Introduction
Towards the end of 2022, Intel released their latest 13th-Gen processors to great success. Many builders (ourselves included) praised these CPUs for their stellar performance compared to the AMD alternatives, all for a reasonable price. But for those looking for even more value, Intel released their budget-oriented ‘F’ variants in January of 2023, shortly after the initial CPU launch,
Amongst this line-up was Intel’s Core i3 13100F, a processor targeted towards budget builders looking for a cheap upgrade. Whilst this CPU is a great choice for cutting costs, it needs to be paired with a motherboard that offers similar value.
But which budget motherboards are compatible with the i3 13100F? And what upgrades will they provide to a budget system? Well, this buyers guide has you covered, as we’ll be showing off the best motherboards for the Intel Core i3 13100F.
Suggested Article: Best Motherboards to Buy for the Intel Core i5 13600K
Our Top Picks At A Glance
Keep reading for a more in-depth coverage of each motherboard in this roundup!
A compact design with impressive features for the price.
Micro ATX design with versatile connectivity options.
Compact design perfect for a white-themed system.
ATX form factor with a sleek and stealthy aesthetic.
A premium B760 motherboard with lots of connectivity.
Motherboard Chipsets
The best way to figure out which motherboard is best for a particular CPU, it is important to understand the differences between chipsets. Within a motherboard, the chipset is a crucial component that determines which features can be included in the design, along with the compatible processors. Each chipset is differentiated with distinct naming system, which indicates what you can expect from a specific motherboard.
For example, all Intel compatible designs will start with either a ‘B’, ‘H’, or ‘Z’ designation. Motherboards in the ‘B’ category are the cheapest options which bring the least amount of features, whereas ‘Z’ series boards are more premium offerings that include greater connectivity features. These letters will then be followed up by a set of numbers that indicate the generation of the chipset. Therefore, a motherboard with a B760 chipset is a 7th generation chipset that strips back the features to cut costs.
Because of this, most budget builders looking to pick up a cheap motherboard to go alongside their i3 13100F should consider either a B760 or B660, as these boards will provide all the necessary features for this processor. Whilst it is possible to put this CPU into a more expensive Z790 motherboard, you’d be better using the additional funds on upgrading your graphics card or CPU.
Motherboard Compatibility
Whilst gaining an understanding of the differences between individual chipsets is important, it is pretty pointless unless you know what processers these chipsets are compatible with. Luckily for Intel users, there is a wide variety of chipsets to choose from, as both 12th-Gen and 13th-Gen CPUs are compatible with the two latest generations of motherboards.
This means that builders upgrading from a 12th-Gen to a 13th-Gen processor have the option to keep their current motherboard, saving them an upgrade that would be necessary for AMD users. In addition, new buyers might be able to grab a bargain by picking up an older B660 chipset instead of a B760, as the differences between the two are very slim. However, older chipsets may require a BIOS update to work with Intel’s latest generation of CPUs, which you can usually access from the manufacturer’s website.
| Motherboard Chipset | Intel 12th-Gen CPUs | Intel 13th-Gen CPUs |
|---|---|---|
| Z790 | ✅ | ✅ |
| B760 | ✅ | ✅ |
| H770 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Z690 | ✅ | ✅ (with a BIOS update) |
| B660 | ✅ | ✅ (with a BIOS update) |
| H670 | ✅ | ✅ (with a BIOS update) |
| H610 | ✅ | ✅ (with a BIOS update) |
| Z590 | ❌ | ❌ |
| B560 | ❌ | ❌ |
| H570 | ❌ | ❌ |
| H510 | ❌ | ❌ |
Our Recommendations
After evaluating the chipsets available for i3 13100F users, we’d suggest pairing this CPU with a B760 motherboard as it is the most compatible budget option. Because of this, our list features strictly B760 options. However, we would also suggest taking a look at the best B660 motherboards, as these boards will also be compatible following a simple BIOS update.
