Motherboard Reviews - Appuals

The 9 Best Motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900x In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 17:02:24 +0000

So you have just got your hands on a shiny new AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, but want to know the best motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X? Fret not, we have got you covered.

AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series processors brought forward immense gains in both gaming and productivity performance, all thanks to the new Zen 3 architecture. With the redesigned CCX layout and shared cache system, the Ryzen 5000 series processors took an immense leap, especially in gaming performance, and challenged Intel’s crown for the first time in a decade.

The Ryzen 9 5900X is the 12-Core, 24-Thread behemoth that headlines the Zen 3 desktop processor lineup. Being such a power-hungry, high-performance chip, it needs the perfect motherboard partner to unlock its full potential. The best motherboards for Ryzen 5000 series CPUs are also worth consideration here.

Here are our picks for the best motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X, currently available on the market.

The Best Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X – Our Picks

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	MSI MEG X570 UNIFY	Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	771 Reviews Check Price
2	ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula	Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	Check Price
3	ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero	Best ASUS Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	1,237 Reviews Check Price
4	ASUS ROG X570-E Gaming WiFi	Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	3,232 Reviews Check Price
5	MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi	Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	Check Price
6	ASRock X570 Taichi	Best RGB Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	Check Price
7	Gigabyte B550 Vision D	Best Looking Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	Check Price
8	ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming-ITX	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	Check Price
9	MSI MAG B550M Mortar	Best Micro ATX Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	MSI MEG X570 UNIFY
Award	Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	771 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula
Award	Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero
Award	Best ASUS Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	1,237 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG X570-E Gaming WiFi
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	3,232 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi
Award	Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	ASRock X570 Taichi
Award	Best RGB Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte B550 Vision D
Award	Best Looking Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	Check Price

#	8
Preview
Product Name	ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming-ITX
Award	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	Check Price

#	9
Preview
Product Name	MSI MAG B550M Mortar
Award	Best Micro ATX Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 10:49 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

We live, breathe, and eat motherboards here at appuals.com. Whether it’s the latest Intel or AMD chipsets, we know our way around a motherboard. We’ve been reviewing them for years, and our experience shows in our detailed, comprehensive reviews. Our leading PC hardware expert, Hassam Nasir, boasts a tremendous experience in the field of motherboard reviews which spans back to the days when Nvidia used to add an extra SLI chipset to motherboards!

One can say that he loves to get into the nitty gritty details of PC hardware such as PCB analysis, VRM performance, memory/core overclocking potential, cooling potentials of AIOs, and the list goes on and on. His expertise does not come as a surprise, since he has been obsessed with PC hardware from the era of Opterons and Smithfield Pentium processors.

However, we don’t just rely on our experience – we also put every motherboard we review through a rigorous testing process. We test for stability, compatibility, overclocking potential, and more. Our team’s key expertise lies in the area of VRM testing, both for quality and long-term reliability. Of course, we also take into account the user experience when writing our reviews. Whether you are looking for a budget-friendly option or the absolute best motherboard on the market, we can help you find what you need.

1. MSI MEG X570 UNIFY

Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Robust VRM Design
Great Feature Set
Stealthy Looks
Solid Storage Suite

Cons

High Price

771 Reviews

Check Price

If you’re looking to upgrade to a Ryzen 9 5900X CPU, the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is a top quality X570 motherboard worth considering. It’s one of the very best X570 boards on the market, and its reliable power delivery and flexible features make it a good match for the Ryzen 9 CPU.

The MSI MEG X570 UNIFY boasts impressive VRM capabilities and efficient power distribution thanks to its 12+2+1 phase power supply design. To use high-end CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, you need a VRM system that can keep up with the demands of the processor, and this one can do so comfortably. The VRM heatsinks are also sizeable and effective, ensuring that the motherboard will not overheat even during extended periods of high-intensity usage.

MSI MEG X570 UNIFY

Considerable overclocking is possible with the Ryzen 9 5900X thanks to its excellent VRM performance and thermals. If you have a properly functioning cooling system for the CPU, this motherboard should allow you to get the most out of your Ryzen CPU. You may need to dial in the voltage a bit, but the motherboard should be able to keep up with this CPU at any clock speed.

The MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is an excellent option for enthusiasts who want to build high-end gaming rigs and workstations, thanks to its extensive feature set. In terms of connectivity and networking, it supports PCIe version 4.0, Wi-Fi version 6, Bluetooth version 5.0, and a 2.5 GbE LAN port. In addition, it has three M.2 slots with effective heatsinks and a number of USB 3.2 Gen 2 connections. It also has four SATA 6 Gbps ports. The superior quality of the onboard audio is due in part to the use of an ESS audio DAC and dedicated audio capacitors.

The sleek and classy black color scheme of the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is a starring feature of its design. The VRM heatsinks and chipset heatsink are both blacked out to improve the motherboard’s aesthetics. With MSI motherboards, you get Mystic Light software that makes it simple to alter the motherboard’s subtle RGB lighting to your liking.

If you value cutting-edge features and top-tier VRM performance despite the price, the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is a wonderful option. The X570 UNIFY is the ideal choice if you want a high-end motherboard that can fully use the capabilities of the Ryzen 9 5900X while delivering great features and aesthetics.

At the end of the day, the MEG X570 UNIFY is our contender for the best overall motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X. When it comes to VRM performance, the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY stands head and shoulders above the competition. It also offers a ton of useful features and looks great doing it. If you have the means, it’s a fantastic choice for building a high-end gaming or workstation PC.

2. ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula

Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Overpowered VRM
Water Cooling Integration
Sleek Aesthetics
5 Gigabit Networking

Cons

Very Expensive

Check Price

If you’re an enthusiast looking for a top-tier motherboard that can handle your high-performance AMD Ryzen gaming rig, then the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is definitely worth your attention. With a sleek design and uniquely impressive features, this motherboard is built to deliver an exceptional gaming experience.

One of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is its VRM performance. Equipped with a 16-phase power delivery system, this motherboard is designed to handle even the most demanding CPUs with ease. With stable and reliable power delivery, you can expect smooth performance and overclocking capabilities with your Ryzen 9 5900X that will take your gaming to the next level.

Another unique feature of the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is its VRM cooling system. This motherboard has a custom-designed water block that covers the VRM components, ensuring efficient and effective cooling even under heavy loads. This is a significant advantage for those who are into heavy overclocking or extended gaming sessions that put a lot of strain on the motherboard.

With water cooling, you can ensure that the VRM stays cool and stable, which can lead to better performance and a longer lifespan for the motherboard. This is a feature that you won’t find in many other motherboards, making the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula truly one-of-a-kind.

ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII

In addition to its VRM performance, the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is packed with features that will appeal to gamers and enthusiasts of all kinds. From built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to support for 5 Gigabit networking, this motherboard has everything you need to build a high-end gaming rig. It also boasts a range of nice connectivity features, including support for 12 USB ports on the rear I/O which is more than most people will ever need.

When it comes to aesthetics, the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is a real head-turner. With a sleek black and silver design, illuminated accents, and customizable RGB lighting, this motherboard looks as good as it performs. It’s a true showpiece that will look great in any gaming setup. The RGB lighting is configurable using the ASUS Aura Sync utility, of course.

The ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is definitely a very premium motherboard, but for the price, it delivers decent value. With its robust VRM performance, extensive feature set, and eye-catching aesthetics, this motherboard can be a serious consideration for gamers and creative professionals who want the best possible experience.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is an exceptional motherboard that delivers outstanding performance, features, and aesthetics. If you’re building a high-end gaming rig around the Ryzen 9 5900X and want a motherboard that can handle everything you throw at it, then this is definitely one to consider. At this price tag, the Formula is definitely our pick for the best premium motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X.

3. ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero

Best ASUS Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Powerful VRM Design
Versatile Memory Support
Attractive Design
Beautiful RGB Lighting
Excellent Connectivity

Cons

Very Expensive
Only One Internal USB 2.0 Header

1,237 Reviews

Check Price

Another premium board on our list is the ASUS Crosshair VIII which belongs to the coveted Crosshair series. This lineup of motherboards from ASUS is targeted squarely at overclockers and there are some really sturdy and robust offerings in this lineup. The Crosshair VIII Hero is our pick for the best ASUS motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X.

There’s a lot to like about the power delivery of the ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero. It’s packed with features that gamers and overclockers will love, and it comes with an impressive 8-phase Dr. MOS power stage design. The VRM design of the board is one of the most robust ones on the market, and it should be quite comfortable in supplying an overclocked Ryzen 9 5900X with clean, stable power.

Plus, it has a robust cooling solution for the VRM to help keep things cool even when things heat up. The VRM temperatures of this board are among the best we have seen from X570 motherboards when paired with a Ryzen 9 5900X.

ASUS dominates the Intel motherboard market too, as their premium option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero

There are plenty of notable features in the Crosshair VIII X570 board as well. The board can support a pair of NVMe drives, both of which support full PCIe Gen 4 functionality. There are 8 SATA ports on the board for additional storage drives which are more than the number commonly seen in boards of this category. Additionally, the Crosshair VIII also has 10 USB Type-A ports, a USB Type- C connector, 2.5 GbE LAN, as well as WiFi for connectivity which is a pretty convenient mix.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our list of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 as well.

The ROG Crosshair VIII Hero has a striking design that will definitely turn heads in your PC gaming rig. The board sports a black and metallic red color scheme, with sharp angles and RGB lighting accents that add a touch of style.

The colors are well-coordinated and the RGB lighting looks great. The colored accents also add a nice touch. The overall effect is very pleasing to the eye. In terms of functionality, the board is very easy to use. All of the headers and connectors are clearly labeled and easy to access, and ASUS Aura Sync is easy to set up as well.

The ASUS Crosshair Hero VIII is another incredibly premium motherboard that would pair nicely with the Ryzen 9 5900X. Not only does it have an incredible VRM design, but it also has plenty of other features that would complement a high-end gaming PC really well. It is a little bit on the pricy side, but that investment may be considered worthwhile for a CPU of this caliber.

4. ASUS ROG X570-E Gaming WiFi

Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Great Design
Excellent VRM
Attractive Lighting
Durable Construction

Cons

Expensive

3,232 Reviews

Check Price

ASUS also offers a relatively mid-range X570 option in the form of the ROG X570-E Gaming WiFi. This is another exceptional motherboard in the long line of ASUS products that have certainly dominated this roundup up until this point. The ROG X570-E offers a ton of value for its price, even though it is situated at the higher end of the motherboard market.

One of the most notable features of the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi is its exceptional VRM performance. Equipped with 12+4 power stages, this motherboard provides unparalleled power delivery, ensuring stable and reliable performance even under heavy loads. Whether you’re a serious gamer or a content creator, you can be sure that this VRM setup can handle whatever you throw at it.

Furthermore, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi motherboard is an excellent choice for overclocking the Ryzen 9 5900X processor. The motherboard delivers clean and reliable power, ensuring stable and consistent performance even under heavy loads. This means that you can push your Ryzen 9 5900X to its limits and achieve higher clock speeds for improved performance.

In addition, the motherboard features an advanced cooling system that includes heatsinks, heat pipes, and thermal pads, which help dissipate heat efficiently, keeping your system cool during extended overclocking sessions. With these features, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi motherboard is our pick for the best overclocking motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X.

ASUS ROG X570-E Gaming WiFi

In addition to its impressive VRM performance, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi comes packed with features that are sure to satisfy any enthusiast. Thanks to its built-in WiFi 6 connectivity and its support for PCIe 4.0, this motherboard offers everything you need for a cutting-edge gaming or workstation build. The networking suite is particularly impressive due to the inclusion of multiple LAN ports as well as wireless networking.

When it comes to aesthetics, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi doesn’t disappoint. Its sleek black design, accented by bold RGB lighting, exudes a premium look and feel. This motherboard is a true showpiece that will complement any build, regardless of your personal style. It is definitely more suited to a gaming PC surrounded by RGB lighting than it is to a stealthy workstation build, but that is certainly a matter of choice.

But what about the value for money? With all these impressive features, you might expect a steep price tag. It is true to some extent that the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi is offered at a high price point, but the features that it delivers make it an excellent value for the money. You’re getting top-of-the-line performance and features at a price that is reasonable for a motherboard in a high-end build.

In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi is a top-notch motherboard that delivers exceptional VRM performance, a plethora of features, stunning aesthetics, and excellent value for money. If you’re looking for a motherboard that will take your Ryzen 9 5900X build to the next level, this is the one to get.

5. MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi

Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Very Solid VRM Setup
Excellent VRM Cooling
Reasonably Priced
Versatile Connectivity

Cons

Modest Design
Unusual RGB Placement
Few Rear USB Ports

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MSI’s MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi motherboard is a great option for gamers and power users looking to get the most out of their Ryzen 9 system. With its high-speed networking capabilities, tons of additional storage options, and an extremely robust power delivery system, this board certainly won’t disappoint.

The B550 version of this board, the MAG B550 Tomahawk from MSI was also selected in our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

Speaking of power delivery, the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk has an extraordinary VRM design with 12 phases of VRM. It is complemented by premium chokes and capacitors that help deliver clean and stable power to the CPU. This can help you achieve high overclocks with the Ryzen 9 5900X while keeping long-term stability as a top priority.

The VRM is cooled by two massive heatsinks, helping to keep the temperatures of the VRM modules under control. While the X570 Tomahawk WiFi is one of the more reasonably-priced X570 motherboards on the market, its VRM temperatures are among the best when tested with a Ryzen 9 5900X under load.

MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi

Of course, the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi is a great option for anyone looking for a powerful and feature-rich motherboard. It features Intel 2.5 GbE LAN and WiFi 6 networking for fast and reliable connections and also comes with two M.2 slots for high-speed storage. In addition, it has eight rear USB ports, including three USB 3.0 ports, making it easy to connect all your devices.

The MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi also features some unique features such as the front panel USB Type-C port. On the rear I/O, we would have liked a DisplayPort option in addition to the HDMI port, as it can be very handy when troubleshooting.

You can also get the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk without the WiFi option for a bit cheaper, but we have gone with the WiFi variant since it offers a better value proposition. More premium MSI motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

MSI’s MAG X570 Tomahawk motherboard looks great. The black and grey color scheme is accentuated by flashes of silver, and the RGB lighting on the chipset heatsink adds a nice touch of color. The board also has a sleek but understated design, with clean lines and well-placed accents. This board pairs very well with a stealthy, full-black build.

Conclusively, the MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi is a unique motherboard that offers a great feature-set for anyone looking to build a mid-range to the high-end system. It is our pick for the best value motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X, even though it is not the cheapest motherboard on this list. The X570 Tomahawk hits the perfect balance of price and performance for a build focused on the Ryzen 9 5900X.

6. ASRock X570 Taichi

Best RGB Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Very Robust VRM Design
Three PCIe Gen 4 M.2 Slots
Unique RGB Design
Several SATA Ports

Cons

Noisy Chipset Fan
Relatively Expensive
Polarizing Aesthetics

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The ASRock X570 Taichi is more of a mid-range offering when compared with the other options we have already mentioned. That does not mean, however, that it is not capable of handling the Ryzen 9 5900X. The X570 Taichi is one of the more well-balanced motherboards currently available on the market, and should definitely be considered if you are in the market for a high-performance X570 board.

In terms of power delivery, the 12+2 phase VRM design is quite impressive and is composed of premium components. The VRM of this board is also very capable of handling the Ryzen 9 5900X at overclocked settings, provided that you do not push too hard with the manual voltages.

The Ryzen 9 5900X is already one of the best CPUs for gaming, so overclocking might not be your first priority.

And if you’re looking to overclock your system, this board has you covered there too; with its advanced power management and Pro Cool II heatsinks, you’ll be able to push your system to its limits without any worries about overheating.

ASRock X570 Taichi

The X570 Taichi from ASRock packs some really good features considering its mid-range status in the X570 lineup of boards. In terms of connectivity, there are four PCIe 4.0 slots, eight SATA III ports, three M.2 slots, two USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. In other words, this board can handle just about anything that you throw at it.

Networking is handled by a single 1 GbE LAN port and WiFi, which is quite basic at this point. We would have liked to see a 2.5 GbE LAN port at least.

If you are more interested in value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

Aesthetically, the ASRock X570 Taichi is slightly polarizing among the general consumers. Some think that the board looks too busy with its mechanical design language and different silver accents, while others seem to think that the board looks quite decent with some sweet RGB implementation. The all-black color scheme is accented with just a few splashes of silver, and it looks great in any build.

While aesthetics are certainly subjective, we tend to side with the latter and think that the board looks pretty decent, especially in regard to its lighting, but this feeling might vary from person to person. The RGB lighting is pretty unique and earns this board the title of the best RGB motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X.

All in all, the ASRock X570 Taichi offers a mid-range alternative to some of the more expensive boards mentioned on this list. While it does cut some corners here and there, it certainly offers a decent all-around package that should be considered if you want to buy an X570 board for the Ryzen 9 5900X without breaking the bank.

7. Gigabyte B550 Vision D

Best Looking Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Minimalistic Looks
Solid VRM Setup
Lots of SATA Ports
Thunderbolt 3 Functionality

Cons

Pricy
Lacks 2.5GbE Networking
Lack of RGB Lighting

Check Price

Shifting gears a little bit, we have the Gigabyte B550 Vision D which is unique in a couple of ways. First off, it is our first B550 entry on the list, which is great if you want to save some money and maximize your price-to-performance ratio. Secondly, the Vision D from Gigabyte is a unique-looking board that can elevate the aesthetics of your build.

Under the pretty facade, the Gigabyte B550 Vision D does not compromise on performance at all. Its 12+2 phase VRM is among the very best in the B550 category, and it can handle power-hungry AMD CPUs quite easily. You can even expect a moderate bit of overclocking on the Ryzen 9 5900X with this board.

Gigabyte has also laid a focus on VRM cooling and has installed large heatsinks to counter this problem. We did not encounter any significant VRM temperature issues during our testing.

Gigabyte B550 Vision D

Being a B550 motherboard, the feature-set of the Vision D is not as advanced as some of the X570 entries on this list. There are a couple of Thunderbolt 3 ports on the rear I/O which is a nice touch. There are eight SATA ports as well as a couple of M.2 slots for your storage needs.

Networking is handled by a pair of Gigabit LAN ports as well as WiFi. We would have liked to see a 2.5GbE LAN port at this price point. Overall, the feature suite is acceptable but could’ve been better.

One area where the B550 Vision D is a cut above the rest is aesthetics. This is a very unique-looking board that carries the minimalistic design language often found in NZXT cases. The simple, flat white covers on a black PCB really elevate the look of this board.

The RGB lighting is minimal, but this board does not really require lighting to stand out. It goes perfectly with other Vision products from Gigabyte or with NZXT products as well.

If the previous-gen motherboards tickle your fancy, then be sure to explore our selection of the best X470 motherboards as well.

Overall, the Gigabyte B550 Vision D is a strong contender for the title of the best looking motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X. It is a bit on the expensive side of a B550 board, but its unique design helps it stand out from the crowd.

8. ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming-ITX

Best Mini ITX Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Ideal for Compact PCs
Attractive Design
Acceptable VRM for Stock Operation

Cons

Relatively Expensive
Only 2 DIMM Slots
Limited Expansion Slots
Few SATA and USB Ports

Check Price

The popularity of small form factor PCs is on a constant rise nowadays. More and more people are switching their full tower cases for smaller, more compact builds. For the mini ITX PC case, we have the ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming ITX motherboard which can pair perfectly with your Ryzen 9 5900X CPU at a reasonable price point.

Since it is a B550 motherboard and a mini ITX one at that, you should expect some compromises with this one in the power delivery department. The 8-phase VRM is certainly good enough to run the Ryzen 9 5900X at stock settings, but you should avoid any overclocking on this motherboard.

The cooling solution of the VRM is also quite basic, which is why overclocking is not advisable on this board, especially with a 5900X. It should be perfectly fine for stock operation, however.

ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming-ITX

In the features department, the ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming ITX actually punches above its weight. It has got a fairly decent networking suite with a 2.5 GbE LAN port as well as WiFi 6 capability which is nice to see in a mini ITX B550 motherboard. Furthermore, you get 2 M.2 slots for your NVMe drives which is also great for this form factor.

You do face the usual drawbacks of the mini ITX form factor, however. It only has a couple of DIMM slots and supports a maximum of 64GB of memory which can limit your expandability down the line. Having only a single full-size x16 PCIe slot can also become limiting in the future.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that Intel platform.

The B550 Phantom Gaming ITX also delivers in the aesthetics department. It is quite understated in its looks overall, but it does have a few colored accents here and there, especially on the I/O cover. There is a strip of RGB lighting on the bottom edge of the board, which does the job albeit it is in a peculiar position.

All in all, the ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming ITX is our pick for the best mini ITX motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X thanks to its all-around capability. It is ideal for those enthusiasts who are looking to build a compact, small-form-factor build with the Ryzen 9 5900X at its heart.

9. MSI MAG B550M Mortar

Best Micro ATX Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X

Pros

Very Affordable
Decent VRM Setup
Understated Aesthetics

Cons

Lacks WiFi
No RGB Lighting
Few Expansion Slots
Very Few USB Ports

Check Price

A decent budget alternative to consider can be the MSI MAG B550M Mortar, which is a value-oriented B550 motherboard with the micro ATX form factor. While it is fairly limited in terms of features or options, it does pack a very decent VRM setup that can help you run a Ryzen 9 5900X.

Speaking of budget offerings, you can also explore our selection of the best budget AM4 motherboards for more options on a strict budget.

Speaking of the VRM, the 8+2+1 phase setup is quite decent for a B550 motherboard at this price point and can handle the Ryzen 9 5900X at stock settings comfortably. Now, you shouldn’t expect any overclocking on that CPU with this VRM, but at this price point, that trade-off is not particularly worrying.

MSI has installed some massive heatsinks over the VRM components, and the VRM temperatures of the B550 Mortar are among the very best we have seen in B550 motherboards. This board surely punches way above its weight when it comes to power delivery.

MSI MAG B550M Mortar

Where it does fall flat though, is in the features department. The B550 Mortar struggles in areas of networking and connectivity. You only get a single 2.5 GbE LAN port without WiFi in the variant we picked, but there is another variant that does offer WiFi.

You do get 2 M.2 slots on this board, but only the top one supports PCIe Gen 4 functionality. This is a limitation of the chipset and not the board. The rear I/O has multiple different types of ports, however, the number of rear USB ports is too low for a modern high-end gaming PC build.

In terms of design, the Mortar is a fairly basic motherboard. A black and gray color scheme is present predominantly, which is in tune with the “rugged” theme of the MSI MAG series. This board will complement stealthy PC builds quite well, but it is not one for RGB enthusiasts.

Conclusively, the MSI MAG B550M Mortar is in contention to be the best micro ATX motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X thanks to its excellent value proposition. However, it does have quite a few drawbacks as well which may deter those who only want the best of the best. Still, the Mortar is one to consider for enthusiasts of micro ATX cases.

How we picked and tested

The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is one of the most demanding and power-hungry CPUs out there, so it is no small task to find the perfect motherboard for this behemoth. Here’s how we picked and tested our suite of contenders for this roundup.

Our primary concern was the VRM design and power delivery of the board. The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is pretty demanding in terms of overclocking, especially if you try to tweak the voltage. We selected boards that can handle even the most complicated overclocking scenarios.

We also laid a focus on the feature-set of the boards in question. Of course, we only selected X570 and B550 options that offered premium networking options such as 2.5 GbE LAN in addition to WiFi, as well as multiple M.2 slots for your storage needs.

Aesthetics is a subjective topic, but we actively paid attention to the general response of consumers towards the looks of the X570 and B550 boards in question. We tried to stay away from controversial options in this regard.

Of course, the value proposition and price tag of the motherboard is the ultimate deciding factor. We made this factor a critical part of our selection and ranking process.

When testing motherboards, our team of experts paid special attention to the VRM and power delivery subsystems, as these are critical for ensuring stable performance and consistent overclocking results.

We also assessed the board’s feature set and tested its performance in a range of real-world scenarios. Our testing involved multiple overclocking scenarios with the Ryzen 9 5900X over an extended period of time in an enclosed chassis.

Ultimately, our goal is to find the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900X on the market, so you can easily find the perfect one for your needs.

X570 vs. B550

X570 and B550 are the AMD chipsets for Ryzen 3000 and 5000 processors, so they do support Ryzen 9 5900X as well. X570 is the premium chipset with support for all the flagship features, while B550 is a budget-friendly option that still offers good value. So, which one should you choose?

Well, it depends on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for the best performance possible, X570 is the way to go. The X570 motherboards are much better in terms of VRM quality and power delivery across the board, so they are better suited to power-hungry CPUs such as the Ryzen 9 5900X. Plus, they have PCIe 4.0 support in all the M.2 slots as well.

However, if you’re more concerned about value, B550 may be a better option. The B550 chipset offers a solid price-to-performance ratio but it is more geared towards mid-range or budget AMD CPUs. You can still find boards with excellent VRM setups, but they usually have some caveats in other areas. PCIe 4.0 functionality is also limited to only the top M.2 slot in B550 motherboards.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which chipset is right for you. Each platform has its benefits and weaknesses, but for the Ryzen 9 5900X, it does make more sense to stick to the flagship X570 platform.

Upgrade Path of AM4 Socket

Unfortunately, the upgrade path of the AM4 socket is essentially non-existent. The AMD Ryzen 5000 series is the last series to be released on this platform, and AMD is now moving to the AM5 socket which will be released in late 2022 or the beginning of 2024. This means that whatever X570 or B550 motherboard you buy, will effectively be obsolete with the release of the next generation AMD CPUs.

This lack of upgrade path may be a red flag to some of the potential buyers of the X570 or B550 motherboards with the AM4 socket. If you have a particularly high-end CPU such as the Ryzen 9 5900X, you are effectively backing yourself into a corner with the purchase of an X570 motherboard in 2024.

The next generation of AMD CPUs (AMD Ryzen 7000 series) will not only support a brand new socket (AM5) but will also exclusively support DDR5 memory. This means that you will have to upgrade not only your motherboard but also your memory if you plan to buy a new Ryzen 7000 series CPU.

Therefore, you should be mindful of the upgrade path that you are expecting when building a system around the Ryzen 9 5900X.

Buyer’s Guide

Buying a motherboard in the modern day can be a confusing prospect. Since the motherboard does not directly contribute to performance, it can be tough for the novice or even experienced builders to judge the quality of a motherboard without testing it.

It is difficult to judge how much should you actually spend on a motherboard, as the answer does vary from case to case. Fortunately, there are some key factors that can help you distinguish a reliable motherboard from a useless one.

Here are a few to keep in mind when shopping for your next motherboard.

Power Delivery and VRM

When shopping for a motherboard for the Ryzen 9 5900X, it’s important to consider the VRM (voltage regulator module). The VRM is responsible for delivering power to the CPU, and it is one of the most important aspects of a motherboard when it comes to overclocking and performance.

A good VRM will have high-quality components and ample cooling, which is essential for preventing overheating and ensuring stability. A power-hungry CPU such as the Ryzen 9 5900X can be very taxing on the VRMs, especially under full load when overclocked. Therefore, it is important to look for a motherboard that has ample VRM cooling.

Heatsinks are often used to help cool VRMs, and they are an important consideration when choosing a motherboard. It is very easy to get VRM temperature data from online sources, as most motherboards are extensively tested by reviewers in this aspect.

You should also look for user and expert reviews about the motherboard in question to get more information about the VRM setup.

Form Factor

When you’re building a PC, one of the most important considerations is the form factor of the motherboard. The form factor determines the size and shape of the board, as well as the layout of the various components. It’s important to choose a form factor that will fit in your case and accommodate all the other components you want to use.

The most common form factors are ATX and micro ATX, but mini ITX boards are becoming increasingly popular in small form factor builds. When choosing a form factor, it’s important to consider both the size of the board and the layout of the components. You want to make sure that everything will fit in your case and that you’ll be able to access all the ports and connectors. Additionally, some form factors allow for more expansion options than others.

If you’re planning on upgrading your PC in the future, you’ll want to make sure that you choose a form factor that will accommodate those upgrades. Therefore, you should pay close attention to the drawbacks and advantages of the various form factors when choosing a motherboard for your Ryzen 9 5900X build.

Aesthetics

While aesthetics might not be the first thing that comes to mind when buying a motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X, it’s definitely something worth considering. After all, your motherboard is one of the most visible components in your system, and you’ll be looking at it every time you use your PC. The good news is that there are plenty of options on the market, so you should be able to find a motherboard that looks great and fits your personal style.

One of the most important aesthetics-related considerations is the color of the board. While black and white boards are still common, there’s a growing trend toward boards with colorful designs. If you’re into RGB lighting, then you’ll want to make sure your board has plenty of lighting options. Some boards even come with built-in lighting effects that can add some extra flair to your setup.

Ultimately, aesthetics are a personal preference, so it’s up to you to decide what looks best in your system. However, taking the time to consider aesthetics can help you build a system that you’re truly proud of.

With the help of our comprehensive motherboard buying guide, you can be sure to find a motherboard that fits both your budget and your needs.

Features

One should always pay close attention to the feature set of the motherboard in question before finalizing the purchase. The motherboard is the cornerstone of the entire system, and it determines many of the features and capabilities of the finished machine.

For example, the choice of motherboard will dictate which type of processor can be used, what kind of memory modules can be installed, and which types of expansion cards can be added. It’s also important to consider features such as networking, WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB ports when selecting a motherboard.

You should also consider the number and speed of M.2 slots on the board, as well as the number of high-speed USB ports on the rear I/O. For networking, it is important to consider the speed of the LAN that is offered by the board. At first glance, all these features can be a bit overwhelming. However, you will get the hang of it once you start looking at multiple boards across different price categories.

Best Motherboard for Ryzen 9 5900X - FAQs

Is X570 better than B550?

X570 is certainly better than B550 since X570 is the flagship AMD chipset for the AM4 socket while B550 is more of a mid-range offering. Both the X570 and B550 lineups have excellent motherboards that should be able to handle the Ryzen 9 5900X at stock or even overclocked settings, but one is more likely to find a perfect pairing in the X570 lineup rather than the B550 one. Still, you can save some money by going with a B550 board but it will have some drawbacks when compared to the X570 option.

Is B450 good for Ryzen 9 5900X?

B450 motherboards are not a good pairing for the Ryzen 9 5900X. While the B450 chipset does technically support the Ryzen 9 5900X, it would be unwise to pair the two together. B450 is a budget-oriented lineup of motherboards that do not have the power delivery capabilities to handle the Ryzen 9 5900X. Even the most well-built B450 boards will have trouble handling the Ryzen 9 5900X at stock settings, so it would be best to pair the 5900X with a premium motherboard from the X570 chipset.

Is Ryzen 9 5900X overkill?

The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is an incredibly powerful, enthusiast-grade CPU that can be considered overkill in certain situations. Since it has 12 cores and 24 threads, its core count is much higher than what is required by games nowadays so it can be considered overkill. Unless you are using your CPU for professional applications, you might be able to save some money by going with a Ryzen 7 3700X instead for gaming.

