Skip to content
XEMAA

10 Best Haswell 1150 Motherboard in 2026

This guide compares the top Haswell 1150 Motherboard options for 2026, covering features, compatibility, and value for budget and premium builds.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Read our affiliate disclosure.As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.Purchases through our links may earn us a commission, at no extra cost to you. Read our affiliate disclosure.
In this guide
  1. 01Top 3 picks
  2. 02Compare all 10
  3. 03In-depth reviews
  4. 04Buying guide
  5. 05Use and care
  6. 06Common questions
  7. 07Final verdict

Finding the right Haswell 1150 Motherboard is crucial for building a reliable and cost-effective PC. These boards support Intel's 4th and 5th generation processors, offering solid performance for gaming and productivity tasks without breaking the bank.

We have evaluated ten distinct models based on their feature sets, build quality, and user feedback. Our analysis focuses on chipset capabilities, expansion slots, memory support, and connectivity options to help you make an informed decision for your specific needs.

Each pick highlights specific strengths like budget friendliness or premium features. Please note that prices and availability fluctuate frequently, so check the current listings before purchasing to ensure you get the best deal available today.

Top 3 Picks for Best Haswell 1150 Motherboard

Best Budget

B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard
B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard

4.4Editor score

Supports Intel 4th Gen CPUs
Dual-channel DDR3 memory up to 32GB
Includes M.2 NVMe support

Check price

Editor's Choice

Gigabyte LGA 1150 Z97 ATX
Gigabyte LGA 1150 Z97 ATX

4.1Editor score

Robust Z97 chipset features
Four DDR3 DIMM sockets
UEFI DualBIOS technology

Check price

Best Premium

MSI Intel Z97 LGA 1150
MSI Intel Z97 LGA 1150

4.3Editor score

Premium Z97 chipset support
Two-way CrossFireX ready
Advanced video output options

Check price

Top 10 Best Haswell 1150 Motherboard in 2026 Compared

This table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten motherboards, highlighting key specifications like chipset, form factor, and memory support to simplify your selection process.

ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
1LGA1150 H81 Mini ITX

Editor's Choice

LGA1150 H81 Mini ITX
H81 Chipset
Mini ITX Form Factor
DDR3 Memory Support
M.2 NVMe Interface
4.8Editor score

Check price

2Asus Micro ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 H87M-E

Editor's Choice

Asus Micro ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 H87M-E
H87 Chipset
Micro ATX Form Factor
USB 3.0 Support
Exclusive EZ Mode
3.8Editor score

Check price

3PC Motherboard Gaming Motherboard H81

Best Premium

PC Motherboard Gaming Motherboard H81
H81 Chipset
Micro ATX Form Factor
M.2 NVMe NGFF
DDR3 1600MHz
4.1Editor score

Check price

4Gigabyte LGA 1150 Z97 ATX

Gigabyte LGA 1150 Z97 ATX
Z97 Chipset
ATX Form Factor
DDR3 3100MHz OC
UEFI DualBIOS
4.1Editor score

Check price

5B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard

B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard
B85 Chipset
Micro ATX Form Factor
M.2 NVMe SATA
8-Layer PCB Design
4.4Editor score

Check price

6MSI Intel Z97 LGA 1150

MSI Intel Z97 LGA 1150
Z97 Chipset
ATX Form Factor
CrossFireX Ready
VGA DVI HDMI Ports
4.3Editor score

Check price

7ASRock ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 Z97 PRO3

ASRock ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 Z97 PRO3
Z97 Chipset
ATX Form Factor
RAID 0 1 5 10
Multiple PCIe Slots
4.2Editor score

Check price

8Gigabyte LGA 1150 H97 Wi-Fi

Gigabyte LGA 1150 H97 Wi-Fi
H97 Chipset
Mini ITX Form Factor
Onboard Wi-Fi BT
Up to 3 Displays
3.9Editor score

Check price

9H97M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard

H97M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard
H97 Chipset
Micro ATX Form Factor
32GB Max Memory
2 Gigabit Interfaces
3.2Editor score

Check price

10ASUS ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 H97-PLUS

ASUS ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 H97-PLUS
H97 Chipset
ATX Form Factor
M.2 Onboard 10Gb/s
Crystal Sound 2
4.2Editor score

Check price

1. LGA1150 H81 Mini ITX – Best Overall Haswell 1150 Motherboard

LGA1150 H81 Mini ITX DDR3 Motherboard, Dual Channel 8GB Serial ATA 6Gbs M.2 WiFi NVMe PCIE X16 Mini ITX Computer Mainboard for Haswell 4th 5th, for Core i3 i5 i74.8Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
LGA1150 H81 Mini ITX
H81 Chipset
Dual Channel DDR3
M.2 NVMe Slot
Integrated WiFi

This H81 Mini ITX motherboard stands out as a top choice for compact builds requiring modern storage interfaces. It supports 4th and 5th generation Intel Core processors efficiently. The inclusion of M.2 NVMe and WiFi makes it versatile for small form factor systems.