1. ASUS Prime B760-Plus D4
Key Specs:
- Form Factor: ATX
- Supported Memory: 128GB DDR4 (4 x DIMM)
- PCI-E x16 Slots: 1 x PCI-E 5.0, 1 x PCI-E 4.0
- PCI-E x4 Slots: 3 x PCI-E 4.0
- Rear IO: 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0
- Networking: 2.5 Gigabit LAN
To start things off, we have the ASUS Prime B760-Plus D4, a pretty barebones design that is one of the cheapest motherboards on the market. Whilst this board strips back a lot of features such as an integrated IO shield, the few heatsinks included are a nice accent for any budget PC build. With an ATX form-factor, this design is an ideal choice to place into a mid-tower case.
However, the tame aesthetics make way for a solid number of connectivity features. As a budget oriented board, it’s no surprise to see that the B760-Plus D4 is limited to DDR4 memory, but the 128GB capacity is more than enough for the best gaming speeds and performance. Also, the PCI-E 5.0 expansion slot ensures that this motherboard will be ready for your next graphics card upgrade for years to come.
Looking at the Rear IO, the B760-Plus D4 includes 5 USB ports and a USB-C port to connect peripherals and external devices with ease. On top of this, the 2.5Gb Ethernet cable will provide a stable internet connection for budget systems.
Pros
- Very cheap
- PCI-E 5.0 expansion slot
- Lots of connectivity for the price
Cons
- Barebones design
- WiFi module sold separately
- Lack of integrated IO shield
Buy the ASUS Prime B760-Plus D4 on:
2. Gigabyte B760M DS3H AX DDR4
Key Specs:
- Form Factor: Micro ATX
- Supported Memory: 128GB DDR4 (4 x DIMM)
- PCI-E x16 Slots: 1 x PCI-E 4.0
- PCI-E x4 Slots: 2 x PCI-E 4.0
- Rear IO: 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB 2.0
- Networking: 2.5 Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E
For those looking for a design that’s slightly more compact, the Gigabyte B760M DS3H AX DDR4. This motherboard shares a lot of similarities with the other entries on this list, but further reduces the features included to fit a smaller micro ATX form-factor, and it also helps to bring the price down to a very affordable rate.
In order to reach the desired price and form factor, there are a number of sacrifices made on the B760M DS3H. For example, the singular PCI-E 4.0 expansion slot is a significant downgrade from other B760 motherboards on the market, which limits its futureproofing capabilities. Despite this, the inclusion of DDR4 memory and M.2 storage on the B760M DS3H AX DDR4 has plenty of support to accommodate a budget gaming system filled with the latest components.
When it comes to the rear IO, the compact size doesn’t have too much of an impact, as this motherboard still manages to provide plenty of connection options. Along with a USB-C and 4 USB ports, the B760M DS3H includes the choice of a 2.5Gb cable or WiFi 6E module for a stable and versatile internet connection.
Pros
- Compact, budget design
- WiFi 6E Module
- Versatile connectivity
Cons
- No PCI-E 5.0 expansion slot
- Simplistic design
- Lacking IO shield
Buy the Gigabyte B760M DS3H AX DDR4 on:
3. ASRock B760M Pro RS/D4 WiFi
Key Specs:
- Form Factor: Micro ATX
- Supported Memory: 128GB DDR4 (4 x DIMM)
- PCI-E x16 Slots: 2 x PCI-E 4.0
- PCI-E x4 Slots: 2 x PCI-E 4.0
- Rear I/O: 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen1, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 4 x USB 2.0
- Networking: 2.5 Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E
If you are looking for a micro ATX board that is more feature-heavy, then it is worth taking a look at ASRock’s B760M Pro RS/D4 WiFi. Boasting a more premium aesthetic than the previous instalments, the silver heatsinks on this motherboard will compliment a budget white-themed PC build.
Despite the reduced size, the Pro RS/D4 WiFi includes 2 PCI-E Gen4 expansion slots, meaning you could double-up on GPUs if you really felt like it. As the name suggests, this model also supports DDR4 memory, with a maximum of 128GB available. Along with the 2 M.2 slots for SSDs, this motherboard manages to fit more than enough into its micro ATX design.
