Are you looking for the best motherboard for CAD? If yes! Then this article will guide you all through to pick the best one for yourself. But before choosing the best motherboard for the CAD workstation, first, you should gauge your level of need. Because without gauging your needs, it will very be hard for you to find the right motherboard.
We all know, CAD is a very demanding application that requires a high-end PC with premium-quality components. That’s why, in this article, we are going to review the top 10 motherboards for CAD workstations and engineering students. We also provide a helpful buying guide which will help you to make better decisions.
However, if you’re in a hurry, then we recommend you – MSI MPG Z390 GAMING AC is the motherboard for CAD. It supports 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core processors for the LGA 1151 socket. It also supports 64GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz. Plus, it comes with 4 DIMM slots.
This 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.
Also, read our latest guide about Best Motherboard For Overclocking Ryzen 2600
Best Motherboards For CAD Workstation in 2021
The choice of motherboard you’re going with is mostly decided by the type of CPU you’re using. Therefore, we have selected the following motherboards from different price ranges.
Image | Name | Features | Check Price |
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MSI MPG Z390 GAMING Edge AC |
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ASRock B550 Taichi |
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ASUS ROG Strix 490-I |
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ASUS TUF Z390 GAMING PLUS |
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MSI TRX40 PRO |
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ASUS TUF B550 PLUS |
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GIGABYTE A520M AORUS ELITE |
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ASUS PROART B550-Creator |
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GIGABYTE X299X AORUS Designare |
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ASRock X299 Taichi |
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ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming |
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ASUS AMD PRO WS X570-Ace |
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MSI MEG X570 ACE Motherboard |
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ASUS Prime B460M-A Motherboa |
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ASUS Prime Z490-A |
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ASUS WS C246M PRO |
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ASUS Pro WS WRX80E-SAGE SE |
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MSI MPG Z390 GAMING Edge AC
Specification
- Brand: MSI.
- Processor: It Supports 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core/Pentium/ Celeron Processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-Express x16, PCI-Express x4.
Features
- Good-looking design.
- Easy to install.
- Innovative cooling.
- Ideal for gaming.
- Value for money.
As we all know, MSI is a trusty brand that offers one of the best motherboards for gaming & non-gaming purposes. And this Z390 Gaming Edge AC is one of them. This motherboard support 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core/ Pentium Gold/ and Celeron processors for LGA 1151 socket.
Moreover, it supports 64GB dual-channel DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed 4400MHz. When it comes to design, this motherboard features extended heatsinks on the top of the VRM that help to dissipate excessive heat. Additionally, these extended heatsinks have even more surface area for additional thermal dissipation.
When it comes to performance, this model comes with Twin Tubo M.2, so you will enjoy a blazing fast boot-up, quick application load times, and high data transfer speed. Plus, the two M.2 slots can deliver speeds up to 32Gb/s for NVMe SSDs.
What’s more, this board comes with onboard Intel WIFI and Bluetooth that uses smart MU-MIMO technology, delivering AC speeds up to 1.73Gbps. Not just this, it has isolated audio circuitry, a high-quality ALC1220 audio processor, a dedicated amplifier, and high-quality audio capacitors to reward your ears with warm, immersive, and crystal clear sound.
Furthermore, this MSI motherboard comes with an MSI Mystic light feature allowing you to customize and set up your own color scheme with special Application/software.
ASRock B550 Taichi
Specification
- Brand: ASRock.
- Processor: Support AMD 3rd Gen Processors.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: AMD B550.
- PCIe x16 Slots: 3.
Features
- Stable & reliable.
- Easy to install.
- 16 Power phase design.
- RGB lighting.
- Best for gaming.
If you’re an enthusiast or professional user looking for a highly durable and powerful motherboard for CAD, then this ASRock B550 Taichi has got you covered. This motherboard support 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen and future AMD processors for AM4 CPU socket.
Moreover, this board support DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 2400MHz. Plus, it comes with 4 Ram slots. When it comes to design, this model features 16 Power phase design for optimal power delivery to the CPU.
Additionally, this ASRock motherboard features an advanced thermal design that allows your system to stay cool while enhancing overall performance. When it comes to performance, this motherboard features 3 PCIe 4.0/3.0 x16 slots and 2 PCIe 3.0 x1 slots for maximum data transfer speed & performance.
