you change the processor only to one of the same or an earlier generation.
How do I find out which motherboard fits my processor?
Start by identifying the processor's socket, then check the supported processor list for the exact board model on the manufacturer's website. The list also states the BIOS version each processor needs. This matters most for LGA1151 boards, where different chipsets work with different processor generations.