This trend continues with the rear IO, which is the first design to come with an integrated IO shield. In terms of connections, the rear IO feature a total of 7 USB ports, along with a USB port to provide plenty of room for gaming peripherals. Plus, the Pro RS/D4 WiFi offers includes both 2.5Gb and WiFi 6E connection options for smooth online gaming. Whilst this board doesn’t quite compete with the features on larger alternatives, it is a great option for compact systems that need a lift in terms of performance and looks.
Pros
- Compact & stylish design
- 2 x PCI-E x16 4.0 slots
- Expansive rear IO with shield
Cons
- Doesn’t include PCI-Ex16 5.0
- Better connectivity options available
Buy the ASRock B760M Pro RS/D4 WiFi on:
4. MSI Pro B760-P WiFi DDR4
Key Specs:
- Form Factor: ATX
- Supported Memory: 128GB DDR4 (4 x DIMM)
- PCI-E x16 Slots: 2 x PCI-E 4.0
- PCI-E x4 Slots: 2 x PCI-E 4.0
- Rear IO: 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 4 x USB 2.0
- Networking: 2.5 Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E
An ATX motherboard with a solid blend of connectivity and design features is an ideal choice for most systems, which is why MSI’s PRO B760-P WiFi DDR4 is worth considering. In a similar way to the ASRock design, this motherboard includes plenty of heatsinks, resulting in a cleaner aesthetic. However, the Pro B760-P opts for black and silver colour combination, which is a perfect fit for a stealthy PC.
Moving onto the features, and the Pro B760-P offers up a good number of connection options for those on a budget. With 2 PCI-E 4.0 expansion slots for graphics and storage, this board can accommodate for additional GPUs and M.2 storage options, leaving plenty of space for future system upgrades. Following the trend of the other picks in this guide, the Pro B760-P also supports 128GB of DDR4 memory, which is more than enough those entry-level gaming.
Surprisingly, the rear IO on this design isn’t equipped with an integrated IO shield. However, it makes up for it with some solid connectivity options, as the Pro B760-P offers a USB-C port, along with 6 USB ports for increased flexibility when connecting devices to your gaming PC. And for online connections, the 2.5Gb cable and WiFi 6E module means you can enjoy multiplayer gaming without having to worry about internet issues.
Pros
- Sleek & stealthy design
- 2 x PCI-E x16 4.0 slots
- Lots of IO connectivity
Cons
- No PCI-E 5.0 slots
- Lack of IO shield
Buy the MSI Pro B760-P WiFi DDR4 on:
5. Gigabyte B760 Gaming X AX DDR4
Key Specs:
- Form Factor: ATX
- Supported Memory: 128GB DDR4 (4 x DIMM)
- PCI-E x16 Slots: 1 x PCI-E 4.0, 2 x PCI-E 3.0
- PCI-E x4 Slots: 3 x PCI-E 4.0
- Rear IO: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 4 x USB 2.0
- Networking: 2.5 Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E
Last but by no means least, we have another one of Gigabyte’s designs, the B760 Gaming X AX DDR4. Acting as a more premium option with a larger ATX form factor, the B760 Gaming X AX DDR4 features arguably the most eye-catching design on this list, mainly thanks to the uncommon black and grey design. As part of this design, there are plenty of heatsinks, which will help to keep your system nice and cool.
In terms of features, this motherboard offers the most options on this list. Along with the typical 128GB of DDR4 memory capacity, the Gaming X AX DDR4 includes a PCI-E 4.0 slot for the latest graphics cards, as well as 3 M.2 storage slots that ensures the best performance when upgrading storage capacity.
As for the rear IO, the B760 Gaming X AX DDR4 features an integrated IO shield, which ensures ports are protected from damages and dust build-up. Connectivity wise, this motherboard includes 7 USB ports for peripherals, but unfortunately doesn’t include a USB-C port. Like most of the motherboards on this list, the Gigabyte B760 Gaming X AX DDR4 offers users to connect to the internet via 2.5Gb and WiFi 6E.
Pros
- Distinct design
- Lots of M.2 slots
- Integrated IO shield
Cons
- No PCI-E 5.0 slot
- Rear IO lacking USB-C
Buy the Gigabyte B760 Gaming X AX DDR4 on:
