Best Motherboards For Photo Editing in 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

Are you planning to build a new high-performance PC for photo & video editing? Because the advent of computer systems coincided with the enhancement of photography. And nowadays, photo & video editing has become an integral part of human life, and you’ll be doing the wrong things if you pick the wrong computer for yourself.

In the same line, building the best computer system for photography requires a powerful motherboard and other computer components. And compromising on the quality of the motherboard for photo editing can have extreme results for evident reasons.

That’s why it is good to put resources into a decent motherboard regardless of whether it costs you dearly to do as such. Nonetheless, that may not be important. We have compiled one of the best motherboards for photo & video editing below. So, do check them out!

However, if you’re in a hurry, then we recommend you - MSI Gaming Intel X299 is the best motherboard for photo editing. It supports Intel Core X-Series of processors for the LGA 2066 socket. It also supports 256GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed 2666MHz. Plus, it comes with 8 DIMM slots.

This board is engineered using premium quality materials and equipped with high-quality components for maximum performance. It has an all-metal extended heatsink cover that enlarges the heat dissipation surface allowing the CPU power system to reliably drive multi-core processors.

Also, read our latest guide about Best Motherboards For CAD Workstation

Best Motherboards For Photo Editing in 2021 Reviews

So, if you’re planning to build a new PC for photo editing, then you’re going to love this post. Because in this article, we have reviewed the top 10 motherboards for photography, including their features and specifications. We also provide an ultimate buying which will help you to make better decisions.

MSI Gaming Intel X299 Motherboard

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We all know MSI is a very popular brand that delivers one of the best motherboards for gaming and non-gaming purposes. And this MSI X299 motherboard is one of them. Inspired by modern steel architecture, this MSI X299 is reinforced with an extended heatsink, PCIe steel armor, and steel slot for maximum durability of the system.

Moreover, it supports Intel Core X-Series of processors for the LGA 2066 socket. It also supports 256GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed 2666MHz. Plus, it comes with 8 DIMM slots.

When it comes to building quality, this board is engineered using premium quality materials and equipped with high-quality components for maximum performance. It has an all-metal extended heatsink cover that enlarges the heat dissipation surface allowing the CPU power system to reliably drive multi-core processors.

The world’s fastest can slow down when they got heated. That’s why the M.2 shield Frozr extends the motherboard’s heatsink over the attached M.2 SSDs to prevent thermal throttling and sustain maximum performance.

What’s more, this X299 motherboard features a pair of Ethernet LAN ports, including a 2.5Gbps port for workflows that depend on high-bandwidth and low-latency network connectivity. Not just this, this board support both NVIDIA SLI and AMD Crossfire multi-GPU technologies.

While the PCI-E slot placements provide optimal airflow for graphics card cooling furthermore, the MSI’s Exclusive PCI-Express Steel Armor slots have secured the motherboard with extra solder points and easily support the weight of heavy graphics cards.

ASUS ROG Strix B550-F

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If you’re a budget user and looking for a high-end motherboard for handling demanding tasks like photo & video editing, then this ROG Strix B550-F motherboard has got you covered. This board support AMD Ryzen 3 5000 Series processors and 3^rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.

When it comes to design, this ASUS motherboard features 12+2 Dr. MOS power stages design with high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors that provide optimal power delivery to the latest AMD Ryzen CPUs.

Additionally, this gaming motherboard has two M.2 slots, including the latest PCIe 4.0, to provide maximum storage flexibility and ultra-fast data transfer speed. Plus, both these M.2 slots support up to the type of 22110 sockets and NVM Express RAID for a maximum performance boost.

When it comes to performance, cooling is essential – that’s why this model features multiple temperature sensors, 4-pin PWM/DC fan header, an AIO Pump fan header, an enlarged fanless VRM, and chipset heatsink for innovative cooling.

What’s more, this motherboard also features an onboard 2.5G Ethernet LAN that provides your wired connection a performance boost with up to 2.5X performance improvement over the standard Ethernet connections.

Lastly, this motherboard is equipped with ASUS’s Exclusive AI-Noise canceling microphone software that supports 3.5-mm USB and Bluetooth headsets. This utility leverages a massive deep-learning database to preserve the sound of your voice while eliminating distracting keyboard clatter and mouse clicks.

GIGABYTE Z490 UD

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Here is another high-end, durable, and yet affordable motherboard from a trusty brand Gigabyte. This motherboard is exclusively designed to support 9^th & 10^th Gen Intel Core processors for LGA 1200 socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.