Pros

  • Compact Mini ITX design
  • Supports M.2 drives
  • Affordable entry price
  • Solid connectivity options
  • WiFi included onboard

Cons

  • Limited expansion slots
  • Basic VRM cooling

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

The board features dual-channel DDR3 memory slots supporting up to 16GB total. Its eight-layer PCB ensures structural integrity while the six-phase power supply delivers stability. Realtek audio and gigabit Ethernet are standard for reliable everyday performance.

While the small form factor limits expansion, the included WiFi and M.2 slot offset this for many users. The lack of extensive overclocking features is acceptable given the H81 chipset limitations. Overall it offers a strong balance of features and size.

Buyers looking to build a small home theater PC or budget gaming rig should consider this board. It provides essential modern connectivity without the bulk of larger ATX boards. Its price point makes it accessible for entry-level system builders.

Compact Form Factor Benefits

The Mini ITX design fits into smaller cases ideal for space constrained setups. Despite the size it retains crucial interfaces for modern storage and networking needs.

Modern Connectivity Features

Integrated WiFi and M.2 NVMe support ensure you are not left behind by older standards. These features allow for faster boot times and wireless convenience.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

2. Asus Micro ATX H87M-E – Solid Mid Range Option

Asus Micro ATX DDR3 LGA 1150 Motherboards H87M-E3.8Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
Asus Micro ATX H87M-E
H87 Chipset
Micro ATX Size
USB 3.0 Support
EZ Mode BIOS

The Asus H87M-E offers a solid foundation for mid-range systems using LGA 1150 processors. It focuses on stability and ease of use with its EZ Mode interface. The USB 3.0 transfer speeds are significantly faster than older standards.

Pros

  • Easy EZ Mode interface
  • Fast USB transfer speeds
  • Reliable ASUS quality
  • Comprehensive controls

Cons

  • Lower user rating average
  • Fewer modern features

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

Protection features are highlighted to ensure longevity and reliability during operation. The board is designed to balance cooling and quiet operation effectively. Memory removal is simplified for easier maintenance and upgrades.

While the rating is moderate, it reflects an older product generation that still holds value. Users prioritizing brand reliability and basic functionality may find it sufficient. It lacks some advanced features found on newer models.

This motherboard is suitable for users who prefer a straightforward setup process. It works well for office PCs or basic home systems where extreme performance is not required. The build quality aligns with Asus expectations.

User Friendly BIOS

The EZ Mode adds useful information to simplify system configuration. This feature helps users manage settings without navigating complex menus.

USB Performance

Transfer speeds are marketed as 170 percent faster than traditional USB 3.0. This improves data throughput for external drives and peripherals.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

3. PC Motherboard Gaming H81 – Budget Gaming Value

PC Motherboard Gaming Motherboard H81 M . 2 NVMe NGFF 6Gbs LGA 1150 Micro ATX High Speed ​​Desktop PC4.1Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
PC Motherboard Gaming H81
H81 Chipset
M.2 NVMe NGFF
Micro ATX Form
DDR3 1600MHz

This H81 Micro ATX board is positioned as a budget gaming solution with modern storage support. It supports LGA 1150 CPUs and includes an M.2 slot for NVMe drives. The 8-layer PCB aims to provide stability during demanding tasks.

Pros

  • Includes M.2 NVMe slot
  • Affordable pricing
  • Standard PCIe expansion
  • Multiple USB ports

Cons

  • Limited BIOS features
  • Basic power delivery

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

I/O interfaces include multiple USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports for connectivity. Video outputs cover VGA and HDMI to support integrated graphics easily. The memory slots support up to 16GB for dual channel operation.

While it lacks premium features, the inclusion of M.2 makes it versatile for storage upgrades. The power supply design focuses on stability without complex voltage regulation. It is a practical choice for cost conscious builders.

Buyers seeking a simple board with essential modern connectivity will appreciate this model. It serves well for office or light gaming builds where budget is a primary concern. The feature set is appropriate for the price point.

Storage Upgrade Path

The M.2 slot supports NVMe and NGFF interfaces for faster storage. This allows users to upgrade their system speed without changing the motherboard.

