The processor and Motherboard are the core components of a Computer. The performance of a computer depends on which processor and motherboard you are using. If either of these two key components is not up to the mark you will never get the desired performance. In order to have the best outcome from your computer, you should consider spending some time reading about the specifications of both processors and motherboards and decide which suits your purpose the best. Performance of the processor depends on Core, Thread, Generation, Cache memory and the performance of the motherboard depends on which chipset is being used, number of RAM slots, max memory support, number of PCIe slots, graphics type, number of M.2 slots, number of USB and generation of USB, Audio, LAN, etc.
We will recommend you consider spending some money on a top-notch motherboard because Core i3 9100f is not a very high-performance CPU so you will require external support for better gaming performance. A cheap processor doesn’t necessarily mean poor gaming, rather you can upgrade your gaming performance with a high-performance gaming motherboard, additional RAM, M.2 SSD, and additional graphics card. By upgrading these elements you will surely get a high gaming performance with Core i3 9100f CPU.
Core i3 9100F
Core i3 9100F is a 9th Gen Intel processor which is one of the best cheap gaming processors. This processor is budget-friendly and also provides very reliable performance. This latest 9th Gen Core i3 processor is capable of tremendous 1080p gaming performance and also any sort of professional work. Core i3 9100F is very reliable for multitasking because of 4 CPU Cores and CPU speed up to 4.2 GHz. One of the major drawbacks of this inexpensive processor is that it has no integrated graphics. You must buy an external graphics card with this processor.
Key Specifications:
1. Available 4 CPU cores
2. Available 4 CPU threads
3. LGA 1151 CPU Socket
4. CPU speed up to 4.2 GHz
5. Available Max TDP 65W
6. No integrated graphics
Pro Tips: As Intel Core i3 9100f is not an unlocked processor so it can not be overclocked. When it comes to Intel 9th gen motherboards, generally Z390 series motherboards are used with “K” series unlocked processors for best overclocking performance. However, the Z390 series will work perfectly with i3 9100f. As our i3 9100f is “F” series so it is not unlocked. Our recommendation for you would be to go for B365M or H310M series motherboards. This series of motherboards are sufficient for your i3 9100f processor and you will be able to save some money for better graphics cards or other things. You can go for Z390 motherboards only if you are willing to upgrade your CPU in the near future.
Will the i3 9100f run with 3000 MHz RAM?
Of course, you can use 3000 MHz RAM with your i3 9100f processor. But i3 9100f supports up to 2666 MHz so your system will boot with 3000 MHz but ultimately run at 2600 MHz. So, you probably will not get the benefit of having 3000 MHz with i3 9100f. You can use any MHz of RAM in your build but you will get them out as much as your CPU can use. We recommend you buy 2666 MHz RAM with i3 9100f unless you are planning to upgrade your CPU in the future.
Related Article: Motherboards: What you need to consider when choosing a motherboard
Can you overclock the i3 9100f?
As we mentioned earlier, the i3 9100f is a locked processor so it can not be overclocked manually. Only “K” series intel CPUs have overclocking capabilities. However, there is a slight exception. It is technically possible to overclock the i3 9100f with very limited overclocking capabilities. If we use Z390 or Z370 motherboards and increase the “Base Clock” it will eventually lead to only a 2-4% increase. So, it is technically possible but will not do much good.
Example of Best Motherboard for Core i3 9100F :
MSI Z390-A PRO
MSI Z390-A PRO is the 9th and 10th Gen supported gaming motherboard. Any sort of 9th and 10th Gen Intel processor will be compatible with this premium motherboard. Intel Z390 chipset is used with this motherboard. Reliable and heavy-duty performance with 4 DDR4 ram slots they latch-up both ends also have 128GB max memory storage. Better memory support indicates better performance.
Also, 6 PCIe slots and 1 M.2 slot are available. This is a good motherboard if you have a lot of auxiliary cards such as sound cards, Wi-Fi cards, video cards, etc. The number of SATA slots is 6 and 14 USB ports are available. For a better thermal solution MSI Z390-A PRO used an architectural design with an extended heat sink so no worries about everything going up in flames. Total 7 fan headers. 1 PCI express connector to augment a low-end graphics card with some extra power if you need it.
Contains a debug LED which is very easy to add in and helpful for troubleshooting. Unfortunately no HDMI port on the back but you can easily adapt the DVI port to HDMI. This is a no illumination board so if you don’t want lights and LEDs then this is the perfect board for you. Superb performance with Intel CNVi ready, Core Boost, DDR4 Boost, turbo M.2, and USB 3.1 Gen 2 connector.
