TechRadar Verdict
Only makes sense as the basis of a compact, power efficient but pricey home cinema rig
Pros
- +
Strong feature set
- +
Compact proportions
Cons
- -
Poor CPU performance
- -
Pretty pricey
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We were initially disappointed with AMD's new Fusion CPU, the E-350. Despite that, its low-power CPU-GPU chip, otherwise known as Zacate, does have something to offer in certain small form factor and portable computing niches. Enter, therefore, the new Gigabyte GA-E350N-USB3 motherboard.
Given the performance limitations of the E-350, we reckon smaller is better when it comes to system size.
In other words, what you want is a Mini-ITX motherboard. Ideally, however, you want one that makes as few compromises as possible in return for compact proportions.
What you want, says Gigabyte, is the GA-E350N-USB3.
For starters, you get a PCI Express 16-lane slot for full-power graphics action. Then there are four on-board ports. Not as many as a typical full ATX board, perhaps, but enough to meet the storage needs of most end users.
Gigabyte has also thrown in a pair of USB ports for good measure, and provided a full set of BIOS overclocking options.