Connectivity Options

Multiple USB ports and HDMI output ensure broad peripheral compatibility. This supports various input devices and display requirements effectively.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

4. Gigabyte Z97 ATX – Robust Overclocking Platform

Gigabyte LGA 1150 Z97 ATX DDR3 1600 Motherboard GA-Z97X-UD3H4.1Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
Gigabyte LGA 1150 Z97 ATX
Z97 Chipset
4 DDR3 Sockets
32GB Memory Max
UEFI DualBIOS

The Gigabyte GA-Z97X-UD3H is a powerful choice for enthusiasts wanting overclocking capabilities. The Z97 chipset supports K series processors allowing for frequency adjustments. It includes four DIMM sockets supporting up to 32GB of memory.

Pros

  • Z97 overclocking features
  • High memory capacity
  • Dual BIOS protection
  • ATX expansion space

Cons

  • No native M.2 support
  • Older connectivity standards

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

UEFI DualBIOS provides a safety net against corrupted firmware during updates. The board supports high frequency memory up to 3100MHz with overclocking. This makes it suitable for pushing system performance beyond stock limits.

Compared to newer boards it lacks integrated M.2 slots which may require add on cards. However the Z97 chipset offers features not found in H81 or B85 models. For enthusiasts it remains a compelling option.

Users looking to extract maximum performance from LGA 1150 CPUs should consider this board. It offers the necessary tools for tuning and stability. It is best suited for desktop systems where expansion is valued.

Overclocking Capability

The Z97 chipset enables significant performance tuning for K series CPUs. This allows users to extract extra speed for demanding applications.

Memory Expansion

Four DIMM slots allow for up to 32GB of DDR3 memory. This capacity supports heavy multitasking and memory intensive workloads.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

5. B85M PRO – Best Budget Haswell 1150 Motherboard

B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for Intel 4th Gen Core i7 i5 i3/Pentium/Celeron Series Processors (Micro-ATX, DDR3, PCIe 3.0, NVME M.2, SATA 3.0, VGA/DVI/HDMI-Compatible, Gigabit LAN)4.4Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
B85M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard
B85 Chipset
M.2 NVMe Support
32GB Max Memory
Micro ATX Form

The B85M PRO offers exceptional value by combining budget pricing with high memory support. It supports up to 32GB of dual channel DDR3 memory. The M.2 NVMe interface ensures fast storage boot and load times.

Pros

  • High memory capacity
  • Includes M.2 NVMe
  • Stable power design
  • Multiple video outputs

Cons

  • No manual included
  • Battery not included

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

Power delivery is handled via a four phase system with all solid state capacitors. This design aims to ensure stability during long periods of operation. The board includes VGA DVI and HDMI for versatile display options.

One caveat is the lack of included documentation which requires downloading the manual. Users must also provide their own CMOS battery. Despite these minor issues the performance value remains high.

This board is perfect for builders needing high RAM capacity on a budget. It supports a wide range of 4th generation Intel processors efficiently. The inclusion of M.2 makes it future proof for storage upgrades.

High Capacity Memory Support

Supporting up to 32GB allows for heavy workloads without upgrades. This is rare at this price point and adds significant value.

Video Output Versatility

Multiple ports like HDMI and DVI support various monitor types. This ensures compatibility without needing additional adapters.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

6. MSI Z97 PC Mate – Premium Performance Platform

MSI Intel Z97 LGA 1150 DDR3 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard (Z97 PC Mate)4.3Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
MSI Intel Z97 LGA 1150
Z97 Chipset
ATX Form Factor
CrossFireX Ready
VGA DVI HDMI

The MSI Z97 PC Mate is designed for users seeking premium performance features. It includes two PCIe x16 slots allowing for multi GPU configurations via CrossFireX. The Z97 chipset supports robust overclocking for high end CPUs.

Pros

  • Premium Z97 features
  • Dual PCIe x16 slots
  • Robust build quality
  • Multiple display outputs

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • USB 3.1 limited

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

Video output options cover VGA DVI and HDMI for maximum compatibility. The ATX form factor provides ample room for internal components. USB 3.1 offers faster external data transfer capabilities.

This board is priced higher to reflect its advanced feature set and build quality. It is ideal for systems where raw performance and upgradeability are priorities. The CrossFireX support adds significant value for gamers.

Buyers aiming to build a high performance gaming rig should consider this option. It provides the necessary foundation for advanced setups. The reliability and feature set justify the investment for power users.

Multi-GPU Capabilities

Two PCIe x16 slots enable dual GPU setups for increased graphics power. This is essential for high resolution gaming or rendering tasks.