What is the best RAM speed for Ryzen 9 5900X?

The best RAM speed for Ryzen 9 5900X is considered to be 3600MHz. Generally, AMD CPUs benefit a lot from faster memory speeds and it is considered good practice to pair a fast RAM kit with a Ryzen CPU. For the Ryzen 9 5900X, a low-latency (CL16 or lower) kit of 3200Mhz or 3600MHz speed memory should be considered as the sweet spot when it comes to RAM. At 3600MHz, the Infinity Fabric frequency is in a 1:1 ratio with the RAM speed which is considered ideal for maximum performance.

Does Ryzen 9 5900X support PCIe Gen 4?

The Ryzen 9 5900X CPU does support PCIe Gen 4. To use the functionality, you should pair your CPU with an X570 or B550 motherboard. Other motherboard chipsets such as X470 and B450 do support the CPU, but they don’t support the PCIe Gen 4 protocol. This means that installing a Ryzen 9 5900X CPU on a B450 or X470 chipset motherboard will limit you to PCIe Gen 3 operation. Installing a Ryzen 9 5900X on an X570 motherboard is the best option for PCIe Gen 4 usage.

The post The 9 Best Motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900x In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

The 9 Best Motherboards For i9-13900K In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 23:43:29 +0000

Choosing the best motherboard for i9 13900K can be a bit of a hassle. After all, there are dozens of motherboards available on the market that can support the new Intel 13^th Gen flagship.

However, the Core i9 13900K is not just an ordinary CPU that you can pair with just any motherboard. It is the best consumer desktop CPU Intel currently offers, as a part of their new Raptor Lake lineup of CPUs.

This means that you will need the best of the best in order to maximize the true potential of this new flagship. Fret not, however, as we have got you covered. Keeping in view the ridiculous power demands and overclocking potential of the new Core i9 13900K, we have curated a list of the very best motherboards for this particular CPU.

You can also check out our list of the best motherboards for i9 12900K since the two CPUs share support for the same boards.

The Best Motherboard for i9 13900K – Our Picks

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi	Best Overall Motherboard for i9 13900K	147 Reviews Check Price
2	ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme	Best Premium Motherboard for i9 13900K	22 Reviews Check Price
3	Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master	Best Overclocking Motherboard for i9 13900K	90 Reviews Check Price
4	ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi	Best Looking Motherboard for i9 13900K	374 Reviews Check Price
5	MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi	Best Value Motherboard for i9 13900K	359 Reviews Check Price
6	ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi	Best DDR4 Motherboard for i9 13900K	Check Price
7	ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming	Best Micro ATX Motherboard for i9 13900K	90 Reviews Check Price
8	MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi	Best Budget Motherboard for i9 13900K	217 Reviews Check Price
9	Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i9 13900K	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Overall Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	147 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme
Award	Best Premium Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	22 Reviews Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	90 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi
Award	Best Looking Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	374 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Value Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	359 Reviews Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi
Award	Best DDR4 Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming
Award	Best Micro ATX Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	90 Reviews Check Price

#	8
Preview
Product Name	MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi
Award	Best Budget Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	217 Reviews Check Price

#	9
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra
Award	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i9 13900K
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 11:46 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

1. MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi

Best Overall Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Supreme Feature Set
Reliable VRM Design
Loads of Storage Options
Attractive Aesthetics

Cons

Expensive

147 Reviews

Check Price

The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is one of the best overall motherboards for the i9 13900K on the market. It’s a high-end motherboard that offers a blend of great features and overclocking performance. It is quite an expensive motherboard, but not totally absurd when you pair it with a flagship CPU such as the i9 13900K.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

A premium CPU such as the 13900K needs to be paired with a robust power delivery system. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi has a 19+1+1 phase VRM design with premium components and a robust cooling solution. This VRM is more than capable of handling the flagship Raptor Lake CPU at overclocked settings.

The VRM is cooled by three separate heatsinks that are connected by copper heat pipes. As a result, the overall VRM setup on the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is high quality and should be able to handle even the most strenuous overclocking.

MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi

The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is packed with capabilities that give users unparalleled networking and storage options. It has five M.2 slots for next-generation PCIe NVMe devices which takes care of your storage needs, along with Wi-Fi 6 for networking. For those who need more traditional features, it also features a 2.5 GbE LAN port if you want to stay wired.

On the connectivity front, the board is jam-packed with USB ports of all shapes and sizes. This is to be expected from a board of this price bracket, but it is nice to see nonetheless. The Clear CMOS button is also a handy little feature for troubleshooting.

Aesthetics are important when it comes to choosing a motherboard, and the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi certainly doesn’t disappoint in that department. The board has a sleek black design with subtle accents that give it a sophisticated look. This particular motherboard actually departs from MSI’s traditional design language, but it does a great job of it.

Despite being a very gaming-oriented motherboard, the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi would not look out of place in a workstation build either. The overall aesthetics of the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi are very pleasing, and it’s sure to look great in any rig. Just be sure to turn off the RGB lighting of the MSI Dragon Logo!

All things considered, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is one to shortlist if you’re looking to build a high-performance gaming rig based on the Core i9 13900K. Among the best features of the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi are its excellent overclocking potential, robust power delivery, and top-tier networking.

If you’re looking for the best overall motherboard for i9 13900K, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi can be your answer.

2. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme

Best Premium Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Overpowered VRM Setup
Extremely Premium Features
10 Gigabit Networking
Impressive RGB Lighting

Cons

Extremely Pricy

22 Reviews

Check Price

At the very top end of the price bracket, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is one of the best premium motherboards on the market for the i9 13900K. It’s absolutely packed with features and provides a great overclocking platform. The build quality is top-notch as well, but it does come with a very lofty price tag.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X as well.

The star of this particular board is definitely the power delivery system. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme has one of the best VRMs in any motherboard on the market. It is a 24+1 phase VRM that uses some of the finest quality components. The Core i9 13900K can even be overclocked to your heart’s content thanks to the robust VRM of the Maximus Z790 Extreme.

Moreover, the VRM assembly is cooled by large aluminum heatsinks that are coupled with heat pipes for maximum heat dissipation. This motherboard is perfect for overclocking and gaming as it can handle any CPU you throw at it, and delivers rock-solid power delivery for stable performance.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme

On the subject of features, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is a high-end motherboard that has a lot of unique capabilities that make it ideal for gaming and other demanding applications. For starters, it features five M.2 slots for your high-speed NVMe SSDs, making it ideal for gamers who need to store large amounts of data.

In addition, the motherboard features built-in WiFi 6E and LAN connectivity, so you can always stay connected to the internet. ASUS has included a 10 GbE LAN port on this particular motherboard which is a very nice touch and can be of great help to creative professionals.

Furthermore, it has a total of 10 rear USB ports, so you can connect all your peripherals without having to worry about running out of ports. This motherboard definitely leaves no feature on the table and is great for gaming rigs as well as productivity-focused machines.

The aesthetics of the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme are sure to turn heads. The aggressive design is accentuated by the bold red and black color scheme, and the RGB lighting adds a touch of luxury. The overall look is one of power and sophistication, and it’s sure to make a statement in any gaming rig.

We particularly like the new ROG retro design which is apparent in different areas of RGB lighting. The pixelated ROG script and logo help to make this board stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re looking for style or substance, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme has everything you need.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is one of the best premium options on the market for the Core i9 13900K. It offers all the high-end features as well as top performance, and should definitely be on your list if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line Z790 motherboard.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the Z790 platform.

The only downside is the price tag, which is among the highest you’ll find. However, if you’re willing to pay for quality, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is our choice for the best premium motherboard for i9 13900K.

3. Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

Best Overclocking Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Excellent for Overclocking
High DDR5 Compatibility
Nice Aesthetics
Loads of USB Ports

Cons

Quite Expensive

90 Reviews

Check Price

Moving on to our next pick, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master is one of the best overclocking motherboards for the Core i9 13900K. It’s packed with features that allow you to squeeze every last bit of performance out of your CPU and memory. The Z790 chipset provides support for Intel’s latest processors, and the onboard VRM is capable of delivering plenty of power for even the most demanding workloads.

The most important component for CPU overclocking is the VRM, and the AORUS Master does not disappoint here. The 20+1+2 phase power delivery system is among the most robust we have seen on the Z790 platform. This VRM is capable of overclocking the i9 13900K to competitive levels while staying cool and stable.

For cooling, Gigabyte has provided two large VRM heatsinks connected via a heat pipe for maximum heat dissipation. The heatsinks have ample finning which increases the surface area even further. All these features make the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master our choice for the best overclocking motherboard for i9 13900K.

More premium Gigabyte motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

One additional feature that adds to its overclocking suite is memory compatibility. The Z790 AORUS Master has an official memory compatibility rating of up to 8000 MT/s which is the highest we have seen in the current crop of Z790 motherboards.

Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

Additionally, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master is a premium Z790 motherboard that comes packed with features. For networking, it has both Wi-Fi and 10 GbE LAN support, which is ideal for workstation users and creative professionals. It also has multiple storage options, including five M.2 slots and four SATA ports for all your drives.

In terms of connectivity, Gigabyte has provided a whopping FOURTEEN rear USB ports, which is another industry-leading figure. There is barely any feature that can be considered missing from this motherboard’s feature set.

You also have to pay attention to the design when picking a motherboard. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master has well-designed aesthetics with a nice color scheme and RGB lighting. The RGB lighting looks good and is not too overwhelming, which can be the case with many high-end motherboards.

The design of the board itself is mostly understated and can fit in perfectly with any type of PC build. With a few adjustments to the RGB lighting, you can even use this motherboard in an office PC or a workstation build.

Our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 7600X also has more options worth checking out!

In essence, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master offers top-of-the-line quality and is among the best motherboards you can buy for the i9 13900K. If you’re looking for the best overclocking performance and willing to spend top dollar, then this is definitely one to consider.

It is a bit less expensive than some of the very premium options like the aforementioned Maximus Extreme, but it is by no means an affordable motherboard. The price tag is definitely one of the very few negative points we can find about this motherboard.

4. ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi

Best Looking Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Superb Design
Unique RGB Implementation
Versatile Features
Superb Power Delivery

Cons

Relatively Pricy

374 Reviews

Check Price

In a more mid-range price segment, we have the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi. The best thing about this motherboard is that it comes with almost all the high-end features that you would expect from premium Z790 motherboards but at a more palatable price. It also looks great thanks to its unique design language and impressive RGB implementation.

Be sure to check out our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 7950X as well for more ASUS motherboards.

The aesthetics of the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi are truly one of a kind. The design is sleek and modern, with a black scheme accentuated by silver and red. The RGB lighting is particularly unique on this board, as it is placed underneath a translucent panel over the I/O cover. This amplifies the lighting effect and gives the board a bit of character.

Moreover, the lighting effects can be controlled via the Aura Sync software, and there is a variety of presets to choose from. The combination of its unique design and impressive RGB earns it the award of the best looking motherboard for i9 13900K.

ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi

The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming is more than just looks, however. It also adds substance to its style with the robust 18+1 phase power delivery system. This impressive VRM design is more than capable of handling the Core i9 13900K even at overclocked settings. Keeping in view the mid-range price bracket of this motherboard, the power delivery setup is very impressive.

ASUS has also taken adequate measures to keep the VRM cool and stable. The two VRM heatsinks are aided by heat pipes to improve their heat dissipation. You do not have to worry about VRM temperatures with the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi.

Of course, the Strix Z790-E is also packed with plenty of high-end features. The storage suite is quite competent as you get five M.2 slots as well as four SATA ports for your drives. Networking is handled by a 2.5 GbE LAN port as well as WiFi 6E, which is about standard for this price bracket. We would have liked to see a 10 Gigabit module in this motherboard but that is a bit unrealistic considering the price.

As expected, the rear I/O is packed with lots of high-speed USB ports (including a Thunderbolt header) and multiple display options. The overall connectivity features on this motherboard are top-notch, as one would expect from a high-end ASUS offering.

All things considered, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi checks a lot of boxes. It is quite a well-rounded motherboard since it doesn’t really have any weaknesses in any particular area. Considering the big picture, however, it is still a relatively expensive motherboard even if it is not in the same league as the options mentioned before it.

Still, it offers great features, solid performance and is among the best in its class. If you’re looking for an all-rounder, this is definitely one to consider.

5. MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi

Best Value Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Great Features
Solid Power Delivery
Nice Features

Cons

Relatively Pricy
Last Generation Chipset

359 Reviews

Check Price

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is our next choice, and it’s a great motherboard for anyone seeking a top-notch Z690 motherboard. It is chosen for a variety of factors, including its great feature set and significant overclocking potential. The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi should unquestionably be another board to take into consideration if you’re in the market for a new motherboard.

This particular motherboard was also chosen in our selection of the best Z690 motherboards.

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi uses DrMOS components in its 18+1+1 phase VRM design. This board’s VRM can deliver a significant amount of clean power, making it a solid choice for overclocking the i9 13900K.

Additionally, a sizable metal heatsink array helps dissipate heat from the VRM components. The heatsinks have enough finning, which increases the surface area and enhances heat transfer. The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon’s VRM is definitely of the highest caliber and is able to overclock even the most demanding 13th Generation Intel processors.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is a high-end motherboard with superb networking and connectivity features. The board comes equipped with built-in support for WiFi 6 and 2.5GbE LAN as well as a number of high-speed USB ports. The board offers support for six SATA drives in addition to five M.2 slots for extremely fast storage devices.

As evidenced by this feature set, the MPG Z690 Carbon is not far off its Z790 counterparts. There is not a lot of difference between the Z690 and Z790 chipsets other than a few more PCIe lanes. This means that you can definitely go with a Z690 motherboard like this one for the i9 13900K.

Now moving on to aesthetics, the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon’s design is likely to catch people’s attention. The sleek, contemporary, and stylish all-black design is enhanced by the RGB lighting. There are numerous effects available and the lights may be controlled using the MSI Mystic Light app. It’s also a wonderful touch to have the faux Carbon Fiber look.

On the flip side, the Carbon Fibre effect could scratch easily and degrade the board’s appearance, which is the sole drawback. Still, the board looks fantastic and there is not a lot to complain about in this department.

In conclusion, the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is one of the best Z690 motherboards for the i9 13900K available on the market. Apart from having a fantastic VRM system, it has top-notch features and cooling performance.

Its pricing is also quite reasonable when you compare it to the broader market of 12^th and 13^th Gen motherboards. The board provides excellent value for money, making it our choice for the best value motherboard for i9 13900K.

6. ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi

Best DDR4 Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Affordable
Supports DDR4 Memory
Great Features

Cons

Plain Design
Modest VRM Cooling

Check Price

The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi, which is our next choice on the list, is a wonderful value option for anyone wishing to assemble a new Intel 13th Gen system. It provides many of the more premium features that you would expect from a more costly board. The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi should unquestionably be on your list if you’re in the market for a board that is budget-friendly.

The VRM of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi is one of its most outstanding features, despite the fact that it is a board designed with affordability in mind. As a part of the reliable power delivery system, it features a 14+1 phase VRM design with top-notch components. This makes it excellent for both overclocking and using high-end CPUs like the i9 13900K at stock settings.

Additionally, the VRM is effectively cooled and has two sizable heatsinks to help with heat dissipation. You can expect modest overclocking from the i9 13900K, but the board is more geared toward other options in Intel’s lineup.

The i9 13900K is already one of the best CPUs for gaming out there, so you shouldn’t need to go too crazy with the overclock.

ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi

A strong storage suite and a variety of networking options make the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi well-suited for gaming and other demanding activities. The board has multiple super-fast USB ports, four M.2 slots, and four SATA ports for your storage drives. Additionally, two 2.5 GbE LAN connections and Intel WiFi 6E work together to handle networking.

Particularly if you’re an enthusiast user who likes to connect a lot of accessories, the number of rear USB ports might occasionally feel a little restrictive. Moreover, it would have been helpful to have an HDMI port on the rear I/O for troubleshooting.

Since the TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS is a pick for those on a tighter budget, we went with the DDR4 version. The board naturally supports XMP memory overclocking and DDR4 modules up to 5333 MHz. The use of DDR4 for this motherboard significantly boosts its value proposition, and it is the best DDR4 motherboard for i9 13900K in our roundup.

Additionally, although quite understated, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi’s aesthetics are rather striking. With its discreet black color scheme, the motherboard looks fantastic, and gamers will value the subtle inclusion of RGB lighting. It’s a fantastic option for people looking for a high-performance motherboard that also looks beautiful because of the design, which is quite simple and streamlined.

Overall, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi might just be a great motherboard for gamers in terms of price. It is simple to set up, has a nice design, and has a lot of excellent features. Although it is a budget motherboard, the VRM and overall power delivery are well thought out.

The main drawback is that it doesn’t have the best overclocking performance when paired with the i9 13900K, but considering the price, it’s not a major concern.

7. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming

Best Micro ATX Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Ideal for Compact Builds
Solid Feature Set
Attractive Design

Cons

Limited Expansion
Relatively Expensive

90 Reviews

Check Price

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming is a micro ATX option that you should definitely take into account if you are looking for a compact motherboard for your i9 13900K. It boasts a strong power delivery system, which is uncommon in a small micro ATX motherboard and is jam-packed with a host of fantastic features.

In terms of power delivery, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G motherboard’s VRM is excellent, providing clean and stable power and having the potential for overclocking. High-quality parts, such as capacitors, chokes, and MOSFETs, make up the 14+1 phase VRM.

Additionally, the VRM is effectively cooled by a number of heatsinks, and the entire setup is excellent for a compact gaming PC. On CPUs such as the Core i7 13700K, and even the 13900K with a few tweaks, you can anticipate a respectable overclocking return.

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming

Gamers will appreciate the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G’s extensive list of high-end features. To start, it has three M.2 slots for lightning-fast storage. Second, for the finest networking experience, it has both WiFi 6 and 2.5 GbE LAN. Moreover, there are several high-speed USB ports available for your connectivity experience. For a micro ATX motherboard, the feature set is extremely flexible.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming has a very appealing design. The RGB lighting is a lovely addition, and the motherboard looks fantastic in its black and silver hues. As expected from a ROG motherboard, the design is sharp and aggressive, and it has a really stylish overall appearance. The color palette may be a little too garish for certain users, but that is the only negative aspect.

For gamers wishing to build a portable, high-end gaming PC, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming motherboard fits the bill. It has a fantastic combination of features, strong overclocking potential, and superb build quality.

No doubt, the ROG Strix Z690-G is our pick for the best micro ATX motherboard for i9 13900K.

8. MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi

Best Budget Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Bang for the Buck
Decent Networking
Great Storage Options

Cons

Unremarkable Power Delivery
No RGB Lighting

217 Reviews

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In a budget-oriented price bracket, MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi is an affordable choice that you should take into account. It is among the few low-cost alternatives available and considering its price, it provides a lot of functionality.

Another budget offering from MSI was also selected in our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

The VRM on this board is built with high-quality parts and is configured for respectable power delivery, despite its low price point. Due to its 8+4 phase VRM, you should not expect a whole lot of overclocking when paired with a Core i9 13900K. However, it is perfectly fine for stock operation.

Additionally, it has two sizable heatsinks and decent cooling to guarantee consistent performance even when overclocked. For the price bracket, the VRM’s general setup is quite acceptable.

MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi

The MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi strives to exceed expectations in terms of features. With four M.2 slots and six SATA ports for your storage devices, the motherboard’s storage suite is outstanding for the price. A 2.5 GbE LAN port and WiFi 6E handle networking, which is a strong combination for the price.

The six rear USB ports that are currently available can fill up very quickly, so we would have liked to see more. However, we cannot complain about the overall feature set considering the price tag. There are not a lot of motherboards available in a budget segment for the Core i9 13900K, and this one punches above its weight in terms of features.

On the subject of value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

Aesthetically, the board has a sleek and contemporary appearance thanks to the black and white color scheme, and its angular design gives it a bit of an aggressive feel. Gamers may be slightly disappointed by the lack of RGB lighting on the board. For a modern gaming motherboard, some RGB lighting is practically mandatory nowadays.

All things considered, the MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi is one of the best value-oriented motherboards for the Core i9 13900K. It has a respectable feature set and delivers power remarkably well for its price. If you intend to build a low-cost gaming setup using the Raptor Lake platform, you should absolutely take this board into consideration.

Not that we have to put a label on it, but we consider this motherboard the best budget motherboard for i9 13900K.

9. Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra

Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i9 13900K

Pros

Great for Small PC Builds
Versatile Features

Cons

Limited Expansion Slots
Mediocre VRM
Few Rear USB Ports

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The Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra is our final pick of the day, a mini ITX option that is unquestionably worth taking into account if you’re seeking a potent yet portable motherboard. In addition to having an excellent VRM design that guarantees stable performance even when overclocking, this mini ITX motherboard boasts a feature set that is quite competent for the price.

The VRM of the Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra is arguably one of the best among mini ITX motherboards on the Raptor Lake platform. It has excellent cooling and high-quality internal components. The VRM uses top-notch DrMOS components and features 10+1+2 phases, which is quite acceptable for a CPU such as the i9 13900K at stock settings.

The VRM includes a strong cooling system with numerous heatsinks. Even while under load, the heatsinks’ sufficient finning guarantees excellent heat dissipation. For mild overclocking on midrange Intel 13th Gen CPUs like the i5 13600K, the VRM is adequate. However, we would advise against overclocking the i9 13900K on this particular motherboard.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that platform.

Gigabyte AORUS Z690-I Ultra

For its price category, the Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra mini-ITX motherboard offers a lot of features. It has five M.2 slots, WiFi 6, and an Intel 2.5GbE LAN port for high-speed storage and reliable networking, respectively. This set of features is more than welcome in a mini ITX motherboard of this caliber.

A minor drawback is that there are only two DDR5 DIMM slots available, however, it is a constraint of the mini ITX form factor rather than this specific motherboard.

The Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra does not fall short in terms of appearance. With a black and silver color scheme that is accentuated by RGB lighting, the motherboard offers a streamlined and upscale appearance. The motherboard really comes to life with the RGB illumination, which can be customized to match the rest of your system.

Speaking of budget offerings, you can also explore our selection of the best budget AM4 motherboards for AMD options on a strict budget.

In essence, this particular mini ITX motherboard has a lot going for it. It boasts excellent features, a standout selling factor, and a respectable VRM design. If you’re seeking the ideal mini ITX motherboard for your i9 13900K, this is the one to shortlist.

Despite being on the pricier end for mini ITX motherboards, we recommend the Z690-I AORUS Ultra as the best mini ITX motherboard for i9 13900K.

How we picked and tested

Selecting the best motherboards for any particular CPU can be a complicated task, but the Core i9 13900K just elevates this challenge to the next level. It is one of the most demanding CPUs out there, so the motherboards in question have to be able to keep up with it.

However, our highly specialized team of hardware experts is nothing but enthusiastic about the task of picking the best motherboards for this CPU.

We start off, of course, with the VRM design of the motherboards in question. We have established that the Core i9 13900K is an absolute behemoth of a CPU, and it needs every bit of VRM quality to extract its maximum potential.

We only selected Z-series motherboards in our roundup since it does not make any sense to pair a locked motherboard with an unlocked CPU such as the Core i9 13900K.

Moreover, the features offered by the Z790 and Z690 motherboards were a priority as well. Of course, you cannot have a modern i9 13900K-based PC without the latest and greatest in terms of networking and storage.

We also laid a focus on aesthetics, although that is a bit of a subjective matter. Still, we kept an eye out for community feedback on the motherboard designs and adjusted the rankings as needed.

The final challenge while choosing the motherboards was the price tag, or more specifically the price-to-performance ratio offered by the boards. The brand-new Z790 motherboards are not cheap by any stretch of the imagination, but some offer a better value proposition than others.

When it comes to testing, our dedicated team of hardware experts left no stone unturned. The team explored every facet of the motherboards in detail to form an empirical and unbiased opinion on the board.

More specifically, we performed extensive VRM testing by measuring the VRM temperatures of the boards while running an overclocked Core i9 13900K in an enclosed chassis for extended periods of time.

Keeping that testing data in mind, we have curated a comprehensive and detailed list of the very best motherboards you can buy for the Core i9 13900K as of the time of writing.

Core i9 13900K vs. Ryzen 9 7950X

The Intel Core i9 13900K is the new king of the hill when it comes to Intel’s desktop gaming CPUs. It offers the most cores, the highest boost clock, and the newest architecture, which makes it a great choice for gaming. It is not, however, the only premium CPU on the block.

AMD’s flagship CPU, the Ryzen 9 7950X, is also in contention for the title of the “fastest gaming CPU”. AMD has recently refreshed its lineup of gaming CPUs with the brand new Zen 4 architecture, bringing generational improvements in IPC as well as support for new technologies like DDR5 and PCIe Gen 5.

The Core i9 13900K and the Ryzen 9 7950X go head to head for the crown, but which one of these should you buy?

According to initial benchmark results, the Core i9 13900K leads the Ryzen 9 7950X in most gaming scenarios. This puts the 13900K at a significant advantage in terms of value as well, since the Intel flagship is $110 cheaper than the AMD option at MSRP.

In productivity tasks, both the Core i9 13900K and the Ryzen 9 7950X trade blows depending on the scenario. Some tasks take advantage of the “true” cores of the Ryzen, while others utilize the E-cores of the Intel CPU to produce better overall performance.

Not to mention, the Core i9 13900K can also support cheaper DDR4 memory and older Z690 motherboards. The overall platform cost is significantly cheaper on Intel, and that is a 180-degree turn from the trend we have been seeing over the past few years.

As of right now, the Core i9 13900K has an advantage in terms of both performance and value over the Ryzen 9 7950X. The AMD platform, however, is more future-proof as it will be around for at least 3 more years as promised by AMD.

Buyer’s Guide

If you are one of the lucky ones to get your hands on a shiny new Core i9 13900K, then you will need an equally competent motherboard to pair with it. Even though motherboards are notoriously complicated to shop for, you can get the ideal motherboard for your build if you are careful about a few specific points.

Keep in mind the following factors when shopping for a new motherboard for your Core i9 13900K.

VRM Design

Considering the VRM setup of the motherboard is crucial when buying a new motherboard, especially for a flagship CPU such as the Core i9 13900K. The VRM is responsible for delivering power to the CPU, and it plays a critical role in determining how well the motherboard can overclock the processor.

A motherboard with a robust VRM will be able to deliver more power to the CPU without the VRM overheating, allowing for higher and more stable overclocks. Conversely, a motherboard with a poor VRM will be more likely to overheat and throttle the CPU, leading to lower performance.

Nowadays, with CPUs demanding as much as 250W of power for stock operation alone, the VRM is more important than ever. Even if you do not plan to overclock your CPU manually, you should still invest in a premium motherboard with a robust power delivery system so that you don’t experience performance loss on stock operation.

It is difficult to judge the quality of the VRM without testing, but you can consult the information publicly available on the internet. There are tons of VRM reviews available about every motherboard from experts and consumers alike.

DDR4 vs. DDR5

Intel’s 13^th Generation of desktop CPUs (codenamed Raptor Lake) also supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, just like the outgoing 12^th Generation. This creates a dilemma for potential buyers who want to purchase a motherboard for their brand-new Core i9 13900K CPU.

Just like Z690, the new Z790 motherboards are offered in DDR4 and DDR5 variants. You cannot use both DDR4 and DDR5 memory on the same motherboard, but there are different variants out there that support each memory generation. Therefore, you have to make a decision and choose one of the memory technologies going forward.

DDR5 memory is the latest and greatest when it comes to memory technology in desktop computers. You do get a bit more performance in gaming and productivity applications as compared to DDR4 right now, and that gap will only grow once DDR5 memory matures and becomes more efficient. DDR5 modules also run at a lower voltage than comparable DDR4 modules, contributing to efficiency.

On the flip side, DDR4 memory has been around for quite a while now and has the advantage of value. DDR4 memory kits are quite a bit cheaper than comparable DDR5 memory kits right now, and the performance difference is not that substantial. Moreover, DDR4 motherboards on the Z690 and Z790 platforms are also more affordable than DDR5 variants.

It is clear from this comparison that both DDR4 and DDR5 have their advantages and disadvantages. However, if you can afford it, going with DDR5 memory makes a bit more sense right now. You will be able to use this DDR5 memory kit for your next upgrade (whether it be Intel or AMD), and it does deliver better performance as well.

However, you can also go with DDR4 for the time being if you already have a DDR4 memory kit lying around and you just want to save a few bucks.

Upgrade Path

Another point of consideration here is the upgrade path that you get when you are building a new system with the Core i9 13900K. You should consider the upgrade path when building any system on any platform, but it is a bit more important with this particular CPU.

The Core i9 13900K is part of the Raptor Lake lineup of Intel CPUs, which is the last official CPU lineup on the LGA 1700 socket. Intel will not support any more CPUs on this particular socket (and by extension the chipsets) so you will not be able to upgrade your Z690 or Z790 motherboards to newer CPUs.

With the current Z790/Z690 motherboards, the 13^th Gen Intel processors represent the end of the road. If you want to upgrade to a newer CPU down the line (say Intel’s 14^th Gen) then you will need a new motherboard along with it.

Furthermore, the next Intel generation will most likely be exclusive to DDR5 memory. This is another point of consideration in terms of future-proofing. Buying a DDR5 memory kit right now with your 13^th Gen system should save you from the hassle of changing your memory kit down the line.

Therefore, it is important to consider the potential upgrade path of the system you are building before you finalize the motherboard choice.

Aesthetics

We all know that it is important to choose a motherboard that will provide reliable performance. However, aesthetics should also be considered when selecting a motherboard. After all, the motherboard is one of the few components that are visible once a computer is assembled.

Consequently, it can be a good idea to choose a motherboard with an eye-catching design. Many manufacturers offer boards with RGB lighting, which can add a touch of style to any build. In addition, some motherboards come in unique shapes or with intricate patterns etched into their surface. As such, there are many options available for those who want their motherboard to make a statement.

Ultimately, it is important to consider both performance and aesthetics when choosing a motherboard. Doing so will ensure that your build looks as good as it functions.

Price and Value

When it comes to choosing any new motherboard, price is obviously an important consideration. However, it’s also important to think about value because those two are not the same things. Just because a motherboard is expensive doesn’t mean it’s the best option. At the other end of the spectrum, just because a motherboard is cheap does not mean it is a good value for money.

In fact, sometimes it’s possible to find a motherboard that offers more features and better performance for less money. That’s why it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. It is always helpful to create a shortlist of your targets according to your budget rather than just pursuing a specific model.

With so many options on the market, there’s no excuse for settling for anything less than the perfect motherboard for your needs. By taking the time to analyze the price-to-performance ratio of multiple motherboard options, you should be able to find just the right motherboard for your i9 13900K.

If you are still unsure about your motherboard choice, don’t worry. With the help of our comprehensive motherboard buying guide, you can be sure to find a motherboard that fits both your budget and your needs.

Best Motherboards for i9 13900K - FAQs

What motherboards support i9 13900K?

The motherboards that support the i9 13900K include the Z790 and Z690 chipsets, as well as H670, B660, and H610 chipsets. The budget H770, H710, and B760 chipsets have not been released at the time of writing. You will need a BIOS update to run a 13th Gen processor with a 600 series motherboard.