There is a summary screen on the BIOS menu which is really helpful. All the headline figures including Motherboard, CPU, Memory, current V core, DDR core, and the BIOS version can be seen at a glance. Overall very intuitive BIOS menu. This motherboard cannot be flashed directly from the internet; it will only update from a USB flash drive. All of the Fan outputs allow for PWM control. You will get all the performance of the game with this motherboard without bells and whistles. So that’s the kind of thing you like then you can purchase this gaming motherboard with your Intel Core i3 9100f or other 9th or 10th gen processor.
Specifications:
| Processor | 9th and 10th Gen Intel Processor |
| Chipset | Supports Intel Z390 Chipset |
| Memory | 4 x DDR4 memory slot Max memory support up to 128GB Max memory speeds up to 2666MHz |
| Slots | 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and 4 x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots also 1 x M.2 slot |
| Onboard Graphics | Given 1 x VGA port also 1 x DVI-D port and 1 x DisplayPort |
| Multi GPU | Multi GPU 2-Way AMD CrossFire Technology Supported |
| Storage | Given 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports also PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA 6Gb/s and Intel Optane Memory Ready |
| RAID | RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 Supported |
| USB | Given 2 x USB 3.1 Gen2 also 6 x USB 3.1 Gen1 and 6 x USB 2.0 |
| Audio | Realtek ALC892/897 Codec provided |
| LAN | Provided 1 x Intel I219-V Gigabit LAN controller |
Key features:
1. Supports 9th and 10th gen Intel LGA 1151 Socket processor.
2. Memory-supported DDR4, up to 4400(OC) MHz.
3. Turbo M.2 which is running at PCI-E Gen3 x 4 maximizes the performance for SSD based on NVMe.
4. Available DDR4 Boost and Core Boost.
5. Audio Boost studio-grade sound quality.
6. Provided Extended Heat Sink Design MSI brand extended PWM and used enhanced circuit design in order to ensure high-end processors ran full speed.
7. Provided Intel LAN. For professional and multimedia use Intel allows Premium network solutions. Delivers fast, secure, and stable network connections.
8. Allows Multi-GPU. Also, have Steel armor PCI-E slots. 2-Way AMD Crossfire supported.
9. Provided Intel USB 3.1 Gen2 controller, the uninterrupted connection is ensured by Turbo USB also more stability and fastest USB speed.
| Pros | Cons |
| Premium build quality. | Realtek Audio driver is not good, better to use windows, audio drivers. |
| Plenty of features for overclocking. | 4 pin RGB header can not be controlled by other RGB softwares but MSI Dragon Center. |
| The BIOS UI is pretty amazing and customizable. Remember to put sticks in the 2nd and 4th slot while booting. | No, built-in Wi-Fi. |
| Plenty of Fan headers, PCI-E slots, amazing heatsink over the VRM | Windows 7 can not be used with this motherboard. It will end up with various issues such as keyboard, mouse, ethernet port malfunction. |
MSI MPG Z390
MSI MPG Z390 motherboard is also an amazing and probably the best choice for Core i3 9100F gaming users. This is a gaming pro carbon edition from MSI. MPG stands for MSI performance gaming. This is a tremendous performance gaming motherboard from MSI also within the best price. The price is quite higher than the previous MSI Z390-A PRO motherboard and one of the main reasons for this increased cost is that MSI MPG Z390 has two M.2 slots which are very amazing.
There are so many impressive features MSI has included in this ATX board compared to the price. We can easily see the maturity and innovation in the build quality of this mobo. The MSI MPG Z390 is an ATX motherboard which means it is 30.5cm long and 24.4cm wide. This gaming motherboard is powered by an LGA 1151 CPU socket which is intended to max out the performance with any of Intel 8th and 9th Generation processors. One of the best key features is having CNVI support which helps up to 21.73 gigabits per second Intel wireless AC. This actually refers to the fact that you will be able to do gaming at blazing speed with this excellent motherboard. This motherboard also has a higher number of USB 3.1 gen 2 ports.
A genius work done by MSI in this motherboard is that the i/o housing is a part of the heatsink. Which is also known as an extended heatsink. This is a great innovation with a better heat dissipation system. The Z390 gaming motherboard has not only improved the extended heatsink but also improved PWM design. So basically it can easily provide the power required for Core i3 9100f to Core i9 9900k power-hungry gaming processors and it can keep them cool allowing the best possible gaming performance. The designs on the extended heatsinks are very unique, attractive, and premium.