Robust Z97 Chipset

The Z97 chipset allows for detailed system tuning and overclocking. It offers features beyond standard non K boards for enthusiasts.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

7. ASRock Z97 PRO3 – Strong Expansion Options

ASRock ATX DDR3 1333 LGA 1150 Motherboards Z97 PRO34.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
ASRock Z97 PRO3
Z97 Chipset
RAID Support
Multiple USB Ports
ATX Form Factor

The ASRock Z97 PRO3 provides extensive expansion and storage options. It supports RAID 0 1 5 and 10 via six SATA3 ports. The memory slots allow up to 32GB capacity for demanding tasks.

Pros

  • RAID 0 1 5 10
  • Multiple USB 3.0
  • High memory capacity
  • Comprehensive port layout

Cons

  • Large physical size
  • No M.2 NVMe

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

USB connectivity is strong with multiple 3.0 ports available. The board supports overclocked memory up to 3100MHz for improved performance. It is a solid choice for general system building needs.

While it lacks an M.2 slot it compensates with high SATA capabilities. The ATX size ensures standard case compatibility and component spacing. It offers reliable Z97 features without excessive complexity.

Users who need significant storage connectivity will appreciate this board. It is suitable for home servers or workstations using multiple drives. The price point offers good value for the feature set.

RAID Configuration Support

Six SATA ports allow for various RAID setups for redundancy. This ensures data safety across multiple connected storage devices.

USB Connectivity

Multiple USB 3.0 ports ensure fast peripheral connectivity. This simplifies connecting modern drives and devices.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

8. Gigabyte H97 Wi-Fi – Best Wireless Mini ITX Board

Gigabyte LGA 1150 H97 Wi-Fi Bluetooth HDMI SATA 6Gb/s USB 3.0 Mini ITX Intel Motherboard GA-H97N-WIFI3.9Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
Gigabyte H97 Wi-Fi
H97 Chipset
Onboard Wi-Fi Bluetooth
Mini ITX Form
Multi Display Support

The Gigabyte GA-H97N-WIFI delivers robust wireless capabilities in a small form factor. It includes onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connectivity without extra adapters. The Mini ITX design is perfect for compact home theater systems.

Pros

  • Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • Compact Mini ITX size
  • Multiple HDMI outputs
  • Stable chipset

Cons

  • Limited memory slots
  • Smaller feature set

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

It supports up to three displays simultaneously via DVI and HDMI. This makes it ideal for multi-monitor productivity or media setups. The H97 chipset ensures stable performance for non-overclocked processors.

While the memory capacity is limited to 16GB it covers most user needs. The onboard WiFi is a major plus for wireless streaming and gaming. It simplifies cable management in tight cases.

Users looking to build a media center PC should consider this board. It provides essential wireless features and multi-display support effectively. The compact size helps save space in entertainment units.

Wireless Connectivity

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth remove the need for extra adapters. This keeps the build clean and functional for wireless peripherals.

Multi-Monitor Setup

Supporting up to three displays helps productivity and media viewing. This feature is rare in ITX boards and adds flexibility.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

9. H97M PRO – Solid Mid-Tier Micro ATX

H97M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard for Intel 4th 5th gen Core i3 i5 i7/Pentium/Xeon Processor (Micro ATX, 4*DDR3 Slots, SATA 3.0, USB 3.0, NVME M.2, PCIe 3.0)3.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
H97M PRO LGA 1150 Motherboard
H97 Chipset
M.2 NVMe Slot
4 DDR3 Slots
Micro ATX Size

The H97M PRO offers a balanced feature set for mid-range Micro ATX builds. It supports four DDR3 slots allowing for up to 32GB memory capacity. The M.2 slot provides support for modern NVMe SSD storage drives.

Pros

  • Four memory slots
  • M.2 NVMe support
  • Heat dissipation armor
  • PCIe 3.0 support

Cons

  • Lower user rating
  • Basic feature set

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

Power delivery utilizes a four-phase design to maintain system stability. Heat dissipation armor helps protect critical components from thermal stress. This ensures reliable operation during extended gaming or work sessions.

Despite a lower average rating it covers essential connectivity and storage needs. It is suitable for users prioritizing memory capacity over overclocking. The Micro ATX form factor fits standard desktop cases easily.

Users who need a reliable workhorse for standard computing will find it adequate. It offers the best value for memory expansion in its class. The basic design ensures compatibility with standard PC parts.

Thermal Protection

Heat dissipation armor protects the board from overheating under load. This ensures longevity and stable bus communication.

