Looking for a "quality" budget AM3+ mobo (~$80)

microapple-1371565

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Jul 24, 2013
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I'm working on a budget PC build (it's my first time). Here's what my current build looks like: http://pcpartpicker.com/p/1kRWx
(Yeah, I know I got a low quality PSU, but I already bought it unfortunately)

The part that I'm probably most unsure about is my motherboard. I want something that is going to be stable, but isn't more than around $80.

I've been told that the ASUS M5A97 LE R2.0 is a good board (though I really don't like the brown PCB color), and I was also considering the MSI 970A-G43.

Are either of these good choices, or should I look elsewhere? I appreciate all the input I can get.

Thanks in advance!
 

sophiebeth100

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Mar 14, 2013
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Only has three reviews on Newegg which isn't a great sample size. Asrock often pack the most features into the lower-priced boards - the Extreme3, imo, is the best in that price range.
 

Yes. When it comes to overclocking, there isn't much difference between the Extreme3 and the Extreme4. The GA-970A-UD3 has 8+2 power phases, and is the cheapest 900-series motherboard I can find with that sort of setup. The Extreme4 and 3 have 4+1 power phases. The Extreme3 should be a good board as long as you're not looking for a big overclock.
 

microapple-1371565

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Alright, well thanks! Both of you have been very helpful.