What’s more, this model comes with several USB ports, including HDMI and Display Port, for maximum connectivity options. Not just this, it also comes with RGB lighting, which is great for RGB lovers out there.
Overall, this is an excellent motherboard for gaming, CAD applications, and other demanding tasks.
ASUS ROG Strix 490-I
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Support 9th & 10th Gen Intel Core Processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 2.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z490.
- Form Factor: Mini ITX.
Features
- Durable & compact.
- Easy to install.
- Double capacity DIMM support.
- AI Cooling & AI Networking.
- Worth money.
ASUS is also a trendy brand that delivers high-quality, durable, and powerful motherboards to its loyal customers. And this 490-I ROG Strix motherboard is one of them. This board is exclusively designed to support the latest 10th Gen Intel Core processors for LGA 1200 CPU socket.
Moreover, this motherboard also supports 64GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of 4800MHz. Additionally, this ASUS motherboard features 8+2 Dr. MOS power stages with a ProCool II power connector, high-quality alloy chokes, and durable capacitors that provide reliable power when pushing CPU performance.
Additionally, this board comes with ROG AI overclocking, which is an intelligent utility that helps you to get the most out of your build by automatically profiling your CPU and cooling system to predict optimal voltage & frequency settings.
What’s more, it also comes with an ASUS AI cooling function that automatically manages and controls fans connected to the motherboard to ensure optimal settings based on current system load & temperature.
Not just this, this best motherboard for CAD workstation applications is equipped with an AI networking utility designed to help all users, including beginners, experts, and everyone in between – optimize network settings to ensure smooth gameplay.
Furthermore, this model has dual M.2 slots with both supporting SATA and PCIe 3.0 x4 modules. Together, these will provide you with the fastest & most flexible M.2 interface.
Lastly, this ROG Strix 490-I motherboard comes with onboard WIFI 6, which supports ultra-fast wireless networking speeds, improved capacity, and better performance in dense wireless environments.
ASUS TUF Z390 GAMING PLUS
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Support 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core Processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z390.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-Express x4.
Features
- Eye-catching design.
- Affordable price.
- Flexible cooling control.
- TUF protection & components.
- ASUS AURA RGB lighting.
Here is another high-quality, good-looking, and affordable motherboard from the house of ASUS. This motherboard is exclusively designed for 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance. Moreover, it supports 64GB DDR4 memory and comes with 4 memory slots.
When it comes to design, this board is made up of military-grade components like TUF LANGuard, TUF Chokes, TUF Capacitors, and TUF MOSFET for maximum system’s durability.
Additionally, this TUF Gaming motherboard includes a fan Xpert 4 feature that intelligently controls systems fans based upon the input of multiple temperature sensors. This ensures that the gaming system will stay perfectly cooled no matter how long you play.
What’s more, this model comes with ASUS OptiMem II Support which carefully maps memory signal pathways across different PCB layers to reduce vias while also adds shielding zones that significantly reduce crosstalk.
Not just this, to further enhance overclocking headroom for fully stacked memory configurations, this motherboard has a high-customized T-Topology layout that delivers time-aligned signaling.
Furthermore, the ASUS AURA offers full RGB lighting control with a variety of functional presets for the built-in RGB LEDs as well as strips connected to the onboard RGB headers. And this can all be synced with an ever-growing portfolio of AURA-capable hardware.
MSI TRX40 PRO
Specification
- Brand: MSI.
- Processor: Supports AMD Ryzen Processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 8.
- Chipset Type: AMD TRX40.
- Form Factor: ATX.
Features
- Good-looking.
- Innovative cooling.
- Dual LAN feature.
- Core Boost.
If you’re ready to invest in a high-end motherboard without worrying about the price point, then this MSI TRX40 PRO is an ideal option to consider. This motherboard supports the latest AMD Ryzen processors for the TRX40 CPU socket. Moreover, it also supports 64GB DDR4 technology with a maximum memory speed 2666MHz.
When it comes to design, this board features a premium layout and fully digital power design to support more cores and provide better performance. Additionally, it also features a Frozr heatsink designed with the patented fan and double ball bearings to provide the best performance for enthusiast gamers and professional users.