Do I need DDR5 for i9 13900K?

You do not need DDR5 RAM for i9 13900K. You can also use DDR4 memory with this processor since it supports both DDR5 and DDR4 RAM. In order to run DDR4 memory, you will need to buy a DDR4-compatible motherboard that supports the i9 13900K.

Is i9 13900K future proof?

The i9 13900K can be considered future proof for 3-4 years but only in terms of performance. This CPU uses the LGA 1700 socket, which will be replaced by Intel in the next generation. This means that newer motherboards will not be compatible with the Core i9 13900K.

Is PCIe 5.0 better than PCIe 4.0?

Generally, PCIe 5.0 is better than PCIe 4.0 due to its substantial jump in bandwidth. However, there are only a few devices out there that even take full advantage of the PCIe Gen 4 protocol. There is no tangible benefit of PCIe 5.0 right now over PCIe 4.0, but it is promising for the future.

Is i9 13900K better than Ryzen 9 7950X?

The Core i9 13900K is better than the Ryzen 9 7950X in most gaming applications according to initial benchmarks. It is also a bit cheaper than the Ryzen 9 7950X, which gives it a significant advantage in terms of value. The two CPUs are quite evenly matched in productivity applications.

The post The 9 Best Motherboards For i9-13900K In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

The 7 Best Z790 Motherboards In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 21:56:34 +0000

Now that the brand new Intel 13^th Generation CPUs have hit the market, it is the ideal time to build a high-end gaming PC with these processors at heart. However, you should consider one of the new Z790 motherboards if you want to get the most out of your 13^th Gen CPU.

The Z790 chipset is this generation’s flagship motherboard chipset, bringing some vital improvements over the outgoing Z690 platform. This makes Z790 the ideal choice for a new high-end gaming PC with an Intel 13^th Gen Raptor Lake CPU.

We have also picked out the best motherboards for i9 13900K which you can consider, but in this roundup, we are focusing exclusively on the Z790 chipset.

Let’s jump right in.

At a glance

In this roundup, our top choice is the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master because of its great feature-packed versatility and the overall positive balance of performance, and reasonable pricing. Gamers who are willing to spend crazy amounts of cash in exchange for some select premium features might want to look at our second pick, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme. We also featured the MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi for enthusiastic but budget gamers out there. Read on to know more!

The Best Z790 Motherboard – Our Picks

#	Product	Reason To Get	Deal Breakers	Specs	Buy on Amazon
1	Best Overall Z790 Motherboard - Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master	Flawless price to performance ratio	Lack of an HDMI output	E-ATX \| 128GB DDR5-8000MHz \| 20+1+2 Phase VRM	90 Reviews Check Price
2	Best Premium Z790 Motherboard - ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme	Packed with extremely premium features	Very Expensive	E-ATX \| 192GB DDR5-7800+MHz \| 24+1 Phase VRM	22 Reviews Check Price
3	Best Overclocking Z790 Motherboard - ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO	Great Overclocking Potential	Pricey	ATX \| 192GB DDR5-7800+MHz \| 20+1 Phase VRM	378 Reviews Check Price
4	Best Value Z790 Motherboard - MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi	Absolute bang for the buck	Not the best overclocker	ATX \| 192GB DDR5-7600+MHz \| 19+1+1 Phase VRM	147 Reviews Check Price
5	Best Looking Z790 Motherboard - ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi	For the aesthetic lovers	Lack of 10 GbE LAN Port	ATX \| 128GB DDR5-7800+MHz \| 18+1 Phase VRM	374 Reviews Check Price
6	Best DDR4 Z790 Motherboard - MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi	Another Budget-Friendly Performer	Lack of RGB and aesthetics	ATX \| 128GB DDR4-5333MHz \| 16+1+1 Phase VRM	623 Reviews Check Price
7	Best Budget Z790 Motherboard - MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi	Cheapest Z790 Option	Petty Overclocking potential	ATX \| 128GB DDR4-5333MHz \| 14+1+1 Phase VRM	1,098 Reviews Check Price

#	1
Product	Best Overall Z790 Motherboard - Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master
Preview
Reason To Get	Flawless price to performance ratio
Deal Breakers	Lack of an HDMI output
Specs	E-ATX \| 128GB DDR5-8000MHz \| 20+1+2 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	90 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Product	Best Premium Z790 Motherboard - ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme
Preview
Reason To Get	Packed with extremely premium features
Deal Breakers	Very Expensive
Specs	E-ATX \| 192GB DDR5-7800+MHz \| 24+1 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	22 Reviews Check Price

#	3
Product	Best Overclocking Z790 Motherboard - ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO
Preview
Reason To Get	Great Overclocking Potential
Deal Breakers	Pricey
Specs	ATX \| 192GB DDR5-7800+MHz \| 20+1 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	378 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Product	Best Value Z790 Motherboard - MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi
Preview
Reason To Get	Absolute bang for the buck
Deal Breakers	Not the best overclocker
Specs	ATX \| 192GB DDR5-7600+MHz \| 19+1+1 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	147 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Product	Best Looking Z790 Motherboard - ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi
Preview
Reason To Get	For the aesthetic lovers
Deal Breakers	Lack of 10 GbE LAN Port
Specs	ATX \| 128GB DDR5-7800+MHz \| 18+1 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	374 Reviews Check Price

#	6
Product	Best DDR4 Z790 Motherboard - MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi
Preview
Reason To Get	Another Budget-Friendly Performer
Deal Breakers	Lack of RGB and aesthetics
Specs	ATX \| 128GB DDR4-5333MHz \| 16+1+1 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	623 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Product	Best Budget Z790 Motherboard - MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi
Preview
Reason To Get	Cheapest Z790 Option
Deal Breakers	Petty Overclocking potential
Specs	ATX \| 128GB DDR4-5333MHz \| 14+1+1 Phase VRM
Buy on Amazon	1,098 Reviews Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 16:55 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How To Pick The Best Z790 Motherboard

You’ll want a powerful Z790 motherboard to go with your new 13^th Gen Raptor Lake processor if you’re one of the fortunate few who managed to get their hands on one. Motherboards are notoriously tricky to shop for, but with some careful consideration, you can find the perfect one for your setup.

When looking for a new Z790 motherboard for your 13^th Gen Intel build, keep the following points in mind.

Power Delivery

Buying a new motherboard on a premium chipset like Z790 requires careful consideration of the motherboard’s VRM arrangement. How successfully a motherboard can overclock the CPU depends heavily on the VRM’s ability to provide the CPU with power.

When the VRM on a motherboard is well-designed, it can supply more power to the CPU without getting too hot, enabling greater and more stable overclocks. On the other hand, a motherboard with a subpar VRM is more likely to overheat the CPU and throttle it, resulting in a lackluster performance.

The VRM is more crucial than ever since modern CPUs can consume up to 250W of power during stock operation alone. If you don’t want to risk performance loss in stock conditions, investing in a high-end motherboard with a solid power delivery system is a must.

Without testing, it’s tough to say whether or not a VRM is any good, but there is plenty of data online that may help you make an educated guess. Numerous professional and user VRM evaluations of every major motherboard are accessible online.

Form Factor

When picking a Z790 motherboard, the form factor is one of the most crucial considerations. The amount of area a motherboard will take up in your case is determined by its “form factor”, which refers to the motherboard’s size and shape. The three most common case sizes are ATX, micro ATX, and mini ITX.

The ATX form factor is the most common and widely used, as it is the largest and provides the most space for a selection of expansion cards and other components. Micro ATX is an even more compact form factor than ATX, yet it retains ATX’s ample expansion potential. Mini ITX, at the other end of the spectrum, is the smallest form factor and is designed for compact cases or projects with limited room.

There has been a recent increase in the popularity of E-ATX, or “Extended ATX” motherboards, which are significantly larger than traditional ATX motherboards. Premium motherboards that boast a wide range of features and capabilities often use this form factor.

Before deciding on a form factor, you should consider the available space in your case and the components you want to use. So, if you want to run several graphics cards in SLI or CrossFire, you’ll need an ATX or E-ATX motherboard. If you need a compact computer system that won’t take up much desk space, a mini ITX motherboard is the way to go.

Ultimately, it is critical to select a form factor that provides the best tradeoff between size and features for your needs.

Aesthetics

It’s not just the motherboard’s performance that matters, but also its aesthetics. In the end, no one wants their powerful gaming setup to seem like a tangled mess of metal and cables. Those who care about aesthetics will be pleased to know that they have a plethora of motherboard selections to choose from.

These days, motherboards may be found in a wide variety of colors and with a variety of RGB lighting patterns that can really set off any system. Additionally, several manufacturers provide personalization choices via downloaded software, allowing customers to select their own color combinations and lighting effects.

Thus, while selecting a motherboard, functionality does not have to take a backseat to design. There has never been a better time to build a PC that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is powerful.

Value for Money

When looking to purchase a new motherboard, price is a factor like any other. Although pricing is crucial, it’s equally necessary to think about the value you’ll get for your money. Finding a middle ground between cost and output is crucial.

It’s easy to get carried away while shopping for a motherboard because there are so many to choose from. Even so, that doesn’t guarantee it’s the most cost-effective option. Nowadays, motherboards are loaded with features and extras that only 5% of average gamers would ever utilize.

You need to zero in on the optimal pricing point, where the number of available features is ideal for your budget. Most likely, it won’t be the most expensive or the cheapest possibility, but it will be ideal for your build.

Finding the perfect balance between cost and performance on a motherboard requires some research. There is a wide variety of motherboards out there, so you should be able to find one that works for your budget.

Upgrade Path

When deciding what Z790 motherboard to buy for your new 13^th Gen system, the platform’s upgradeability is an important factor. When building a system on any platform, the upgrade route is crucial, but it is more so with this generation of CPUs.

The Z790 chipset is a platform for Intel’s Raptor Lake family of processors, the company’s final official CPU family for the LGA 1700 socket. You can’t upgrade your Z790 motherboards to newer CPUs since Intel has ceased supporting CPUs for that socket (and hence the chipsets).

Using a 13th-generation Intel CPU with a current Z790 motherboard is essentially a dead end in terms of upgrades. If you plan on upgrading your CPU to a newer model (like Intel’s 14th Gen) in the future, you will also need to replace your motherboard.

Moreover, DDR5 memory is expected to be used exclusively in the next Intel generation. In relation to future-proofing, this is still another factor. Investing in a DDR5 memory kit for your 13th Generation PC now should spare you the trouble of making a swap in the future.

Before settling on a motherboard, it’s crucial to think about the system’s future possibilities for upgrades. If you still can’t land on the ideal motherboard, don’t worry. With the help of our comprehensive motherboard buying guide, you can be sure to find a motherboard that fits both your budget and your needs.

1. Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

Best Overall Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Superb Power Delivery
Robust 10 Gigabit Networking
Attractive Design Language
Packed Feature Set

Cons

Very Expensive

90 Reviews

Check Price

The AORUS family of motherboards from Gigabyte continues to deliver great premium products even with the introduction of the Raptor Lake CPUs. The Z790 AORUS Master board’s price tag may be off-putting, but its powerful power delivery system and amazing features are well worth the investment.

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master is an excellent motherboard with many useful enhancements for gamers and PC enthusiasts. This one is a DDR5 version that is compatible with the latest Raptor Lake processors from Intel’s 13th Gen and can handle DDR5 memory speeds of up to 8000MT/s.

And if that weren’t enough, it can accommodate up to six SATA drives, has four M.2 ports, and a slew of speedy USB connectors. Not only does it support Intel’s latest Wi-Fi 6E standard for faster and more reliable networking, but it also has a 10 GbE LAN connector for wired connections.

More premium Gigabyte motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

Differentiating it from similar boards in its price range is the Marvell 10 GbE LAN capabilities. This feature makes this board an excellent option for both amateurs and skilled creators. In addition to an innovative UEFI BIOS and compatibility with Intel’s Extreme Memory Profile (XMP), the Z790 AORUS Master provides a comprehensive suite of features for fine-tuning and overclocking.

A small drawback is the lack of an HDMI output on the rear I/O, which may have been very helpful in diagnosing errors.

The voltage regulator module (VRM) arrangement on the Z790 AORUS Master board is the board’s crowning glory, and it has a stunning 23-phase design. Twenty of those phases are used to supply the central processing unit with clean, stable power in this setup. With 105A of available CPU power, even the high-end i9 13900K may be overclocked to provide a quality experience.

The VRM has an efficient cooling system, so high temperatures will never be an issue. Additional heat from the VRM components is dissipated by a collection of heatsinks without degrading performance. This is especially helpful when regularly using an overclocked Intel Core i9-13900K processor.

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master caters to the aesthetic preferences of the many people who place a high value on a motherboard. With its clean design and subtle illumination, the board is a pleasure to look at. The use of RGB lighting is tasteful, and the color palette is eye-catching without being overpowering.

The board is a terrific complement to any gaming setup owing to its modern and aesthetically pleasing design. The new I/O cover design is stunning, although we would have preferred a more muted application.

We also selected this motherboard in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 13600K, which shows the versatility of this particular option.

Finally, if you’re searching for the best Z790 motherboard for your new 13th Gen Intel processor, you should think about getting a Z790 AORUS Master. It has practically unequaled overclocking potential thanks to its comprehensive feature set and powerful power delivery mechanism.

The only real negative is that it’s very pricey compared to other available choices. If you want the best overall Z790 motherboard, however, you should prioritize the Z790 AORUS Master.

2. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme

Best Premium Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Overpowered VRM Setup
Extremely Premium Features
10 Gigabit LAN
Impressive RGB Lighting

Cons

Extremely Pricy

22 Reviews

Check Price

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme, in the premium segment of the pricing range, is one of the best premium Z790 motherboards available. It offers a fantastic overclocking experience and is jam-packed with features. Although it comes with a costly price tag, the product’s build quality is exceptional.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the Z790 platform.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is a stunning piece of hardware. The use of a striking red and black color palette, together with the use of luxurious RGB lighting, contribute to the design’s assertive tone. The aesthetic conveys strength and refinement; it will be a show-stopper in any gaming rig.

The new ROG vintage style is present in several RGB lighting locations, which we find quite appealing. ROG’s logo and writing have been pixelated to give this motherboard a unique look. You won’t be disappointed with the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme, whether you’re for looks or performance.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme

The power distribution system is the main attraction on this board. The VRM on the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is among the finest you’ll find on a motherboard. The high-quality components used in this 24+1-phase VRM are among the best available. With the Maximus Z790 Extreme’s formidable VRM, you can even overclock the flagship Core i9 13900K to your heart’s delight.

Large metal heatsinks are paired with heat pipes to further enhance the VRM assembly’s cooling capabilities. Since it can handle whatever CPU you throw at it and provides consistently reliable power delivery, this motherboard is fantastic for overclocking and gaming.

As far as specifications go, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is a top-tier motherboard with a plethora of special features that make it well-suited to gaming and other resource-intensive activities. To begin, it offers five M.2 slots for your high-speed NVMe SSDs, making it excellent for gamers that need to store enormous quantities of data.

The motherboard also has built-in WiFi 6E and LAN connections, so you can maintain an active internet connection at all times. Creative pros might benefit greatly from the 10 GbE LAN connection offered on this ASUS motherboard.

Also, it features ten USB ports on the back, so you can plug in as many devices as you like without worrying about running out of connections. This motherboard is perfect for both gaming PCs and workstations, as it doesn’t skimp on any essential features.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X as well.

In terms of premium Z790 motherboards on the market, ASUS’ ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is a top pick. This one checks all the boxes in terms of premium features and performance.

The price tag is the sole detriment since it is among the highest you’ll encounter. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme is our pick for the best premium Z790 motherboard if you are prepared to spend a few extra bucks.

3. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO

Best Overclocking Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Robust Power Delivery
Loads of Connectivity
Unique Aesthetics
Excellent Storage Suite

Cons

Very Expensive

378 Reviews

Check Price

Another high-end motherboard that you’ll find in our selection is the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO, which is a member of the prestigious Maximus series. ASUS has designed a variety of motherboards specifically with overclockers in mind, and the products in this series include some pretty solid and dependable options for users to choose from.

This motherboard was also one of our top picks in our roundup of the best motherboards for i7 13700K.

Our choice for the best overclocking Z790 motherboard currently on the market is the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO, and that is thanks to its superb VRM design. The power delivery of the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is something that a lot of critics and reviewers find to be quite appealing.

It comes with an outstanding 20+1 phase Dr.MOS power stage design and is loaded with features that gamers and overclockers will like using. The VRM architecture of the motherboard is one of the most durable ones available on the market, and it should have no problem providing an overclocked Core i9 13900K with power that is both clean and reliable.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO

In addition to this, it includes a powerful cooling system for the VRM, which helps to keep things cool regardless of how hot the VRM components become. When used in conjunction with a Core i9 13900K, the VRM temps of this motherboard are among the lowest that we have seen from Z790 motherboards.

The Maximus Z790 HERO motherboard also comes with a plethora of features that are worthy of note. Five NVMe SSDs can be supported by the motherboard simultaneously, which is a great boon to gamers and professionals who need to store a lot of data. The motherboard has a respectable number of SATA ports, with a total of six available for connecting extra hard drives to the system.

In addition, the Maximus Z790 HERO is equipped with a 2.5 GbE LAN port as well as WiFi 6E for all your networking needs. Moreover, the board sports a total of 12 rear USB ports, making a combination of connectivity options that are rather practical.

The ROG Maximus Z790 HERO’s eye-catching aesthetic will have people talking about your PC gaming system. The board has a color scheme of black and metallic red, and it also has sharp angles and RGB lighting accents, which provide a bit of elegance to the overall design.

The RGB lighting looks fantastic, and the colors have been carefully synchronized with one another. The use of sharp and aggressive accents is another beautiful touch that was added. The end result is one that is quite easy on the eyes overall.

The functionality of the board is described as being very simple and straightforward to operate. In addition to the fact that all of the connections and connectors are nicely labeled and simple to reach, The ASUS Aura Sync functionality for the board’s RGB lighting is also quite simple to configure.

Be sure to check out our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 7950X as well for more ASUS motherboards.

It’s worth noting that the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is a top-tier motherboard that’s a perfect match for premium CPUs from Intel’s 13^th Gen lineup. It not only has a fantastic VRM design, but it also has lots of bells and whistles that would go exceptionally well with a high-end gaming PC.

It is a little bit on the pricey side, but for a Z790 motherboard of this caliber, the investment may be deemed to be worthwhile.

4. MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi

Best Value Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Great for Overclocking
Nice Design Elements
Versatile Networking
Premium Storage Options

Cons

Relatively Pricy

147 Reviews

Check Price

One of the finest all-around Z790 motherboards for the Intel 13^th Gen processors is the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi. It is a high-end motherboard that provides a combination of excellent features and outstanding quality while overclocking. Even when paired with a premium processor like the i9 13900K, this motherboard’s price is not completely unreasonable, making it a great value for money.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

Users have access to unrivaled networking and storage choices thanks to the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi’s extensive feature set. In addition to having Wi-Fi 6E for networking, it possesses five M.2 slots that are compatible with next-generation PCIe NVMe devices; this will take care of any storage requirements you may have. It also has a 2.5 GbE LAN connector for individuals who want to use wired connections in the event that you require more conventional capabilities.

In terms of connectivity, the board is replete with USB ports that come in a wide variety of configurations and speeds. Even though this is something that should be anticipated from a board in this price range, it is still really nice to see. The Clear CMOS button is another helpful small feature that may be used while debugging an issue.

MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi

Having reliable power delivery is essential when using power-hungry processors from the Raptor Lake lineup. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi motherboard has a 19+1+1 phase VRM architecture with quality components and a reliable cooling system. This voltage regulator module is more than capable of managing the premier Raptor Lake CPUs even when the voltages are boosted.

The VRM is cooled using three independent heatsinks that are linked to one another via copper heat pipes. As a consequence of this, the general VRM system that comes with the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is of very high quality and ought to be able to deal with even the most demanding overclocking.

When it comes to selecting a motherboard, aesthetics are a crucial factor, and the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi doesn’t let you down in that regard at all. The board’s design is streamlined and black, and it features understated details that provide it with an air of sophistication. This particular motherboard deviates somewhat from the conventional design language used by MSI, yet it pulls off the departure rather successfully.

In spite of the fact that it is designed primarily for use in gaming PCs, the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi motherboard would not seem out of place in a system intended for professional use. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi has an extremely pleasant appearance overall, and it is certain to look excellent in whatever system you choose to install it in.

Our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 7600X also has more options worth checking out!

If you want to build a high-performance gaming rig around the Z790 chipset, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi should be on your shortlist of motherboards to consider. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi has a lot of great qualities, but some of the best ones are its excellent overclocking potential, its robust power delivery, and its top-tier networking.

The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi may be the answer for you if you are looking for the best value Z790 motherboard, thanks to its relatively reasonable price tag.

5. ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi

Best Looking Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Extraordinary VRM Design
Attractive RGB Lighting
Five M.2 Slots

Cons

Quite Expensive
No 10 GbE LAN Port

374 Reviews

Check Price

ASUS offers the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi in a pricing range that falls between the highest-end models and the inexpensive ones. This motherboard’s best attraction is that it provides nearly all the high-end capabilities found on pricier Z790 motherboards at a more reasonable cost. In addition to being functionally excellent, its striking RGB execution and distinctive design language make it a visual delight.

This motherboard can also be considered one of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a stunning design. The color palette is sophisticated and trendy, with black, silver, and red accents. The RGB illumination on this board is one of a kind since it is hidden behind a translucent overlay that sits above the I/O shield. In addition to enhancing the lighting, this also lends some flair to the board.

Furthermore, the Aura Sync application allows you to modify the lighting effects and select from a number of different predefined options. It’s our pick for the best looking Z790 motherboard thanks to its novel layout and eye-catching RGB lighting.

ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi

In spite of its good aesthetics, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming is more than meets the eye. The sturdy 18+1 phase power supply system gives it solidity to go along with its sleek design. Even an overclocked Core i9 13900K with this VRM configuration is a non-issue. Considering the motherboard’s mid-range pricing, the power delivery system is outstanding.

Similarly, ASUS has ensured the VRM remains stable and cool with the use of sufficient cooling and heat dissipation methods. For better heat transfer, heat pipes connect the two VRM heatsinks. With the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi, you can stop caring about the temperature of the VRM components.

The Strix Z790-E has several premium features, of course. With the storage suite, you can store your files on five M.2 drives and four SATA drives. A 2.5 GbE LAN port and WiFi 6E handle networking, which is par for the course at this price point. Although a 10 Gigabit LAN port on this motherboard would have been welcome, we know that such an expectation is impractical given the product’s cost.

There are several outputs and inputs, as well as a Thunderbolt header, on the device’s rear. As one would expect from a high-end ASUS product, the motherboard’s connectivity features are first-rate.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi is an excellent choice for gamers and meets most of their expectations. It’s a solid motherboard overall, with no major flaws to speak of. Overall though, it’s still a somewhat pricey motherboard, especially when compared to the alternatives.

Still, it’s loaded with useful amenities and runs as well as any of the finest in its category. This is a great option to consider if you’re in need of a versatile Z790 motherboard.

6. MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4

Best DDR4 Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Value Oriented Option
DDR4 Support
Excellent Power Delivery

Cons

No RGB Lighting
Plain Looks

623 Reviews

Check Price

Even though Z790 motherboards and DDR4 memory do not make a lot of economic sense together, we figured we’d include one in our motherboard roundup for the sake of completion. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 is the best DDR4 Z790 motherboard, in our opinion. Despite the board’s rather quirky branding style, it packs quite a punch and can hold its own against boards that cost far more.

MSI has chosen a unique route in terms of design. To make a more modest and stealthy statement, they’ve given the Tomahawk series an all-black look. This variation, like the others that use the same design language, is sleek and sophisticated. There are no flashy features or excessive RGB lighting, yet the board still has an appealing look.

This motherboard would be a great choice for the fairly widespread all-black or covert PC designs. However, given your stance on the issue, the fact that it lacks RGB lighting may be a contentious decision. Nonetheless, we found its clean lines and understated elegance to be aesthetically pleasing.

MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK DDR4

The 16+1+1 phase VRM configuration stands out as a particularly attractive proposition due to the impressive robustness it provides at such a minimal cost. This is why Tomahawk motherboards, and the Z790 version in particular, have become so popular. Even the Core i9 13900K works wonderfully with this motherboard since it can be overclocked to a certain extent, provided you are realistic with your expectations.

MSI has also given a lot of thought to the effective cooling of the VRMs. The gigantic heatsink assembly features a number of fin stacks and a heat pipe. The VRM system on this board is kept cool and stable even while under extended loads, demonstrating that the cooling solution is more than sufficient for the power distribution components.

Given that it is a Z790 motherboard, the Tomahawk is equipped with all the cutting-edge features. For storage, the board provides four M.2 slots, and for networking, it supports both WiFi 6E and a 2.5 GbE LAN port. As was previously stated, this specific type is compatible with DDR4 memory operating at speeds up to 5333 MT/s, representing an excellent balance of performance and cost.

There are also a lot of connectors on the rear, including 10 USB ones of varying speeds and types. As an added bonus, MSI has included HDMI and DisplayPort outputs on the rear I/O, which can be handy in specific scenarios. This motherboard comes quite close to having all the features you may want.

In essence, the MSI Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 is a fine choice for gamers. There aren’t any glaring issues, and the value you get for your money is excellent. The DDR4 memory generation and the absence of RGB lighting might be seen as drawbacks, but they are very insignificant when weighed against the benefits of the entire package.

7. MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi DDR4

Best Budget Z790 Motherboard

Pros

Quite Affordable
Acceptable Power Delivery
Good Networking Options

Cons

No RGB Lighting
Few Rear USB Ports

1,098 Reviews

Check Price

MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi DDR4 is an alternative that comes at a price that won’t break the bank and ought to be considered as a potential purchase. It is one of the few Z790 options accessible at a lower cost, and in light of the fact that it is so inexpensive, it offers a great deal of utility.

Another budget offering from MSI was also selected in our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

Despite its modest cost, this board’s VRM is designed using high-quality components and is set up for decent power delivery performance. The board’s 14+1+1 phase VRM design is not the most overpowered or complicated of the bunch, but it gets the job done fairly well. If you pair this board with a flagship Core i9 13900K CPU, you can expect flawless stock operation and even a bit of overclocking.

In addition, it features not one but two huge heatsinks for the provision of adequate cooling, which allows it to maintain its performance even when the installed CPU is overclocked. The VRM’s default configuration is commendable for its price segment.

MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi DDR4

In terms of the features it offers, the MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi aims to go above and beyond what is expected. The storage suite on the motherboard is exceptional for the price, as it is equipped with four M.2 slots and six SATA ports for your various types of storage devices. The networking is taken care of by a 2.5 GbE LAN connector as well as WiFi 6E, which is an impressive combo considering the cost.

Since the eight rear USB ports that are currently available may be used up very quickly, we had hoped to see more of them included in the layout. However, taking into consideration the cost, we do not have any major complaints about the general feature set. Given that there are not many Z790 motherboards in this price range, this particular model packs more functionality than you may expect given its price point.

The board has a sleek and modern appearance owing to the black and white color scheme, and the angular form gives it a sense of aggression that complements its overall aesthetic. A lack of RGB lighting on the board is likely to dissatisfy some gamers, at least to some degree. These days, some form of RGB lighting is almost required for integration on a modern gaming motherboard.

On the subject of value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

When everything is taken into consideration, the MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi DDR4 motherboard is one of the finest motherboards on the Z790 platform in terms of value. In comparison to its cost, it possesses a competitive feature set and power delivery that is remarkable. If you plan to build a low-cost gaming system employing the Raptor Lake platform, you should certainly give serious thought to purchasing this board.

Even though it’s not required, we’ll say it anyway: this motherboard is what we consider to be the best budget Z790 motherboard on the market.

How we picked and tested

The Z790 chipset adds a new degree of difficulty to the already complicated chore of choosing the optimal motherboard for any given chipset. These motherboards must be capable of supporting one of the most resource-intensive CPUs currently available, the Core i9 13900K.

However, we have a highly experienced team of hardware specialists that are more than up for the challenge of determining which motherboards are ideal for this CPU.

Obviously, we begin with the VRM architecture of the relevant motherboards. As we have seen, the 13^th Gen Raptor Lake lineup boasts some powerful processors, and they require top-notch VRM components if you want to get the most out of them.

Also important were the capabilities of the Z790 motherboards on offer, especially the feature set. No modern Z790-based PC would be complete without cutting-edge connectivity and storage options.

Even though aesthetics can be interpreted in different ways and are subjective in nature, we gave special attention to them. Nevertheless, we monitored user reviews of various motherboards and made any necessary adjustments to our rankings.

The cost of the motherboards, or more especially the price-to-performance ratio of the boards, was the final obstacle to overcome. Although all of the new Z790 motherboards are costly, some are better deals than others.

Our diligent group of hardware professionals did not miss a single detail during the testing process. To establish an objective and fact-based assessment, the team carefully examined every aspect of the motherboards.

For the purposes of this analysis, we overclocked a Core i9 13900K and ran it in an enclosed chassis for prolonged periods of time, during which we monitored the VRM temperatures of the boards.

Using the results of our tests, we’ve compiled a list of the very best Z790 motherboards currently available for your consideration.

Z790 vs. Z690 – What’s New?

Although Z790 is the flagship chipset to be specifically made for 13th Generation Raptor Lake CPUs, it does not provide many major advancements over its predecessor. This is an incremental improvement over Z690 and should not be seen as a reason to switch if you are happy with your current system.

Like the Z690 platform, the Z790 chipset is compatible with Intel’s 12th and 13th-generation CPUs. In particular, the two motherboard chipsets’ connectivity and rear I/O advancements stand out as noteworthy upgrades. More USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20 Gbps connectors and four additional PCIe Gen 4 downstream lanes are only two of the improvements made by the Z790 over the Z690.

Most of the enhancements are to do with the storage and network capabilities of the device. Z790 motherboards may include an extra M.2 slot and a few extra USB ports here and there, but these improvements are minimal in the grand scheme of things.

DDR5 vs. DDR4 RAM

As with the Z690 chipset, the Z790 supports both DDR5 and DDR4 memory. Actually, Intel did not alter much with regard to memory compatibility between the Z790 chipset and the Z690 chipset from the last generation.

Therefore, customers of 13th Generation Raptor Lake processors still have to decide between DDR4 and DDR5 memory. There is no simple solution to this topic, as both generations of memory have their benefits and drawbacks.

DDR5 memory is not just the way of the future, but also the present. DDR5 memory kits are currently significantly more costly than DDR4 memory kits, but the performance difference between the two is widening with each passing month. DDR5 memory kits will also work with future Intel (or AMD) processors.

DDR4 memory, on the other hand, is more cost-effective. Since purchasing a brand-new DDR5 memory kit for brand-new computers isn’t in everyone’s budget right now, reusing older DDR4 modules is a terrific method to cut costs. As of this writing, the performance of new DDR4 memory is almost equivalent to that of DDR5 memory, although the former is far more affordable.

Thus the customer is faced with the choice of value or future-proofing.

Why you should trust us

Appuals.com is your go-to source for motherboard expertise, with comprehensive reviews from our experienced team. Our rigorous testing process assesses stability, compatibility, and overclocking potential, while our VRM testing ensures long-term reliability. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or the best motherboard on the market, we’ve got you covered. Read more about us.

Best Z790 Motherboard - FAQs

Does Z790 support 12th Gen?

Z790 motherboards do support Intel 12th Gen processors. Both Z790 and Z690 have support for Intel’s 12th and 13th Gen desktop CPUs. These motherboards and CPUs are compatible with the LGA1700 socket.

Is Z790 better than Z690?

Z790 is better than Z690 because it brings a few key improvements in the areas of storage and connectivity. Z790 adds a few extra downstream PCIe 4.0 lanes as well as more USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 USB connectors.

Is Z790 future proof?

The Z790 chipset cannot be considered future proof. It can only support up to 13th Gen Intel processors, which will be the last family of CPUs to be released on this platform. The next generation (14th Gen) will use a brand new socket as well as new chipsets.

What is the best chipset for 13900K?

The Z790 chipset is the best chipset for Core i9 13900K since it provides support for CPU and memory overclocking. Moreover, Z790 motherboards have the best features and powerful VRM setups for reliable overclocking.

Does Z790 support PCIe 5.0?

Z790 does support PCIe 5.0 technology. You can get PCIe 5.0 lanes directly to the main PCIe x16 slot as well as multiple M.2 slots on a Z790 motherboard. However, there are very few PCIe 5.0 devices on the market that can take advantage of this new technology right now.

The post The 7 Best Z790 Motherboards In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

7 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 5 7600X In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 18:29:53 +0000

The wait is finally over and AMD has launched the brand new Ryzen 7000 series of CPUs based on the Zen 4 architecture. If you are lucky enough to get your hands on a Ryzen 5 7600X early, then you will need a competent new motherboard to go along with it.

This is because the new Ryzen 7000 series CPUs use an entirely new platform, known as AM5. With this platform, AMD is not only changing the socket and chipset, but it is also bringing several new technologies to the table such as DDR5 memory support and PCIe Gen 5.

We also looked at the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900X recently, but those won’t be compatible with the new Ryzen 5 7600X. For this potent new CPU, you’ll need one of the new X670E or X670 motherboards that are currently available for purchase.

With that said, here are some of the very best motherboards for Ryzen 5 7600X you can currently buy.

The Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X – Our Picks

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	MSI MEG X670E ACE	Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	617 Reviews Check Price
2	Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master	Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	Check Price
3	MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi	Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	617 Reviews Check Price
4	ASUS TUF Gaming X670-E PLUS WiFi	Best Mid-Range Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	222 Reviews Check Price
5	ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi	Best White Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	188 Reviews Check Price
6	Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX	Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	316 Reviews Check Price
7	MSI PRO X670-P WiFi	Best Budget Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	MSI MEG X670E ACE
Award	Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	617 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master
Award	Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	617 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming X670-E PLUS WiFi
Award	Best Mid-Range Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	222 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi
Award	Best White Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	188 Reviews Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX
Award	Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	316 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	MSI PRO X670-P WiFi
Award	Best Budget Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 12:45 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

1. MSI MEG X670E ACE

Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Extraordinary Power Delivery
Features 10 Gigabit LAN
Loads of USB Ports
Clean Design

Cons

Very Expensive

617 Reviews

Check Price

Claiming our top spot is the MSI MEG X670E ACE, which is second in line among MSI’s X670E options just behind the ridiculous X670E GODLIKE. The MEG X670E ACE targets the upper mid-range of the market and is quite simply one of the most complete motherboards on the X670 platform. It is our choice for the best overall motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X.

Even though the Ryzen 5 7600X is not a very demanding CPU in terms of power delivery, it helps to have a robust VRM system on your motherboard. The 22+2 phase VRM of the MEG X670E ACE is probably overkill for the Ryzen 5 7600X even with Precision Boost Overdrive enabled. You can try your hand at manual overclocking as well without worrying about any limitations.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the MSI MEG X670E ACE is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the X670 platform.

MSI has also installed some pretty hefty heatsinks for the power delivery system to keep the temperatures cool. This helps to increase the efficiency of the VRM components and extends the overall lifetime of the motherboard.

MSI MEG X670E ACE

Moving on to the feature set, it is nearly impossible to find a fault in the MSI X670E ACE. It has got all the bells and whistles that you would expect from a top-tier board in this price bracket. You even get 10 Gigabit networking which is a great boon to creative professionals and content creators.

For storage, MSI has provided four M.2 slots on the board with a couple that support PCIe 5.0 speeds as well. Moreover, the rear I/O is extraordinary thanks to a plethora of high-speed USB ports as well as USB-C display outputs. You really cannot go wrong with the MSI MEG X670 ACE when it comes to features.

Aesthetically, the board is really clean and modern which goes against the traditional MSI design language. Sure, you still have a large RGB Dragon logo staring at you at all times, but the rest of the motherboard is really simple and subtle due to the black heat spreaders and covers.

There is a minimalistic triangle pattern across the chipset heatsink cover and the M.2 slot covers, but other than that there is nothing in terms of design elements. It is a very sleek and modern motherboard.

MSI dominates the Intel motherboard market too, as their premium option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

All in all, it does not get better than the MSI MEG X670E ACE for your brand new Ryzen 5 7600X CPU. It has all the bells and whistles you will ever need, and its power delivery system is one of the best on the market. The only problem might be its relatively high price tag, which may be an issue from a value standpoint.

2. Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master

Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Superb VRM Design
Excellent Rear I/O
Decent Storage Options
Attractive RGB Lighting

Cons

Quite Pricy

Check Price

If you are looking for the best of the best, consider the Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master for your Ryzen 5 7600X CPU. It is a premium X670E motherboard that is not only good enough for your Ryzen 5 processor currently but will also provide you with a strong platform for future upgrades should you see fit. The Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master is our pick for the best premium motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X.

A similar Gigabyte motherboard was also selected in our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

Under the massive VRM heatsinks, we find a 16+2+2 phase power delivery system that is capable of handling any Ryzen 7000 series CPU, even on overclocked settings. You can certainly play around with manual overclocking and voltage tuning on your Ryzen 5 7600X, and the board won’t even break a sweat.

Gigabyte has cooled the VRM components with two massive heatsinks that are connected through a heat pipe. In the AORUS Master, you can see some exposed aluminum fins just under the I/O cover, and that gives you an idea of how powerful the cooling system really is.

Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master

When it comes to features, you really are getting the best of the best with the X670E AORUS Master. One area of complaint can be the lack of 10 Gigabit LAN on this particular model, but most gamers and even creative professionals can get by with 2.5 GbE LAN too. You also get WiFi 6E to complete your connectivity suite.

Gigabyte has also provided four M.2 slots on the board, with three of them supporting PCIe Gen 5 speeds. You also get a total of 12 rear USB ports, with multiple high-speed USB 3.2 ports as well as a USB-C display output. Safe to say, it is hard to find a feature missing in this motherboard.

In terms of design, the Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master might just be the most attractive motherboard from the current Gigabyte lineup. The AORUS Xtreme is too cluttered, while the rest are a bit too simple for our taste. The AORUS Master strikes the perfect balance of stylish and modern.

You also get a large RGB area on the I/O cover, as well as an aggressive AORUS pattern on the chipset cover. The board can go nicely with any PC build due to its black design, but it is more suited for RGB gaming builds.

Speaking of gaming builds, you may want to check out our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 7 3700X as well.

In essence, the only downside of the Gigabyte X670E AORUS Master is its high price tag. However, this motherboard can last longer than your current Ryzen 5 7600X CPU, so you may want to invest in it for the long term.

3. MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi

Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Great for Overclocking
Nice Design
Rear USB-C Display Port
Decent Storage Features

Cons

Relatively Expensive

617 Reviews

Check Price

MSI’s MPG or “Performance Gaming” lineup of motherboards is usually targeted at gamers who shop in the mid-range of the product stack. The MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi is an ideal match for your Ryzen 5 7600X CPU from a value perspective. Not only do you get a lot of high-end features, but you also get a very decent VRM layout that rivals more expensive motherboards on this platform.

More premium MSI motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for the Z790 platform.

Speaking of the VRM, the MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi packs an 18+2 phase VRM with premium 90A power stages. Keeping numbers aside, this power delivery system is incredibly robust and can handle your Ryzen 5 7600X CPU with ease. You can even overclock it to your heart’s content, as this board is our pick for the best overclocking motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X.

MSI has not ignored the cooling aspect either. The multi-piece aluminum heatsinks over the VRMs keep them cool during extended loads, which is required for long-term reliability as well as efficiency.

MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi

Despite its mid-range positioning in the market, the MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi is packed with features. The networking suite is what you would expect from a high-end X670 motherboard with support for 2.5 GbE LAN and WiFi 6E.

MSI has also provided four M.2 slots and six SATA ports for all your storage needs. On the rear I/O, you get a USB-C display output which is rather nice, as well as multiple high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports for ultra-fast connectivity.

The aesthetics of the MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi are rather unremarkable. Not that the board is bad looking by any means, but it certainly does not stand out from the crowd either. You do get a large RGB Dragon logo on the I/O cover, which seems to be the standard for MSI motherboards nowadays.

Other than that, there is no Mystic Light RGB implementation or any noticeable design element on the board. This board is actually a surprising candidate for blackout builds, since most of the board is covered in black heat spreaders.

Perhaps the only negative of the MSI MPG X670E Carbon you can point to is the relatively high price tag. Even though it falls in the mid-range of X670 motherboards, you can find cheaper motherboards that can be paired with the Ryzen 5 7600X for more or less the same results. Still, the MPG X670E Carbon WiFi should definitely be on your shopping list.

4. ASUS TUF Gaming X670-E PLUS WiFi

Best Mid-Range Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Competent Power Delivery
Excellent Connectivity
Relatively Affordable
Decent Networking

Cons

Plain Looks

222 Reviews

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Moving down the price bracket, we have the ASUS TUF Gaming X670-E PLUS WiFi. The TUF Gaming series from ASUS has been a fan favorite for a while now, and its selling point is the price-to-performance ratio. The X670E variant of the TUF Gaming sits in the mid-range of all X670E motherboards, therefore it is our pick for the best mid-range motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our list of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 as well.

ASUS has gone ahead and installed a 14+2 phase power delivery system on the TUF Gaming X670E, which is a very respectable setup. For a Ryzen 5 7600X, you don’t really need anything more robust or premium than this VRM setup. ASUS has also taken care of the cooling aspect by installing two large VRM heatsinks, with a cool design as well.

ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi

There are not a lot of compromises in terms of features either. You get the standard networking suite of 2.5 GbE LAN and WiFi 6E, while the storage is handled by four M.2 slots. Sure, only a single M.2 slot is capable of PCIe 5.0 speeds, but that’s certainly not a deal-breaker by any means. The rear I/O is packed with high-speed USB ports as you would expect, and many of them.

All ASUS TUF Gaming motherboards have a black and yellow design, and this board is no different. ASUS has doubled down on the “rugged” and industrial design of the TUF Gaming motherboards for this generation. The whole PCB is covered with black heat spreaders and heatsinks, with checkered patterns in various places to give it a bit of character.

You can’t really complain about the positioning of the ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi when paired with the Ryzen 5 7600X. The looks are a bit plain and the board could’ve used a splash of RGB lighting, but other than that, it is a solid option for your new Ryzen build.

5. ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi

Best White Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Unique White Design
Decent VRM Setup
Loads of USB Ports

Cons

Limited Overclocking Headroom
Unremarkable VRM Cooling

188 Reviews

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ASUS’s PRIME lineup of motherboards is synonymous with budget offerings, but this time the ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi takes a slightly different path. It uses the premium X670E chipset instead of the X670 one, unlocking more features and better overclocking potential at a relatively affordable price point.

On the subject of CPU overclocking, you can comfortably overclock the Ryzen 5 7600X manually on this motherboard if you so desire. The 14+2 phase power delivery system can handle any load you throw at it, within reason. The VRM cooling is also quite decent, although it could’ve been better with a few tweaks here and there.

ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi

ASUS has been generous with the features of the PRIME X670E-PRO as well. You expect a few cost-saving measures on a mid-range motherboard, but there are not a lot to be seen on this board. The storage, networking, and connectivity features are all standard for X670E motherboards at this price.

What really sets the PRIME X670E-PRO apart is its design. ASUS has gone with a unique white theme for this board, and that makes it a great choice for PC builders who want to build an all-white PC. The unique RGB implementation over the I/O cover sets this board apart from the rest of ASUS’s lineup.

The ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi has done well to separate itself from the crowd of similar-looking motherboards. The impressive design and white theme makes it our pick for the best white motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X.

Speaking of budget offerings, you can also explore our selection of the best budget AM4 motherboards for more options on a strict budget.

In essence, you can’t really complain about the feature set of the ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi given the price. The VRM cooling could’ve been a bit better, but that is certainly not a deal breaker in this category.

You can argue that the ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO is actually the most reasonable pairing for the Ryzen 5 7600X, given the price of entry of new X670 motherboards.

6. Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX

Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Superb Rear I/O
Affordable Price
Attractive Aesthetics

Cons

Mediocre VRM Cooling
No RGB Lighting

316 Reviews

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The Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX is the most basic offering from Gigabyte as of the time of writing. It uses the X670 tier of the chipset instead of the X670E tier, but that really does not make a lot of difference when paired with a mid-range CPU such as the Ryzen 5 7600X.

On the subject of value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

On this motherboard, Gigabyte uses a 16+2+2 phase VRM design which is perfectly fine for the Ryzen 5 7600X. You can even play around with manual overclocking or Precision Boost Overdrive on this board. Sure, the VRM cooling could have been a bit improved, but it is certainly not a deal breaker.

Gigabyte X670E AORUS Elite AX

We get the standard suite of networking features with a 2.5 GbE LAN port as well as WiFi 6E, and the storage is handled by four M.2 slots. Only one slot out of the four, however, is wired for PCIe 5.0 speeds. The rear I/O is pretty standard although we would have liked to see more display ports.

The design of the board is pretty basic, and that is not necessarily a bad thing. Gigabyte has gone with a simple, black aesthetic with some white accents here and there. There is no RGB lighting on the board which might be a problem for some potential buyers. The board goes very well with most gaming as well as workstation builds.

Conclusively, the Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX delivers on many fronts. It cuts some corners here and there, but the overall package is well worth the price. This is why it earns our award for the best value motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X.

7. MSI PRO X670-P WiFi

Best Budget Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros

Simple Design
Very Affordable

Cons

Mediocre VRM
No Built-in I/O Shield
Few Rear USB Ports

Check Price

The MSI PRO X670-P WiFi is our last pick of the day, but it is still a very competent motherboard for your Ryzen 5 7600X processor. Sure, it does not have the bells and whistles of the other competitors on this list, but it has a comparatively low price tag which tilts the balance in its favor.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

MSI has installed a decent 14+2 phase VRM system on this motherboard, which is good enough for the Ryzen 5 7600X even while overclocked. You can even run more demanding Ryzen 7000 series CPUs on this board at stock settings and the power delivery system will be able to handle it. The VRM cooling could have been improved a little, however.

MSI PRO X670-P WiFi

For a budget-oriented motherboard, the feature set is not bad at all. We would have liked to see a few more USB ports on the rear I/O, but the addition of the USB-C display port is also a unique touch that balances it out. The storage and networking features are what you would expect from a mid-range X670E motherboard.

If the previous-gen motherboards tickle your fancy, then be sure to explore our selection of the best X470 motherboards as well.

Aesthetically, the MSI PRO X670-P is far from the most attractive motherboard on the market. However, it is rather simple and goes quite nicely with any PC build. It does not have a built-in I/O shield or any RGB lighting for that matter, and that detracts from its aesthetics a little bit.

All in all, the MSI PRO X670-P WiFi is a strong candidate to be the best budget motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X. The cost-saving measures implemented by MSI are insignificant in the bigger picture, and the overall value is almost too good to pass on.

How we picked and tested

Picking a motherboard for the brand new Ryzen 5 7600X comes with its own set of challenges. This is a mid-range gaming CPU that is targeted at value hunters, but the X670E and X670 motherboards out right now are quite expensive by comparison.

This is why our primary focus was maximizing the value proposition of the CPU and motherboard combo when selecting the candidates for this list. We prioritized the X670E motherboards that provided the best bang for the buck.

Moreover, we also looked at the VRM quality and overall power delivery features of the motherboards in question. The Ryzen 5 7600X is not a particularly demanding CPU, but it does help to have a robust VRM setup while overclocking.

The AMD AM5 platform brings several new features and a lot of improvements over the previous generation. We made sure that our selected motherboards had all the appropriate features for a mid-range to high-end gaming PC in 2022.

We looked specifically at networking, storage, and connectivity features. The new AM5 motherboards also bring support for PCIe 5.0 in terms of storage and graphics, so we prioritized motherboards with more M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 support for ultra-fast storage.

We also laid a focus on aesthetics, although that is a bit of a subjective matter. Still, we kept an eye out for community feedback on the motherboard designs and adjusted the rankings as needed.

More specifically, we performed extensive VRM testing by measuring VRM temperatures of the boards while running an overclocked AMD Ryzen 5 7600X in an enclosed chassis for extended periods of time.

With that empirical testing data in mind, we have curated a comprehensive and detailed list of the very best motherboards you can buy for the Ryzen 5 7600X as of the time of writing.

Ryzen 5 7600X vs. Intel Core i5 12600K

The mid-range gaming CPU battle is tougher than ever, with the Intel Core i5 12600K and AMD Ryzen 5 7600X both scrambling to keep the gaming crown. Regardless of who wins, this is great for the consumer as competition like this leads to higher performance and lower prices.

But who wins the ~$300 CPU battle? In gaming, the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X holds a lead over the Intel Core i5 12600K, when both are running on DDR5 memory. However, the difference is within 5-10% in most games at 1080p. Remember, that this difference will decrease if you are GPU-bound at higher resolutions.

Even in productivity workloads, the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X performs significantly better thanks to its Zen 4 architecture. However, the power demands of the R5 7600X are also higher than the Intel Core i5 part.

This means that the Core i5 12600K is more efficient, has lower temperatures, and consumes less power than its Ryzen counterpart. The Core i5 12600K also supports DDR4 memory, which is cheaper than DDR5 as of the time of writing.

Therefore, in conclusion, the Core i5 12600K is more efficient and provides a better value for money than the Ryzen 5 7600X. However, if you are going for the best performance in gaming and productivity, then the Ryzen should be your choice.

DDR5 vs. DDR4

The new AMD AM5 platform exclusively uses DDR5 memory, unlike the Intel 12^th Generation platform that has support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. But what improvements does DDR5 bring over DDR4? Is it time to upgrade exclusively to a DDR5 platform?

DDR4 is the current generation of memory, with DDR5 expected to start becoming prevalent from now on. As such, DDR4 is more widely available and generally less expensive. However, DDR5 offers a significant performance upgrade over DDR4, with higher data rates and lower latencies.

In addition, DDR5 uses less power than DDR4, which can result in cooler operation and longer life. The standard voltage for DDR5 is 1.1V as compared to 1.2V for DDR4, which is a major change. As a result, DDR5 is expected to become the new standard for high-end PCs and laptops.

Early adopters of DDR5 memory will also need to be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege of using cutting-edge memory.

Right now, if you want to jump on the new AMD AM5 platform and use the latest Ryzen CPUs, you have no choice but to use DDR5 memory. However, Intel still lets you choose between DDR4 and DDR5 memory on their 12^th Gen Alder Lake platform.

This might change with the upcoming Intel 13^th Gen Raptor Lake processors, which are unreleased as of the time of writing.

Buyer’s Guide

Choosing a motherboard is a bit of a complicated task thanks to the useless marketing jargon that is rampant on most motherboard product pages nowadays. Not only is it completely unhelpful in making a decision, but it also derails and misleads a consumer who is not tech-savvy in the first place.

Thankfully, there are a few tips and tricks that you can keep in mind when buying a motherboard for your Ryzen 5 7600X. You should also consider our piece on how much should you spend on a motherboard before making the final decision.

Value for Money

Value is important when it comes to buying any motherboard. This is particularly crucial when you want to buy a mid-range motherboard for your Ryzen 5 7600X CPU. You want to get the best bang for your buck, and that means finding a motherboard that offers good performance for the price.

There are a lot of factors to consider when determining value, but one of the most important is the price-to-performance ratio. You also need to consider your budget and what you’re looking for in terms of features. If you can find a motherboard that offers good value in all these areas, then you’re on the right track.

Keep in mind that value isn’t always about finding the cheapest option – sometimes it’s worth paying a little bit more for a board that offers better performance or features. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what’s important and what’s worth paying for. But if you keep value in mind, you’ll be sure to find a motherboard that’s perfect for your needs.

Power Delivery

When choosing a motherboard for the Ryzen 5 7600X, one of the most important factors to consider is power delivery. The power delivery system is responsible for supplying power to the CPU, and it can have a big impact on CPU overclocking potential.

VRM (voltage regulator module) is a key component of the power delivery system, and it determines how well the motherboard can supply power to the CPU. A good VRM will help to ensure that the CPU receives a steady supply of power, even when under heavy load.

This can be a vital factor in achieving stability when overclocking the CPU. As such, it is important to choose a motherboard with a high-quality power delivery system.

It is not usually a simple task to judge the quality of a power delivery system without thoroughly testing the board. However, you can get a rough idea of the quality by looking at the number of VRM phases offered by the board.

A better way to judge a motherboard’s VRM is to look for expert reviews online regarding the particular motherboard model. There is a lot of information on the internet regarding VRM quality, you just have to look for it in the right place.

Features

It is important to consider the features that are most important to you when you are looking for a new AM5 motherboard. For example, if you plan on using the computer for productivity purposes, then you will want to make sure that the motherboard has the appropriate networking ports and features.

Similarly, if you plan on using a lot of super-fast M.2 storage devices, then you will want to make sure that the motherboard has enough M.2 slots that support PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 protocols. This is where X670E motherboards take superiority over X670 motherboards, even though both belong to the same basic chipset.

You should also look at the rear I/O of the motherboard and consider the USB ports that are important to you. If you need Thunderbolt connectivity, there are many boards that offer that feature, so you can narrow down your choices based on your preferences.

In general, it is a good idea to make a list of the features that are most important to you and then narrow down your choices based on that. By taking the time to do this, you can be sure that you are getting the motherboard that is best suited for your needs.

Design and Aesthetics

When looking for a motherboard, design is one of the most important factors to consider. The motherboard is the central component of a PC, and it needs to fit well with the design of the rest of the system.

Aesthetics are important for many users, and a good-looking motherboard can make a big difference in the overall look of a build. Color is another important consideration, as many users like to match their components to create a cohesive look. There are several white-themed components on the market that can go together to create a white-themed masterpiece.

The RGB lighting is also becoming increasingly popular, and many motherboards now come with built-in LEDs or support for LED strips. However, design is ultimately a subjective topic, and what looks good to one person may not be the right choice for another. Ultimately, it’s important to choose a motherboard design that you’re happy with and that fits well with the rest of your components.

You can always consult our motherboard buying guide for a step-by-step walkthrough of the motherboard purchase process on both Intel and AMD platforms.

Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X - FAQs

Does Ryzen 5 7600X have integrated graphics?

The Ryzen 5 7600X does have integrated graphics, and so do the rest of the Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. This is a first for AMD Ryzen, as the other CPUs from the previous generation did not have any integrated graphics. The iGPU can prove helpful in situations where you do not have access to a discrete graphics card, or in troubleshooting scenarios.

Can I use DDR4 RAM with Ryzen 5 7600X?

You cannot use DDR4 memory with Ryzen 5 7600X. You can only use DDR5 memory with the new Ryzen 7000 series CPUs on the AM5 platform. Unlike Intel, AMD has not given users the choice between DDR4 and DDR5 memory for this generation. The entire AM5 platform is exclusive to DDR5 memory only, so you will probably have to discard your old DDR4 memory kits.

Is Ryzen 5 7600X future proof?

The Ryzen 5 7600X can be considered future proof for one or two generations, but AMD has not promised any extended support for the X670 chipset as of right now. The performance of the CPU is good enough to last more than 3-4 years if you are flexible with your game settings, but the official support from AMD is up in the air at this point.

Does Ryzen 5 7600X support PCIe 5.0?

Ryzen 5 7600X supports PCIe 5.0 technology and so do the rest of the Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. Most X670E motherboards offer PCIe 5.0 storage as well as graphics support by providing PCIe 5.0 lanes to multiple M.2 and PCIe slots. However, some X670 motherboards only provide PCIe 5.0 support to a single M.2 slot or PCIe slot. This is done as a cost-saving measure.

Is X670E better than X670?

X670E is better than X670 because it has better features and “extended” overclocking support. Both motherboard tiers belong to the same chipset “X670”, but X670E motherboards have a better power delivery system for superior overclocking performance. Moreover, you get better PCIe 5.0 support across your storage and graphics devices. You can also get faster USB ports on the rear I/O.

The post 7 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 5 7600X In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

5 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 7 3700x In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 17:54:34 +0000

Going for Shopping or Buying, Picking the best motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X might be a bit of a challenge in 2022 due to the surplus of offerings that are available on the market. The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X is one of the most powerful and most versatile CPUs in AMD’s Ryzen 3000 series. This CPU is based on AMD’s acclaimed 7nm manufacturing process and packs 8 cores and 16 threads which makes it one of the best CPUs for gaming and streaming. Even in 2022, not only is it a powerful 8-core CPU that can handle the most demanding games at high framerates, but it is also one of the most impressive multi-tasking processors currently available on the market. It mostly utilizes X570 Motherboards, and before we jump to that, let’s see more of the 3700x. Keep in mind, this Buyer Guide is restricted to the high end Ryzen 7 3700x, thus, if your budget is low, go for Ryzen 5 3600 Motherboards.

The Ryzen 7 3700X is a high-end processor and thus, is best paired with a powerful motherboard that can handle the power draw of the 3700X. Checking the compatibility is the first step, which can be achieved using our motherboard compatibility guide. Especially when overclocked, the Ryzen 7 3700X requires a clean, stable current from the motherboard’s VRM for it to hit high clock speeds in a stable fashion.

This means that the motherboard choice for the 3700X matters a lot and should be considered carefully if you are building a new gaming PC with the Ryzen 7 3700X in 2022. There are many contenders for this title, some of which are common with our choices for the motherboards for Ryzen 5000 series, but we have to filter them according to our shopping tips and buying guide. Robust VRM design is our priority for the 3700X, but we are also looking for high-end features such as multiple M.2 slots, numerous USB ports, and high RAM compatibility.

How To Select Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700x

Motherboard lays the foundation of a computer system. It is one of the most crucial PC components that many builders cut corners on and blindly trust the “gaming features” listed on the manufacturer’s box. Manufacturers don’t really provide the details necessary to clear up our minds before we make our final decision apart from the chipset, RGB, Wi-Fi, and ability to overclock. Making the wrong choice, such as pairing a high-end Ryzen 9 processor with an A320 motherboard, can have catastrophic effects down the line. So let’s have a look at some important factors that enable you to make an informed decision for your future build.

VRM Design

Voltage Regulator Modules (VRM) are responsible for power delivery to your CPU. It steps down the voltage coming from the PSU to operate the CPU in safe conditions. It is extremely important to focus on VRMs when shopping for a motherboard. The quality and design of the VRM can greatly affect CPU performance. Good quality VRMs are long-lasting, stably maintain higher power delivery and overclocks. Poor quality VRMs on the other hand are unstable, cannot maintain high power delivery, and can be a risk for the life of the CPU.

Moreover, the high-end motherboards are equipped with heatsinks to pull heat away from the VRMs, further ensuring longevity and stability. One of the easiest ways to differentiate good motherboards from mediocre ones is by looking at the number of VRMs and power phases. Sadly many people are unaware of what VRMs are, and how they work, which often leads to poor decisions in the shopping or buying process.

Upgradability

Ryzen 7 3700x Motherboards.

Many people want to future-proof their builds, reducing the need to change the components whenever upgrading to something better and newer. Fortunately upgrading on an AMD motherboard is easy since one chipset is compatible with many generations of AMD Processors. If you are on a short budget and want to upgrade to some newer hardware, such as upgrading from the Ryzen 2000 to 5000 then yes you should look for compatible motherboards. Motherboards such as B550, A520, and X570 officially support CPUs from Zen 2 and Zen 3 lineups.

Best Motherboards For Ryzen 7 3700x at a glance:

ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero
MSI MEG X570 UNIFY
MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi
ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming
MSI MAG B550M Mortar

5 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 7 3700X In 2022

#	Model	Award	Details
1	ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero	Best Overall Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X	1,237 Reviews Check Price
2	MSI MEG X570 UNIFY	Best Overclocking Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X	771 Reviews Check Price
3	MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi	Best Value Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X	633 Reviews Check Price
4	ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming ITX/TB3	Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X	Check Price
5	MSI MAG B550M Mortar	Best Budget Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Model	ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero
Award	Best Overall Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X
Details	1,237 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Model	MSI MEG X570 UNIFY
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X
Details	771 Reviews Check Price

#	3
Preview
Model	MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi
Award	Best Value Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X
Details	633 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Model	ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming ITX/TB3
Award	Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X
Details	Check Price

#	5
Preview
Model	MSI MAG B550M Mortar
Award	Best Budget Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 10:49 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

In 2022, it is easy to get misled or distracted by the amount of marketing jargon that is rampant on the product pages of motherboards on online retail sites. Not only do these tactics mislead the consumer and force him to spend more money on the motherboard, but they also lead the consumer into buying a board or go for shipping tips, that is not ideal for their particular use case.

The best motherboards for Ryzen 7 3700X or X570 Motherboard has to be the one that perfectly fits your particular use-case, and for most people with this CPU, that use case is basically centered around gaming and light productivity such as streaming.

1. ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero

Best Overall Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X

Pros

Extremely Robust VRM
Versatile Memory Support
Lots of Connectivity Options
Eight SATA Ports
Attractive Design

Cons

Extremely Expensive
No Onboard Video Outputs

1,237 Reviews

Chipset: X570 | Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR4-4800 | Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x8), 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4), 1x PCIe 4.0 x1 | Video Outputs: HDMI and DVI-D | USB Ports: 5x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 10x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 4x USB 2.0 | Network: 1x 2.5GbE, 1x Wi-Fi | Storage: 2x M.2, 8x SATA

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The Crosshair series from ASUS is the flagship motherboard lineup that targets overclockers and offers some extremely sturdy and premium boards. The ASUS Crosshair Hero is one of the more reasonable boards in this lineup but still packs a premium punch for even the most hardcore of overclockers. It does omit some really niche features from other Crosshair boards, but those are not really necessary when paired with the Ryzen 7 3700X.

The Crosshair Hero VIII features 4 DIMM slots which can support a total of 128GB of RAM and frequencies of up to 4800 MHz. Not only that, strong VRM can handle memory overclocking as well. Speaking of the power delivery, the Crosshair Hero packs one of the most robust VRM designs of any X570 motherboard, and one that is ideal for extreme overclocking.

In fact, its power delivery is comparable to some of the best X399/TR4 motherboards on the market as well. The motherboard’s powerful 8-phase VRM design enables it to handle the Ryzen 7 3700X with ease, even when overclocked. In addition to that, ASUS has also included plenty of nice-to-have features such as BIOS Flashback, onboard thermal sensors, onboard power button, and reset switch.

ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Hero – Image: ASUS

Moving on to storage, the Crosshair Hero VIII can support a pair of NVMe drives, both of which support full PCIe Gen 4 operation thanks to the PCIe lanes provided by the Ryzen 7 3700X and the chipset itself. The PCIe 4.0 support is a major upgrade of the X570 chipset over the older X470 motherboards.

SATA storage is also taken care of by the 8 onboard SATA ports which can be used to plug in SATA SSDs or mechanical hard drives. Additionally, the board also features 10 USB Type-A ports, a USB Type-C connector for the front panel, Gigabit Ethernet, as well as WiFi for wireless connectivity.

In terms of looks, the Crosshair Hero VIII does not disappoint either. It has a clean, color-neutral, stealthy look with big, extensive heatsinks over the VRM components. RGB implementation is tasteful and helps the user personalize the look of the board to their liking. I/O shield of the board is pre-installed, and M.2 drives are covered by full metal M.2 heatsinks which clean up the look of the board even more.

All in all, the Crosshair Hero VIII is an incredibly premium board from ASUS and thus demands a pretty premium price tag. While it might be a bit pricy in the first investment, it definitely presents itself as a contender for the title of the best motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X.

2. MSI MEG X570 UNIFY

Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X

Pros

Stealthy Black Design
Tons of Features
Superb VRM
Excellent Networking

Cons

Premium Pricing

771 Reviews

Check Price

Continuing the trend of premium X570 motherboards, the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is certainly one to consider for your Ryzen 7 3700X CPU. It is one of the very best X570 motherboards currently available for sale, and it can make a great partner for your Ryzen processor thanks to its competent power delivery system as well as a versatile feature set.

With a 12+2+1 phase power delivery architecture, the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is both energy-efficient and powerful in the VRM department. Stable power distribution is ensured even when loads are high, making it suitable for use with high-end processors such as the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X. Similarly, the VRM heatsinks are sizable and efficient, so the motherboard won’t overheat even after long periods of high-intensity workload.

MSI MEG X570 UNIFY

The VRM performance and thermals allow for exceptional overclocking with the Ryzen 7 3700X. You can expect to fully unleash the maximum potential of this particular Ryzen CPU with this motherboard, provided you have adequate cooling for the CPU. We identify the UNIFY as the best overclocking motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X in this roundup.

The MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is packed with capabilities that make it a top pick for powerful PC setups like high-end gaming rigs and workstations. It has PCIe 4.0 capability, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and a 2.5 GbE LAN in the connectivity department.

Furthermore, there are several USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectors, four SATA 6Gbps ports, and three M.2 slots with competent heatsinks to round out the features. A high-quality ESS audio DAC and specialized audio capacitors contribute to the excellent quality of the onboard audio.

Stylish and sophisticated, the all-black MSI MEG X570 UNIFY design exudes a sense of high quality. The visual appeal of the motherboard is enhanced by the blacking out of the VRM heatsinks and the chipset heatsink. Mystic Light, included with MSI motherboards, allows for easy personalization of the understated RGB lighting.

In spite of its higher price tag, the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is a great choice if you prefer having the latest and greatest features and top-tier VRM performance. If you’re searching for a high-end motherboard that’s capable of maximizing the potential of the Ryzen 7 3700X while looking good, the X570 UNIFY is your best bet.

The MSI MEG X570 UNIFY is a premium motherboard that excels in VRM performance and provides a wealth of functions in a stylish package. For those who can afford it, it’s a great option for constructing a powerful gaming or workstation Computer. In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a high-end motherboard with plenty of bells and whistles, go no further than the MSI MEG X570 UNIFY.

3. MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi

Best Gaming Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X

Pros

Very Solid Power Delivery
Comparitively Affordable
Has 2.5 GbE Ethernet
Includes WiFi

Cons

Plain Look
Questionable RGB Implementation
Few Rear USB Ports

633 Reviews

Chipset: X570 | Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR4-4600 | Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x8), 2x PCIe 4.0 x1 | Video Outputs: HDMI | USB Ports: 5x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 6x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 6x USB 2.0 ports | Network: 1x 2.5GbE Ethernet, 1x Wi-Fi | Storage: 2x M.2, 6x SATA

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MSI really dropped the ball with their initial X570 releases with boards like the X570A-Pro which delivered worse VRM performance than even the budget B450 offerings from rivals. This came as a nasty surprise for the enthusiasts of the brand that were used to some high-quality motherboard offerings from MSI in the past such as the now venerable MSI B450 Tomahawk, which is one of the best B450 motherboards out there. However, with the release of the X570 Tomahawk, MSI aimed to redeem itself and the whole X570 line.

As expected, the almost magical “Tomahawk” moniker turned the X570 Tomahawk into a success. Featuring a VRM layout that rivals the much more expensive MSI X570 UNIFY and the aforementioned AORUS Master X570, the Tomahawk is powerful enough to handle any AMD CPU, even today in 2022. This makes it an excellent option for the versatile Ryzen 7 3700X, as enthusiasts should have no problem hitting high overclocks with this board.

The MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk WiFi – Image: MSI

In terms of features, the X570 Tomahawk is adequately equipped. MSI has included an 8+4 pin ATX 12V CPU power connector to allow the CPU more power for overclocking. 2 M.2 Slots are also provided, both of which support PCIe Gen 4 technology. Plenty of USB ports, SATA ports, 2.5 GbE Ethernet, and Wi-Fi are also included in the X570 Tomahawk in terms of connectivity.

As far as aesthetics go, the MSI X570 Tomahawk looks like it was designed with a tank in mind. It sports a plain, rugged design that does not look unattractive, however, it offers nothing special for enthusiasts as well. The RGB strip is placed on the backside of the motherboard which is also a questionable placement since it can’t be seen clearly in that position. If you are also looking for WiFi Support Motherboard for 3700x, this seals the deal.

The MSI MAG X570 Tomahawk is a versatile motherboard with a really overbuilt VRM design that should perfectly suit the Ryzen 7 3700X given its gaming motherboard proposition. In fact, it might just be the best gaming motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X in this price range. Although it does lack some bells and whistles when compared to the more expensive options, its lower price makes it an absolute bargain in 2022.

4. ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming ITX/TB3

Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X

Pros

Compact Form Factor
Includes Wi-Fi
Decent VRM Design
Includes Wi-Fi

Cons

Pricy
Few USB ports
Only 1 M.2 Slot

Check Price

If you are looking to pair the Ryzen 7 3700X with a Mini-ITX board in a compact Mini-ITX case then the ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming ITX board is the one for you. Pairing a mini-ITX board with a powerful and versatile CPU such as the 3700X opens up a world of possibilities in terms of performance and choice.

The X570 Phantom Gaming ITX has one of the finest VRM designs of any X570 board, let alone any mini-ITX board. The board can handle the Ryzen 7 3700X quite easily, which is a remarkable feat considering the size and form factor. The Phantom Gaming X570 also features 2 DIMM slots with support for 64GB RAM running at up to 4533 MHz frequency.

There is a single PCIe Gen 4 graphics card slot on the board, which should be enough for most people as well. ASRock has also included 1 PCIe Gen 4 M.2 slot and 4 SATA ports for storage, while Thunderbolt 3, Gigabit LAN, and Wi-Fi also make up the list of features.

ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming ITX – TB3 – Image: ASRock

In terms of aesthetics, the board is nice-looking with some aggressive red and black accents on the IO cover and the various heatsinks on the board. There is a bit of RGB lighting present at the lower end of the board as well, which enhances the customization potential a bit. However, being a mini-ITX board, the focus lies more on the form factor and size rather than the aesthetics as far as enthusiasts are concerned.

All in all, the ASRock X570 Phantom Gaming can be a perfect partner for a Ryzen 7 3700X if you are looking to build a compact, SFF mini-ITX build. It is quite simply, the best mini-ITX motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X in this market category. Not only does it have great power delivery, but it also provides plenty of features that one would otherwise miss by going with the mini-ITX form factor, which makes it an excellent buying option.

5. MSI MAG B550M Mortar

Best Budget Motherboard For Ryzen 7 3700X -

Pros

Solid Power Delivery for a B550
2x M.2 Slots
Decent 2.5 GbE Ethernet

Cons

Only 1 Gen 4 M.2 Slot
Lack Of WiFi
Unremarkable Rear I/O
RGB Placement Is Questionable

Chipset: B550 | Memory: 4x DIMM, up to 128GB, up to DDR4-4400 | Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x4 | Video Outputs: HDMI and Displayport | USB Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2x USB 2.0 | Network: 1x 2.5GbE Ethernet | Storage: 2x M.2, 6x SATA 6Gbps

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Last in our Best Motherboards For Ryzen 7 3700x list is the MSI B550M Mortar rounds up our list with an interesting selection for the Ryzen 7 3700X. Since the B550M Mortar is a budget-oriented motherboard, it should perfectly accompany the value-oriented CPU choice for a build that aims to maximize the bang-for-the-buck factor.

The MAG B550M Mortar also furthers the legacy of the B450 Tomahawk by carrying an impressive VRM design in a budget-oriented motherboard. In fact, it is one of the best B550 motherboards out there, period.

Possibly the best thing about the B550M Mortar is its impressive VRM design. Although with a price tag of around $150, the MSI B550M Mortar is certainly not a premium motherboard, it carries a very impressive power delivery system for the price. Even overclocking the Ryzen 7 3700X with moderate limits should be perfectly doable on the B550M Mortar. The 8+2+1 phase design would pair nicely with this CPU to form a mid-range to high-end build in 2022.

MSI MAG B550M Mortar – Image: MSI

Features are also plentiful in the B550M considering the price point. The board is in the micro-ATX form factor but still contains 4 DIMM slots which can support 128GB of RAM running at up to 4400 MHz speeds. There are 6 SATA 6GB/s ports on the board along with 2 M.2 slots, which is again impressive for a B550 mATX motherboard. MSI has also provided 2.5 GbE Ethernet in the Mortar, but there are no Wi-Fi capabilities on the board (although that can be fixed with an aftermarket PCIe WiFi card), and the USB ports are quite a few in number as well.

More Affordable AMD motherboards: Budget AM4 Motherboards Under $100

While it may not be the most premium option on the market with all the bells and whistles, the B550M Mortar from MSI would make a perfect pair with the Ryzen 7 3700X if you are shopping on a fairly tight budget, making it the best budget motherboard for Ryzen 7 3700X. Even at this price point, the B550M Mortar packs a strong punch and delivers excellent value, even if it has a few features missing here and there.

Why you should trust us

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a motherboard good?

Generally, the quality of the motherboard’s power delivery system (otherwise known as the VRM) is the most important form factor. However, the quality of the PCB itself, the cooling of the VRM, form factor, number of input/output ports, and other features present on the board do matter as well. A good-quality motherboard separates itself from the rest only if it passes the test of time, which can happen if no corners were cut during the manufacturing process.

Should I upgrade from a 3700X to a 5800X?

Although the Ryzen 7 5800X is one of the fastest gaming CPUs currently available, it depends whether an upgrade from the Ryzen 7 3700X is justified. Both the CPUs have 8 cores and 16 threads, and the gaming performance of the 3700X is also excellent, although not quite at the level of the 5800X. Due to the speed of the cores, some might say that it is a must-have upgrade for developers, content creators, and live streamers. For gamers, nonetheless, this upgrade does not justify itself.

Do the motherboards listed above support Ryzen 5000 processors?

Yes, all the X570, B550, and A520 motherboards support Ryzen 5000 processors, although older batches require a BIOS update. Newer compatible motherboard batches since the 5000 series’ launch date already have the supported BIOS from the factory. One should always check the BIOS date of the board beforehand so you don’t run into compatibility issues upon receiving the product.

Which brand’s motherboards are the most reliable?

One should always prefer particular products over brand loyalty. Every brand makes good and bad products, and generally, it is best practice to check the reviews of the motherboards beforehand, in order to make an informed purchase decision. Every brand makes good and bad products, so it would be downright foolish to buy a critical component such as a motherboard with just the brand’s name in mind.

The post 5 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 7 3700x In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

7 Best Z690 Motherboards To Buy In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:38:08 +0000

Intel has really taken a leap forward in terms of their CPU design with the 12^th Generation processors, codenamed Alder Lake. These brand new CPUs now feature a completely new design, consisting of performance cores as well as efficiency cores.

Moreover, Intel has brought support for DDR5 memory as well as PCIe 5.0 in the new 12^th Gen CPUs. However, to take full advantage of your shiny new Alder Lake processor, you have to pair it with a high-end motherboard.

This is where the Z690 flagship platform comes in. Intel’s Z690 chipset is the best and most feature-packed platform for the 12^th Gen processors, and you will find some of the most premium motherboards in this lineup. Our choices for the best Z590 motherboards are also available for consideration if you are going for the last-gen flagship.

In this roundup, we will guide you through our picks for the absolute best Z690 motherboards currently available for sale.

The Best Z690 Motherboard – Our Picks

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Master	Best Overall Z690 Motherboard	180 Reviews Check Price
2	ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero	Best Enthusiast Z690 Motherboard	Check Price
3	MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi	Best Overclocking Z690 Motherboard	359 Reviews Check Price
4	ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi	Best Value Z690 Motherboard	Check Price
5	MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi	Best Budget Z690 Motherboard	217 Reviews Check Price
6	ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming	Best Micro ATX Z690 Motherboard	90 Reviews Check Price
7	Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra	Best Mini ITX Z690 Motherboard	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Master
Award	Best Overall Z690 Motherboard
Details	180 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero
Award	Best Enthusiast Z690 Motherboard
Details	Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Overclocking Z690 Motherboard
Details	359 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi
Award	Best Value Z690 Motherboard
Details	Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi
Award	Best Budget Z690 Motherboard
Details	217 Reviews Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming
Award	Best Micro ATX Z690 Motherboard
Details	90 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra
Award	Best Mini ITX Z690 Motherboard
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 11:46 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

1. Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Master

Best Overall Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Premium Power Delivery
Aquantia 10GbE LAN
Superb Feature Set
Attractive Design
Numerous M.2 Slots

Cons

Very Expensive
No HDMI Output

180 Reviews

Check Price

Gigabyte’s AORUS line of motherboards is known for its excellent premium offerings, and that trend continues with the Alder Lake processors. The Z690 AORUS Master board combines a powerful power delivery system together with some unique features which are almost too good to be true–although it does come at an expensive price point.

Starting off with its most premium feature, the VRM setup on this Z690 AORUS Master board has an extremely impressive 22-phase design. Out of those phases, 19 are dedicated to providing clean and stable power for the CPU. With 105A available for the CPU, you can expect a premium CPU overclocking experience even on the flagship i9 12900K CPU.

The efficient cooling system of the VRM ensures that temperatures will never become an issue. There are multiple heatsinks that adequately cool down any excess heat generated by the VRM components without compromising the performance in any way.

If you have the flagship i9 12900K processor, be sure to check out our selection of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Master

The Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Master is a high-end motherboard that offers a wealth of features for gamers and enthusiasts. We’ve chosen the DDR5 variant that supports DDR5 memory up to 6400MHz – perfect for any high-end Alder Lake processor on the market today such as the Core i9 12900K.

Firstly, it offers excellent connectivity with a host of high-speed USB ports, four M.2 slots, and support for up to six SATA drives. It also features Intel’s latest Wi-Fi 6 standard for faster and more reliable networking, along with a 10 GbE LAN port for wired connections.

Gigabyte has really separated this board from others in this price category thanks to the Aquantia 10 GbE LAN capability. This feature makes this board an ideal fit for enthusiasts. Moreover, the Z690 AORUS Master has a comprehensive set of features for overclocking and tweaking, including an advanced UEFI BIOS and support for Intel’s Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) standard.

There is no HDMI output on the rear I/O, which is a small issue but it can be really helpful in troubleshooting.

The aesthetics of a motherboard are important to many users, and the Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Master does not disappoint. The board looks great, with a clean design and subtle lighting. The RGB lighting is well executed, and the color scheme is eye-catching but not overdone.

More premium Gigabyte motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

The overall look is modern and stylish, and the board would be a welcome addition to any gaming rig. We would have liked to see a more subtle implementation of the design over the I/O cover, but that’s just nitpicking at this point.

All in all, the Z690 AORUS Master is one of the best motherboards on the market and deserves consideration if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line option. It offers excellent overclocking potential and comes with a robust feature set that is nearly unparalleled. The only downside is that it’s one of the more expensive options out there.

However, if you’re looking for the best overall Z690 motherboard, the Z690 AORUS Master should be at the top of your list.

2. ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero

Best Enthusiast Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Supreme VRM Design
Five M.2 Slots
Versatile Features
Trademark ASUS ROG Design
Nice RGB Lighting

Cons

Quite Pricy
No DisplayPort Output

Check Price

In the second place, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is a great option for anyone looking for a top-of-the-line Z690 motherboard. It features a robust power delivery system, plenty of expansion options, and a sleek design that is sure to impress. Plus, it comes with a host of features that make it one of the best motherboards on the market.

Starting off with the power delivery, the VRM of the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is top-notch, delivering clean and stable power to the CPU with plenty of headroom for overclocking. It uses a 20+1 phase design with high-quality components, including premium MOSFETs, high-current inductors, and 10K black metallic capacitors.

Moreover, the VRM is also well-cooled, with two oversized VRM heatsinks that accelerate the process of heat dissipation. One can say that the VRM on the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is extremely well-designed and should provide excellent power delivery for even the most demanding CPUs on the Alder Lake platform.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X as well.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero

Of course, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is a high-end motherboard that comes packed with features. Starting off with storage, it features six SATA ports and five M.2 slots for the ultimate storage suite. It also features Intel Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless networking, and a 2.5 GbE LAN port for wired networking.

Our selected DDR5 variant is compatible with DDR5 modules up to 6400 MHz, which is fairly decent. The rear I/O is lacking a DisplayPort, which would have been a helpful addition. Still, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is a feature-rich motherboard that offers plenty of connectivity and expansion options.

The Maximus Z690 Hero is a great-looking motherboard with plenty of aesthetics to please even the pickiest of PC builders. The board looks fantastic with its black and red color scheme, and the ROG logo prominently displayed on the board adds a nice touch. The board’s aggressive design language looks great when paired with the black PCB.

On top of that, the RGB lighting on the board is well done and adds a nice touch of color to the build. The aesthetics of the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero are excellent, and it’s sure to please any PC builder looking for a great-looking motherboard.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the Z690 platform.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is the best high-end Z690 motherboard on the market. It has a solid build quality, great features, and excellent performance when it comes to power delivery. The verdict is in, and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is one of the best motherboards you can buy.

If you’re looking for a new motherboard, consider the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero, even though it carries a really high price tag.

3. MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi

Best Overclocking Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Ideal for Overclocking
Supreme Features
Premium VRM Cooling
Nice Looks
Excellent Storage Options

Cons

Still Expensive
Cheap Carbon Fiber Finish

359 Reviews

Check Price

Our next pick is the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi, which is a very solid option for anyone looking for a high-quality Z690 motherboard. It is picked for a number of reasons, including its ample overclocking potential and its impressive array of features. If you’re in the market for a new motherboard, the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi should definitely be another board to consider.

When it comes to VRMs, the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi uses an 18+1+1 phase design with DrMOS components. The VRM on this board is capable of delivering a lot of clean power, making it ideal for overclocking.

On top of that, the components are cooled by a large aluminum heatsink that helps to dissipate heat. There is adequate finning in the heatsinks, increasing the surface area and improving heat transfer. One can say that the VRM on the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is top quality and should be able to overclock even the most demanding 12^th Generation processors.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi

Being a premium motherboard, the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi features excellent connectivity and networking options. For starters, the board features built-in WiFi 6 and 2.5GbE LAN support, as well as a host of high-speed USB ports. In the storage sector, the board features five M.2 slots for ultra-fast storage devices and features support for six SATA ports as well.

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi also features premium audio with Realtek ALC1220 Codec, as well as an integrated I/O shield for easy installation. This is another high-end DDR5 motherboard on this list, and it features support for DDR5 modules up to 6666 MHz.

Switching gears, the aesthetics of the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi are sure to turn heads. The all-black design is sleek and modern, and the RGB lighting adds a touch of style. The lights can be controlled via the MSI Mystic Light app, and there are a variety of effects to choose from. The carbon fiber finish is also a nice touch.

The only downside is that the carbon fiber effect may scratch easily and ruin the look of the board. Still, the aesthetics of the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi are top-notch and sure to please even the most discerning PC gamer.

Conclusively the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is arguably the best overclocking Z690 motherboard on the market. In addition to a superb VRM system, it offers excellent features and cooling performance. The only drawback is its price, which is higher than some other comparable Z690 boards. However, its features and performance justify its price tag, making it one of the best motherboards on the market.

4. ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi

Best Value Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Solid Power Delivery
Good Features
Affordable
Four M.2 Slots

Cons

Plain Looks
Mediocre VRM Cooling
No HDMI Port

Check Price

Moving down the list, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi is a great budget offering for those looking to build a new Intel 12th Gen system. It comes packed with a lot of features that you would expect from a more expensive board, and it performs just as well too. If you’re looking for a value-oriented Z690 board to consider, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi should definitely be on your list.

Even though it is a budget-oriented board, the VRM of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi is one of its most impressive features. It uses a 14+1 phase VRM design with high-quality components as part of a solid power delivery system. This makes it great for overclocking, as well as for running high-end CPUs at stock settings.

On top of that, the VRM is also well cooled, with two large heatsinks that help to dissipate heat. You can expect decent overclocking results from the likes of the i7 12700K, and even some moderate overclocking from the i9 12900K.

The i9 12900K is already one of the best CPUs for gaming out there, so you shouldn’t need to go too crazy with the overclock.

ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi

The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi features a robust storage suite and a wide range of connectivity options that make it well-suited for gaming and other demanding applications. In addition to several high-speed USB ports, the board features four M.2 slots and four SATA ports for storage. Networking is handled by a combination of Intel WiFi 6E and dual 2.5 GbE LAN ports.

The number of rear USB ports can be a bit limiting at times, especially if you’re an enthusiast user who likes to connect a lot of peripherals. Moreover, the addition of an HDMI port on the rear I/O would have been nice for troubleshooting.

We chose the DDR4 variant of the TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS since this is a budget-oriented pick. The board supports DDR4 modules up to 5333 MHz, and also supports memory overclocking of course. The choice of DDR4 for this motherboard increases its value proposition tremendously.

On the subject of value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

Moreover, the aesthetics of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi are quite impressive, even though they are modest. The motherboard looks great with its understated black color scheme and gamers will appreciate the subtle addition of RGB lighting. The design is also very clean and sleek, making it a great choice for those who want a high-performance gaming PC that also looks great.

All in all, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi is arguably the best value Z690 motherboard for gamers. It has a great design and plenty of features, and it’s easy to set up. Despite being a value motherboard, it has a solid VRM design and overall power delivery. The only downside is that it doesn’t have the best overclocking performance, but that’s not a big deal at this price point.

5. MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi

Best Budget Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Very Affordable
Decent Storage Options
Solid Networking
Stealthy Design

Cons

No RGB Lighting
Looks Mediocre
Unimpressive VRM Design

217 Reviews

Check Price

The MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi is a budget option that is worth considering if you are looking for a new Z690 motherboard. It is one of the best budget options on the market, and it offers a lot of features for its price point.

Despite its budget price point, the VRM on this board is made up of high-quality components and is designed for acceptable power delivery. You can expect some decent overclocking on mid-range Intel 12^th Gen CPUs such as the i5 12600K thanks to its 8+4 phase VRM.

It also features decent cooling with two large heatsinks to ensure stable performance even when overclocking. The overall configuration of the VRM is quite decent for the price point.

Another budget offering from MSI was also selected in our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi

In the features department, the MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi tries to punch above its weight. The storage suite of the motherboard is impressive for the price, consisting of four M.2 slots and six SATA ports for your devices. Networking is handled by a 2.5 GbE LAN port and WiFi 6E, which is an impressive set at this price.

We would have liked to see more rear USB ports as the 6 currently available ports can be occupied rather quickly. Still, the DDR5 variant of the MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi has a decent feature set.

Speaking of budget offerings, you can also explore our selection of the best budget AM4 motherboards for AMD options on a strict budget.

The black and white color scheme gives the board a clean and modern look, while the angular design adds a touch of aggressiveness. There is no RGB lighting on the board, which can be a bit of a letdown for gamers. A splash of RGB is almost necessary for a modern gaming motherboard.

One can say that the MSI Pro Z690-A WiFi is the best budget Z690 motherboard on the market. It has a decent feature set, and it performs exceptionally well for its price in terms of power delivery. You should definitely consider this board if you plan to build a budget gaming rig based on the Alder Lake platform.

6. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming

Best Micro ATX Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Great for Compact Builds
Solid Networking
Decent Feature Set
Attractive RGB

Cons

Limited Expansion
Mediocre VRM Cooling
Relatively Expensive

90 Reviews

Check Price

Moving down the list, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming is a micro ATX option that is definitely one to consider if you’re looking for a compact Z690 motherboard. It’s packed with lots of great features and has a robust power delivery system which is rare to see in a compact micro ATX motherboard.

Speaking of power delivery, the VRM on the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming motherboard is top-notch, delivering great power delivery and overclocking potential. The 14+1 phase VRM consists of high-quality components, including MOSFETs, chokes, and capacitors.

Moreover, the VRM is well cooled with multiple heatsinks, and the overall configuration is very good for a micro ATX option. You can expect a decent overclocking return on CPUs such as the Core i7 12700K, and even the 12900K with minor adjustments.

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G features a wide range of high-end features that gamers will love. Firstly, it comes with three M.2 slots for ultra-fast storage. Secondly, it features both WiFi 6 and 2.5 GbE LAN for the best possible networking experience. Thirdly, it has several high-speed USB ports for connecting external devices. The feature-set is quite versatile for a compact motherboard.

The aesthetics of the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming are quite attractive. The motherboard looks great with its black and red colors, and the RGB lighting is a nice touch. The design is clean and aggressive, and the overall look is very stylish as one expects from a ROG motherboard. The only drawback is that the color scheme can be a bit too over-the-top for some users but that is a subjective point.

Be sure to check out our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 7 3700X for AMD motherboard recommendations as well.

Conclusively, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-G Gaming motherboard is the best micro ATX Z690 motherboard for gamers who are looking to build a compact, high-performance gaming PC. It offers a great mix of features, powerful overclocking capabilities, and excellent build quality.

7. Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra

Best Mini ITX Z690 Motherboard

Pros

Ideal for SFF PCs
Excellent Features
Nice Aesthetics

Cons

Limited Expansion Slots
Only 2 DIMM Slots
Unremarkable Power Delivery
Few Rear USB Ports

Check Price

Our last pick of the day is the Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra, a mini ITX option that is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a powerful yet compact Z690 motherboard. It has an impressive VRM design that ensures stable performance even while overclocking, while its feature-set is versatile for a mini ITX motherboard.

One can say that the VRM of the Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra is one of the best on the market among mini ITX boards. It features high-quality components and great cooling. The VRM is comprised of 10+1+2 phases and uses high-quality DrMOS components.

The VRM also features a robust cooling solution with multiple heatsinks. The adequate finning of the heatsinks ensures great heat dissipation even under load. The VRM is good enough for moderate overclocking on mid-range Intel 12^th Gen CPUs such as the i5 12600K.

Gigabyte AORUS Z690I Ultra

The Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra is a feature-packed mini-ITX motherboard for its price. It’s equipped with Intel 2.5GbE LAN and WiFi 6 for speedy networking, plus five M.2 slots and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for high-speed storage. The storage suite is quite incredible for a mini ITX motherboard.

Of course, the presence of only 2 DDR5 DIMM slots is a bit of a limitation, but that is down to the mini ITX form factor and not the motherboard itself.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that platform.

When it comes to aesthetics, the Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra certainly doesn’t disappoint. The motherboard has a sleek and sophisticated look, with a black and silver color scheme that is accented by RGB lighting. The lighting can be customized to match the rest of your system, and it really brings the motherboard to life.

Overall, the Gigabyte Z690-I AORUS Ultra is arguably the best mini ITX Z690 motherboard on the market. It has a decent VRM design, great features, and a unique selling point. The only downside is that it’s a bit expensive, but if you’re looking for the ideal mini ITX motherboard, this is the one to shortlist.

How we picked and tested

When it comes to selecting a motherboard, there are many aspects to evaluate, and the same holds true for picking the very best Z690 motherboards out there.

Our primary concern was the VRM design and power delivery of the board. Intel’s 12^th Gen CPUs are pretty demanding in terms of overclocking, especially when you go towards the flagship SKUs. We selected boards that can handle even the most complicated overclocking scenarios.

We also laid a focus on the feature-set of the boards in question. Of course, we only selected Z690 options that offered premium networking options such as 2.5 GbE LAN in addition to WiFi, as well as multiple M.2 slots for your storage needs.

Aesthetics is a subjective topic, but we actively paid attention to the general response of consumers towards the looks of the Z690 boards in question. We tried to stay away from controversial options in this regard.

Of course, the value proposition and price tag of the motherboard is the ultimate deciding factor. We made this factor a critical part of our selection and ranking process.

We also assessed the board’s feature set and tested its performance in a range of real-world scenarios. Our testing involved multiple overclocking scenarios with the Core i9 12900K over an extended period of time in an enclosed chassis.

Ultimately, our goal is to find the best Z690 motherboards on the market, so you can easily find the perfect one for your needs.

DDR4 vs. DDR5

When it comes to upgrading your PC, one of the first questions you’ll need to answer is which type of memory to choose. Do you go for the older, more established DDR4 standard, or spring for the newer DDR5? Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the difference before making a decision.

In addition, DDR5 uses less power than DDR4, which can result in cooler operation and longer life. As a result, DDR5 is expected to become the new standard for high-end PCs and laptops.

If you’re looking to upgrade your PC now, then DDR4 is still probably your best option. However, if you’re willing to wait a little longer for the latest and greatest technology, then DDR5 is worth considering. Early adopters will also need to be prepared to pay a premium for the privilege of using cutting-edge memory.

For the Z690 motherboard buyers, this question is one of the most critical ones as it can dictate your entire upgrade path down the line. Before making the decision, be sure to consider the possibility of DDR5 memory improving rapidly over the next few years, rendering the current DDR5 modules obsolete.

PCIe 5.0 – What’s New

PCI Express 5.0 is the evolutionary new standard that will eventually replace PCIe 4.0 and brings with it a host of improvements over the latter.

In fact, the Intel 12th Generation CPUs already support PCIe 5.0 (technically), and the Z690 motherboards have a single PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, but there is no motherboard that supports PCIe 5.0 in storage slots yet.

So what does PCIe 5.0 bring? Well, more bandwidth! With PCIe 5.0, we are looking at transfer speeds as high as 32 GT/s and up to 128 GB/s bandwidth over a 16 PCIe lanes configuration. This is as much as DOUBLE what we are currently getting with PCIe 4.0.

PCIe 5.0 will take hold some time in the next 2 years with motherboards from AMD as well as Intel ready to support this protocol.

We can expect the AMD Ryzen 7000 series to support PCIe 5.0, so the AMD 600-series motherboards will support PCIe 5.0 as well. On the Intel side, the Alder Lake CPUs already support PCIe 5.0, but the next generation of Intel motherboards should support this functionality as well.

Buyer’s Guide

When looking for the best Z690 motherboard, it is important to keep in mind several factors that will make your buying experience a lot easier. Motherboards are notoriously difficult to shop for since they don’t offer a ton of useful information on their product pages.

It is difficult to judge how much should you actually spend on a motherboard, as the answer does vary from case to case. Consider the following factors when looking for your next motherboard.

Form Factor

One of the most important considerations when choosing a motherboard is the form factor. The form factor is the size and shape of the motherboard, and it determines how much space the motherboard will take up in your case. The three most common form factors are ATX, micro ATX, and mini ITX.

ATX is the largest form factor and it provides the most space for multiple expansion cards and other components. Micro ATX is a smaller form factor that is more compact, while mini ITX is the smallest form factor and it is designed for small cases or builds where space is limited.

When choosing a form factor, you need to consider how much space you have available in your case and what components you need to accommodate. For example, if you want to use multiple graphics cards in SLI or CrossFire, then you will need an ATX motherboard. If you want a compact build that doesn’t take up a lot of space, then you should choose a mini ITX motherboard.

Ultimately, it’s important to pick a form factor that gives you the right balance of space and features for your needs.

VRM and Overclocking

The VRM, or Voltage Regulation Module, is an important consideration when purchasing a Z690 motherboard for your PC. The VRM is responsible for delivering power to the CPU, and it can be a determining factor in how well your CPU performs. VRM also affects overclocking, as it determines how much power can be delivered to the CPU.

If you’re planning on overclocking your 12^th Generation Intel CPU, it’s important to get a motherboard with a robust VRM. The VRM cooling is also important, as VRMs can get quite hot when under load. Heatsinks are typically used to cool VRMs, and they come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

When choosing a motherboard, be sure to consider the VRM carefully in order to get the best possible performance out of your CPU. You can get plenty of information about VRM performance from motherboard reviews online, either from experts or from users as well.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics are often considered a subjective topic. However, when it comes to choosing a motherboard, aesthetics should definitely be taken into consideration. The design and looks of a motherboard can have a big impact on the overall look of a build. Additionally, aesthetics can also be affected by things like RGB lighting and software customization.

While aesthetics are ultimately a matter of personal preference, it is still important to consider how a motherboard will look in a build before making a purchase. With so many different motherboards on the market, taking aesthetics into account can help to narrow down the options and make choosing the right board for a build much easier.

Networking and Features

When it comes to choosing a motherboard, it’s important to consider both the features and the networking options that are available. For features, storage is an important consideration. Look for motherboards with multiple M.2 slots for faster data speeds, as well as SATA and high-speed USB ports for connecting external devices.

As far as networking goes, LAN and WiFi are both important considerations. If you’re looking to connect to a high-speed network, look for a motherboard with a 2.5 GbE or faster LAN port. If you want the flexibility to connect to both wired and wireless networks, look for a motherboard with both LAN and WiFi capabilities.

Lastly, consider the number of USB ports that are available. The more ports there are, the more expandable your system will be. With so many features to consider, choosing the right Z690 motherboard can be a daunting task.

However, with the help of our comprehensive motherboard buying guide, you can be sure to find a motherboard that fits both your budget and your needs.

Best Z690 Motherboard - FAQs

Does Z690 support memory overclocking?

Z690 does support full memory and CPU overclocking. This is the flagship Intel chipset for the 12th Generation processors and it is ideal for unlocked “K” series SKUs that can be overclocked. No other Intel chipset for this generation (B660, H670, and H610) supports full CPU overclocking.

Can I use 11900K with Z690?

You cannot use Core i9 11900K with Z690 motherboards because they are not compatible with each other. The 11900K CPU uses the LGA 1200 socket, while the Z690 motherboards use LGA 1700 socket. The two sockets are physically different so you cannot install a 11900K into a Z690 motherboard.

Does Z690 support PCIe 5.0 SSDs?

Z690 does not support PCIe 5.0 storage devices or SSDs. This is because of two reasons. Firstly, the PCIe 5.0 lanes are not allocated to the M.2 slots, which run at PCIe 4.0 speeds. Secondly, there are currently no PCIe 5.0 SSDs available on the consumer market at the time of writing.

Is DDR5 better for gaming than DDR4?

DDR5 is faster than DDR4 so it is better for gaming, but the choice between DDR5 and DDR4 depends solely on the use case of the consumer. While DDR5 is certainly the future, there is not a lot of noticeable benefit in performance as of right now, however that gap is going to widen with time. DDR5 memory is also really expensive right now and is bound to get both cheaper and faster as time goes on.

Will Z690 support 13th Gen CPUs?

Intel has confirmed that Z690 motherboards will support 13th Gen processors, codenamed Raptor Lake, when they come out. The current Z690 motherboards will need a BIOS update to ensure compatibility with the new CPUs as they are released, but the future version of the Z690 motherboards should have drop-in support for Raptor Lake CPUs.

The post 7 Best Z690 Motherboards To Buy In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

7 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 5 5600X In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:53:46 +0000

AMD’s Ryzen 5 5600x is a budget-friendly yet highly efficient option for gamers, renderers, and PC enthusiasts alike. If you’ve managed to get your hands on it, you’d want to invest in a top-quality motherboard to unlock the processor’s full potential. The best motherboards for Ryzen 5000 series CPUs are also worth consideration here.

The Ryzen 5 5600x features six cores, and all of these cores are centralized to a single CCX design which enables the processor to communicate with peripheral devices much faster while also improving the latency speeds.

Paired with a decent motherboard, the 5600x is a beast and will not disappoint you whether you use it for gaming, streaming, 3D design, video editing, or anything else. The processor features high overclock ceilings, along with low TDP performance. However, you’ll need one of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600x to bring out everything the processor has to offer.

The Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 5600x – Our Picks

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	ASUS ROG Strix X570-E	Best Overall Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	Check Price
2	ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming	Best Mini ITX Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	Check Price
3	MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Motherboard	Best Budget Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	Check Price
4	ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula	Best Enthusiast Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	Check Price
5	GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Elite	Best Entry Level Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	Check Price
6	MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard	Best Overclocking Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	771 Reviews Check Price
7	ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus	Best micro-ATX Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix X570-E
Award	Best Overall Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming
Award	Best Mini ITX Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Motherboard
Award	Best Budget Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula
Award	Best Enthusiast Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Elite
Award	Best Entry Level Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	771 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus
Award	Best micro-ATX Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 13:29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

One can say that he loves to get into the nitty-gritty details of PC hardware such as PCB analysis, VRM performance, memory/core overclocking potential, cooling potentials of AIOs, and the list goes on and on. His expertise does not come as a surprise, since he has been obsessed with PC hardware from the era of Opterons and Smithfield Pentium processors.

1. ASUS ROG Strix X570-E

Best Overall Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Decent VRM Design
Excellent Overclocking Performance
5x PCIe Expansion Slots
Onboard Diagnostic LED

Cons

No onboard Power/Reset Button
only two M.2 Slots

Check Price

ASUS is well known for its top-quality products, and if you’re looking for a motherboard for the 5600x that offers great performance, and has all the good features while also being reasonably priced, then the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E would be the best choice for you.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our list of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 as well.

This motherboard comes with a 12+4 power phase VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) that can efficiently distribute the voltage across the board for the best and most stable performance. The motherboard can easily take your RAM speed up to 4400MHz and can also take your Ryzen 5 5600x’s maximum clock speed up to 4.6 GHz without any issues. The board also features passive VRM cooling to keep the temperatures stable.

ASUS ROG Strix X570-E – Image: ASUS

The board also features a postcode LED that lets you diagnose any problems easily. However, it is important to note that the board doesn’t feature a power/reset button to check if there are any issues with the hardware while building or fixing a PC.

The ASUS ROG Strix X570-E also features two heatsinked M.2 drives. But, you’d expect more M.2 drives from a motherboard in this price range.

ASUS dominates the Intel motherboard market too, as their premium option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

This high-end board comes with the ROG-patented I/O shield. You’ll also find a total of 5 PCIe expansion slots on the board, and 3 of them are dedicated full-sized 16x Graphic card slots. It also has the high-quality SupremeFX S1220A audio chipset, which can deliver up to 113dB RMAA performance.

Despite being an excellent premium motherboard, the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E does have some features missing that you’d expect from a motherboard with a similar price tag, such as the NVIDIA SLI and AMD’s CrossFire. The board comes with a 3-year warranty, so it’s a good investment overall.

2. ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming

Best Mini ITX Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Lots of Features for ITX build
Excellent Overclocking Performance
RGB Aura Sync
Features ProCool II Connector

Cons

Runs hot with onboard Cooling Features
No Onboard Buttons

Check Price

If you’re looking for a beast of a motherboard for your mini ITX PC case that could go well with your Ryzen 5 5600x, then the ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming is the absolute best option for you. It comes at a fairly reasonable price, but the performance it offers can easily compete with the performance of most high-end ATX motherboards.

The matte-black motherboard with an aluminum backplate is built with Zen 2 architecture and features an 8+2 VRM, making the board powerful enough for stable overclocking. The board looks aesthetic on its own, but the Aura Sync RGB lighting makes it even more attractive.

The ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming comes with a heatsink for the VRM, chipset, and a separate heatsink for the M.2 drives. You also get a 40mm fan in the box when you purchase the motherboard. This cooling fan emits low noise while delivering an efficient cooling performance, which is great for PC users who dislike loud fan noise coming from their PCs.

If the previous-gen motherboards tickle your fancy, then be sure to explore our selection of the best X470 motherboards as well.

ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming – Image: ASUS

Despite all the onboard cooling features, this motherboard is known to run quite hot, so you’ll need a well-ventilated case with a high flow rate to keep the temperatures in check. Being an ASUS ROG motherboard, the X570-I is excellent for overclocking despite the board’s small stature. You can easily pump the RAM up to 4800MHz.

Since the board is mini ITX, it only has two memory slots, limiting you to 64 GB of RAM at maximum. If you want any more RAM, you’ll have to switch your motherboard.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that Intel platform.

The board doesn’t have any onboard buttons. The ASUS ROG Strix X570-I Gaming also features a Supreme FX S1220 audio chipset for high-fidelity audio for all your competitive gaming needs. Overall this premium quality motherboard is a technological marvel since ASUS managed to put together so many high-end features on such a small board.

3. MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Gaming Motherboard

Best Budget Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Aesthetic Design
Durable Build
Excellent VRM for Price
Enables Overclocking
Decent Cooling Features

Cons

Lacks Wireless Connectivity
Much Fewer USB Ports Than Competitors

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If you’re short on budget, but don’t want to settle for anything less than a premium quality motherboard, then the MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Gaming Motherboard is the best option for you. MSI’s MAG (MSI Arsenal Gaming) series is known for its great price-to-performance ratio, which also makes it a decent candidate for a great entry-level board.

The MAG B550 Tomahawk from MSI was also selected in our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

The board offers great performance and cooling capability. The board enables both CPU and memory overclocking. You can easily overclock your RAM up to 5100MHz with the help of this motherboard in ideal condition. The VRM on this gaming motherboard is also the absolute best that you can get in its price range.

The motherboard’s PCB comes reinforced with copper, which makes the overall board quite durable. The board also features MSI’s Dual Rail Power System and a digital PWM controller that can automatically calibrate and adjust the best settings to maintain a stable voltage flow.

MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Gaming Motherboard – Image: MSI

With regards to cooling, the motherboard features several 7W/mK extended heatsinks which makes sure that your PC remains cool and can easily dissipate heat. If you want to improve the cooling, you can use the water pump header that comes included with the board. The best thing is that you can control all the fans, their noise, and flow with the motherboard’s software.

The motherboard also features the 7.1 Realtek HD Audio Codec for high-quality audio. It is one beautiful motherboard, but you can make it even better using the Mystic Light Extension.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

We think that the MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK Gaming Motherboard would’ve been much better if it had a few more USB ports instead of that 1 PS/2 port on the back, which has become obsolete these days. The board also features an HDMI 1.4b port instead of HDMI 2.0, so you can’t get 4K60Hz with it. Regardless of all that, it is still a good motherboard for its price.

4. ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula

Best Enthusiast Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Highly Attractive Design
Excellent Quality Durable Build
Excellent VRM and Cooling
Great Overclocking Capability
Good Cooling Features
Lots of Customizable options

Cons

Quite expensive
Only features two M.2 slots
No video output ports

Check Price

If you’re looking for the best of the best, and you’ve got the budget for it, then the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula might just be the motherboard you need. It comes with a hefty price tag, but it has some of the best features that can help you build your ultimate gaming PC.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the X570 platform.

The motherboard features a strong 14+2 VRM. The power stages are able to withstand a load of 60A each. The motherboard also features water cooling blocks for VRM which can help you solve all the cooling issues with the board’s overpowered VRM and achieve the highest memory and processor overclocks. Overclocking using this motherboard is quite straightforward. You can pump up all the cores to 4.3GHz at 1.4V, while the memory can reach up to 4800+MHz through overclocking.

The board also looks absolutely stunning. It has a solid steel backplate and a tough thermoplastic top cover that keeps your board clean and ensures its durability. You can further improve the aesthetic of your motherboard by using the Aura Sync RGB lighting. The board also features addressable Gen 2 RGB headers and a built-in OLED panel called LiveDash that displays custom graphics for maximum personalization.

The board features 4x PCI x16 expansion slots. Two of these expansion slots feature multi-GPU, AMD CrossFireX, and NVIDIA SLI support. It could have used more M.2 slots, especially at this price range.

ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula – Image: ASUS

For cooling, you get ProCool II power connectors for maximum temperature control. The board’s thermal design features integrated Crosschill EK III and several heatsinks to make sure you’re never above the temperature limit. The motherboard already comes equipped with 5-way optimization, which allows system-wide tuning and several cooling and overclocking profiles that are made to go together perfectly with your PC.

The ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Formula comes with Supreme FX S1220 Audio Codec for high quality and immersive audio experience. However, it is important to note that this motherboard doesn’t come with an onboard graphic adapter. You’ll need a dedicated GPU to get the display to function.

5. GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Elite

Best Entry Level Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Budget-Friendly
Good Memory speed and overclocking capacity
Fair storage options
Heatsink to keep the M.2 SSD cool

Cons

No WiFi or Bluetooth
Very Few PCIe Slots

Check Price

The GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Elite is an excellent entry-level option for you if you’re looking for a high-quality motherboard without having to spend a lot of money on it. It does lack some features that you’d want from a high-end motherboard, but regardless of that, it is still an excellent pick at the price range.

Speaking of budget offerings, you can also explore our selection of the best budget AM4 motherboards for more options on a strict budget.

The 12+2 VRM is also decent for some overclocking. However, if overclocking is your goal, then you should go for a different option on this list.

The board itself looks good, but the RGB software isn’t that great. You can install a couple of RGB fans on the board, which can be adjusted and customized through the board’s RGB software.

GIGABYTE X570 AORUS Elite – Image: GIGABYTE

The Gigabyte X570 AORUS Elite doesn’t feature any wireless connectivity options. For audio, we have AMP-UP Audio with ALC1200, which is a fair option for good quality audio and supports 7.1 surround.

The two onboard M.2 drives are protected by Thermal Guard, which prevents throttling by keeping your SSDs cool.

It comes with a front-panel USB Type-C connector but doesn’t have any Type-C ports on the rear of the board. You can also easily update the BIOS of this board using the GIGABYTE Q-Flash Plus button.

6. MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard

Best Overclocking Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Highly Attractive Design
Top Quality Build
High Overclocking Capacity
Good Active and Passive Cooling
triple Gen4 M.2 Slots

Cons

Only 4x SATA ports
No RGB

771 Reviews

Check Price

If you don’t have any budget restrictions and want the absolute best overclocking experience, then you should give the MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard a try. It has tons of great features, and it looks incredibly cool.

Depending on the buyer’s preference, the best or worst thing is that the board comes with no onboard RGB lighting. But, you do get three onboard headers where you can connect your RGB lighting to make your PC light up.

Other than that, the board features a 12+2+1 VRM configuration that can easily handle your Ryzen 5 5600x even when it’s max overclocked. The board can also overclock the total of 4x DIMM DDR4 RAM up to 4600+MHz each for the best gaming experience.

More premium MSI motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

However, the board features Nahimic 3. It’s been a known issue with MSI motherboards where no generic audio drivers work to get the audio out of the PC except the specific Nahimic 3 Drivers, which you’ll have to download from the windows store. Despite this issue, once you’ve got the audio chipset working, you can start enjoying the highly immersive audio for all your gaming needs.

MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard – Image: MSI

Cooling is also quite good. The chipset is cooled actively, while the heatsinks passively cool down the M.2 drives to keep the board’s temperature in check and to prevent any throttling. The MSI Meg X570 Unify features 4x SATA ports which are less than what you’d expect from motherboards in this price bracket. However, the board makes up for it by providing 3x Gen4 M.2 slots that use the PCIe 4.0 protocol for maximum transfer speed.

Keep in mind that it doesn’t have any onboard graphic adapter, so you’ll have to get a dedicated card for display.

7. ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus

Best micro-ATX Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x

Pros

Micro-ATX Form factor
Good Overclocking Capacity
Digi+ VRM
Bluetooth 5.1
Good price

Cons

Mediocre RGB Lighting
Bluetooth requires updated Windows
Only one M.2 drive is heatsinked

Check Price

If you own a Micro-ATX case, the ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus is one of the best available options out there at a reasonable price.

The board features an 8+2 power phase design, which provides enough power to fulfill all your overclocking requirements. The power phase design is quite sturdy, and there’s a large VRM heatsink to keep the temperature in check. In terms of cooling, the board features 4x four-pin fan headers, which consume about 12W energy but offer excellent performance.

ASUS TUF Gaming B550M-Plus – Image: ASUS

The board features 2x M.2 drives, but only one of the M.2 drive slots is heatsinked for better cooling. The motherboard also comes with SupremeFX S1220A Audio Chipset for the best quality audio. The board features RGB lighting, but the available color and customizable choices are quite limited. So, if you’re looking for a board with better RGB aesthetics, then you should choose some other option.

On the subject of value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

The board is overall a great option for micro-ATX cases. You get Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity with this board, but you’ll need Windows 10 Build 19041 or later to make use of the Bluetooth features. You also get HDMI 2.1, which enables 4K60Hz.

How we picked and tested

Picking out the best motherboards for the 5600x was a somewhat tricky task since there are a lot of X570, B550, and A520 motherboards available out there from different brands. You also have to consider the looks and aesthetics, as well as the core features and form factor of the motherboard. But, don’t worry because we’ve already done the hard work for you.

Our primary focus while choosing the best motherboards for Ryzen 5600x was the price range and the price-to-performance ratio.

The 5600x is one of the cheaper options from the 5000 series, so we ensured that our motherboards fit the criteria by being affordable while also providing all the essential features and capabilities. However, we have also included some motherboards with a bigger price tag for people who have the budget and want the best of the best to make their builds future-proof.

We excluded the A520 chipset motherboards from the list since they lack the ability to overclock and do not have the VRM quality and performance of other chipsets that are compatible with the AMD AM4 socket.

Additionally, we have also included motherboards for different form factors, so people with different-sized PC cases can also know which motherboard would be best for their respective PC cases.

Once we narrowed down our choices for what we were looking for, it was fairly easy to list down the products which would be suitable for PC builders with different building criteria.

Our expert team of tech enthusiasts and reviewers meticulously tested each motherboard option on this list, and countless others that we were not good enough to make this list. Our primary focus was VRM quality testing through a sustained load of an overclocked Ryzen 5 5600X, running a stress test in an enclosed chassis for a predetermined time.

The data obtained from the scores of motherboards helped shape this list, along with the features, aesthetics, price, and value offerings that were associated with each model.

The list we’ve put together includes motherboards from different price brackets so that you can get your hands on the best available motherboard according to your budget. If you are on the older Zen 2 platform, you may want to check out our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 7 3700X as well.

B550 vs X570

X570 is the flagship AMD chipset for the AM4 socket. One of the primary features of the X570 platform is PCIe 4.0 support. This standard allowed for double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0, which is especially important for graphics cards and other high-performance hardware such as storage devices.

The B550 platform is a cut-down version of the X570 chipset, as it does have support for PCIe 4.0 but it is slightly handicapped. Due to the limitation of PCIe 4.0 lanes, you only get PCIe Gen 4 support in the primary PCIe x16 slot and the primary M.2 slot. These lanes are connected directly to the CPU, and not to the chipset which is limited to PCIe 3.0 speeds.

X570 also has more high-speed USB ports and PCIe lanes, giving you more flexibility when it comes to connecting peripherals and storage devices. Finally, most X570 motherboards feature a more robust VRM design, allowing for better overclocking performance.

The key advantage of the B550 chipset lies in its price-to-performance ratio, which is far better than any X570 motherboard. Many sub-200$ B550 motherboards are excellent in terms of VRM design as well as features, while a decent X570 motherboard can easily run you more than $300.

Ryzen 5 5600X vs. Core i5 10600K – AMD vs Intel

If you are stuck between the two mid-range Intel and AMD options from this generation, don’t worry. We are all in the same boat. The Ryzen 5 5600X and Core i5 10600K are two extremely competitive offerings from AMD and Intel respectively, and that comes as a breath of fresh air for consumers.

With the incredible Zen 3 architecture based on the 7nm node, the Ryzen 5 5600X does pull ahead in most gaming scenarios, especially due to its larger L3 cache. However, the Intel Core i5 10600K trades blows with the AMD offering when it comes to productivity tasks.

The Intel option can also clock significantly higher, which can aid single-threaded games and applications. The overclocking capability is also higher on the Intel side, however, one has to keep in mind the higher 125W TDP of the 10600K as compared to the 65W of the 5600X.

In terms of pricing, the Intel option can be a bit cheaper (which is surprising) by around $10-15, but it is up to the potential buyer to decide whether or not the slight savings are worth the loss in performance.

Buyer’s Guide

A motherboard is one of the most critical components of your PC. It serves as the base platform for everything else, so it’s never a good idea to compromise on the board’s quality. Several factors should be considered while choosing the best motherboard for Ryzen 5 5600x.

One thing that the buyer should keep in mind is that the B550 chipset is cheaper, and the boards are of slightly less quality in terms of components and features. On the other hand, the X570 chipset provides better memory and CPU overclocking capability and is overall a good choice for anyone, though a bit expensive. It is difficult to judge how much should you actually spend on a motherboard, as the answer does vary from case to case.

Here, we’ll discuss the important things you should keep in mind while selecting a motherboard for Ryzen 5 5600x.

Form Factor and CPU Socket Type

The form factor is the first thing you should consider while buying a motherboard for your chassis. If your PC case is too small, it is likely that a motherboard with a larger form factor will not fit inside it. There are four types of form factors for motherboards:

E-ATX
Standard ATX
Micro-ATX
Mini-ITX

Meanwhile, a CPU socket type dictates which type of processor will fit in your motherboard. The Ryzen 5 5600x processor is of AMD AM4 socket type. The AM4 socket type can easily fit inside any X570, B550, or A520 motherboard.

Design and Aesthetics

If you’re a PC builder or a PC user in general, you’d know the value of design and aesthetics when it comes to selecting any PC hardware. Modern PC cases are see-through or transparent, which makes it even more important to pay attention to your motherboard’s design and aesthetics.

There are a lot of motherboards out there that suit builders of different preferences. If you don’t prefer RGB lighting, you could go for the MSI Meg X570 Unify Motherboard, which doesn’t offer any sort of onboard RGB lighting. On the other hand, if you’re interested in a board that offers high-quality RGB lighting with tons of customization options, then you should go for the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula. The LiveDash feature of this motherboard opens a lot of new windows for customization and personalization. However, it is a fairly expensive board, so you should keep your budget in mind as well.

Overclocking Capacity

An AMD Ryzen 5 5600x truly shines when it comes to CPU overclocking. Keep in mind that the B550 or A520 chipset motherboards don’t offer as great of an overclocking capacity as the X570 chipset. You should also look for the VRM of the motherboard that you’re going to buy. The VRM is responsible for power delivery throughout your motherboard.

The VRM ensures that your CPU can operate safely by powering down the voltage coming from your Power Supply. The VRM components are responsible for the delivery of clean and stable power to the CPU on demand. Motherboards with high-quality VRM components are able to deliver the power to the CPU at higher overclocks, in a stable manner, without overheating. This can be a great advantage to enthusiasts and gamers alike.

Another thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need appropriate cooling to keep your PC stable while overclocking. If you’re having any temperature issues with your stock coolers, or if you intend to overclock your CPU, you should invest in CPU coolers.

Upgradability

If you’re looking to future-proof your build, you should think about the upgradability of your motherboard before buying it. Upgradability ensures that you won’t have to buy a new motherboard if you’re just looking to upgrade your processor, which will, in turn, save you a lot of money.

It is a good thing that AMD motherboards are highly compatible with several generations of AMD processors. Like, in the case of Ryzen 5 5600x, if you own a high-end motherboard, you won’t have to upgrade your motherboard if you want to switch to a better processor like Ryzen 7 5800x with the AM4 socket or when AMD releases another chip with the AM4 socket in future. Or, if you already owned a high-end future-proof motherboard with your Ryzen 2000 or 3000 series, there’s no need to upgrade your motherboard if you want to switch to the Ryzen 5 5600x.

You can always consult our motherboard buying guide for a step-by-step walkthrough of the motherboard purchase process on both Intel and AMD platforms.

Best Motherboard For Ryzen 5 5600x - FAQs

Which motherboard is best for Ryzen 5 5600x??

If you’re looking for the best overall motherboard for the Ryzen 5 5600x at a reasonable price, then the ASUS ROG Strix X570-E is a great motherboard for the processor. If you have the budget and want something future-proof and excellent, you should go for the ASUS ROG X570 Crosshair VIII Formula since it is the best motherboard for the Ryzen 5 5600x.

Is B550 Good for Ryzen 5 5600x??

The B550 is compatible with Ryzen 5 5600x, but it doesn’t compete with the performance and quality of X570 chipset motherboards. The X570 motherboards are a bit more expensive, but they are worth the money. If you’re looking for the best compatibility for overclocking and gaming, then you should go for the X570 instead of the B550 chipset.

What chipset does the Ryzen 5 5600X use?

The Ryzen 5 5600x uses the B550, X570, and A520 chipsets. The AM4 socket is compatible with all three chipsets. The X570 is far superior to B550 and A520 chipsets in terms of overclocking capacity and overall performance. On the other end, the B550 chipset is quite cheaper and lacks in quality when compared to the X570. However, the B550 is still a much better option to go for than the A520 chipset since the A520 chipsets are the cheapest and the lowest in quality.

Is B550 or X570 better for Ryzen 5 5600x?

The X570 is much better in performance and overclocking capacity for Ryzen 5 5600x compared to the B550 chipset. However, the B550 is much cheaper than the X570. If you’re short on budget or don’t intend to overclock your CPU much, then you can go for the B550. Otherwise, the X570 is the best choice for the Ryzen 5 5600x.

Is A520 good for Ryzen 5 5600x?

The A520 chipset is compatible with the Ryzen 5 5600x. However, it is not recommended as it is the cheapest and lowest-quality chipset compatible with the Ryzen 5 5600x. The X570 or the B550 chipset are much better options for Ryzen 5 5600x if you have the budget for them.

Does Ryzen 5 5600X Support overclock?

The Ryzen 5 5600X does support overclocking, and you can get some outstanding results by overclocking all the cores. However, keep in mind that you’ll need a good motherboard with robust VRM that enables overclocking and can keep the CPU stable through it all.

What motherboards work with Ryzen 5 5600x?

Ryzen 5 5600x works with any motherboard that supports the AM4 socket. The X570, B550, and A520 motherboards are highly compatible with the Ryzen 5 5600x. Keep in mind that each chipset differs in price and quality from one another. The X570 boards are the best compared to B550 and A520, but they are also quite expensive compared to the other chipsets.

The post 7 Best Motherboards For Ryzen 5 5600X In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

7 Best AM5 Motherboards In 2024 According To Experts

Asad Khan — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 00:25:49 +0000

The highly anticipated release of AMD’s Ryzen 7000 CPU family, featuring the Zen 4 architecture, has taken the gaming industry by storm. The new AMD CPUs have swept the competitors aside and immediately challenged for the gaming crown. If you have managed to get your hands on one of these new AMD AM5 CPUs during the launch, you will need to invest in a new motherboard that maximizes the capabilities of the AM5 platform.

The reason behind this necessity is that the AM5 platform is entirely new and exclusively designed for the Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. Along with a fresh chipset and socket, AMD is also introducing a range of new technologies with this platform, including support for DDR5 memory and PCI Express 5.0.

To harness the full power of the new cutting-edge CPUs, you should consider getting one of the latest X670E or B650E motherboards. While our recent review covered the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 7950X, those models primarily catered to the premium market segment.

To help you find the right match for your AMD AM5 CPU, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best AM5 motherboards currently available on the market. Let’s dive right into the options.

The Best AM5 Motherboard in 2024 – Our Choices

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	MSI MEG X670E ACE	Best Overall AM5 Motherboard	617 Reviews Check Price
2	ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme	Best Premium AM5 Motherboard	71 Reviews Check Price
3	MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi	Best Overclocking AM5 Motherboard	617 Reviews Check Price
	ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi	Best Looking AM5 Motherboard	330 Reviews Check Price
5	ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi	Best Value AM5 Motherboard	Check Price
6	Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX	Best Budget AM5 Motherboard	316 Reviews Check Price
7	ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi	Best Mini ITX AM5 Motherboard	Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	MSI MEG X670E ACE
Award	Best Overall AM5 Motherboard
Details	617 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme
Award	Best Premium AM5 Motherboard
Details	71 Reviews Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Overclocking AM5 Motherboard
Details	617 Reviews Check Price

#
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi
Award	Best Looking AM5 Motherboard
Details	330 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi
Award	Best Value AM5 Motherboard
Details	Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX
Award	Best Budget AM5 Motherboard
Details	316 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi
Award	Best Mini ITX AM5 Motherboard
Details	Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 14:32 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. MSI MEG X670E ACE

Best Overall AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Robust VRM Design
Features 10 GbE LAN
Superb Storage Features
Loads of USB Ports

Cons

Quite Expensive

617 Reviews

Check Price

MSI’s ACE motherboards have garnered quite a positive reputation among enthusiasts for their top-notch performance and superb feature set, and the same trend can be seen in the MEG X670E ACE. This iteration is a premium offering by MSI for the AMD AM5 platform, and it falls just below the lavish MSI X670E GODLIKE in their product stack. Nevertheless, its excellent features and ridiculous power delivery makes it the best overall AM5 motherboard on our list.

We picked this motherboard as the absolute best motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X as well.

We cannot start analyzing the X670E ACE without going through its power delivery system. Under the gigantic VRM heatsinks, MSI has equipped the board with a robust 22+2+1 phase VRM design with 90A power stages. This extraordinary power delivery system is capable of handling even the flagship Ryzen 9 7950X3D CPU at overclocked settings. With PBO enabled, you will be able to maximize the potential of every single AMD Ryzen CPU on the AM5 platform.

MSI MEG X670E ACE

This prowess is further empowered by the ingenious VRM cooling solution implemented by MSI. The board uses two heatsink assemblies joined together via a direct-touch heat pipe, which significantly improves thermal dissipation, especially when CPU overclocking. The VRM heatsinks themselves use a stacked fin array design to maximize surface area, resulting in comfortable VRM temperatures even under prolonged loads.

Being a premium AM5 motherboard, the X670E ACE makes no compromises in the features department. The board is jam-packed with high-end connectivity and storage features to cater to the needs of enthusiasts. Storage is handled by four M.2 slots, two of which comply with PCIe 5.0 speeds as well. Moreover, in addition to WiFi 6E, the board provides 10 Gigabit networking which is a massive advantage for content creators and professionals who can leverage the additional bandwidth. The rear I/O is packed with high-speed USB ports and even a USB-C display output if you ever need to use integrated graphics.

MSI doesn’t just dominate in the AMD market, as their premium option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

Aesthetics are often considered the weak point of MSI motherboards, as they tend to go a bit overboard and dramatic. However, the MSI X670E ACE flips the script and carries a very understated and minimalist design language. If you can ignore the glaring RGB dragon on the I/O cover, the rest of the board is covered with massive all-black heat spreaders with subtle accents in gold and silver. This gives the board a very sophisticated personality, with the right balance of customization as well.

Of course, the X670E ACE does fall toward the premium end when it comes to the price tag. However, its price-to-performance ratio is actually quite positive given its extraordinary VRM design and the option of 10 Gigabit networking. Granted, the initial investment is a bit steep, but it can definitely be worth it in the long run. If you’re looking for a top-tier AM5 motherboard for your high-end build, it is hard to go wrong with the MSI X670E ACE.

2. ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme

Best Premium AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Extraordinary 22 Phase VRM
Support For 10 Gigabit Networkign
Five M.2 Slots
Exceptional Connectivity

Cons

Very Expensive

71 Reviews

Check Price

The ASUS Crosshair brand has become synonymous with premium AMD motherboards that make no compromises to deliver the absolute highest quality and performance. The ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme is the flagship variant from that esteemed lineup, and it stays true to the aforementioned trend. Although vastly expensive, the X670E Extreme brings an unparalleled feature set and is worthy of being labeled the best premium AM5 motherboard.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the X670 platform.

Arguably the most compelling feature of the ROG Strix X670E is the top-notch VRM design, which utilizes a teamed 20+2 phase layout and 110A-rated power stages. This allows for efficient power delivery and enables substantial overclocking potential for even the Ryzen 9 7950X3D CPU. The dual 8-pin power connectors are reinforced and allow the board to draw up to a whopping 1000W of power for the CPU alone.

ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme

ASUS has also reinforced the power delivery system with exceptional cooling capabilities. The VRM is effectively cooled by a gigantic multi-piece heatsink, making it one of the best options for overclocking. The heatsinks use a fin-stack array to maximize surface area, while the MOSFETs make direct contact with a large heat pipe to further improve heat dissipation. Rest assured, the board handles VRM temperatures exceptionally well in any likely situation, even under prolonged loads.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our list of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 as well.

The motherboard is designed to cater to users who require high-performance gaming and intense productivity work. It includes dual high-speed LAN ports and Wi-Fi 6E for fast and reliable networking. The presence of 10 Gigabit networking further enhances its appeal, as content creators and creative professionals will rejoice at the availability of that feature.

For storage, there are five M.2 slots for expansion, with three of them supporting PCIe Gen 5 speeds and the rest capable of Gen 4 speeds. On the rear I/O, one can find multiple high-speed USB ports, including two Type-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, and support for multiple displays that make it well-equipped for connectivity.

ASUS dominates the Intel motherboard market too, as the brand made its way into our roundup of the best Z790 motherboards too.

Aesthetically, the Crosshair X670E Extreme stands out with its sleek and stylish design, featuring a black color scheme complemented by unique RGB lighting patterns. The entire PCB is covered by massive heat spreaders and various covers that prevent you from having to glance at the bare PCB traces. The design elements, such as a retro pattern inspired by 8-bit video games of the 80s, give the motherboard a distinct look that can be customized using the ASUS AURA Sync software. The board truly stands out from the crowd thanks to its appealing design language.

Considering its features and performance, the Crosshair X670E Extreme is a top choice to pair with any high-end AMD AM5 CPU, offering quality and versatility. However, it comes with a significant drawback—the steep price tag. Its top-notch VRM, extensive connectivity options, and stylish design make it a compelling option, which is reflected in its higher pricing. Nevertheless, if affordability is not an issue, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Extreme is a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts who only want the best of the best.

3. MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi

Best Overclocking AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Superb Overclocking Prowess
Versatile Features
Nice Aesthetics
USB-C Display Output

Cons

Relatively Pricey

617 Reviews

Check Price

The performance-focused MPG Carbon lineup from MSI has some interesting offerings for the AM5 platform, and the X670E variant makes a strong case. The X670E Carbon WiFi is one of the most well-rounded motherboards on the market at the time of writing, covering all the bases in an efficient manner without exposing any major flaws. Its extraordinary VRM design makes it the best overclocking AM5 motherboard in its particular price bracket.

We chose a similarly-priced MSI motherboard in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900X as well.

Speaking of overclocking, the power delivery system of the X670E Carbon WiFi immediately stands out. With a powerful 18+2 phase VRM design with 90A power stages under the hood, the X670E Carbon WiFi is equipped to handle even the most demanding AM5 CPUs at their maximum potential. With the X670E Carbon WiFI, you can even try your hand at manual overclocking with flagship Ryzen 7000 series CPUs like the Ryzen 9 7950X3D.

MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi

Further improving the power delivery design is the cooling solution implemented by MSI. One glance at the board reveals the two gigantic VRM heatsinks that keep the MOSFETs and chokes running comfortably. The multi-piece heatsinks have adequate finning that improves surface area and consequently, thermal dissipation.

On to the features, the MPG X670E Carbon WiFI does not have any glaring deficiencies in this department. In fact, the networking suite is rather standard with a 2.5 GbE LAN port and WiFi 6E, while the storage is handled by four M.2 slots that offer a variety of PCIe configurations. Connectivity is also quite reasonable, with the USB-C display output on the rear I/O being the standout feature. The board also offers several high-speed USB ports of various types, thus rounding out a very satisfactory connectivity suite.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

Aesthetics are a subjective matter, but the X670E Carbon WiFi does have a rather nice outlook to it. It conforms to MSI’s new and refreshing design philosophy with understated patterns and a stealthy overall facade. The large, glowing, RGB Dragon logo on the top left is still a rather polarizing choice, but its Mystic Light does provide a sharp contrast to the rest of the board and is a source of lighting as well. The design is rather inoffensive and should go well with most builds.

When it comes to mid-range AM5 motherboards, you are better off going for the high-performance options such as the X670E Carbon WiFi, instead of something that offers worse value for money. While it is not an inexpensive motherboard, the price-to-performance ratio of the MPG X670E Carbon WiFi is very impressive and makes it a firm recommendation for anyone who wants to build a high-end desktop build around the AM5 platform.

4. ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi

Best Looking AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Unique Aesthetics
Brilliant Power Delivery
Superb Features
Loads of USB Ports

Cons

Quite Expensive

330 Reviews

Check Price

With the mid-range option in the ASUS ROG motherboard lineup, we have the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi, which carries a rather confusing name. Keeping that to one side, this particular option is the mainstream X670E option in the ROG lineup, targeting the high-end performance bracket. While it is not an inexpensive motherboard, it certainly is a lot more feasible than some of the more lavish offerings in the premium AM5 market.

More premium ASUS motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

For users who want to configure a build around a premium AM5 CPU, the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi is a compelling choice. ASUS has equipped this board with an impressive 18+2 phase VRM design, concealed under substantial VRM heatsinks. This robust setup promises exceptional overclocking capabilities in line with ASUS and AMD’s expectations for X670E motherboards. One can even pair the X670E-E with the powerful AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D and expect reasonable overclocking freedom.

ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi

Additionally, the VRM cooling ensures stable performance even when pushing the Ryzen 9 7950X to its limits through overclocking. The multi-piece heatsink array works well in tandem with residual airflow from the CPU cooler to maximize heat dissipation from the MOSFETs and chokes.

On the feature front, the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi doesn’t disappoint. While not as extravagant as the Crosshair series, it offers a well-rounded set of options that cater to most gamers and enthusiasts. Notably, the networking suite boasts a 2.5 GbE LAN port, though some productivity-focused users might have preferred a 10 GbE option. You also get the standard WiFi 6E option for wireless connectivity, of course.

A similar ASUS option was picked in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X.

Storage needs are well-addressed with four M.2 slots, boasting impressive speeds to accommodate the latest storage solutions. The rear I/O is thoughtfully equipped with loads of high-speed USB ports as well as different display outputs that can come in handy should you need to use integrated graphics.

ASUS has stayed true to its design philosophy, evident in the striking aesthetics of the ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi. The motherboard exudes ASUS’s signature style with its sleek and angular appearance, perfectly aligned with the ASUS ROG design language. The inclusion of ample RGB lighting on the I/O cover and the ROG script on the chipset heatsink further adds to its allure, making it an ideal choice for RGB enthusiasts. It stands out as the best-looking AM5 motherboard in our roundup, which is a rather unique position in the current market.

Once you take into account its positive value proposition, the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi motherboard offers an overall impressive package. While some may find the naming scheme and design slightly excessive, its performance and feature set justify its higher price point. Potential buyers should be aware of its premium cost but will find a reliable and high-performing partner for their premium AM5 CPU. If you seek a top-tier, visually captivating motherboard with strong overclocking potential, the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi undoubtedly fits the bill.

5. ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi

Best Value AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Solid Build Quality
Impressive VRM Design
Relatively Affordable

Cons

No RGB Lighting
Few Rear USB Ports

Check Price

The ASUS TUF B650-PLUS WiFi is a top choice among B650 motherboards in the AM5 lineup, offering a blend of versatility and value that is hard to match. The B650 chipset is lauded by gamers as the sweet spot between value and performance, and the same theme applies to the TUF Gaming series of motherboards by ASUS. With its exceptional build quality and attractive value, the ASUS TUF B650-PLUS WiFi is our pick for the best value AM5 motherboard on the market.

Speaking of budget offerings, you can also explore our selection of the best budget AM4 motherboards for more options on a strict budget.

ASUS has not made any compromises when it comes to the power delivery of the TUF B650-PLUS. Conforming to its high-end standards, the board boasts a 12+2 phase VRM design with 60A power stages, making it well-equipped for handling manual overclocking on most Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. The VRM is effectively cooled by a twin VRM heatsink array with ample surface area, ensuring efficient heat dissipation from MOSFETs and chokes. The large heatsink assembly is designed with pass-through areas for residual airflow to further improve the cooling of the VRM components.

ASUS TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi

Despite its affordable price, the TUF B650-PLUS comes packed with useful features. The BIOS flashback feature is convenient for flashing the BIOS without a CPU or memory, and the board includes 4x ARGB/RGB headers configurable with ASUS AURA Sync.

Connectivity-wise, the board remains impressive, retaining PCIe 5.0 connectivity in one of its three M.2 slots and providing 4 SATA ports for traditional drives. Networking features a 2.5 GbE LAN port along with WiFi 6 for wireless connectivity. The rear I/O includes a standout USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20Gbps port and other high-speed ports, showcasing the board’s commitment to delivering comprehensive connectivity.

Intel Alternatives: Best Z790 Motherboards

As expected from TUF Gaming motherboards, the B650-PLUS excels in build quality. It incorporates TUF chokes and capacitors with a claimed 52% better temperature tolerance and 2.5X lifespan, along with TUF LANguard for higher surge tolerance and SafeSlot+ steel reinforcement for improved slot durability. Additional on-circuit ESD transient voltage suppression adds an extra layer of protection. These additional improvements give the TUF B650-PLUS its unique position in the market and separate it from the crowd.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our list of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 as well.

The board’s design follows the simplistic and rugged aesthetic of the TUF Gaming lineup, with understated looks and overbuilt heatsinks that exude durability. Although lacking RGB lighting, the board provides external RGB device support via onboard headers for personalization options. The all-black aesthetic of the board is quite ideal if you are going for a stealthy or understated build like a workstation.

With its inherent value advantage over competing X670 motherboards, the TUF Gaming B650-PLUS targets mainstream gamers seeking excellent bang for their buck. It strikes a balance between affordability and features, making it one of the best B650 motherboards available for AM5 processors. Although it does have a few missing features here and there, the overall package is quite attractive for the price, making it a very reliable choice for mainstream gamers who want the best-value AM5 motherboard for their new build.

6. Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX

Best Budget AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Affordable Price Point
Solid Connectivity
Decent Storage Options

Cons

Unremarkable VRM Cooling
Limited RGB Lighting

316 Reviews

Check Price

Towards the budget end of the market, the Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX pairs perfectly with the majority of AM5 CPUs, even if you plan on overclocking. If you’re looking to avoid breaking the bank on a new motherboard, this option from the X670 tier provides a reasonable choice, without compromising on performance entirely, though it does sacrifice some features.

Gigabyte has equipped the X670 AORUS Elite AX with a reliable 16+2+2 phase VRM system, ideal for handling moderate overclocking in most CPUs, but not suited for extreme overclocking experiments with premium AM5 CPUs. This motherboard is more suited towards mid-range AM5 CPUs, as we named it one of the best motherboards for Ryzen 7 7700X.

Gigabyte X670E AORUS Elite AX

The VRM cooling is adequate, although nothing spectacular, and the VRM temperatures remain stable and well-controlled thanks to the large heatsinks used in this design. This VRM cooling solution significantly enhances the overall power delivery performance both in the short and long term.

In terms of features and affordability, the X670 AORUS Elite AX exceeds expectations. The networking options are on par with more expensive motherboards, and the number of M.2 slots is respectable for its price category, with one slot capable of supporting PCIe 5.0 speeds. The rear I/O also offers a pleasant surprise, as the board is rife with loads of high-speed USB ports that will come in handy for those gamers who like to use a lot of peripherals. The feature set is surprisingly well-stocked for a motherboard in this performance category, especially considering the value that it offers.

Speaking of affordable motherboards, you can also check out our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

While its aesthetic appearance may be described as modest, it still manages to impress, especially when compared to the premium motherboards on our list. The board is covered with black shrouds and heatsinks, but the AORUS design on the right bottom part remains visible and adds a touch of style. For those who appreciate RGB lighting, there is a small lighting strip on the I/O cover that enhances the board’s overall appeal. Some users may prefer a more generous use of RGB lighting, but the AORUS Elite does not conform to that design choice.

Considering the value it offers, the Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX stands out as the top choice for value hunters who want to craft a new AM5 build on a budget. It is fully capable of complementing the performance of the majority of AM5 CPUs while being reasonably priced, earning it the title of the best budget AM5 motherboard in our roundup. Its reliable power delivery system and moderate overclocking capabilities make it a perfect match for mid-range AM5 CPUs in particular.

7. ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi

Best Mini ITX AM5 Motherboard

Pros

Ideal For Compact PCs
Superb Feature Set
Solid VRM Design

Cons

Limited Expansion
No RGB Lighting

Check Price

With the rise of compact gaming PCs over the past few years, it is no surprise that mini ITX motherboards have risen in popularity as well. On the AM5 platform, the ASRock B650E PG-ITX is a mini ITX motherboard that has gained the favor of enthusiasts due to its impressive performance and features. With its versatile feature set and competent power delivery system. the ASRock B650E PG-ITX is our pick for the best mini ITX AM5 motherboard.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that Intel platform.

On the subject of power delivery, the B650E PG-ITX impresses with its overclocking potential, featuring a 10+2+1 phase design with 105A power stages, making it suitable for overclocking mid-range AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. While its VRM quality is certainly not on par with some of the more premium AM5 motherboards on offer, it definitely holds its own against the majority of AM5 CPUs on the market. The VRM heatsink is well-built and does a great job of keeping the VRM assembly operating within reasonable temperatures, even under prolonged loads.

ASRock B650E PG-ITX WiFi

In terms of features, the B650E PG-ITX stands out with its use of the active M.2 heatsink with an embedded fan, which significantly improves thermals for the PCIe Gen 5 slot. Additionally, the board uses SMT-style PCIe slots for better signal quality and reliability. Despite its limited size as a mini ITX motherboard, the B650E PG-ITX offers adequate connectivity with two M.2 slots (one with PCIe 5.0 capability), two SATA ports, a 2.5 GbE LAN port, and WiFi 6E capability. The rear I/O is well-equipped with useful ports, including a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port and “Lightning Gaming” USB ports that are designed to improve signal reliability in gaming peripherals.

ASRock has ensured excellent build quality for the B650E PG-ITX, incorporating a 10-layer server-grade low-loss PCB to minimize interference and enhance signal integrity. The board also features steel reinforcement around PCIe and DIMM slots for better structural rigidity. The M.2 and chipset heatsink are well-built with heat pipe integration and active cooling for the primary M.2 slot. The design of the board is simple and understated, featuring a black PCB with VRM and M.2 heatsinks in the same color, with red and silver accents found throughout. While lacking RGB lighting, the overall look is inoffensive and suitable for various PC builds.

In essence, the ASRock B650E PG-ITX offers great value for money, thanks to its value-oriented B650E chipset. It stands out as one of the best AM5 motherboards in its price range, offering versatile features that make it an attractive mini ITX choice, even compared to larger ATX competitors in its category. Its reliable power delivery system and reasonable price tag make it an easy recommendation for enthusiasts who are looking to build a compact PC around the AM5 platform.

How we picked and tested

Selecting the ideal AM5 motherboard for the new Ryzen 7000 series processors presents its own challenges. While they target PC gamers seeking peak performance, the X670E and X670 motherboards currently in the market are exorbitantly priced, making them impractical for budget-conscious users looking to utilize this gaming CPU.

To address this, our focus was on identifying options that offer the best value for money when paired with the new AMD AM5 CPUs and compatible memory. We paid particular attention to X670E motherboards that provided excellent performance at a reasonable cost.

Additionally, we thoroughly examined the motherboards’ VRMs and other power delivery components. Although stock CPU performance remains more or less the same, the CPU benefits from a robust VRM configuration during overclocking.

The AMD AM5 platform boasts numerous new features and significant improvements compared to its predecessor. Thus, we made sure to consider only those motherboards equipped with features suitable for a high-end modern gaming setup.

Specifically, we closely scrutinized their storage, network, and connectivity options. AM5 motherboards with multiple M.2 slots supporting PCIe 5.0 for ultra-fast storage and graphics received preferential treatment.

Aesthetics were also a key consideration, though subjective in nature. Nevertheless, we incorporated user reviews of various motherboards and adjusted our rankings accordingly.

Throughout the testing process, our team of hardware experts spared no effort. To arrive at unbiased and data-driven assessments, each motherboard’s features were meticulously evaluated.

Comprehensive VRM testing was carried out, monitoring VRM temperatures on each board while an overclocked AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D ran in a closed chassis for extended periods.

Based on the results of these rigorous tests, we have compiled a thorough and exhaustive list of the finest AM5 motherboards presently available on the market.

What’s New In AMD AM5?

AMD’s AM5 platform stands as a remarkable advancement in processor technology and signifies the conclusion of the longstanding AM4 platform that served for over four years. With the introduction of the Ryzen 7000 series CPUs, AMD has brought forth numerous substantial upgrades alongside the AM5 platform.

PCIe 5.0

A key advancement on the AM5 platform is the integration of PCIe 5.0, the latest version of the PCI Express specification. PCIe 5.0 brings significant improvements, offering double the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0 (32 GT/s compared to 16 GT/s) and reduced latency of only 12ns. These enhancements make it especially well-suited for high-performance applications like gaming PCs and data centers. With PCIe 5.0, the bandwidth can scale up to 128 GB/s across 16 lanes, and it maintains backward compatibility with PCIe 4.0 devices.

In comparison to the previous X570 motherboards, which supported a maximum of PCIe 4.0 for M.2 slots, the brand new AM5 motherboards now already support PCIe 5.0 in storage slots. This significant upgrade enables AM5 motherboards to accommodate the upcoming wave of PCIe 5.0 SSDs and other high-bandwidth devices. While PCIe 5.0 support is also available on the primary x16 PCIe slot to ensure future-proofing, its immediate impact on graphics cards is somewhat limited, as most graphics cards do not fully saturate the current PCIe 4.0 standard. Nonetheless, the AM5 platform is well-prepared for the next level of high-speed connectivity and storage capabilities.

DDR5 Memory

One notable improvement is the incorporation of DDR5 memory, representing the next generation of memory technology. DDR5 RAM brings several advantages compared to its predecessor. These include enhanced DIMM capacity, increased bandwidth, improved latency, reduced power consumption, and better error correction capabilities. Notably, the standard operating voltage has been lowered to 1.1V from DDR4’s 1.2V, resulting in improved efficiency and increased overclocking potential.

As a consequence of this shift, older DDR4 memory modules are no longer compatible. Nonetheless, AMD’s decision aligns with the industry’s widespread adoption of DDR5 as the new mainstream memory technology. Although DDR5 memory kits may be slightly more expensive than DDR4 kits at the moment, their future-proofing qualities make them a worthwhile investment. AMD has clearly developed the new Zen 4 architecture with DDR5 memory in mind, recognizing the crucial role memory plays in enhancing the performance of Ryzen processors.

New Chipsets

AMD’s introduction of the AM5 platform comes with the release of two new chipsets, catering to different price points and introducing a range of fresh features. Moreover, each chipset has two variations, with the “E” variant specifically designed to offer expanded overclocking support and additional PCIe 5.0 lanes.

X670E: The X670E platform is the most premium chipset designed for the most high-performance Ryzen CPUs. It features 44 PCIe lanes with 24 PCIe 5.0 lanes, as well as 2 USB 20 Gbps ports.
X670: The X670 chipset is the standard high-end chipset with 44 PCIe lanes, 8 of which are PCIe 5.0 lanes. It also features 2 USB 20 Gbps ports.
B650E: The B650E chipset is the mid-range chipset of the AM5 platform with 36 PCIe lanes, 24 of which are PCIe 5.0 lanes. It features only one USB 20 Gbps port.
B650: The number of total PCIe lanes remains 36, but there are no PCIe 5.0 lanes. You also only get one USB 20 Gbps port.

Buyer’s Guide

The introduction of the AMD AM5 platform doesn’t make the motherboard selection process any easier, which has always been notoriously challenging. Acquiring a brand-new Ryzen 7000 series CPU will require you to invest in a new motherboard, but determining how much to spend on a motherboard is a subjective matter with an unpredictable answer. If you’re considering purchasing a new motherboard, it’s essential to carefully consider these factors.

Form Factor

Considering the form factor of the AM5 motherboard is crucial, as it determines the physical size and layout of the motherboard, which impacts the overall design and compatibility of your PC build. Common form factors for AM5 motherboards include ATX, microATX, and Mini-ITX, each offering varying sizes and features. Choosing the right form factor depends on your PC case size and the number of expansion slots and connectivity options you require. ATX provides ample room for upgrades and expansion, microATX strikes a balance between size and features, while Mini-ITX is ideal for compact and portable builds with limited space. Picking the appropriate form factor ensures a seamless fit and functionality within your chosen PC case.

Power Delivery

When purchasing a new AM5 motherboard, it is imperative to carefully assess the VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) design and power delivery capabilities. A robust VRM design with high-quality components ensures stable and efficient power delivery to the CPU, which is essential for optimal performance and system reliability. Additionally, a motherboard with a robust VRM solution can provide better overclocking potential for enthusiasts and handle higher power draw from advanced processors, ensuring future compatibility and longevity of the system.

Storage, Networking, and Connectivity

While searching for an AM5 motherboard, it is essential to consider its features, particularly networking, storage, and connectivity options. Look for motherboards with reliable and fast networking solutions, such as 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet or Wi-Fi 6/6E, to ensure seamless online experiences. Ample storage options, like multiple PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots and SATA ports, allow for flexible storage configurations, accommodating fast NVMe SSDs and traditional hard drives. Additionally, having a variety of connectivity ports, such as USB 3.2 Gen2x2/Gen2, Type-C, and Thunderbolt, can enhance versatility and connectivity with external devices and peripherals.

Aesthetics

Considering aesthetics is another crucial aspect when selecting an AM5 motherboard. The motherboard’s appearance can play a significant role in building an aesthetically pleasing and cohesive PC setup. Look for motherboards with well-designed heatsinks, RGB lighting options, and customizable LED effects that match your overall build theme. Many motherboards even come with screens nowadays that can be configured to show a personalized image or message. A visually appealing motherboard not only enhances the overall look of your system but also adds a touch of personalization to your gaming or workstation rig.

Value for Money

While it’s tempting to go for high-end and feature-rich options, it’s crucial to balance the motherboard’s price with the features and performance it offers. Assess your specific needs and requirements, and then compare different models to find a motherboard that provides the necessary features and quality without overpaying for extras you might not utilize fully. Prioritize essential elements like reliable power delivery, adequate connectivity options, and future-proofing capabilities while staying within your budget to ensure the best value for your investment. A cheaper motherboard is not necessarily the best option for your particular build, and vice versa.

Upgrade Path

Evaluating the upgrade path is a vital aspect of purchasing an AM5 motherboard. When selecting a motherboard, it is important to consider its compatibility with future processor generations and other components. AMD has a good track record of supporting the same socket for a long time, so unless there are any unpleasant surprises, the upgrade path should be pretty decent. Additionally, check for expansion slots and connectivity options to accommodate potential upgrades, such as additional GPUs or storage devices, to ensure the longevity and adaptability of your system.

If you’re looking for a detailed breakdown of the motherboard purchase process, then be sure to check out our comprehensive motherboard buying guide for even more shopping tips.

Why you should trust us

Best AM5 Motherboard in 2024 - FAQs

Can I use DDR4 memory with AM5 motherboards?

No, you cannot use DDR4 memory with AM5 motherboards. The new AM5 motherboards are exclusively compatible with DDR5 memory only, which means that your DDR4 modules will not work on it.

What is the difference between X670E and X670?

The X670E platform is the most high-end version of the X-series chipsets in the AM5 motherboard lineup, with 44 total PCIe lanes and 24 PCIe 5.0 lanes. X670, on the other hand, has 44 total PCIe lanes too, but only 8 of them are PCIe 5.0 compatible.

Is Ryzen 9 5950X compatible with AM5 motherboards?

No, the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X is not compatible with AM5 motherboards. It is compatible with the AM4 socket only, and you should use an X570 or B550 motherboard with the Ryzen 9 5950X.

What socket does AM5 use?

The AMD AM5 motherboards use the new AM5 socket, which is a departure from the outgoing AM4 socket. Unlike the previous AMD sockets, AM5 uses an LGA (land grid array) design with 1718 pins instead of a traditional PGA (pin grid array) design. Moreover, the socket also has increased power output capacities for more power-hungry AM5 CPUs.

Is AMD AM5 future-proof?

One cannot say for certain how long will the AMD AM5 platform be supported by AM5, but if precedence is anything to go by, the AM5 platform is here to stay. AMD supported the AM4 platform for well over 4 years, and the same is expected of them for the new AM5 platform.

The post 7 Best AM5 Motherboards In 2024 According To Experts appeared first on Appuals.

7 Best Motherboards For AMD Ryzen 7 7700X In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 00:07:21 +0000

AMD’s long-awaited Ryzen 7000 CPU family, built on the Zen 4 architecture, has finally been released. In the event that you manage to buy a Ryzen 7 7700X on launch, you will need to purchase a new motherboard that is capable of supporting the processor.

This is due to the fact that the AM5 platform is completely new and is used by the Ryzen 7000 series of CPUs. In addition to a new chipset and socket, AMD is introducing numerous new technologies with this platform, including support for DDR5 memory and PCI Express Gen 5.

You’ll want to grab one of the brand-new X670E or X670 motherboards for this powerful new CPU. Even though we just reviewed the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 7950X, those boards might just be a bit too overkill for the Ryzen 7 7700X.

Therefore, we have compiled a list of some of the best Ryzen 7 7700X motherboards currently available on the market. Let’s jump right in.

The Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X – Our Picks

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi	Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	330 Reviews Check Price
2	MSI MEG X670E ACE	Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	617 Reviews Check Price
3	MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi	Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	617 Reviews Check Price
4	ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi	Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	222 Reviews Check Price
5	ASUS ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	52 Reviews Check Price
6	Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX	Best Budget Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	316 Reviews Check Price
7	ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi	Best White Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X	188 Reviews Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi
Award	Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	330 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	MSI MEG X670E ACE
Award	Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	617 Reviews Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	617 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi
Award	Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	222 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi
Award	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	52 Reviews Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX
Award	Best Budget Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	316 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi
Award	Best White Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X
Details	188 Reviews Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 19:35 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

1. ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi

Best Overall Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Robust Power Delivery
Superb Aesthetics
Versatile Feature Set
Lots of Rear USB Ports

Cons

Quite Expensive

330 Reviews

Check Price

The ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi Motherboard is our top pick for the Ryzen 7 7700X, thanks to its supreme feature set and incredible power delivery system. It also lies in the mid-range in terms of pricing, so it complements the Ryzen 7 7700X perfectly when it comes to value for money. As our choice for the best overall motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X, the Strix option is packed with great features.

A similar ASUS option was picked in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X.

As a consequence, it is a highly capable motherboard that you should strongly consider purchasing for your Ryzen 7 7700X. This ASUS X670E motherboard features an exceptionally potent 18+2 phase voltage regulator module configuration, which can be deduced from the size of the VRM heatsinks.

You should anticipate top-tier overclocking performance from this board, in keeping with what ASUS and AMD have indicated about X670E motherboards in general. Even if you overclock the R7 7700X, you won’t have to be concerned about the VRM getting too hot thanks to the excellent cooling system that comes with the motherboard.

ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi

The ROG Strix X670E-E motherboard from ASUS comes with a respectable assortment of features. Even though it lacks the flash of the Crosshair motherboards, this board will satisfy the needs of the vast majority of gamers and PC hobbyists. In this iteration, the networking suite only has a 2.5 GbE LAN port instead of a 10 GbE LAN port, which may be disappointing to consumers who place a premium on productivity.

Beyond that, we can’t really find much fault with the overall feature set. The speeds of the four M.2 slots make them more than adequate for most storage requirements. The rear I/O is generously supplied with both speedy USB ports and a variety of display connections.

ASUS, in contrast to most motherboard manufacturers, has not strayed from the core principles of its original design ethos. There is no mistaking the fact that this motherboard was designed by ASUS; it is immediately evident. The motherboard as a whole features a clean and contemporary design that is in line with the aesthetic of the ASUS ROG brand.

