Ever wondered what motherboard your PC is running on? Whether you’re planning an upgrade, checking compatibility for new hardware, or troubleshooting issues, knowing your motherboard model is essential. But here’s the catch—unlike your graphics card or processor, your motherboard model isn’t always displayed upfront in Windows 11.
No worries! In this guide, I’ll show you simple and quick ways to check your motherboard model in Windows 11—no need to open up your PC case (unless you really want to).
Why Do You Need to Know Your Motherboard Model?
1. Hardware Upgrades
Before upgrading RAM, CPU, or storage, you need to know if your motherboard supports it.
2. Driver Updates
Installing the correct drivers often depends on the motherboard manufacturer and model.
3. BIOS Updates
Want better stability or new features? Knowing your motherboard model helps you get the right BIOS update.
4. Troubleshooting
Identifying your motherboard helps in diagnosing compatibility or performance issues.
Method 1: Using System Information Tool (msinfo32)
This is one of the easiest ways.
Steps:
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Press Win + S and type System Information.
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Open the app.
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Look for BaseBoard Manufacturer, BaseBoard Product, and BaseBoard Version.
Pros:
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Quick and built-in.
Cons:
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Sometimes shows “To Be Filled By O.E.M.” if your system manufacturer doesn’t provide details.
Method 2: Using Command Prompt (CMD)
Command Prompt is another handy way.
Steps:
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Press Win + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
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Type this command and press Enter:
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Your motherboard details will appear instantly.
Pros:
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Fast and accurate.
Cons:
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May not work on some systems with restricted WMIC.
Method 3: Using PowerShell
PowerShell is a more modern alternative.
Steps:
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Open PowerShell as administrator.
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Enter this command:
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You’ll see detailed motherboard info.
Method 4: Using Third-Party Software
If built-in methods don’t work, try these tools:
Popular Tools:
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CPU-Z – Free and lightweight.
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Speccy – User-friendly interface with full hardware info.
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HWiNFO – Detailed for advanced users.
Steps with CPU-Z:
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Download CPU-Z from its official website.
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Install and open the app.
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Go to the Mainboard tab.
Method 5: Check BIOS/UEFI
Your motherboard details are also visible in BIOS.
Steps:
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Restart your PC.
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Press Del, F2, or Esc during startup (key varies by manufacturer).
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Look for motherboard information on the main screen.
Best for:
When Windows isn’t booting, or you want extra details.
Method 6: Physically Inspect the Motherboard
If all else fails, open your PC.
Steps:
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Shut down and unplug your computer.
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Open the case carefully.
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Look for the model printed on the board (near RAM slots or PCIe slots).
Warning:
Only do this if you’re comfortable handling hardware.
How to Identify Motherboard Manufacturer and Model Together
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Manufacturer: ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, ASRock, etc.
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Model: Like B550 Tomahawk, Z690 AORUS Elite, etc.
These two together give you the full identity of your motherboard.
What If My Motherboard Model Shows as Unknown?
Possible Causes:
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Outdated BIOS.
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Missing system information files.
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Prebuilt PCs sometimes lock this info.
Fix:
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Update BIOS.
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Check with manufacturer’s support tools.
Why Not Just Google My PC Model?
If you own a branded PC (HP, Dell, Lenovo), searching your exact PC model can help. But if it’s a custom-built PC, you’ll need to use the methods above.
Tips for Safe Hardware Inspection
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Always ground yourself before touching components.
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Use a non-metallic tool to avoid static discharge.
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Avoid pulling or bending parts unnecessarily.
Advantages of Knowing Your Motherboard Model
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Easier future upgrades.
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Better system stability.
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Smooth driver installation.
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Compatibility with new GPUs or SSDs.
Conclusion
Finding your motherboard model in Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a guessing game. From built-in tools like System Information and Command Prompt to reliable third-party apps, you have multiple options. Whether you’re upgrading your system, troubleshooting, or just curious, knowing your motherboard details gives you control over your PC’s future.
FAQs
1. Can I find my motherboard model without opening my PC?
Yes! Use System Information, CMD, or third-party tools like CPU-Z.
2. Do I need admin rights to check my motherboard?
Not always, but some commands may require admin access.
3. Will checking the motherboard void my warranty?
No—software methods are completely safe.
4. Is the serial number important?
It’s helpful for warranty claims and manufacturer support.
5. Can I check the motherboard model on a laptop?
Yes, all these methods work for laptops as well.