Storage and Memory

M.2 and four DDR3 slots provide flexible upgrade paths. This supports both fast storage and high capacity memory.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

10. ASUS H97-PLUS – Reliable Standard ATX Board

ASUS ATX DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboards H97-PLUS4.2Editor scoreCheck price on Amazon
ASUS H97-PLUS
H97 Chipset
M.2 Onboard
Crystal Sound 2
5X Protection

The ASUS H97-PLUS is a reliable standard ATX board with modern connectivity. It features an onboard M.2 slot supporting up to 10Gb/s transfer speeds. Crystal Sound 2 ensures high quality audio output for games and media.

Pros

  • Built-in M.2 slot
  • ASUS 5X Protection
  • High quality audio
  • UEFI BIOS options

Cons

  • Older chipset features
  • Fixed memory speed

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

ASUS 5X Protection safeguards the board against various electrical threats. DIGI+ VRM and solid capacitors enhance longevity and power stability. The UEFI BIOS provides advanced options for system customization.

The Home Cloud feature enables easy sharing and remote management of the PC. This board is well built for general desktop use. It combines durability with essential modern storage interfaces.

Buyers seeking a trustworthy board for general use should consider this option. It offers a good balance of features and protection. The reliability makes it a safe choice for daily computing.

Advanced Audio

Crystal Sound 2 delivers flawless audio for immersive gaming experiences. This feature enhances the multimedia capabilities of the system.

Protection Technologies

5X Protection includes overcurrent and ESD guards for reliability. These features help protect the board from accidental damage.

Check price on Amazon

We may earn a commission when you buy through this link, at no additional cost to you.

Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Haswell 1150 Motherboard

Selecting the right motherboard requires understanding your specific needs for performance, storage, and budget. These factors will help guide your decision through the available options.

Chipset Compatibility

The chipset determines features like overclocking and SATA speeds. Z97 supports overclocking while H81 is budget focused. Choose based on whether you need performance tuning.

Form Factor Size

ATX offers more expansion while Mini ITX saves space. Micro ATX is a middle ground for most standard cases. Ensure your case supports the chosen board size.

Memory Capacity

Slots vary from two to four supporting up to 32GB. Ensure future proofing for heavy multitasking tasks. Higher capacities help with modern applications.

Storage Interfaces

Look for M.2 slots for faster NVMe SSD speeds. SATA 3.0 is standard for traditional drives. Modern slots improve boot and load times significantly.

Connectivity Options

USB 3.0 provides faster external data transfer. Integrated WiFi saves on adapters and cables. Video outputs like HDMI suit monitor requirements.

Budget Constraints

Prices vary significantly between entry and premium models. Identify the minimum features you need to save money. Basic boards work well for simple office PCs.

How to Use and Care for Your Haswell 1150 Motherboard

Install components carefully ensuring CPU and RAM are seated properly. Use anti-static precautions to prevent electrical damage to sensitive circuits.

Update BIOS to latest versions for better CPU compatibility. Check for firmware patches to resolve bugs found after release.

Maintain airflow to prevent overheating and ensure longevity. Clean dust regularly using compressed air to keep the system running cool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use DDR4 memory with a Haswell 1150 motherboard?

No, these motherboards use DDR3 memory slots which are physically incompatible with DDR4. You must use DDR3 DIMM modules for these systems. DDR4 was introduced with later CPU generations.

Do these boards support 5th generation Intel CPUs?

Many boards support 5th generation Broadwell CPUs with BIOS updates. Always check the specific product page for CPU support lists. Some H81 boards may have limited support for these newer chips.

Is M.2 NVMe support common on these boards?

It is not common on older budget boards like H81. Modern models like B85 or Z97 often include this slot for faster storage. Check the specs carefully before purchasing.

What is the maximum RAM supported by these boards?

Most boards support up to 16GB or 32GB depending on slots. Z97 and B85 models often support 32GB for better multitasking. H81 boards typically max out at 16GB total.

Do I need a specific power supply for these boards?

Standard ATX power supplies work well for most configurations. A 500W unit is sufficient for single GPU setups. Higher wattage is needed only for multi GPU systems.

Can I overclock a non-K processor on Z97?

Overclocking is generally restricted to K series processors even on Z97. Non-K CPUs cannot be overclocked via standard BIOS settings. You will see stock speeds on non-K chips.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Haswell 1150 Motherboard

The B85M PRO offers the best budget value with high memory support. The Gigabyte Z97 and MSI Z97 cater to enthusiasts needing robust performance.

Prioritize M.2 support and RAM capacity for future proofing your system. These features provide significant upgrades over older standards available.

Check current availability and prices as they may change frequently. Ensure compatibility with your existing CPU before finalizing your purchase.