Plus, the all-metal extended heatsink cover enlarges the heat dissipation surface allowing the CPU power system to reliably drive multi-core processors. What’s more, it comes with ultra-fast lighting USB 20G, which quickly moves large files, including uncompressed video, raw images, and bulky simulation data powered by the ASMedia 3242 chip.
However, the only downside of this model is that it is costly, which makes it less suitable for budget users.
ASUS TUF B550 PLUS
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Processor.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: AMD B550.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Stable & reliable.
- Affordable price.
- Ideal for gaming.
- Tech support.
- Value for money.
If you’re a budget and looking for a decent motherboard for CAD, then this ASUS B550 has got you covered. This motherboard support AMD Ryzen 3 for AM4 CPU socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.
When it comes to building quality, this TUF Gaming Motherboard is engineered with tough components for maximum system durability. Additionally, it features an advanced thermal design that keeps your system cool when dealing with higher frequencies.
What’s more, it comes with ASUS AI Noise-canceling microphone software which is exclusively featured on ASUS motherboards and 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 & mouse clicks.
Not just this, it also comes with onboard 2.5G Ethernet that gives you next-generation networking for maximum gaming or working experience.
Furthermore, this model has two M.2 slots, including the latest PCIe 4.0, to provide maximum storage flexibility and the fastest data speeds available via the 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processor. Both these M.2 slots support up to the type 22110 socket and NVM Express RAID for a performance boost.
GIGABYTE A520M AORUS ELITE
Specification
- Brand: Gigabyte.
- Processor: Support 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen Processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 2.
- Form Factor: Micro ATX.
- PCIe x16 Slot: 1.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Easy to install.
- Low price.
- Advanced thermal design.
- High-quality sound.
If you’re on a really tight budget and looking for the best motherboard for a CAD workstation, then this Gigabyte motherboard is perfect for you. This board is exclusively designed to support 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors for AM4 CPU socket. Moreover, it supports dual-channel DDR4 memory and comes with 4 DIMM slots.
When it comes to design, this motherboard features a sleek, ergonomic, and lightweight design which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers. Additionally, it also features a 5+3 Digital PWM power phase design for optimal power delivery to the CPU.
When it comes to performance – cooling is essential; that’s why this board has an advanced thermal design with enlarged surface heatsinks for innovative cooling. Plus, it comes with an ultra-durable PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and 1x NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 slot for maximum data transfer speed.
What’s more, this Gigabyte motherboard is equipped with blazing fast onboard 1GbE LAN for next-generation networking. Not just this, it is also equipped with ALC887 Audio CODEC for crystal clear sound.
One of the great things is that this is Amazon’s recommended motherboard which means you don’t have to worry about the quality, performance, and price point. Because Amazon only recommends high-quality and well-priced motherboards.
ASUS PROART B550-Creator
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support Latest AMD Ryzen processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI, PCI-E.
Features
- Good-looking.
- Affordable price.
- Advanced thermal design.
- Fast data transfer rate.
- Value for money.
If you’re looking for the best motherboard for overclocking AMD Ryzen processors, then this Pro Art motherboard is the best option to consider. This motherboard support AMD Ryzen 5000 Series, 4000 G-Series, and 3000 Series Desktop processors for the AM3 CPU socket. Moreover, it also supports DDR4 memory technology and comes with 4 RAM slots.
When it comes to design, this motherboard features a comprehensive and efficient thermal design that allows your system to stay cool while dealing with higher frequencies.
Additionally, this board is equipped with PCIe 4.0 slots that are ready for speedy data transfer rate. While the 12+2 power stages are there to support the latest AMD Ryzen processors. Plus, it is also equipped with an industry-leading USB port management software backlist, Regetid enabled/disabled via ASUS control center express.
What’s more, this ASUS motherboard features ASUS Exclusive two-way AI noise cancellation to fit WHF scenario, Creator hub, and many more for a unified user experience.
Overall, this motherboard is equipped creative professionals with powerful hardware and software tools to accelerate their workflows.
GIGABYTE X299X AORUS Designare
Specification
- Brand: Gigabyte.
- Processor: Support Intel Core X-Series of Processors.
