Discover Your Motherboard Model in Windows: A Simple Guide

Whether you’re looking to update system-related drivers or planning to purchase new hardware, identifying the specific model of your motherboard is essential. While opening your PC case for a visual inspection is one method, a more convenient approach is to access this information directly through Windows. Below, we outline the most effective techniques for retrieving your motherboard model in the Windows operating system.

The Importance of Knowing Your Motherboard Model

For the average user, knowing the motherboard model may not seem crucial as it generally does not impact everyday computing tasks. However, there are significant scenarios where this information becomes necessary:

You need to update the BIOS for enhanced functionality.
You’re looking to refresh drivers related to your motherboard components, such as audio drivers.
You are selecting a new case and want to ensure compatibility with your current motherboard’s form factor.
You are considering new hardware purchases and need to verify compatibility with your existing motherboard.
You are contemplating a motherboard upgrade and want to compare the features and limitations with your current setup.

While these situations may not arise frequently, having quick access to your motherboard’s model can save you time and effort when they do.

Using the System Information Tool

Windows includes a built-in utility called System Information, which provides comprehensive details about your computer’s components, including the motherboard brand and model. Here’s how to access this information:

Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type msinfo32 and hit Enter.

The System Information window will populate with data about your PC. Look for fields titled Baseboard Manufacturer and Baseboard Product under the System Summary section.

Motherboard Model information in System Information tool

The Baseboard Manufacturer indicates the brand, while the Baseboard Product shows the specific model number of your motherboard.

Querying the Registry via Command Prompt

Although the WMIC command line tool has been deprecated, you can still retrieve the motherboard model from the Windows Registry using Command Prompt. Follow these steps:

Type “cmd” in Windows Search and select Command Prompt.
Enter the following command and press Enter:

reg query "HKLM\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System\BIOS" /v BaseBoardProduct

Motherboard Model in Command Prompt using Registry query

This command will reveal your motherboard’s exact model, but for the manufacturer’s name, you can run this command:

reg query "HKLM\HARDWARE\DESCRIPTION\System\BIOS" /v BaseBoardManufacturer

Using PowerShell to Find Your Motherboard Model

PowerShell serves as the modern replacement for the WMI command line tool and can also be employed to extract your motherboard model. Here’s what to do:

Search for “powershell” in Windows and open Windows PowerShell.
Type the following command:

Get-CimInstance Win32_BaseBoard

Motherboard Model in Powershell using CIM Instance

This command displays both the motherboard manufacturer’s name and model number, conveniently listed next to Product.

Leveraging Third-Party Applications

If you prefer a more user-friendly option, third-party software can provide detailed motherboard information, sometimes more conveniently than the built-in Windows tools. You may already have some diagnostic tools installed:

CPU-Z

Familiar to many users for processor details and benchmarking, CPU-Z can also display your motherboard model. Click on the Motherboard tab in the interface.

Speccy

Speccy is yet another popular tool for system monitoring. Under the Motherboard section on the main page, or by selecting the Motherboard category on the left, you can conveniently find your model information.

Checking Your Motherboard Model in BIOS

If you prefer not to enter Windows, the BIOS/UEFI interface provides a straightforward way to find your motherboard model. Simply access the BIOS/UEFI settings and navigate to the System Information section.

Accessing your motherboard model through Windows is manageable with the right steps. While the System Information tool is the most user-friendly option, alternative methods may be more suitable based on your preferences. Additionally, when troubleshooting a laptop, it’s wise to consider both the laptop and motherboard models.

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