MPG Z390 can serve the both purpose of being a light-up RGB gaming look as well as a normal premium showpiece look due to its RGB controller. There is a header where you can sync the Mystic light RGB with other devices such as a cooler master case and you can also set up different colors and patterns of RGB light using the customizing RGB controller. This allows MSI MPG Z390 to provide an amazing gaming look. Nowadays most gamers are crazy about RGB. The twin M.2 feature allows extremely fast boot-up. USB 3.1 gen 2 available in both front and rear allows high-speed data transfer.
4 DDR4 RAM slot available. 128GB max memory support. 6 PCIe slots and 6 SATA slots are provided with MSI MPG Z390. This premium gaming motherboard is inspired by the curve and shape of supercars. This reliable heavy-duty motherboard provides better performance with Core Boost, DDR4 Boost, M.2 shield froze, Intel gaming LAN, front USB 3.1 Gen 2 connector. Whether you are a core i3 9100k user or Core i9 9900k user, this power build MSI MPG Z390 motherboard is highly recommended and undoubtedly the best gaming motherboard on the list.
Specifications:
| Processor | 9th and 8th Gen Intel Processor |
| Chipset | Supports Intel Z390 Chipset |
| Memory | 4 x DDR4 memory slot Max memory support up to 128GB Max memory speeds up to 2666MHz |
| Slots | 3 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots also 2 x M.2 slots |
| Onboard Graphics | Given 1 x HDMI port 1.4 also 1 x DisplayPort port 1.2 |
| Multi GPU | 2-Way NVIDIA SLI Technology Supported 3-Way AMD CrossFire Technology Supported |
| Storage | Given 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports also PCIe 3.0 x4 and SATA 6Gb/s and Intel Optane Memory Ready |
| RAID | RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 Supported RAID 0, RAID 1 for M.2 PCIe storage devices supported |
| USB | Given 5 x USB 3.1 Gen2 also 4 x USB 3.1 Gen1 and 6 x USB 2.0 |
| Audio | Realtek ALC1220P-VB2 Codec provided Also 7.1 Channel High Definition Audio supported |
| LAN | Provided 1 x Intel I219-V Gigabit LAN controller |
Key features:
1. Supports 9th and 8th gen Intel LGA 1151 Socket processor.
2. Memory-supported DDR4, up to 4400(OC) MHz.
3. In one click 16.8 million colors / 29 effects controlled.
4. both RGB and RAINBOW LED strip is supported by MYSTIC LIGHT EXTENSION.
5. Turbo USB 3.1 GEN2, Intel Optane Memory Ready, also with M.2 Shield Frozr and 2x TURBO M.2 confirms Lightning Fast Game experience.
6. Provides Core Boost with 8+4 pin CPU power connector, also allows Game Boost, amazing DDR4 Boost with Steel Armor which sets free the whole core power.
7. Studio-grade sound quality with AUDIO BOOST 4 with NAHIMIC 3 which will allow the most immersive gaming experience.
8. Better EMI protection with Pre-installed I/O Shielding which is more convenient for installation.
| Pros | Cons |
| Can handle i9 9900k perfectly fine. | No heatsink over the lower M.2 |
| Very good airflow keeps the board cool below 50 degrees. | Don’t have much RGB |
| Intuitive BIOS menu | Bit expensive for i3 9100f, perfect for a future CPU upgrade. |
| Amazing performance with overclocking RAM, CPU & GPU |
Asus Prime Z390-A
Asus Prime Z390-A is a 9th and 8th Gen processor supported motherboard which comes with a very premium look and design. One of the best and most popular motherboards from the brand ASUS. This Intel Z390 chipset-based ASUS motherboard is also a reliable choice for Intel Core i3 9100f processor. This durable motherboard is also a bit costly probably because of having a double M.2 slot. The price of Asus Prime Z390-A is fully worth the price. 4 DDR4 RAM slot also 128GB max memory support. 6 PCIe slots, 2 M.2 slots, and 6 SATA ports. 4 USB 3.1 Gen2 is available which is pretty rare to have. This premium motherboard is powered by AI overclocking with Intel LGA 1151 ATX motherboard.