- Memory: 1000TB.
- Memory Slots: 8.
- Chipset Type: Intel X299.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- High build quality.
- Easy to install.
- Advanced cooling system.
- Sound quality.
- Ultra-fast speed.
This is probably the most expensive motherboard in the market right now. But it is also great value for money. This Gigabyte motherboard supports Intel Core X Series processors for LGA 2066 CPU socket. Moreover, it supports 1000TB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed 4433MHz.
Plus, it comes with 8 RAM slots. When it comes to design, this board is engineered using premium quality materials for maximum durability and performance. Additionally, it features 12 phases IR digital VRM solution with a 70a power stage.
What’s more, it also features an advanced fins array thermal design with extended heat pipes/backplates for innovative cooling.
Also, read our full review of Gigabyte X570S Aorus Master Motherboard
With the smart fan 5 feature, users can ensure that their PC can maintain its performance while staying cool. This feature also allows users to interchange their fan headers to reflect different thermal sensors at different locations of the motherboard.
Not just this, this model comes with ALC1220 ANR HD Audio with a smart headphone Amp that automatically detects the impedance of your head-worn audio device.
ASRock X299 Taichi
Specification
- Brand: ASRock.
- Processor: Support Intel Core X-Series of processors.
- Memory: 256GB.
- Chipset Type: Intel X299.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCIe x26 Slot: 4.
- Graphics Card Interface: Integrated.
Features
- Stable & reliable.
- Affordable price.
- RGB lighting.
- Worth money.
Lastly, we have this ASRock X299 Taichi motherboard. This motherboard supports the latest Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance. Moreover, it supports 256GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 2133MHz.
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 an extra-large aluminum alloy heatsink along with heatpipe that effectively takes away heat from the MOSFET so that your whole system will perform at its maximum speed.
Also, read our guide about Best X299 Motherboards
For maximum data transfer speed, it comes with 4 PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 slot with NVIDIA 3-way SLITM & AMD 3-way Crossfire technology. Not just this, it also comes with Realtek 2.5 Gigabit LAN with onboard Intel WIFI 6 for next-generation networking & speed.
Overall, this is a decent motherboard for gaming and several other demanding tasks such as CAD workstations.
ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Supports Zen 3 Ryzen & 3rd Gen CPUs.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: AMD B550.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Easy to install.
- Affordable price.
- Robust power design.
- Tech support.
- Value for money.
If you’re a budget user and looking for a high-performance motherboard for CAD from a trusty brand, then this ROG Strix B550 motherboard has got you covered. This motherboard supports Zen 3 Ryzen and 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors for maximum speed and performance. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.
When it comes to design, this board features 12+2 DrMOS power stages with high-quality alloy chokes with durable power capacitors to deliver the optimal current to the motherboard’s most power-hungry components.
Additionally, this best motherboard for CAD features fanless VRM and a chipset heatsink with ASUS Stack Cool 3+ design that keeps your computer system running reliably while dealing with higher frequencies.
What’s more, this best budget motherboard for CAD workstation has two M.2 slots, including the latest PCIe 4.0, to provide maximum storage flexibility and the fastest data transfer speed. Not just this, it comes with onboard 2.5G Ethernet, giving your wired connection a power boost, providing up to 2.5X performance improvement over the standard Ethernet connections.
Furthermore, this motherboard comes equipped with high-quality Gaming Audio and AI Noise Cancelling technology to deliver warm, immersive, and crystal clear sound while you are working.
Overall, this ROG Strix B550-F Gaming motherboard embodies the Strix spirit, with eye-catching aesthetics that clearly reflect its gaming roots.
ASUS AMD PRO WS X570-Ace
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Supports AMD Ryzen CPUs.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: AMD 570X.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCIe 4.0 x16 Slots: 3.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Good-looking design.
- High-build quality.
- Innovative cooling system.
- Ultra-fast storage speed.
- Best Motherboard for CAD Workstation.
Here is another high-quality workstation motherboard from the house of ASUS. This motherboard supports the latest AMD Ryzen processors for the AM4 CPU socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz.
Additionally, this best ASUS motherboard for CAD is made up of military-grade TUF materials for maximum longevity of the motherboard. Plus, it features an appealing to eyes design which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers.