Plus, it comes with 4 DIMM slots. This board features Direct 11+1 Power Phase Digital VRMs with Dr.MOS stages for optimal power delivery to the CPU. Additionally, this Gigabyte motherboard uses enlarged MOSFET heatsinks with grooved designs that provide more surface area and improves the thermal performance of the board.

What’s more, this best motherboard for photo editing under $200 is equipped with ultra-durable components such as Double locking brackets, PCIe armor, solid pin power connectors, and Q-Flash Plus for maximum performance.

Not just this, this model offers 2-way Crossfire support and comes with dual PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2 for maximum data transfer speed. It also comes with Realtek 8118 GAMING LAN and USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports for maximum networking & connectivity options.

Furthermore, this Gigabyte UD motherboard comes with high-quality audio capacitors and Realtek ALC887 with an audio noise guard for warm, immersive, and crystal clear sound.

MSI MEG Z490 GODLIKE

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If you’re ready to invest in a high-end motherboard without worrying about the price point, then this MMSI GODLIKE would be an ideal option to consider. This motherboard support 10^th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors for LGA 1200 socket.

Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 5000MHz. When it comes to design, this model features a sleek, ergonomic, and eye-catching design which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers.

Additionally, this MSI motherboard features a dynamic OLED screen panel that can display the status of the GODLIKE motherboard. Plus, you can customize the display with GIF animations.

What’s more, this model features two M.2 slots for ultra-fast SSDs and sustains maximum transfer speeds with the fan cooling design. Not just this, it also features a rigid metal backplate that reinforces the motherboard’s edges along with the connectors, preventing bending & twisting during installation that could damage or dislodge surface-mounted components.

Furthermore, this best gaming motherboard is equipped with 2x Thunderbolt 3 ports on the rear panel that provide up to 40Gb/s data transfer speed.

However, the only downside of this board is that it is highly expensive, which makes it less suitable for budget users.

ASUS TUF Gaming X570

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This TUF Gaming motherboard is exclusively designed for enthusiasts or professional gamers. This motherboard support 2^nd and 3^rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors for AM4 CPU socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of up to 4400MHz.

Additionally, it is made up of military-grade components and features a Pro cool socket and Digi+ VRM for maximum durability of the motherboard.

When it comes to performance, cooling is essential – that’s why this model comes with Active PCH heatsink, VRM heatsink, 2. Heatsink, hybrid fan headers, and Fan Xpert 4 feature for innovative cooling.

For maximum data transfer speed, it comes with dual PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots that support up to the type of 22110 and provides NVMe SSD RAID support for an excellent performance boost. For maximum networking and connectivity, this motherboard comes with Exclusive Gigabit Ethernet and Intel Wireless AC-9260 WI-FI 5 with 2×2 MU-MIMO and wide 160MHz channels.

So, if you’re a professional designer or a hardcore gamer looking for a powerful motherboard for heavy-duty use, then your search ends here!

MSI Z590 PRO

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For creative professionals looking to expand their capabilities, this MSI Z590 PRO WIFI is the best option. Because this motherboard offers a premium platform with the capacity to support a board of spectrum of both cutting-edge & legacy hardware, processors, and gaming hardware.

Moreover, this board supports the latest 10^th & 11^th Gen Intel Core processors for LGA 1200 socket. Plus, it supports DDR4 memory up to 5333MHz memory speed.

Additionally, with its paired 8+4 pin-power connectors and exclusive Core Boost technology, this Z590 Pro motherboard is able to sustain heavy CPU power loads to support system demanding settings.

When it comes to performance, cooling is essential – that’s why this board is equipped with Fan Xpert 4 feature, which includes VRM cooling, PCB cooling, SSD cooling, and system cooling for maximum performance. For maximum data transfer speed, this model features MSI’s latest M.2 slots ad dual PCIe 3.0 x16 slots that are secured with MSI PCI-Express Steel Armor.

Furthermore, this MSI motherboard comes with a 2.5Gbps LAN controller, WIFI6E, and Bluetooth 5.2 for maximum networking and connectivity.

MSI MPG X570 GAMING EDGE WIFI

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Here is another appealing to eyes, durable, and yet affordable motherboard from the house of MSI. This motherboard support 2^nd & 3^rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors for AM4 CPU socket. Moreover, this board support 128GB DDR4 memory for maximum speed and performance.