Specifications:
| Processor | 9th and 8th Gen Intel Processor Socket 1151 Intel 14nm CPU |
| Chipset | Supports Intel Z390 Chipset |
| Memory | 4 x DDR4 memory slot Max memory support up to 128GB Max memory speeds up to 2666MHz |
| Slots | 2 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 slots also 2 x M.2 x 16 slot |
| Onboard Graphics | Supported Multi-VGA output: HDMI/DVI-D ports Also HDMI with max. resolution 4096 x 2160 @ 30 Hz Supported DisplayPort 1.2 with max. resolution 4096 x 2304 @ 60 Hz Supported |
| Multi GPU | NVIDIA 2-Way SLI Technology supported Also, AMD 3-Way CrossFireX Technology supported |
| Storage | Given 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports also PCIe 3.0 x 4 with 1 x M.2 Socket 3 also SATA & PCIe 3.0 x 4 with 1 x M.2 Socket 3 and Intel Optane Memory Ready |
| RAID | RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 Supported RAID 0, RAID 1 for M.2 PCIe storage devices supported |
| USB | Given 4 x USB 3.1 Gen2 also 5 x USB 3.1 Gen1 also 2 x USB 2.0 ports and 4 x USB 2.0 ports |
| Audio | Realtek ALC S1220A 8 High Definition Codec provided |
| LAN | Provided 1 x Intel I219-V Gigabit LAN controller Also ASUS Turbo LAN Utility And ASUS LAN Guard |
Key features:
1. AI overclocking system: Based on CPU and cooler quickly optimizes the CPU performance.
2. OptiMem II system: Traces and vias are carefully routed. To preserve the signal integrity for improved memory overclocking plus the ground layer is optimized.
3. Allow enhanced power solution: Premium component builds, allow better power efficiency.
4. UEFI BIOS mode: New UEFI options are introduced which allow finding settings easily through a search function.
5. Best cooling options: Allow comprehensive controls for fans and AIO pimp, the acclaimed UEFI, or Xpert 4.
6. M.2 heatsink: M.2 SSD temperature is reduced by up to 20°C by an Ultra-efficient heatsink which provides enhanced reliability and unthrottled transfer speeds.
7. Allow next-gen connectivity: Super flexible service because of Intel Optane memory ready, Thunderbolt 3 header, Intel RST support, and dual M.2 support.
8. ASUS Aura Sync system: Onboard RGB lighting which is easily controllable and syncs with Aura-capable hardware.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lots of USB 3.0 and 3.1 ports. | Might face the Buzzing noise interference issue |
| AI suite software is amazing. Contains lots of options to control case fans and CPU coolers. | which requires a ground loop noise isolator to fix. |
| Fascinating overclocking capabilities and vibrant AURA RGB. | If you use one PCIe port then the other will work as PCIe x 8 instead of x 16. |
| Non-addressable 4 pin headers are used which are not compatible with addressable 4 pin products. |
GIGABYTE B365M DS3H
GIGABYTE B365M DS3H motherboard is one of the best low-budget options for 9th and 8th Gen i3/i5/i7 Intel processors. Due to low budget, some of the features are not the same as previous costly models but for low budget Core i3 9100f users, this is undoubtedly the best motherboard. It is based on an Intel B365 chipset. 4 DDR4 RAM slots are available with 64GB max memory support. 3 PCIe slots, 1 M.2 slot, and 6 SATA ports available. Also, 12 USB ports are available. This low-budget premium model has Intel B365 Ultra Durable motherboard with GIGABYTE 8118 gaming LAN. Provide decent performance with PCIe gen3 x4 M.2, RGB LED strips with 7 colors, anti-sulfur resistor, smart fan 5, Dual BIOS, and CEC 2019.
Specifications:
| Processor | 9th and 8th Gen Intel Processor with LGA 1151 socket |
| Chipset | Supports Intel B365 Express Chipset |
| Memory | 4 x DDR4 memory slot Max memory support up to 64GB Max memory speeds up to 2666MHz |
| Slots | 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots also 1 x PCIe 3.0 x 4 slots also 1 x PCIe 3.0 x 1 slot and 1 x M.2 slot |
| Onboard Graphics | Given 1 x D-Sub port also 1 x DVI-D port and 1 x HDMI port |
| Storage | Given 6 x SATA 6Gb/s ports Also 1 M.2 connector PCIe 3.0 x4/x2 SSD Support and Intel Optane Memory Ready |
| RAID | RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 Supported |
| USB | Given 6 x USB 3.1 Gen1 and 6 x USB 2.0 |
| Audio | Realtek ALC887 Codec provided |
| LAN | Provided Realtek GbE LAN chip |
Key features:
1. Intel 8th and 9th Gen Processors supported.
2. Unbuffered DDR4 with dual-channel non-ECC.
3. Introduced a new Hybrid Digital PWM Design.
4. Boosted with high-quality audio capacitors and also available noise guard which also has LED trace path lighting.
5. PCIe Gen3 X4 and SATA interface allows the M.2 to be ultra-fast.
6. RGB LED strips in 7 colors are supported because of RGB Fusion.
7. 8118 Gaming LAN with bandwidth management which is GIGABYTE exclusive.
