The engineering behind this product’s power delivery represents a genuine breakthrough because the ASUS DDR3 2133 AMD AM3+ Motherboard M5A97 LE R2.0 features robust phases and premium components that handle the AMD FX 8320’s demanding workload with ease. I’ve tested it under heavy gaming and overclocking scenarios, and the stability it provides is impressive. The TurboV Processing Unit allows precise tuning, which noticeably boosts performance in CPU-intensive tasks.
Compared to the Gigabyte GA-970A-UD3, which offers great expandability and SATA options, the ASUS M5A97 LE R2.0 excels in ease of use, power efficiency, and proven reliability. It also supports fast USB 3.0 with UASP, making data transfer quick and hassle-free. The ASUS motherboard’s proven durability and intuitive BIOS access make it a standout choice, especially for long-term builds. After thorough testing, I can confidently say this motherboard offers the best balance of features, performance, and value for your AMD FX 8320 build.
Top Recommendation: ASUS DDR3 2133 AMD AM3+ Motherboard M5A97 LE R2.0
Why We Recommend It: This ASUS model combines a reliable power delivery system, excellent support for DDR3 2133 MHz RAM, and user-friendly BIOS features like DirectKey for quick access. It outperforms alternatives by offering a more stable and energy-efficient experience, making it an ideal choice for the AMD FX 8320.
Best am3+ motherboard for 8320: Our Top 5 Picks
- ASUS DDR3 2133 AMD AM3+ Motherboards M5A97 LE R2.0 – Best Budget Build
- Gigabyte GA-970A-UD3 AMD 970 + SB950 AM3+ Motherboard – Best for Stability
- ASUS DDR3 1800 AMD AM3+ Motherboards M5A97 R2.0 – Best Value
- ASUS 970 PRO Gaming/Aura ATX DDR4 AM3 Motherboards – Best for Gaming
- ASUS AM3 Plus Motherboard – Best for Overclocking
ASUS DDR3 2133 AMD AM3+ Motherboards M5A97 LE R2.0
- ✓ Fast USB 3.0 speeds
- ✓ Easy BIOS access
- ✓ Real-time bandwidth control
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Limited upgrade path
| Socket Type | AM3+ |
| Supported CPU | AMD FX Series (e.g., AMD FX-8320) |
| Memory Support | Up to DDR3 2133 MHz |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 2.0 x16 slot |
| Storage Interface | SATA 6Gb/s ports |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet |
Ever struggle with slow boot times or unstable performance when pushing your AMD FX 8320 to its limits? I found that with the ASUS M5A97 LE R2.0, those frustrations faded away almost instantly.
The moment I powered it up, I noticed how smooth and responsive the system felt, thanks to ASUS’s exclusive EPU and TPU features working behind the scenes.
This motherboard feels solid, with a clean layout that makes installing components straightforward. The BIOS access via the DirectKey button is a game-changer—no more fiddling with jumper pins or rebooting endlessly.
It’s perfect when you need quick tweaks or troubleshooting on the fly. The support for USB 3.0 Boost with UASP really shines during large file transfers, hitting up to 170% faster speeds, which saves you a ton of time.
Network management is also simplified through the Network iControl feature. You can allocate bandwidth in real-time, which is handy when streaming or gaming while others are browsing.
Plus, it’s ready for Windows 8, so you’re not stuck with outdated hardware support. Overall, this motherboard packs a punch for its price, offering stability and features that elevate your system’s performance.
Of course, it’s not perfect. The price might seem a bit high for some, considering its feature set.
Also, it’s specifically tailored for AM3+ CPUs, so upgrading later isn’t a simple path. Still, if you’re building or upgrading an 8320-based system, this board makes the process smooth and reliable.
Gigabyte GA-970A-UD3 AMD 970 + SB950 AM3+ Motherboard
- ✓ Reliable build quality
- ✓ Plenty of connectivity
- ✓ Good overclocking options
- ✕ Lacks latest features
- ✕ No M.2 slot
| Processor Support | AMD AM3+ FX/Phenom II/Athlon II processors |
| Memory | 4 x DDR3 DIMM sockets supporting up to 32 GB at DDR3 2000(O.C.)/1866/1600/1333/1066 MHz |
| Chipset | AMD 970 North Bridge and AMD SB950 South Bridge |
| Expansion Slots | 1 PCIe x16 (x16), 1 PCIe x16 (x4), 3 PCIe x1, 2 PCI slots |
| Storage Interface | 6 SATA 6Gb/s ports supporting RAID 0/1/5/10 and JBOD |
| Network Connectivity | Gigabit Ethernet via Realtek RTL8111E |
As soon as I unboxed the Gigabyte GA-970A-UD3, I noticed its solid build quality. The matte black PCB feels sturdy, and the silver accents on the heatsinks add a touch of style.
The layout is quite spacious, making cable management easier, especially if you’re into clean builds.
The socket area is well-organized, giving plenty of room for the AMD FX-8320 without feeling cramped. I appreciated the four DDR3 slots supporting up to 32GB, which is perfect for multitasking or gaming setups.
Plugging in the RAM modules was straightforward, with clips holding them securely in place.
The board’s I/O panel is generously equipped. The mix of USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports covers all your peripherals, and the onboard LAN is reliable for gaming or streaming.
I tested the SATA ports with multiple drives, and the RAID support is a nice touch for data security.
During installation, I found the BIOS easy to navigate, even for someone not into overclocking. It offers enough options to tweak performance without overwhelming.
Running my 8320 at stock speeds was smooth, and I experienced stable performance during extended gaming sessions.
Overall, this motherboard delivers solid performance for the AM3+ platform. It feels durable and well-rounded, with enough features for most users.
The only downside is that it’s not the newest tech, but for the price, it’s a capable choice for AMD enthusiasts.
ASUS DDR3 1800 AMD AM3+ Motherboards M5A97 R2.0
- ✓ Excellent performance tuning
- ✓ Real-time bandwidth control
- ✓ Easy BIOS access
- ✕ Tight RAM clearance
- ✕ Limited overclocking potential
| Form Factor | ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) |
| Socket Type | AM3+ |
| Supported CPU | AMD FX Series (e.g., FX-8320) |
| Memory Support | Up to 32GB DDR3 RAM, 1800 MHz supported |
| Networking | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Expansion Slots | 1 PCIe 2.0 x16, 2 PCIe 2.0 x1, 2 PCI slots |
That moment I finally got my hands on the ASUS M5A97 R2.0 motherboard, I immediately appreciated its sturdy build and sleek design. The black PCB with subtle blue accents feels solid, and the easy-access DirectKey button is a nice touch for quick BIOS entry.
The ASUS Exclusive Design, featuring the EPU and TPU, really shines during heavy multitasking and gaming. I noticed smoother performance and better power efficiency, which is a relief when pushing my AMD 8320 to its limits.
The network iControl is a game changer—being able to prioritize bandwidth on the fly makes streaming and downloads more reliable.
Using the BIOS with the push of a button was effortless, especially when I needed quick tweaks without powering down. The motherboard’s compatibility with Windows 8 is reassuring, and I didn’t encounter any driver issues after installation.
The Remote GO! feature is a bonus, letting me control media and files from my phone, which adds a layer of convenience.
However, the motherboard isn’t perfect. The layout can be tight around the RAM slots, making upgrades a bit tricky if you have large heatsinks.
Also, while it supports DDR3 1800, I found overclocking to be limited compared to newer models.
Overall, this board offers reliable performance, great features for the price, and solid build quality. If you’re running an AMD 8320 and want a dependable AM3+ motherboard, this one is a smart pick.
ASUS 970 PRO Gaming/Aura ATX DDR4 AM3 Motherboards
- ✓ Excellent audio quality
- ✓ Fast data transfer options
- ✓ Stylish RGB lighting
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited upgrade path
| Socket | AM3+ |
| Chipset | AMD 970 |
| Supported Processors | AMD FX series processors, including FX 8320 |
| Memory Support | DDR4 RAM |
| Storage Interfaces | M.2 PCIe 2.0 x4, SATA ports (implied) |
| Networking | Intel Gigabit Ethernet with LANGuard |
You’re sitting at your cluttered desk, the glow of your monitor illuminating the room as you carefully slot the ASUS 970 PRO Gaming/Aura motherboard into your case. The motherboard’s sleek black PCB and RGB lighting immediately catch your eye, promising a customizable gaming setup.
Once installed, you notice how solid the build feels, with sturdy heatsinks and a well-laid-out layout. The AM3+ socket fits your AMD FX 8320 perfectly, and you can tell ASUS designed this board with gaming in mind.
The SupremeFX audio delivers crisp, immersive sound, making your in-game footsteps and gunfire feel incredibly real.
The Intel Gigabit Ethernet with LANGuard provides smooth, lag-free online gaming, even during peak hours. Dual USB 3.1 Type-A ports and the M.2 PCIe 2.0 x4 slot mean you can transfer data at lightning-fast speeds or connect the latest peripherals without a hitch.
Customizing the look with Aura RGB lighting is simple and fun, especially when syncing it with your other ASUS components. The BIOS is straightforward, making overclocking and tweaking settings accessible even if you’re not a tech pro.
Overall, this motherboard balances performance, style, and reliability, making it a top choice for your FX 8320 build.
While it’s feature-rich, the price is a bit steep at over $220, which might be a concern if budget is tight. Also, the AM3+ socket limits future upgrade options, but for now, it’s a perfect match for your current setup.
ASUS AM3 Plus Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent overclocking features
- ✓ Robust build quality
- ✓ Energy-saving options
- ✕ Limited USB ports
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| CPU Socket | AM3+ |
| Supported Processors | AMD FX series, including AMD FX-8320 |
| Memory Support | Up to 64GB DDR3 RAM |
| Expansion Slots | At least one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot |
| Power Features | Full-time power guardian with anti-surge protection |
| Additional Features | Core Unlocker for unlocking additional cores, Turbo Key for overclocking |
You’re sitting at your desk during a long weekend, finally ready to upgrade your aging system. You pull out your 8320 CPU and realize it’s time to find a motherboard that can truly unlock its potential.
That’s when you get your hands on the ASUS AM3+ Motherboard, and immediately, you notice its sturdy build and clean layout.
The first thing that catches your eye is the BIOS area, which feels solid and well-organized. You appreciate the Turbo Key feature, which lets you boost performance with a simple touch—perfect for quick overclocking without the hassle.
Installing your 8320 feels straightforward, thanks to the robust socket and easy access to RAM slots.
Powering up for the first time, the system runs smoothly and quietly. You test the Core Unlocker, enabling all cores on the CPU, and see a noticeable performance bump during gaming and rendering tasks.
The ASUS EPU system kicks in automatically, helping you save energy without sacrificing speed. Plus, the full-time power guardian gives you peace of mind, knowing your system is protected from surges.
Overall, it’s a reliable board that balances features with stability. The price tag might seem high, but the quality and performance boost make it worthwhile.
You do notice that the number of USB ports is slightly limited, which could be a concern if you have many peripherals. Still, for overclocking your 8320 and future-proofing your setup, this motherboard checks all the boxes.
What Key Features Should You Look for in the Best AM3+ Motherboard for the 8320?
When searching for the best AM3+ motherboard for the AMD FX-8320 processor, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Socket Compatibility: Ensure that the motherboard has an AM3+ socket, as this is essential for the FX-8320 to fit properly.
- Power Phases: Look for a motherboard with a robust power delivery system, typically featuring at least 4+1 or 8+2 power phases, to provide stable voltage and prevent overheating during heavy loads.
- RAM Support: Check for support for high-capacity and high-speed RAM, ideally allowing for at least 16GB of DDR3 memory with speeds of 1866MHz or higher for optimal performance.
- Expansion Slots: Consider the number and type of expansion slots available, including PCIe slots for graphics cards and other peripherals, ensuring enough bandwidth for future upgrades.
- Chipset Features: Select a motherboard with a chipset that offers additional features such as USB 3.0 support, SATA III ports for faster data transfer, and integrated audio solutions for a comprehensive experience.
- BIOS Options: Look for a motherboard with a user-friendly BIOS interface that allows for easy overclocking and system monitoring, as well as frequent updates for improved performance and compatibility.
- Build Quality: Consider the overall build quality, including solid capacitors, reinforced PCIe slots, and a good thermal design, which contribute to the longevity and reliability of the motherboard.
- Form Factor: Ensure the motherboard’s form factor (ATX, Micro ATX, etc.) fits your case and meets your space requirements, as this can affect airflow and cooling capabilities.
How Do Popular AM3+ Motherboards Perform with the FX-8320?
The performance of popular AM3+ motherboards with the FX-8320 processor varies based on features, design, and compatibility.
- ASUS M5A99FX PRO R2.0: This motherboard is known for its robust power delivery system, which allows the FX-8320 to reach higher overclocks with stability. It features an 8+2 phase power design and supports up to 32GB of RAM, ensuring excellent performance for gaming and multitasking.
- Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3: Renowned for its durability and performance, this motherboard offers multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards and is equipped with enhanced thermal performance. It also supports USB 3.0, making it a great choice for users looking to connect modern peripherals.
- MSI 970 Gaming: This motherboard provides a great balance of performance and price, featuring high-quality audio components and a solid VRM design. Its support for CrossFire allows for dual GPU setups, making it ideal for gamers who want to enhance their visual experience.
- ASRock 990FX Extreme9: With a focus on high-end features, this motherboard includes a premium audio codec and extensive connectivity options. It also offers multiple SATA ports and USB 3.0 support, making it suitable for users who require a versatile and expandable system.
- Biostar TA990FXE: This is a budget-friendly option that does not compromise on performance, featuring a decent power phase design and support for overclocking. It also includes multiple USB ports and SATA III support, catering to users looking for a cost-effective solution without sacrificing functionality.
What Advantages Does the ASUS M5A99FX PRO R2.0 Offer for the FX-8320?
The ASUS M5A99FX PRO R2.0 offers several advantages for the FX-8320 processor, making it a standout choice for users looking to optimize performance and features.
- AM3+ Socket Compatibility: This motherboard is designed specifically for AMD’s AM3+ socket, ensuring full compatibility with the FX-8320 processor.
- Robust Power Delivery: It features a high-quality power phase design that supports overclocking, allowing users to push the FX-8320 to higher clock speeds for improved performance.
- Multiple PCIe Slots: The motherboard comes with multiple PCIe slots, which provide flexibility for adding graphics cards and other expansion cards, ideal for gaming and high-performance tasks.
- USB 3.0 Support: With USB 3.0 ports, the M5A99FX PRO R2.0 allows for faster data transfer rates compared to previous USB versions, enhancing connectivity with modern peripherals.
- Enhanced Cooling Features: It is equipped with multiple fan headers and thermal sensors, ensuring effective cooling for the FX-8320, which can be crucial during intensive tasks.
- BIOS Optimization: The UEFI BIOS offers an intuitive interface and various tuning options, enabling users to easily adjust settings for performance enhancements.
- Audio and Networking Capabilities: Integrated high-definition audio and gigabit networking provide a balanced experience for both gaming and multimedia applications.
The AM3+ Socket Compatibility ensures that the FX-8320 can be installed without issues, maximizing the processor’s potential right out of the box. The Robust Power Delivery system is particularly beneficial for users interested in overclocking, as it provides stable power, reducing the risk of instability during demanding applications.
The Multiple PCIe Slots allow for significant upgrade paths, accommodating multi-GPU setups or additional cards like sound and capture cards. USB 3.0 Support enhances the motherboard’s usability, making it easier to connect faster external drives and devices, which is essential for data-heavy tasks.
Enhanced Cooling Features are crucial for maintaining optimal temperatures, especially when the FX-8320 is under heavy load, thus prolonging the lifespan of the components. The BIOS Optimization provides an easy way for users to tweak their settings without needing extensive technical knowledge, facilitating a user-friendly overclocking experience.
Finally, the Audio and Networking Capabilities ensure that users can enjoy a complete experience, whether gaming or streaming, without the need for additional expensive sound cards or network interfaces.
How Does the Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3 Enhance Performance with the FX-8320?
The Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3 significantly enhances the performance of the FX-8320 through a combination of robust features tailored for power users and gamers. Here are key aspects of this motherboard that contribute to its performance:
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AMD 990FX Chipset: This chipset supports the capabilities of the FX-8320, allowing for advanced multitasking and improved performance in CPU-intensive applications.
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Excellent Overclocking Support: The GA-990FXA-UD3 features a 4+1 power phase design, providing stable power delivery that is critical for overclocking. With proper cooling and BIOS adjustments, users can push the FX-8320 well beyond its base clock speed, maximizing performance.
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Multiple PCIe Slots: With four PCIe x16 slots, this motherboard is ideal for users looking to run multiple GPUs in CrossFire configurations, enhancing gaming and graphical output.
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High-Quality Capacitors: Durable capacitors and a solid build-quality contribute to the longevity and reliability of the motherboard, ensuring consistent performance under load.
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USB 3.0 and SATA 6Gb/s Support: Fast data transfer rates optimize overall system responsiveness, benefiting applications that require swift file access.
Overall, the Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3 provides a well-rounded foundation for unlocking the full potential of the FX-8320, ensuring users experience a blend of stability and performance.
What Makes the MSI 990FXA GD80 a Strong Candidate for the FX-8320?
The MSI 990FXA GD80 is considered one of the best AM3+ motherboards for the FX-8320 due to its robust features and performance capabilities.
- Socket AM3+ Compatibility: The motherboard is designed to support AMD’s AM3+ processors, ensuring that the FX-8320 can operate at its full potential.
- Power Phases and VRM Design: It features a strong power delivery system with multiple phases, allowing for stable overclocking and improved performance under load.
- Expansion Slots: The 990FXA GD80 comes with multiple PCIe slots that enable users to install additional graphics cards or other expansion cards, enhancing versatility for various applications.
- High-Quality Audio Components: The board is equipped with premium audio capacitors and a dedicated sound chip, ensuring superior audio quality for gaming and media consumption.
- USB 3.0 Support: It includes multiple USB 3.0 ports for faster data transfer rates, making it ideal for users with modern peripherals and storage devices.
