If you’re thinking about a PC or laptop upgrade and need to know your motherboard model so you can tell what you have available to you, you’ve come to the right place. Your PC’s motherboard is its central hub, and knowing its details can be crucial for upgrades or troubleshooting. So, how do you find out what motherboard you have?

While it’s a breeze to spot parts like your CPU or RAM within your system summary, trying to get that same info on your motherboard can prove a tad more complex.

Windows 10 and Windows 11 users have a host of built-in tools at their disposal to reveal their motherboard model and more. These tools vary slightly from those you’d use to check your PC hardware specs, as motherboard information is absent from the “About your PC” summary.

Let’s break it down.

1. A Physical Examination

The most straightforward method to identify your motherboard is a good old-fashioned look. We’ll guide you on how to spot those elusive model numbers etched on the board.

Physically looking at the board is usually ideal when your PC won’t turn on, or the motherboard isn’t installed, or for cross-verification before using a board for old motherboard recycling projects.

The model name’s exact location on your motherboard will differ according to its layout and brand. It’s usually printed where there’s enough space for large text—below your RAM slots, between your CPU and GPU, or under your GPU.

If available to you, you can also check your PC’s documentation or manufacturer’s website might have the answers.

2. The Power of System Information

No need for a screwdriver? No problem. Windows’ built-in System Information tool can provide a wealth of details about your motherboard, and we’ll show you how to use it.

Windows System Information can also divulge your motherboard details. However, this method isn’t foolproof—it recognizes some motherboards but fails to identify others.

For compatible motherboards, this is the simplest way to check your motherboard model and brand on Windows.

Start by opening Run using Windows + R. In the Run window, type msinfo32 and press Enter. Your motherboard information should appear next to Baseboard Manufacturer, BaseBoard Product, and BaseBoard Version.

3. Utilizing Command Prompt

Command Prompt isn’t just for tech wizards. With a simple line of code, this tool can reveal the secrets of your motherboard. We’ll walk you through the process.

Windows Command Prompt allows for easy identification of your motherboard model and serial number, compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Start by typing “cmd” in the Start menu search bar and select the Command Prompt app. Alternatively, you can tap the Windows key and type “cmd”.

You don’t need to run Command Prompt as an administrator. Once your command window is open, prompt the Windows Management Interface Command (WMIC) to display the manufacturer, model, name, and other attributes of your motherboard. Simply enter the following directly into Command Prompt:

wmic baseboard get product,manufacturer,version,serialnumber

Remember to omit spaces between modifiers like product and manufacturer—separate them with a comma.

4. Third-Party Software Solutions

Relax! Despite the slight intricacies depending on your motherboard and operating system, this guide simplifies the process, rendering it novice-friendly. Let’s get you the answer to that looming question, “What type of motherboard do I have?”

A. CPU-Z

CPU-Z is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a thorough overview of your motherboard’s specifications. This free software provides a detailed analysis of your PC’s hardware components.

To dig deeper into your motherboard details, choose the Mainboard tab after launching the software. Here, you’ll find your motherboard’s chipset, manufacturer, and other information.

B. Belarc Advisor

If you need your motherboard’s serial number, Belarc Advisor is a fantastic tool. Unlike many other software, Belarc does not transmit your data to web servers. Instead, it displays the analysis summary in a local file through your browser.

Once the software completes its series of scans, it will present the results in a browser tab. Look for the heading “Main Circuit Board” to find your motherboard summary.

5. Identifying Using Linux

For Linux users, identifying your motherboard is equally straightforward. Open your Terminal in Linux using Ctrl + Alt + T. Next, input the following command:

sudo dmidecode -t 2

This command will display a summary of your motherboard, including its brand, model, and serial number. If you’re using a virtual machine, the product name will identify this.

Whether you’re running Ubuntu on your actual computer or a virtual machine, you’ll quickly have your motherboard model and serial number information.

Various free software can provide comprehensive system details, including your motherboard’s specifics. We’ll suggest a few reliable options for you to consider.

6. Google Around

A final tip or trick is to try and Google it. If you have a name-brand computer this becomes much easier (for example you would search for “what motherboard is in the dell xps 8950” for example). Branded computers will basically all share the same motherboard or be limited to a few to choose from and you’ll be able to find images and specifications online that will narrow down the selection.

If you have a custom built solution try Googling hardware IDs you see in device manager or using the software recommendations on this page to get at least a partial list of some of your info (chipset, sockets, etc.) to help you go in the right direction.

FAQs

What is a motherboard in a computer?

The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer. It houses the CPU, memory, and connectors for input and output devices, acting as a central hub that enables all these components to interact.

Why do I need to know my motherboard model?

Knowing your motherboard model is important when upgrading your system, troubleshooting issues, or checking hardware compatibility.

Can I use software to check my motherboard model?

Yes, there are several third-party software options that provide detailed system information, including your motherboard model.

Is there a quick way to check my motherboard model in Windows?

Yes, you can use the System Information tool or Command Prompt in Windows to quickly check your motherboard model.

Conclusion

Finding out what motherboard you have doesn’t have to be a complex task. With these methods at your disposal, you’ll be able to identify your motherboard in no time, empowering you to take control of your PC’s future.