B360 or Z370?

[thedandyp]

Hi all, I've managed to pick up crazy good deals on both 2x8gb DDR4 3000 corsair memory, and an i5 8400, getting both combined new for well under £200. I only need a motherboard for it all to go into, B360 boards start at around £60, while the cheapest z370 ones are around £80.

I know the 8400 can't be overclocked, but B360 only support 2666 ram, will only have 2 dimm slots (at the £60 price pint), and offer little upgrade opportunity. I'm leaning towards the cheapest z370 boards, leaving the option of an unlocked processor upgrade open to me in the future... input appreciated!

 

[tamzzy]

leaving the option of an unlocked processor upgrade open to me in the future...

how likely are you to upgrade?

TBH, Z370 is unlikely (possibly) to support the new 8-core i9 processors when it comes out later on in the year.
the el-cheapo Z370 boards that you're looking at leaves much to be desired in terms of VRM capabilities - and even powering a 8700k at full tilt and overclocked can lead to intermittent throttling due to the VRMs overheating.
yes, you won't be able to use your 3000mhz to full effect with a B360 board - but IMO it's probably the better option now.
Z370 is dead even before it's conceived (with respect to upgrade path)

Recommend the Asrock B360M-pro4 (it's <£75 and probably the best value-for-money board)
if going for Z370, then something mid-range like the Asrock Z370-extreme4

(8400+B360+16gb ram for <£300 is a steal)