8. Save power with one click using CEC 2019 Ready.
9. 5 features multiple temperature sensors with a smart fan and also hybrid fan headers with fan stop.
10. Resistor design with anti-sulfur.
11. 15KV surge LAN protection with Ultra Durable.
12. Boosted with Intel optane memory ready.
13. Exclusive GIGABYTE UEFI DualBIOS.
| Pros | Cons |
| Great Micro ATX board for professional use, contains everything you need at a very cheap price. | Some products may come with older BIOS versions not supporting 9th gen, in that case, you have to update the BIOS using an 8th gen CPU or apply for replacement of the product. Be careful about the BIOS version. |
| Contains RGB LED strips | No overclocking capability. |
| Intuitive BIOS, Great audio quality. |
MSI H310M PRO-VDH Plus
MSI H310M PRO-VDH Plus is the lowest price 9th and 8th Gen Intel processor-supported motherboard in this list. The reason for its being the lowest price with amazing performance is that it has no M.2 slot. If you are not willing to use an M.2 SSD then this motherboard is perfect for you. You can use the SATA-connected SSD with MSI H310M PRO. For low-budget core i3 9100f users this non-M. 2 motherboard is the best option. Based on the Intel H310 chipset. 2 DDR4 RAM slots and a maximum of 32 GB memory is supported which is reasonable according to the price range. 3 PCIe slots, no M.2 slot, and 4 SATA ports available. Also, 10 USB ports are available.
Specifications:
| Processor | 9th and 8th Gen Intel Processor |
| Chipset | Supports Intel H310 Chipset |
| Memory | 2 x DDR4 memory slot Max memory support up to 32GB Max memory speeds up to 2666MHz |
| Slots | 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and 2 x PCIe 2.0 x1 slots No M.2 slot available |
| Onboard Graphics | Given 1 x VGA port also 1 x DVI-D port and 1 x HDMI Port |
| Storage | Given 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports Also Intel Rapid Storage Technology Supported |
| RAID | RAID 0, RAID 1, RAID 5 and RAID 10 Supported |
| USB | Given 4 x USB 3.1 Gen1 and 6 x USB 2.0 |
| Audio | Realtek ALC887/ ALC892/ ALC897 Codec provided |
| LAN | Provided 1 x RTL8111H Gigabit LAN controller |
Key features:
1. Supports 9th and 10th gen Intel LGA 1151 Socket processor.
2. DDR4 Memory supported up to 2666MHz.
3. Reward your ears with studio-grade sound quality with the MSI audio boost 4. Troubleshoot easily with EZ Debug LED.
5. Supports X boost: A software that detects automatically and allows us to boost the performance of any storage or USB device.
6. Supreme Core boost: Support more cores and provide better performance with premium layout and fully digital power design.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cheapest motherboard for i3 9100f, very basic motherboard, perfect for home office build | Comes with only two RAM slots so the upgradability of RAM is limited. |
| Perfect for beginner PC build | No NVMe SSD slot. |
| No BIOS update required for 9th Gen CPU |
Editor’s Choice
After the discussion of the 5 best motherboards for core i3 9100f we came to the conclusion that if you are a heavy user and require a high-budget gaming motherboard then duel M.2 MSI MPG Z390 is the best choice. Rather if you are a light user or wish to have a decent gaming performance with a low budget then go for a single M.2 GIGABYTE B365M DS3H.
Related Article: Best Graphics Cards for i3 9100F
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best motherboard for Core i3 9100f?
MSI MPG Z390 for the high-budget users and GIGABYTE B365M DS3H for low-budget users.
What motherboards are compatible with i3 9100F?
MSI Z390-A PRO
MSI MPG Z390
Asus Prime Z390-A
GIGABYTE B365M DS3H
MSI H310M PRO-VDH Plus
Is i3 9100F good for gaming?
Core i3-9100F is a budget gaming PC that runs at an average frame rate of 33 FPS in 1080p. It’s not really bad but not good either.
Does i3 9100F support 3000Mhz RAM?
Yes
How much RAM does i3 9100F support?
64GB
Can I overclock the i3 9100f?
Only possible on Z370 and Z390 motherboards only by increasing the “Base Clock”.
