THG is going to present one award per chipset in this large comparative test. Out of all the test participants, the Gigabyte GA-8KNXP offers the best equipment (high quality components), innovative features and high performance at a reasonable price. The broad range of extra equipment would cost about $50 at a specialty store. Gigabyte therefore receives the sought-after prize from THG.

The second award in the category of the 865PE boards goes to the MSI Neo 2 . Interesting overclocking features for less ambitious users increase performance. It is the fastest board overall in the test field. There is also a broad range of features, which leaves hardly any wish unanswered. While, in the previous test, shortcomings emerged regarding memory access, these problems have now been eradicated. All in all, the board costs just under $170. This will set the competition thinking.

A final word about the continuing feature-itis epidemic: illuminated fans are a good start for fans of case modding. How about revolving LEDs on the motherboard? That would be a real showstopper!