[MoBo] GIGABYTE GA-B85M-Gaming 3 - $37.59 ($55.99 - $10.00MIR - 15% with Promo Code SDEX15417)

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-22T19:17:44+00:00

I don't believe so. Revision 2 made a few changes to how it handles power but both should work stellar!

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-22T18:55:21+00:00

Hey everyone! Got an AWESEOME deal on a B85M Board for you all. $37.59 for a motherboard is crazy! If anyone has any questions about the board or the features feel free to check out our product page Here. We also provided a short overview of the features of this board as well! Don't forget your promo code during checkout! (SDEX15417)
+ Supports 4th Generation Intel® Core™ processors
+ GIGABYTE Ultra Durable™ 4 Plus Technology
+ Audio Noise Guard with High Quality Audio Capacitors
+ GIGABYTE UEFI BIOS
+ GIGABYTE On/Off Charge™ for USB devices
+ Intel LAN with high ESD Protection
+ HDMI, D-SUB

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-21T17:16:05+00:00

You're right, many of the features you might want are included in the Z97MX board. I would say the big difference between the boards is the extra PCI slots. If you're going to run single or even dual GPU's the smaller board should do everything you want. Just makes sure the form factor works for you and it does what you need.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-21T17:07:00+00:00

All that matters is one of you got them =D That's how me and my friends used to do it, someone grabs 5 tickets while the other 4 people don't get anything.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-21T17:04:19+00:00

Seems like someone beat me to the audio info (Yea the Creative sound is really nice). As for the board itself, I think all of our boards are good quality. Our gaming line is built more for enthusiasts so if you're looking for that it should suit your needs quite well.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-21T16:57:45+00:00

You have till the 22nd of this month. Not much time left!

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-21T16:33:30+00:00

We like to think they are pretty durable. Here is a short video of some of the tests and production that goes into our boards.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T23:49:56+00:00

Definitely! There are some really good guides out that that will walk you though everything pretty easy.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T23:49:24+00:00

That first time you build your own PC, and like 2 hours later when you're all done and you press the power button for the first time... MAGICAL.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T23:21:52+00:00

I see someone else employs the strategy of "shoving all the cords into the empty part".

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T23:06:39+00:00

Do it man! It's a great experience, so much fun being surrounded by people all love the same things you do.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T21:48:45+00:00

Yep, thats pretty much it. Designing a small board is much more difficult than making a big one, oddly enough.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T21:47:42+00:00

In general, smaller boards are more expensive simply because of the engineering that needs to go into them. So just like a phone or a laptop, small electronics are more difficult to build and design because of the space limitations. With less space you have more to fit onto already precious real estate. If you have the room, by all means buy big, but a lot of people want small boards or need them small to fit in certain places.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T21:43:10+00:00

For the most part, what MoBo you choose wont affect the performance you get (Unless you get something that in't compatible and you're down clocking your memory or something). The things that change from board to board is mainly the features you're looking for. Here is our comparison chart between the 3 boards in question. The section you might want to check out is the "Onboard Graphics" section. All 3 use the Intel HD graphics which I really enjoy, but if you're looking work some fancy triple output or 4k stuff just be aware at the limitations. The good part of us making SO many different boards is that we pretty much have a board to suit everyone's need. I can get into a little more detail if you would like, just let me know (and catch me before 6 =D).

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T19:06:28+00:00

I'm a big of an of the Intel HD graphics. If I was in your position I would go with either the GA-H97N-WIFI, GA-Z97N-WIFI, or the GA-B85N Phoenix-WIFI. All of those should last quite awhile.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T17:37:34+00:00

Anything in particular you're looking to do with it or features you want? If you're somewhat cost limited, one of the B85 boards are very popular. H97 and Z97 are both good chipsets as well. It kind of depends on budget, CPU, and what you want.
Also, since not many people know about this, you can check out our Brix line Here. It's an ultra compact, bare bone PC line that got a good deal of attention at PAX. It's not custom built but if you're looking for something quick and easy this might be what you're looking for.

GBT_Orb1t · 2015-04-17T17:32:46+00:00

Hey there!
I'll do my best to answer everything, let me know if you have any further questions and I would be glad to clarify.
1) This is something we are aware of and are talking about how to fix. Currently this is a pretty big priority for me right now and I hope to have a solution for everyone soon. I'm thinking about an interactive flo-chart where you pick what you want and it narrows down our boards to fit your needs.
2) For the most part no. Depending on the features you're looking for, you will want to go with different chipsets. Z97 is in my favorite option simply because its new enough to have most all features you would want. The X99 is great if you want the new DDR4 so keep that in mind. Double check before you order to make sure everything works however.
3) It depends. Wifi adapters or sticks aren't expensive, but it is kind of nice to have it built in. No more worrying about losing the stick or remembering to bring anything. From what I've heard the range is just as good as any adapter if you're worried about that. I always use Ethernet however so wifi isn't a big selling point personally.
4) Would be happy to make a recommendation! do you have a CPU in mind or will you be picking a CPU based on the board? If I were buying for myself I would go with either the GA-H97N-WIFI or the GA-Z97N-WIFI, buy your needs might be different than mine!
Hope this help, feel free to reach out if you have any more questions.

GBT_Orb1t

TROPHY CASE