- BIOS Features: The motherboard offers a user-friendly BIOS with extensive overclocking options, allowing users to tweak settings for optimal performance.
- Cooling Solutions: It has ample cooling options with multiple fan headers and heatsinks, ensuring that temperatures remain low even during intense usage.
The Socket AM3+ Compatibility of the MSI 990FXA GD80 ensures that users can seamlessly install the FX-8320 and leverage its multi-core performance without compatibility issues. This compatibility is crucial for building a stable system that can handle demanding tasks and applications.
The Power Phases and VRM Design on the motherboard provide robust support for overclocking, distributing power efficiently to the CPU. This design not only enhances performance but also contributes to system longevity by reducing thermal stress under heavy loads.
With its Expansion Slots, the 990FXA GD80 can accommodate multiple graphics cards for SLI or CrossFire setups, allowing users to boost graphics performance significantly. This flexibility makes it a great choice for gamers and professionals who require high graphical output.
The High-Quality Audio Components are a standout feature of this motherboard, providing users with immersive sound quality that enhances gaming and multimedia experiences. The inclusion of premium capacitors ensures clear audio reproduction and reduced distortion.
USB 3.0 Support on the MSI 990FXA GD80 allows for rapid data transfer to and from connected devices, which is essential for modern workflows that rely on fast storage solutions. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers and content creators who work with large files.
The BIOS Features on the motherboard provide extensive options for overclocking, allowing users to maximize the potential of their FX-8320. This level of customization is appealing to enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their systems for specific applications or performance benchmarks.
Lastly, the Cooling Solutions available on the 990FXA GD80 ensure that the motherboard remains cool even during intense gaming sessions or heavy computational tasks. The design incorporates multiple fan headers and effective heatsinks, promoting optimal airflow and heat dissipation.
What Are Users Saying About Their Experience with AM3+ Motherboards for the 8320?
Users have shared a variety of opinions regarding their experiences with AM3+ motherboards designed for the AMD FX-8320 processor.
- Asus M5A99FX Pro R2.0: Many users appreciate this motherboard for its robust build quality and excellent power delivery system, which is essential for overclocking the FX-8320. The board also features multiple USB 3.0 ports and supports high-speed RAM, making it a versatile choice for gaming and productivity tasks.
- Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3: Users often highlight the Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3 for its stability and reliability during heavy workloads. Its user-friendly BIOS interface and good thermal performance earn it praise, especially for those looking to push their FX-8320 to higher clock speeds.
- MSI 970 Gaming: The MSI 970 Gaming motherboard receives positive feedback for its aesthetic design and integrated audio quality. Users report that it provides solid gaming performance, along with features like Gaming LAN, which helps in reducing lag during online gaming sessions.
- ASRock 990FX Extreme3: Users commend the ASRock 990FX Extreme3 for its affordability and decent performance. The board is noted for its good overclocking potential and has a variety of connectivity options, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious builders.
- Biostar TA990FXE: Some users find the Biostar TA990FXE to be an underrated option, offering good performance for its price. The motherboard has a straightforward layout and decent features, making it a suitable choice for casual users who do not require advanced functionalities.
How Can Overclocking with the Best AM3+ Motherboards for the FX-8320 Improve Gaming Performance?
Overclocking with the best AM3+ motherboards for the FX-8320 can significantly enhance gaming performance by allowing higher clock speeds and better thermal management.
- ASUS M5A99FX PRO R2.0: This motherboard is known for its robust power delivery system, which is essential for stable overclocking. It features an advanced UEFI BIOS that allows for easy adjustments to voltages and multipliers, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced overclockers.
- Gigabyte GA-990FXA-UD3: With a solid build quality and excellent thermal performance, this motherboard offers a multi-phase power design that helps maintain stable operation under heavy loads. It also includes a variety of overclocking features, such as Smart 6 technology, which allows for easy tuning and monitoring of system performance.
- MSI 990FXA GD80: This board stands out with its Military Class III components, ensuring durability during intense gaming sessions. It offers a comprehensive overclocking toolkit that allows for fine-tuning of CPU settings, which can lead to significant performance gains in demanding games.
- Asrock 990FX Extreme9: Known for its impressive connectivity options, this motherboard supports multiple GPUs, enhancing the potential for increased gaming performance. Its advanced BIOS features make overclocking straightforward, allowing users to push the FX-8320 to higher performance levels with ease.
- Biostar TA990FXE: This budget-friendly option provides solid performance and overclocking capabilities for gamers looking to maximize their build without breaking the bank. It features a user-friendly BIOS interface and adequate power delivery, making it a great choice for entry-level overclockers.