What’s more, this best workstation motherboard features an ultra-efficient VRM heatsink and a metal fin-array design for maximum heat dissipation to enable unthrottled performance. Not just this, this board comes with ultra-fast M.2 slots for maximum data transfer speeds.
Furthermore, it also comes with ASUS Control Center, which is a specialized software that is equipped with dual GbE LAN for out-of-band management for centralized and affordable IT management.
Lastly, it also comes with USB 3.2 Gen1 with Type-A and Type-C ports for next-generation connectivity.
MSI MEG X570 ACE Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: MSI.
- Processor: It Supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen CPUs.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: AMD X570 ACE.
- Form Factor: ATX.
Features
- Robust design.
- Easy to install.
- Best for demanding tasks.
- High build quality.
- Crystal clear sound quality.
Lastly, we have another MSI motherboard for CAD. This enthusiast motherboard supports 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen and future AMD Ryzen processors with BIOS updates. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of 2666Mhz.
When it comes to design, this motherboard also features a good-looking design to give gaming/working PC a flawless look. Additionally, it comes with smart cooling technology, which means that fan speed is automatically controlled by an AI tuning system that also monitors the board’s temperature.
Plus, with its Zero FROZR technology – the fan power down temporarily during low-load situations and produces no fan noise.
When it comes to performance, this motherboard comes equipped with Triple lightning Gen4 M.2 slots that are capable of delivering a unidirectional transfer speed of up to 64Gb/s. Not just this, it has onboard 2.5G Gigabit LAN with gaming LAN manager for next-generation networking & speed.
Furthermore, this MSI motherboard comes with Audio Boost HD technology that includes a dedicated audio processor and ESS DAC with an amplifier to deliver warm, immersive, and crystal clear audio.
Lastly, the MSI Mystic Light brings colorful lightning and infinity mirror for deceptively endless lightning effects. Not just this, Mystic light also allows you to personalize your gaming or workstation PC with 16.8 Million colors and 29 different lighting effects.
ASUS Prime B460M-A Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Supports 10th Gen Intel Core Processors.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel B460.
- Form Factor: Micro ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Compact & durable.
- Affordable price.
- ASUS Aura Sync RGB.
- ASUS OptiMem technology.
- Worth money.
This ASUS Prime Series of the motherboard is specifically engineered to unleash the full potential of the latest 10th Gen Intel Core processors. This ASUS Prime motherboard provides users and DIY PC builders a variety of performance tuning options via included software & hardware.
Moreover, this best motherboard for CAD workstation supports 128GB DDR4 with a maximum memory speed of 2933MHz.
When it comes to design, this best budget motherboard for CAD features a 5x Protection III feature, which is all-around protection with LANGuard, over-voltage protection, DRAM overcurrent protection, and stainless steel back I/O.
Additionally, this board also features 8 DrMOS power stages, a ProCool Power connector, and high-quality alloy chokes for delivering stable power delivery to the most power-hungry components of the motherboard.
Plus, this B460M-A Prime Motherboard has a comprehensive cooling solution that includes an innovative VRMM heatsink, PCH heatsink, and hybrid fan headers for maximum cooling performance. Besides, it also has ASUS’s Exclusive OptiMem technology that allows memory kits to run at full potential with low voltages.
What’s more, this model comes with multiple ultra-fast M.2 slots and PCIe slots for maximum data transfer speed. Not just this, it also comes with various USB ports for extensive connectivity options.
Lastly, this ASUS Prime Motherboard comes equipped with the ASUS Aura Sync RGB feature which allows users to synchronize LED effects across a vast portfolio of compatible ASUS components including addressable RGB Strips.
ASUS Prime Z490-A
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Supports 10th Gen Intel Core Processors.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z490.
- Form Factor: ATX.
Features
- Extreme power solution.
- Affordable price.
- Crystal clear sound quality.
- ASUS AI Overclocking technology.
- AI Cooling technology.
Here is another high-quality and well-priced motherboard from their Prim Series. This z490 motherboard is also ready to support 10th Gen Intel Core processors for LGA 1200 CPU socket. It supports 128GB DDR4 memory with a maximum memory speed of 4600MHz.
