Another "which mobo" question

[restorick]

Looking for an inexpensive business build. Has to be able to handle SQL Server and other data intensive apps. Will also serve as a workstation, and could end up as a testbed from time to time.

Looking at these 2 boards - would appreciate feedback on which might be the better option. Of course, if you have another suggestion under $130, I'm all ears.

Thanks in advance,
Rick

ASUS M4A88TD-V EVO/USB3

GIGABYTE GA-880GA-UD3H

 

[rolli59]

Well pretty equal, both good quality. I think though I would go with the gigabyte on this one! No rebate to deal with and cheaper shipping.

 

[tecmo34]

I would go with the ASUS board for really one reason... No bandwidth issues. If you read the specifications:

(Note) The PCIEX1_2 slot shares bandwidth with the PCIEX4 slot. When the PCIEX4 slot is populated with a x4 card, the PCIEX1_2 slot becomes unavailable.

Your motherboard slots are limited by bandwidth. If you plug say a PCIe X4 SSD, you want be able to access one of the PCIe x1. This may never be an issue but why limit usage of motherboard slots for a little savings??