When it comes to design, this model features a sleek, ergonomic, and lightweight design, which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers. Additionally, it also features a FROZR heatsink with a patented fan design for innovative cooling.

When it comes to performance, this model comes with M.2 slots and several PCIe slots for maximum data transfer speed. Not just this, it also features onboard WIFI5 with MI-MIMO support for maximum connectivity.

What’s more, this MPG X570 motherboard comes with AUDIO Boost technology with Nahimic 3 to reward your ears with high-quality, immersive, and crystal clear sound. Plus, for maximum durability of the motherboard, the pre-installed I/O shielding is grounded to protect the I/O ports from potential electrostatic discharge damage.

One of the great things about this board is that this is a pre-owned motherboard that has been professionally inspected, tested, and cleaned by Amazon Qualified Suppliers.

ASRock B365M-HDV

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If you’re on a really tight budget and looking for a decent motherboard for designing or content creation, then this ASRock is perfect for you. This motherboard support 8^th & 9^th Gen Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance. Moreover, it supports 32GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of up to 2666MHz.

When it comes to design, this board features a fully rugged and basic design for maximum durability. Additionally, it features an advanced thermal design that allows your system to stay cool while enhancing overall performance.

This ASRock motherboard comes with ultra-fast M.2 slots with PCIe Gen3 x4 Ultra M.2 interface, which pushes data transfer speed up to 32Gb/s. Plus, it also supports SATA3 6Gb/s M.2 modules and is compatible with ASRock’s U 2 kit for installing some of the world’s fastest U.

What’s more, it comes with onboard Intel Gigabit LAN for next-generation networking. Not just this, it also comes with several USB ports for maximum connectivity.

Lastly, this B365M-HDV motherboard comes with a 7.1 Ch HD Audio with Realtek ALC887 AUDIO CODEC for warm, immersive, and crystal clear sound.

GIGABYTE Z490 AORUS MASTER

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If you want to both overclocking and gaming on a single motherboard, then this Gigabyte AORUS Master has got you covered. This motherboard supports the latest Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance.

Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory and comes with 4 DIMM slots. Additionally, it features 14 Power phase Digital VRM with 90A smart stages for optimal power delivery to the CPU.

Plus, this board features advanced thermal reactive armor for maximum heat dissipation. So, this Z490 motherboard will stay cool on VRMs and M.2 SSDs even on full loading, making it highly suitable for enthusiasts, overclockers, and professional users.

What’s more, it comes with Intel WIFI6 and Intel 2.5 GbE LAN so that you can enjoy smooth video streaming and a better gaming experience. Not just this, it also comes with 3x M.2 connectors for maximum data transfer speed.

Furthermore, it also comes with high-quality audio capacitors which reward your ears with warm, immersive, and crystal clear sound.

MSI MAG X570 TOMAAHAWK WIFI

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Lastly, we have another motherboard for photo editing from the house of MSI. This motherboard support 2^nd & 3^rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors for AM4 CPU socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of up to 4600MHz.

When it comes to design, this board is specially designed with tons of features for convenient setup & usage, such as pin-header keep-out-zone, friendly SATA & USB location, and multiple cooling solutions. So, DIY users can pick and select any gaming rig they want.

Additionally, we all know; cooling is essential for a high-performance system to sustain intense workloads. That’s why this motherboard features a heavy-duty heatsink on the MOSFET for reliable processor power delivery. While numerous fan headers with full-speed fan control let builders tune their system cooling the way they want.

When it comes to performance, MSI takes memory stability to the extreme. They have designed a memory circuit for maximum reliability & compatibility extensively in partnership with major memory manufacturers.

Overall, this MSI motherboard is exclusively designed to make the system assembly process as convenient as possible.

Ultimate Buying Guide For The Best Motherboard For Photo & Video Editing

Choosing the best motherboard for photography is one of the most complicated but crucial tasks when you are getting parts together for a new high-performance PC build.

That’s why we have decided to come up with a helpful buyers guide which will help you make better decisions.

Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Motherboard For Photo Editing

If you’re in the market or online for the best motherboard, then there are some factors that you should need to consider before making the final decision.

Processor & Brand:

When building a PC for photo editing, the choice of CPU and motherboard do affect the overall performance & speed. Not only motherboards for Intel & AMD processors different, but even among them, you must choose between chipset variants and features for certain CPUs.

