How Long Does A Motherboard Last?
The motherboard is one of the essential components of a PC. It can be said that it’s the nervous system of the machine. Also, it’s pretty expensive to buy as well. So you will want it to last long. As such, it’s common to ask- how long does a motherboard last?
I will answer that question and tell you some tips you can use to lengthen the longevity of your motherboard.
What Is The Average Lifespan Of A Motherboard?
Most motherboards have an average lifespan of 2-4 years. But if you maintain it and take care of it, it will definitely last for up to 5-8 years. However, it’s more likely that your motherboard will probably get technologically obsolete first rather than breaking or getting damaged.
After all, generally, motherboards only remain fully compatible with just two generations of the CPU. This is also because newer CPU models have a unique socket system that only connects to the newer motherboard. This means that those CPUs can’t connect with old motherboards. There is also the issue of hard drives since older motherboards won’t support the newer hard drives.
As such, it’s entirely possible that your motherboard can last for 20 years, but you probably won’t be able to use it for that long because the supporting technology would have changed by leaps and bounds by then.
For How Many Years Is Motherboard Warranty Given?
Most motherboards come with a warranty for 1 to 3 years, with well-known manufacturers like Asus giving a sweet two-year deal. So if your motherboard turns out to be faulty, then you can get it fixed for free within that period.
What Factors Determine The Lifespan Of a Motherboard?
Only one major factor determines how long your motherboard will last, and that’s the quality. So while buying a motherboard, make sure that you buy it from a trusted company that gives a sizable warranty on it.
How Can You Increase Your Motherboard’s Lifespan?
You can’t control the pace at which technology improves and changes. But there are other things which you can do. These are the two significant ways you will ensure that you get an extended-lasting motherboard. These ways are:
Don’t Overclock
Overclocking is a widespread method used to improve the performance of your PC. This is done by increasing the frequency of the components of your computer. For example, you will be able to enhance the performance of the CPU by increasing its speed from 3 GHz to 3.5 GHz.
However, this high performance comes at a cost, and that is the lifespan of these components. This is because overclocking puts more pressure and strain on the components. Not to mention that it generates more heat as a result too.
So overclocking could reduce how long your motherboard or other modules last. As such, try not to overclock your system if you want an extended-lasting motherboard.
Clean Your Motherboard
The most significant problem and the most common problem that your motherboard will have to encounter is dust. If you don’t clean the dust from your motherboard, it will act as a huge insulating barrier.
This will trap the heat generated by various components and make the motherboard hotter. Now, if the motherboard doesn’t get fresh and cool air, it will slowly heat up, and over time this can damage your board. However, dust doesn’t just cause heat build-up. It disrupts communication between the motherboard and the other components as well.
So use compressed canned air to get rid of the accumulated dust in your motherboard. You can use a moistened cotton swab to get the dust and lint in those areas for the hard-to-reach areas.
Your motherboard will at most last for 2-5 years. But the biggest threat to a motherboard isn’t physical damage but technological obsolescence. However, you can’t control technological changes. But you can still keep your motherboard clean, cool, and not overclocked to ensure that it physically lasts longer.
READ MORE: Does it Matter Which PCIe x16 Slot I Use?
About the Author Michael E. Yates
Hi! The words you are going to read comes from me! A geek passionately and a writer of 5+ years professionally. If you ask about my likings, well, I love to tag along with upcoming technology trends. Though I also have contributed to many more technology sites through my writings. If you ask about my dreams, then one of them is finding an instant solution for every device malfunction, so I am creating a blog post. A blog post that will help more people like me. I, introduce thepcstuff.com the result of my hard work and patience. Do not worry, with me and my team behind the computers will make sure every vital information related to technology reaches all of you people. So, if you are ready to go on an adventurous ride with thepcstuff.com and me, let's get started!