When it comes to design, this best motherboard for CAD workstation under $200 uses 12+2 DrMOS power stages, 6-layer PCB, ProCool Sockets, and durable capacitors to fulfill the power demands on the latest Intel Processors.
Additionally, this best gaming motherboard also uses an advanced cooling solution that allows users that their computer can maintain its performance while staying cool & stable. Plus, this board features ASUS OptiMem technology for maximum memory stability & performance.
What’s more, it comes with lightning-fast M.2 drives that rests under an innovative heatsink to ward off the thermal throttling that may occur while sustaining maximum data transfer speeds. Not just this, it also comes with various USB ports, including front-panel USB Type-C connectors with fast USB 3.2 Gen2 connectivity.
One of the great things about this model is that this ASUS Prime Z490-A Motherboard comes equipped with ASUS’s Exclusive AI Overclocking technology that intelligently profiles your processor and cooling system to predict optimal thermal voltage and frequency settings.
Lastly, this best budget motherboard also comes equipped with an onboard Realtek S1220A Audio CODEC that offers pristine audio quality to draw you deeper into the action of the game or work.
ASUS WS C246M PRO
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Supports 8th Gen Intel Core & Xeon Processors.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 3.
- Form factor: Micro ATX.
- USB Ports: 6.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Durable & stable.
- Patent-pending Safe Slot.
- Support up to three independent display.
- 8-Channe HD Audio.
- I/O Shield.
This is yet a high-performance workstation motherboard from the house of ASUS. This ASUS motherboard is exclusively designed to support 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Xeon Processors for LGA 1151 CPU socket. Moreover, this model supports DDR4 memory technology and comes equipped with three memory slots.
When it comes to design, this ASUS C246M Motherboard features a simple & durable design for maximum longevity of the product. Plus, it also features full infrastructure management with a built-in ASUS control center providing a complete server management solution while also reducing its operating costs.
Additionally, this best workstation motherboard under $250 has a patent-pending Safe Slot that is designed through an injection molding process that integrates metal framing for stronger and firmly anchored PCIe slots for heavy-weight CPUs.
What’s more, this ASUS motherboard also supports up to three independent displays at once for enhanced multi-tasking and productivity. Not just this, it also comes with a total of six USB ports for ultra-fast connectivity.
Besides, this board comes with lightning-fast M.2 slots and SATA 6G cables for maximum data transfer speeds. Furthermore, it also has a pre-mounted I/O Shield for ease of installation.
Lastly, this best motherboard for CAD features 8-Channel HD Audio powered by ASUS’s Exclusive Realtek ALC887 HD Audio CODEC for studio-grade sound quality.
ASUS Pro WS WRX80E-SAGE SE
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: It Supports AMD Ryzen Threadripper Processors.
- Memory: 256GB.
- Memory Slots: 8.
- Form Factor: Extended ATX.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Robust power solution.
- Ultra-fast connectivity.
- Innovative cooling performance.
- Best motherboard workstation.
- Highly recommended.
Lastly, we have another high-performance motherboard from ASUS, but this time it is on the pricier side. So, for users budget is an issue, should consider this model. This workstation motherboard supports AMD Ryzen Threadripper Series of processors for AM4 CPU socket.
When it comes to design, this high-performance motherboard features a compact, durable and appealing to eyes design which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers. Additionally, it also features 16 power stages and ProCool power connectors for maximum power delivery.
Plus, this ASUS Pro Motherboard features an advanced thermal solution that includes high-quality aluminum heatsink, DRAM heatsink, and M.2 heatsink for maximum cooling performance.
What’s more, this board comes with triple ultra-fast M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots with Hyper M.2 x16 Gen2 card for maximum speed. Not just this, it also comes with multiple USB ports including 2x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports, and 10 USB 3.2 Gen2 ports for next-gen connectivity.
Besides, this motherboard comes equipped with Intel X550-AT2 dual 10Gb Ethernet and the latest onboard Wi-Fi 6 for maximum networking.
Overall, this ASUS Pro WS WRX80E-SAGE SE is an excellent workstation motherboard. Because it can efficiently handle all the demanding tasks that you through at it. But the downside of this model is that it is highly expensive around $850.