If you’re purchasing a processor in 2021, then AMD offers some of the high-performance CPUs across all price categories. While Intel is lagging semiconductor process has related it to offering a value proposition instead.

Form Factor:

Although, the form factor of a motherboard doesn’t affect its quality and reliability; so you can base your choice completely on what sort of PC you’re building. Moreover, almost every motherboard’s form factor adheres to a certain standard for specs like dimensions, placement, and many more.

A large motherboard will offer more ports, enhanced extensibility, and more PCIe slots. On the other side, smaller motherboards grant you maximum portability & flexibility, which is good if you’re planning to build a more compact computer system.

Nowadays, motherboards come in three different form factors, which are as follows:

• Standard ATX
• Micro ATX or mATX
• Mini ITX

Random Access Memory (RAM):

Technically, the motherboard you will purchase determines the amount and the type of RAM you can use. That’s why it is worth being mindful of this before making the final decision.

We recommend you opt for a motherboard that can accommodate at least 16GB of memory, even though if you don’t plan to buy much initially. Although, you still have the option to use this memory later.

Additionally, you should also opt for a motherboard that offers at least 4 or more memory slots. Fortunately, all motherboard we have reviewed above offers 4 RAM slots.

Memory Overclocking Support:

From the start, AMD Ryzen CPUs have relied on Infinity Fabric which depends on memory speed to reduce latency. This makes memory speeds important factors when considering any motherboard for an AMD Ryzen processor.

While, For Intel CPUs – memory is not as crucial from what we have tested and doesn’t have a huge effect on the system’s performance.

In addition, you can easily work with a broader range of speeds & kits without running into problems unless you’re unlucky. But professionals just can’t afford to spend their valuable hours due to the system’s instability. That’s why we recommend to everyone out there to stay on the side of caution!

PCI Slots:

Basically, a PCI slot is a connection or port. It had been the standard type of expansion slots for years and allows expansion cards to be connected. This all depends on how you plan to use your computer.

So, if you’re a hardcore gamer, then you will need a motherboard that has at least one full-speed PCI-Express x16 slot. However, you will need multiple of those if you want to connect graphics cards.

Conclusion:

We think that MSI Gaming Intel X299 is the best motherboard for photo editing. It supports Intel Core X-Series of processors for the LGA 2066 socket. It also supports 256GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed 2666MHz. Plus, it comes with 8 DIMM slots.

This board is engineered using premium quality materials and equipped with high-quality components for maximum performance. It has an all-metal extended heatsink cover that enlarges the heat dissipation surface allowing the CPU power system to reliably drive multi-core processors.

Second, we have ASUS ROG Strix B550-F; this board support AMD Ryzen 3 5000 Series processors and 3^rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.

Moreover, this ASUS motherboard features a 12+2 Dr. MOS power stages design with high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors that provide optimal power delivery to the latest AMD Ryzen CPUs. Additionally, this gaming motherboard has two M.2 slots, including the latest PCIe 4.0, to provide maximum storage flexibility and ultra-fast data transfer speed.

Last but not the least, we have GIGABYTE Z490 UD; this motherboard is exclusively designed to support 9^th & 10^th Gen Intel Core processors for LGA 1200 socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.

This board features Direct 11+1 Power Phase Digital VRMs with Dr.MOS stages for optimal power delivery to the CPU. Additionally, this Gigabyte motherboard uses enlarged MOSFET heatsinks with grooved designs that provide more surface area and improves the thermal performance of the board.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Motherboard For Photo Editing

Which is more important of photo editing CPU or GPU?

GPU is more important for 4k+ production pipelines, and most image processing applications use GPU acceleration for display rendering, zooming, and navigation. However, the bulk of the actual processing happens on the CPU.

Which is better for photo editing Intel or AMD?

AMD CPU will perform better with some tasks in photoshop & lightroom while the Intel processor will better in other tasks. For active tasks, the things that require a photographer to click on buttons & sliders are probably the largest factor. However, for passive tasks, like export, and core count is probably the biggest factor also.

How many cores do you need for optimal photo editing?

Photoshop can take advantage of several cores, but more than six cores would be great. So, you should go for at least 4 cores if 6 is available.

Is 4 cores enough for photo editing?

Photoshop can efficiently use multiple cores, but its efficiency drops off after two cores. With four cores CPU, only being around 25% faster than the two-core at the same clock speed. Therefore, it is recommended to utilize a processor with fewer cores and higher clock speed if your budget is limited.