Upgrading my Computer and Recommendations

Well.... I can clarify my previous statement to avoid getting corrected by Bluescreen or someone like that.

Motherboards, if they're good enough, do not effect performance. However, if you're running an unusual setup, the motherboard could hamper things - like an Crossfire setup won't work on a low-quality cheapo H97 board where it could on a high end H97 board, or your SSD performance might be hurt if you're using a motherboard that doesn't support SATA III, or something extreme like that.

This will not effect your case at all, I'm just clarifying my statement.

 

Getting a mATX board is a bad idea unless you're specifically planning on a small form factor build for some reason. You'll get a lot more room for upgrades with a full ATX board and case. Also, ASUS' E boards are the lowest end ones and while still very good in terms of quality, they lack many features (ASUS is usually known for removing features from lower end boards rather than using cheaper components).

 

Ok, thanks for clearing that up.

 

So I have read that the main difference between the H97-Pro and H97-Plus is that the Pro has the sata express. Is that really worth the extra 50 or so $? Will this be that much of a benefit for future upgrading? Also, I have read that the H97-Pro is not distributed in North America, though I can find one on amazon but that would explain the lack of seeing them. That and the time it would take to ship it using standard free shipping.

Also, is it worth taking a risk on this open box H97-pro gamer- http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...132415R&cm_re=H97_pro-_-13-132-415R-_-Product
Or is open box items usually not a wise decision?

 

It's your judgement. SATA express is nice but if you don't intend to get a fancy SSD then it's not worth it.

 

Ok, that makes sense. BlueScreen, what is your opinion on spending the extra cash for an H97 Pro. Also, what do you guys think of open box items on newegg?

 

The Plus is a fine board, as said before unless you plan on getting a fancy SSD just go for the Plus board.
As for open box or refurbished products, I wouldn't buy them unless they have a decent warranty. If you're sure you can have it replaced in case it's DOA or fails quickly, then go for it.

 

I can not find for the life of me a good H97 pro or H97 Pro-Gamer for reasonable price or that is in stock. Is there any good H97 alternatives by other companies maybe? Would prefer ATX, but I would just like to see what is out there in case I cant find any Asus ones

 

Go for the H97-Plus. You could get an MSI H97 Gaming 3 or Gigabyte H97-D3H, but the ASUS board is much better.