Ultimate Buying Guide For The Best Motherboards For CAD Workstation
As we promised earlier, here is the buying guide for the best motherboard. In this guide, we have covered almost everything that you should need to consider before making a decision.
So, if you’re a beginner and didn’t know how to buy the right motherboard for CAD & Engineering, then this guide is especially for you!
How To Pick The Best Motherboard For CAD
If you’re in the market or online for the best motherboard, then there are some things that you should need to consider before clicking the “add to cart†button.
Entry-Level Setup:
If you are one who wants to do simple CAD designing, such as 2D architectural drawings, then you don’t need a high-end system with a powerful motherboard. In fact, you don’t even need a high-end graphics card since most of the drawing layouts are 2D-based. All you need is just a decent processor.
Moreover, 2D designing on software like CAD is primarily based on the processor’s single-core performance. This means you won’t quite necessarily benefit from a higher core count as much as you would benefit from a high-performance single core.
Although, the processor with a higher number of cores will allow you to do great multitasking while also allowing you to handle multiple software simultaneously.
And when it comes to entry-level setup – we think that you should opt for a powerful processor, which could be Intel Core i7 or Ryzen 7. In addition, we recommend you to invest in at least 16GB of RAM for better speed & performance.
Mid-Range:
A mid-range CAD computer is essentially a high-performance PC by the standard for an average user.
You should opt for a system that features high-end Intel Core i7/ Core i9, Ryzen 7/ or Ryzen 9 processors. So that it will be able to work on very complex 2D & 3D designs. A good firm may have a couple of these types of PCs for handling demanding tasks.
For this reason, we recommend you to look for a motherboard with an Intel X570 chipset or an AMD Z490 chipset.
Workstation Grade:
The holy grail for any CAD user or engineer is a workstation PC. Because these are compact but yet powerful supercomputers that have the capability of handling cutting-edge projects.
Although, most of the local or small engineering firms don’t require a workstation PC. Only the most advanced firms would find the use of workstation systems.
A normal workstation PC has 64-Cores and multiple GPUs. So, if you’re a professional worker who is working in a popular engineering firm, then we recommend you to go with a decent workstation PC for efficient working.
Conclusion:
We think that MSI MPG Z390 GAMING AC is the motherboard for CAD workstation. It supports 8th & 9th Gen Intel Core processors for the LGA 1151 socket. It also supports 64GB DDR4 memory technology with a maximum memory speed of 4400MHz. Plus, it comes with 4 DIMM slots.
This 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.
Second, we have ASUS ROG Strix B550-F; this board support AMD Ryzen 3 5000 Series processors and 3rd 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.
Last but not the least, we have GIGABYTE A520M AORUS Elite; this motherboard is exclusively designed to support 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen processors for the AM4 socket. Moreover, it supports 128GB DDR4 memory technology and comes with 2 memory slots.
This model comes with ultra-durable PCIe Gen3 x16 slots for maximum data transfer speed. It also comes with ALC887 CODEC and USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports for maximum networking & connectivity options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Motherboard For CAD Workstation
Do you really need a powerful computer system for CAD?
If you’re a normal designer who simply uses AutoCAD to design 2D designs, then you don’t need a powerful processor. However, Autodesk’s products all work differently, but it is recommended to opt for a Quad-Core processor when dealing with designing software. The main reason for this is rendering 3D models.
What specs do you need for a CAD workstation?
You would need a Quad-Core Intel Core i7 processor or a Quad-Core Intel Xeon processor which supports ECC memory. Moreover, you would also need at least 16GB of RAM or more, depending on the type of projects you’re working on.
Lastly, you would need a professional workstation graphics solution that includes hardware and drivers that improve and accelerate the performance of certain CAD applications.
Is Intel or AMD better for CAD?
For multi-threaded workflows such as rendering in AutoCAD. We recommend AMD-based computers. Because they offer more cores & threads and better value for money while maintaining high clock speeds that comfortably handle your 2D & 3D designs.
How much RAM do I need for running CAD?
You will need at least 16GB of RAM to meet workstation requirements. However, in the most extreme cases, 32GB of RAM will be more than enough for better working. Although, you can also even higher, like 64GB, if you’re planning to use some other high-end software at once.
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