RGB lighting can be seen emanating from both the I/O cover and the ROG letters that are located on the chipset heatsink. To recap, if you want RGB, this motherboard is a reliable option for you to consider. Gamers usually prefer the design of their motherboard to have a little bit of flair to it, and this board is ideal for that scenario.

ASUS dominates the Intel motherboard market too, as their premium option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

The ASUS ROG Strix X670E-E Gaming WiFi is a solid piece of hardware, despite the very few complaints we have about it. Its look and especially its naming method might be a little extravagant, but it is ultimately a great complement to your Ryzen 7 7700X processor. Prospective buyers should be prepared to empty their savings if they want this board to be the star of their next build.

2. MSI MEG X670E ACE

Best Premium Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Extraordinary VRM Setup
10 Gigabit Networking
Clean Aesthetics
Loaded Rear I/O

Cons

Extremely Pricey

617 Reviews

Check Price

The MSI MEG X670E ACE has earned the next slot on our list. This motherboard is the second-best choice available from MSI for their X670E series, ranking only below the insane X670E GODLIKE. The MEG X670E ACE is a motherboard that is designed with an upper mid-range price point in mind, and it is quite simply one of the most robust options available for the X670 platform. It is the option that we recommend as the best premium motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X.

Even if the Ryzen 7 7700X is not a particularly power-hungry CPU, it is still beneficial to have a strong VRM system on your motherboard. The MEG X670E ACE has a 22+2 phase VRM, which is definitely adequate for the Ryzen 7 7700X even with Precision Boost Overdrive engaged. You need not worry about any restrictions while manually overclocking, since you are free to experiment with that approach as well.

In addition, MSI has fitted some quite substantial heatsinks for the power delivery system in order to maintain a cool temperature throughout. This serves to boost the overall efficiency of the motherboard’s VRM components and increases the lifetime of the motherboard as a whole.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

MSI MEG X670E ACE

Moving on to the assortment of features, the MSI X670E ACE is practically hard to criticize in any way, shape, or form. You can anticipate all of the bells and whistles that come standard on a top-tier board in this price range from this particular model. You even get 10 Gigabit networking, which is a huge help to creative people and content creators and is a great asset to have in a high-end motherboard.

On the board, MSI has included four M.2 slots for storage, two of which are also compatible with PCIe 5.0 speeds. In addition, the rear I/O is exceptional since it has a multitude of USB ports that can transfer data at incredible speeds as well as USB-C display outputs. When it comes to the assortment of features, the MSI MEG X670 ACE is an option that truly cannot be beaten.

In terms of appearance, the board is quite minimalistic and contemporary, which is in direct contrast to the conventional design language utilized by MSI. Even though there is a giant RGB Dragon logo that is always staring you in the face, the rest of the motherboard is fairly uncomplicated and understated because the heat spreaders and covers are black.

The cover for the chipset heatsink and the covers for the M.2 slots each feature a simple triangular pattern, but other than that, there are no additional design features present. This motherboard has a highly streamlined and contemporary design.

We picked this motherboard as the absolute best motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X as well.

For your brand new Ryzen 7 7700X CPU, you simply cannot do much better than the MSI MEG X670E ACE motherboard. It comes with all of the bells and whistles that you will ever want, and its power delivery system is one of the finest currently being used on desktop motherboards.

The only issue that may arise is the product’s rather expensive price tag, which may be a concern when considering the board’s overall value.

3. MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi

Best Overclocking Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Excellent for Overclocking
Comfortable VRM Thermals
Nice Aesthetics
Solid Feature Set

Cons

Relatively Pricey

617 Reviews

Check Price

If we were tasked with selecting an X670E motherboard that should be the first option for the vast majority of customers that fall into the mainstream category, the MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi would most likely emerge as the winner. This motherboard is positioned in the middle of the pack as far as MSI’s product portfolio is concerned, and it is designed with the average consumer in mind.

It is highly recommended that any gamer or creative professional who owns a Ryzen 7 7700X CPU look at obtaining this motherboard. We chose a similarly-priced MSI motherboard in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900X as well.

The MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi has an excellent power delivery system, which is one of the main features of this motherboard. When it comes to AMD motherboards in general, the 18+2 phase VRM with 90A power stages is a beast of a setup, and it is able to handle the Ryzen 7 7700X with relative ease.

Even the temperatures of the VRM are not a concern because of the enormous heatsinks that are used in the VRM. MSI has taken a thoughtful approach to CPU overclocking and power delivery in this motherboard, which is why we have selected this offering as the best overclocking motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X in our roundup.

MSI MPG X670E Carbon WiFi

In addition, the feature set of the MPG X670E Carbon WiFi is highly diverse and can accommodate the requirements of both creative professionals and gamers. For your networking requirements, you do receive a 2.5 GbE LAN port in addition to support for WiFi 6E, and the storage is taken care of by four M.2 slots of varying PCIe specifications.

In addition to the more conventional display output choices of HDMI and DisplayPort, MSI has also included a display output through USB-C.

When it comes to the aesthetics of high-end motherboards, the X670E Carbon WiFi is a rather typical fare in comparison to other options. The majority of the PCB is concealed by heatsinks and shrouds made of black plastic, however, the I/O cover has a big MSI Dragon emblem that is illuminated by RGB lights.

Other than that, there are not many design features on this board; the chipset heatsink, for example, does have some script on it. Other than that, there are not many design elements. If you are able to ignore the conspicuous presence of the MSI Dragon, this may be an excellent choice for a covert blackout build.

More premium MSI motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

Ultimately, the MSI X670E Carbon WiFi is a motherboard designed for mainstream customers, and it is the product that we recommend to the majority of the consumers that are shopping in the mid-range price bracket for the Ryzen 7 7700X. It comes with a moderate price tag, which is still expensive but not as hefty as some of the more sophisticated boards that were covered previously in this article.

In addition to this, it possesses a solid VRM architecture that is capable of managing the R7 7700X, in addition to a ton of other amazing features that make this board the obvious option for gamers operating on this platform.

4. ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi

Best Value Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Relatively Affordable
Excellent Value Proposition
Solid Features
Robust Power Delivery

Cons

Plain Design

222 Reviews

Check Price

The ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi is featured in a price range that is lower than the preceding ones we have mentioned thus far. The ASUS TUF Gaming line has been a fan favorite for some time now, and the price-to-performance ratio of these products is just one of the reasons for its popularity.

Since the TUF Gaming X670E lies in the middle of the performance spectrum for all X670E motherboards, we consider it to be the ideal choice for a mid-range motherboard to use with Ryzen 7 7700X. A similar ASUS option was selected in our list of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 3600 as well.

On the TUF Gaming X670E, ASUS went ahead and added a 14+2 phase power supply system, which is a highly impressive configuration. This was done in order to optimize performance while overclocking, as well as for stock operation. You don’t really need anything more expensive or reliable than this VRM arrangement if you’re going to be using a Ryzen 7 7700X.

ASUS has further ensured adequate cooling by including two sizable VRM heatsinks, each of which has a stylish and unobtrusive appearance. The two heatsinks work in tandem to keep the VRM components cool and stable, which is just as important as the quality of the components when it comes to the overall performance of a VRM setup.

ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi

In terms of the features, there aren’t a lot of areas where you have to make compromises either. You are provided with the conventional networking suite, which consists of a 2.5 GbE LAN and WiFi 6E, while the storage is handled by four M.2 slots. Even though there is just one M.2 slot available with PCIe 5.0 speeds, nonetheless, this is in no way a deal-breaker by any stretch of the imagination. It should come as no surprise that the back I/O is crammed full of high-speed USB ports, as well as other useful outputs.

This motherboard, like all other ASUS TUF Gaming motherboards, has a design that is dominated by black and yellow colors. For this generation of TUF Gaming motherboards, ASUS has placed a greater emphasis on the “sturdy” and industrial appearance of its products. The whole circuit board (PCB) is covered with black heat spreaders and heatsinks, and it has checkered patterns in a few strategic locations so that it has some personality.

We would have liked to see a splash of Aura Sync RGB lighting on the board, as that has become a norm in the motherboard market over the past few years. On the flip side, the TUF X670E-PLUS might just be the ideal motherboard for a stealthy blackout build if you plan to go down that route.

When combined with the Ryzen 7 7700X, you really don’t have much of a reason to be dissatisfied with the positioning of the ASUS TUF Gaming X670E-PLUS WiFi. The aesthetics aren’t particularly exciting, and the board might have benefited from a few more features, but other than those minor drawbacks, it deserves its placement as the best value motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X.

5. ASUS ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi

Best Mini ITX Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Competent VRM Design
Loaded Rear I/O
Ideal for SFF PC Builds

Cons

Limited Expansion
Expensive

52 Reviews

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There has been a recent surge in the popularity of compact PC builds, with enthusiasts often building powerful computers in cases with a tiny form factor. To do that, you’ll need a mini ITX motherboard, and the ASUS ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi motherboard is one of the best options available for this kind of usage. In spite of its absurd moniker, this mini ITX motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X is currently the finest one available on the market.

To begin, we are going to analyze the VRM layout that is on the board. It’s possible that the 10+2 phase power supply system isn’t the most efficient in terms of raw statistics, but the fact that it uses high-quality components ensures that it has a reliable and stable design. A gigantic VRM heatsink, which is disproportionately large for the board, has been placed by ASUS for the sake of keeping the VRM cool.

On this motherboard, you may envisage being able to overclock the R7 7700X to some degree; nevertheless, we need to ensure that our expectations are fair. Since this mini ITX motherboard was designed with a particular application in mind, ASUS was forced to make concessions in a few key areas.

ASUS ROG Strix X670E-I Gaming WiFi

When we talk about making concessions, we should mention that the mini ITX form factor of the motherboard translates into multiple compromises in the feature set. To begin, the smaller size of the board restricts how much potential there is for expansion. In addition, the motherboard only provides you with two M.2 slots and two SATA connections for connecting your storage devices.

On the contrary, the networking suite and the rear I/O connection are both really welcome features of the motherboard. It’s great that ASUS included a number of high-speed USB ports on the board’s rear I/O, which is unusual for a mini ITX motherboard. The overall feature set is enough to crown this board as the best mini ITX motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that Intel platform.

In terms of its physical appeal, there aren’t a lot of things that may have been improved. The ROG design concept, which can be observed throughout the company’s complete product lineup, has been carried over to this motherboard. The aesthetic is angular and aggressive, and it makes heavy use of RGB lighting. A gaming pc built entirely out of ASUS parts would benefit greatly from the addition of this board.

At the time of this writing, the mini ITX market for the AMD AM5 platform is very narrow, and the ROG Strix X670E-I is the strongest mini ITX motherboard that is currently available for the Ryzen 7 7700X. This is the board to acquire if you want to create a compact personal computer, despite the fact that it is lacking in a few crucial areas and comes with a very hefty price tag.

6. Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX

Best Budget Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Great Value for Money
Decent Feature Set
Stealthy Looks

Cons

Mediocre VRM Cooling
Lack of RGB Lighting

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If you just acquired a new Ryzen 7 7700X CPU but don’t want to spend a small fortune on a new motherboard as well, the Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX could be the optimal choice for you to go with. Since this motherboard is part of the X670 tier of the platform rather than the X670E tier, it is available at a price that is somewhat more reasonable, although it does lose a few capabilities here and there.

Speaking of affordable motherboards, you can also check out our shortlist of the very best B550 motherboards on the market.

On the AORUS Elite AX for this generation, Gigabyte has implemented a 16+2+2 phase VRM system, which is a power delivery configuration that is completely reliable. Even while it’s not ideal for doing severe overclocking trials on your Ryzen 7 7700X, this system should have no trouble handling a moderate amount of conservative overclocking.

The comparatively large heatsinks used for the VRM also contribute a great deal to this regard. The VRM temperatures aren’t anything extraordinary to write home about, but they do a fairly decent job of keeping the components stable and under control. The overall power delivery setup benefits greatly from the said cooling hardware.

Gigabyte X670E AORUS Elite AX

In addition to the above, for the price, you receive a feature set that is more than sufficient. The networking choices are identical to those that you would get on a motherboard that is far more expensive, and the number of M.2 slots is also not too bad for a board in this price category. Be aware that only one of the M.2 slots on the X670 motherboards is capable of supporting PCIe 5.0 speeds.

The aesthetic quality of the board might be described as very modest, yet it looks pretty well overall. In our opinion, the appearance of this board much surpasses that of the MSI Carbon motherboard that was discussed earlier; nonetheless, this is a matter of opinion.

Despite the fact that the board itself is covered with black shrouds and heatsinks, the AORUS design that is located on the right bottom part of the board can be seen pretty well. There is also a small RGB lighting strip on the I/O cover for those who are particularly interested in RGB. The amount of lighting isn’t overwhelming, but it adds a nice touch to the board that would otherwise be missing.

If the previous-gen motherboards tickle your fancy, then be sure to explore our selection of the best X470 motherboards as well.

When you purchase an expensive Ryzen processor, it does not always follow that you must also purchase an expensive motherboard. If you are interested in purchasing a Ryzen 7 7700X, the Gigabyte X670 AORUS Elite AX should be at the forefront of your list of potential motherboards.

Since this motherboard is completely capable of dealing with that CPU and because it does so at a price range that is quite affordable, it has earned our award for being the best budget motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X.

7. ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi

Best White Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X

Pros

Unique White Theme
Low Price
Versatile Features

Cons

Unremarkable VRM Cooling
Not for Overclocking

188 Reviews

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Moving down the price ladder, we have the ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi, which is a motherboard from ASUS’s portfolio that is considered to be in the base of the pricing range. The PRIME brand is often used for more economically priced products in ASUS’s lineup. However, this time around, the PRIME is competing with other mid-range motherboards such as the ones previously mentioned from MSI and Gigabyte.

If you are more interested in value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

Since it boasts a 14+2 Phase VRM system, the ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO is a reasonable choice for the Ryzen 7 7700X. Although the power delivery components are not of the same high quality as those found on the more costly alternatives, they are more than capable of performing their functions.

On this motherboard, you may even anticipate a little bit of overclocking with the Ryzen 7 7700X, but we have to keep the expectations realistic. Another great thing about the power delivery system is that the thermals of the VRM are quite comfortable as well, which is thanks to the sizeable VRM heatsinks provided by ASUS.

ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi

ASUS has not let us down with respect to the features that they have included. Despite the fact that you only get one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, the storage suite is just as good as that found on any other motherboard in this price range. PCIe 4.0 speeds are available in the remaining three slots of the motherboard which is not a bad compromise.

ASUS has given a respectable ten USB ports of varying speeds on the rear I/O, one of which is a lightning-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port. In addition, you will be provided with WiFi 6 and a 2.5 GbE LAN as part of the networking package. It is hard to identify a major flaw in the vast feature set that this board possesses.

Intel Alternatives: Best Z790 Motherboards

The ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi distinguishes itself from the competition in terms of its overall visual appeal. The board has a very distinctive look and maintains the clean, white style that is characteristic of other ASUS PRIME products. The board has a touch of personality thanks to the faint RGB implementation that is over the I/O cover.

This is a very unique touch as it makes it an excellent choice for any white-themed PC projects, and it has earned our award as the best white motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X.

In spite of the fact that the ASUS PRIME X670E-PRO WiFi makes some compromises in a few different areas, it is impossible to overlook this motherboard when looking for a suitable companion for the Ryzen 7 7700X. Its fantastic value proposition, superb VRM architecture, and varied features make it an excellent choice for even the most demanding Ryzen CPUs that are now available.

How we picked and tested

The choice of a motherboard for the cutting-edge new Ryzen 7 7700X CPU has its own obstacles. Though it’s marketed at those looking to get the most out of their PC gaming setup, the X670E and X670 motherboards now on the market are prohibitively pricey for anyone looking to use this particular gaming CPU.

For this reason, we prioritized options that would provide the most bang for the buck when combined with the Ryzen 7 7700X and suitable memory. We gave our attention to the X670E motherboards that offered us the best value for our money.

In addition, we analyzed the motherboards’ VRMs and other power delivery components. Even though the Ryzen 7 7700X is not an exceptionally demanding CPU, it benefits from a strong VRM arrangement when overclocked.

The AMD AM5 platform includes various new capabilities and a lot of enhancements over the previous iteration. When choosing these motherboards, we were careful to only consider those with features suitable for a high-end modern gaming computer.

In particular, we scrutinized their storage, network, and connection options. We gave preference to AM5 motherboards that have multiple M.2 slots that are compatible with PCIe 5.0 for lightning-fast storage and graphics.

Aesthetics were a priority for us as well, albeit they are more open to interpretation. However, we monitored user reviews of different motherboards and made adjustments to our ranks as necessary.

During testing, our team of hardware specialists did not spare any effort. In order to arrive at an objective and fact-based assessment, the team carefully examined every feature of the motherboards.

In-depth VRM testing was conducted by monitoring VRM temperatures on each board while an overclocked AMD Ryzen 7 7700X ran in a closed chassis for extended periods of time.

Based on the results of these tests, we’ve compiled a complete and exhaustive list of the best motherboards currently available for the Ryzen 7 7700X.

X670E vs. X670 – What is the Difference?

Some motherboards are branded “X670E,” while others are just labeled “X670,” leading one to wonder why the difference exists. It’s true that the X670 chipset features a new, multi-level structure as created by AMD.

Simply put, an X670 motherboard with an “E” suffix is the best option for Ryzen 7000 series processors. While both use the X670 chipset, the X670E (or X670 Extended) motherboards provide improved performance.

One might find a lot of distinctions between the two levels. For starters, AMD has advertised the X670E motherboards as having “Extreme Overclocking” capability, which translates to the finest VRM configurations of any AM5 motherboard.

As AMD pointed out in their introduction release, X670E boards have PCIe 5.0 capabilities “everywhere,” whereas X670 motherboards only have PCIe 5.0 capability for storage and graphics. This implies that compared to X670E motherboards, X670 boards feature fewer PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and fewer PCIe slots overall.

Finally, X670E motherboards have superior connectivity compared to their X670 brethren. The X670E motherboard supports up to four HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.0 inputs.

In summary, the X670E chipset is the pinnacle of motherboard chipsets for AMD Ryzen 7000 series processors, and the X670E is still a very respectable choice right behind that.

DDR5 Memory

Memory technology has evolved to the DDR5 generation, which is the current generation and offers numerous substantial enhancements over its predecessor. Newer DDR5 technology has improved error-correcting capabilities, as well as greater capacity and bandwidth. Additionally, its power consumption is reduced.

Due to these characteristics, DDR5 is ideally suited for usage in processing applications that require high performance.

The AM5 platform from AMD is the only platform from the Red Team that can make use of the latest DDR5 memory generation. Even though this is fantastic news and a step in the right direction, it also means that your older DDR4 memory modules cannot be used any longer and you will need to replace them.

On the contrary, Intel continues to offer DDR4 memory on its 13th Generation Raptor Lake CPUs in addition to DDR5 memory. Both types of memory are supported by Intel currently.

On the other hand, we cannot criticize AMD for completely abandoning the previous standard. This new technology is being adopted by the industry at a quick rate, and it is evident that over the next few years, it is likely to become the predominant kind of memory technology.

Given the fact that we are aware of how dependent Ryzen is on memory, we are able to make the reasonable assumption that the latest Zen 4 architecture has been designed with DDR5 memory in mind entirely.

As a consequence of the above, DDR5 is well on its way to becoming the new standard for memory technology across the industry as well as the norm for AMD moving ahead.

PCIe 5.0

The fifth generation of the PCI Express standard, abbreviated as PCIe 5.0, was released in consumer desktop motherboards recently. PCIe 5.0 has been incorporated into the AMD AM5 platform due to its superior bandwidth and latency compared to PCIe 4.0.

Compared to PCIe 4.0, PCIe 5.0 offers double the bandwidth at 32GT/s and half the latency at just 12ns. The bandwidth can expand up to 128 GB/s over 16 lanes!

Because of this, it is ideally suited for usage in resource-intensive environments like data centers and gaming PCs. PCIe 5.0 is also backward compatible with PCIe 4.0, meaning that it may be utilized in any system that supports PCIe 4.0.

Numerous X670E and X670 chipset-based AM5 motherboards now support PCIe 5.0 in their onboard storage slots. Significantly better than the previous X570 standard, which capped M.2 slots at PCIe 4.0 speeds, this is a major improvement.

Over the next several years, a flood of PCIe 5.0 SSDs will enter the market, ushering in a brand-new era of storage. Considering that X670 motherboards currently support this technology, AM5 motherboards will be ready for such devices on day one.

Further, the primary x16 PCIe slot supports PCIe 5.0, albeit this is less crucial given that modern graphics cards do not fully utilize the available PCIe 4.0 bandwidth.

Buyer’s Guide

The new AMD AM5 platform does not necessarily simplify the selection process for motherboards, which is notoriously difficult to begin with. You’ll need a new motherboard if you’re one of the lucky few who manage to get your hands on the new Ryzen 7 7700X CPU.

How much you should spend on a motherboard is a question with a subjective response that is impossible to predict. If you’re in the market for a new motherboard, give these factors some thought.

Form Factor

The motherboard’s form factor is a crucial consideration. In motherboards, the term “form factor” refers to the physical dimensions of the motherboard, therefore it’s crucial to pick a form factor that’s compatible with your case.

ATX, micro ATX, and mini ITX are widely used form factors. Micro ATX and mini ITX motherboards are smaller and more specialized, whereas ATX boards are the largest size and work with the most variety of cases.

The E-ATX form factor may be found on several high-end motherboards, like the X670E choices included in this roundup. In most setups, an E-ATX motherboard will require a somewhat larger case due to its greater dimensions compared to a standard ATX board.

An ATX motherboard offers the optimal combination of functionality and compatibility. In contrast, a micro ATX motherboard is an alternative for those who need something smaller and less expensive.

Mini ITX is the only option if you need anything tiny enough to fit into a small form factor (SFF) case. These motherboards are not only pricey because of their scarcity and specificity, but they also have relatively limited features.

The size of your computer casing and the features you want are the two most important factors in determining the form factor you should use.

CPU Overclocking

AMD’s Ryzen 7 7700X is a powerful processor, but it needs an equally robust motherboard to reach its full potential. Keep the motherboard’s VRM architecture and power delivery in mind while shopping for a new Ryzen 7 7700X motherboard.

The voltage regulator modules (VRM) on a motherboard are critical. When it comes to overclocking and longevity, nothing is more important than the VRMs’ job of supplying power to the CPU. If you intend to overclock your CPU, the VRM quality of the motherboard you choose is crucially vital.

Selecting a motherboard with high-quality VRMs is essential if you intend to overclock your CPU or modify the voltage settings, as lower-quality VRMs might cause instability and overheating.

The quality of a motherboard’s VRM also plays a role in its overall cooling performance. As a result of their efficiency, higher-quality VRMs produce less heat, which in turn can help your motherboard last longer.

In light of this, you should prioritize the quality of the motherboard’s VRM when shopping for a Ryzen 7 7700X motherboard.

Key Features

When shopping for a new AM5 motherboard, it’s crucial to think about which features are most essential to you. For instance, if you want to use the PC for creative productivity, you should check that the motherboard comes with the necessary high-speed networking ports and capabilities for connecting to a network.

You should also check that the motherboard has enough M.2 slots that support PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 protocols if you intend to use a large number of super-fast M.2 storage devices. Here is where X670E motherboards outperform their X670 counterparts, despite both being part of the same overall chipset family.

Consider the USB ports that are most crucial to you and check out the motherboard’s rear I/O while you’re at it. There are a wide variety of boards available with Thunderbolt support, allowing you to zero in on the best fit for your needs.

The easiest way to limit your options is to establish a list of the attributes that are most essential to you. By doing so, you can ensure that you get the ideal motherboard for your system.

Value for Money

When searching for a new motherboard, it’s crucial to keep your budget in mind. This is especially important when looking for a mid-range motherboard to go with your Ryzen 7 7700X CPU. If you’re looking to save money without sacrificing performance, a smart place to start is with a motherboard that doesn’t break the bank.

The price-to-performance ratio is a crucial indicator of value, among other metrics. Think about how much money you can spend and what features are most important to you. You’re on the correct path if you can locate a motherboard that provides good value in all of your preferred categories.

Don’t assume that the least expensive option is always the best one; sometimes it’s preferable to spend a little more on a board that performs better or has more features. In the end, you are the one who must determine what is most valuable to you and how much money you are willing to spend on it.

However, if you shop around with a price range in mind, you’re bound to find a motherboard that suits your particular needs.

Design and Aesthetics

The aesthetics of a motherboard are a major consideration when shopping for one. The motherboard is the heart of any computer, thus its aesthetic should complement that of the rest of the hardware.

Many users place a premium on aesthetics, and a stylish motherboard may do wonders for a system’s presentation. The choice of color is also significant since many users like to have a uniform appearance across all of their components. For instance, there are many available parts with a white theme that may be put together to make a stunning white-themed work of art.

In addition, motherboards with built-in LEDs or support for LED strips, allowing users to create trendy RGB illumination, are more common. Yet design is ultimately a matter of personal preference, so what appeals to one person may not be the best option for another. Your motherboard should have a design that you like and that works nicely with the rest of your hardware.

For a comprehensive breakdown of the motherboard selection process across Intel and AMD platforms, you can always refer to our detailed motherboard buying guide.

Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7700X - FAQs

Can I use DDR4 RAM with Ryzen 7 7700X?

You cannot use DDR4 RAM with Ryzen 7 7700X because it only supports DDR5 RAM. All the new Ryzen 7000 series processors on the AM5 platform support DDR5 memory exclusively.

Does Ryzen 7 7700X work with X570?

The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X does not work with X570 motherboards. You will need a new X670 or B650 motherboard for this processor since it is compatible with a completely new AM5 socket that is not present on X570 motherboards.

Is Ryzen 7 7700X better than Core i7 13700K?

The Ryzen 7 7700X is quite similar in performance to the Core i7 13700K according to initial benchmarks. In gaming, the Intel Core i7 13700K is a bit faster on average, while the two exchange blows in productivity tasks.

Does B650 work with Ryzen 7 7700X?

B650 motherboards do work with the Ryzen 7 7700X. B650 is the mid-range chipset for the AM5 generation of motherboards, and it supports CPU overclocking as well. These motherboards are cheaper on average than the X670 options.

What socket does Ryzen 7 7700X use?

The Ryzen 7 7700X uses the new AMD AM5 socket, which is an LGA socket as opposed to the PGA sockets that AMD has had in previous generations. The AM5 socket is currently supported by X670 and B650 motherboards.

The post 7 Best Motherboards For AMD Ryzen 7 7700X In 2024 appeared first on Appuals.

The 7 Best Motherboards For Core i7-13700K In 2024

Hassam Nasir — Thu, 10 Nov 2022 23:53:44 +0000

The new Core i7 13700K has landed on shelves all across the world, which gives us the ideal opportunity to find the best motherboard for i7 13700K. This high-end Intel Raptor Lake CPU is among the very best gaming CPUs you can currently buy right now.

With the new 13^th Generation of desktop processors, Intel has given us an incremental upgrade over the outgoing 12^th Gen Alder Lake lineup. The new CPUs have more cores, a better architecture, and a better feature set.

Keeping in mind that the Core i7 13700K is one of the most demanding CPUs on the market right now, it needs to be paired with a competent motherboard. Our specialized team of hardware experts has curated a selection of the top motherboards that can maximize the potential of the i7 13700K.

Be sure to check out our list of the best motherboards for i9 13900K as well, since the two CPUs are compatible with the same set of boards.

The Best Motherboard for i7 13700K – Our Choices

#	Product Name	Award	Details
1	Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master	Best Overall Motherboard for i7 13700K	90 Reviews Check Price
2	ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO	Best Premium Motherboard for i7 13700K	378 Reviews Check Price
3	MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi	Best Overclocking Motherboard for i7 13700K	147 Reviews Check Price
4	MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4	Best DDR4 Motherboard for i7 13700K	623 Reviews Check Price
5	ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi	Best Value Motherboard for i7 13700K	Check Price
6	ASUS PRIME Z690-A	Best Budget Motherboard for i7 13700K	447 Reviews Check Price
7	ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i7 13700K	167 Reviews Check Price

#	1
Preview
Product Name	Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master
Award	Best Overall Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	90 Reviews Check Price

#	2
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO
Award	Best Premium Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	378 Reviews Check Price

#	3
Preview
Product Name	MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi
Award	Best Overclocking Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	147 Reviews Check Price

#	4
Preview
Product Name	MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4
Award	Best DDR4 Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	623 Reviews Check Price

#	5
Preview
Product Name	ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi
Award	Best Value Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	Check Price

#	6
Preview
Product Name	ASUS PRIME Z690-A
Award	Best Budget Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	447 Reviews Check Price

#	7
Preview
Product Name	ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I
Award	Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i7 13700K
Details	167 Reviews Check Price

Last Update on 2024-03-05 at 22:34 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Why you should trust us

1. Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

Best Overall Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Marvell 10 Gigabit LAN
Superb Rear I/O
Extraordinary VRM Design
Nice Aesthetics

Cons

Very Pricey

90 Reviews

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With the Raptor Lake processors, Gigabyte’s AORUS range of motherboards continues to offer outstanding premium products. Although it has a high price tag, the Z790 AORUS Master board combines a potent power delivery system with some exceptional features that are almost too good to be true.

We also selected this motherboard in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 13600K, which shows the versatility of this particular option.

The Z790 AORUS Master board’s VRM setup, which is its most premium feature, has a very remarkable 23-phase architecture. In this configuration, 20 of those phases are devoted to providing the CPU with clean, reliable power. Even on the high-end i7 13700K CPU, you can anticipate a premium CPU overclocking experience thanks to the 105A available for the CPU.

Temperatures won’t ever be a problem thanks to the VRM’s effective cooling system. Multiple heatsinks effectively reduce any extra heat produced by the VRM components without affecting performance in any way. This is especially useful when you are running an overclocked i7 13700K on a day-to-day basis.

Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master

For gamers and enthusiasts, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master is a top-tier motherboard with a plethora of features. This one is a DDR5 model, which works with any current Raptor Lake processor, including the Core i7 13700K, and supports DDR5 memory up to 8000MT/s.

Furthermore, it also has four M.2 slots, a ton of high-speed USB connections, and support for up to six SATA drives for your storage and connectivity needs. Networking is particularly impressive as it also includes a 10 GbE LAN port for wired connections as well as Intel’s most recent Wi-Fi 6E standard for quicker and more reliable networking.

The Marvell 10 GbE LAN functionality really sets this board apart from others at this pricing range. For enthusiasts and creative professionals, this function makes this board the perfect choice. A full collection of capabilities for tweaking and overclocking is also included in the Z790 AORUS Master, including an advanced UEFI BIOS and support for Intel’s Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) standard.

The lack of an HDMI output on the rear I/O is a minor inconvenience, as it can be quite useful for troubleshooting.

Many users place a premium on a motherboard’s appearance, and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master does not let them down. The board has a pleasant appearance, with a simple layout and soft lighting. The color scheme is striking without being excessive, and the RGB lighting is skillfully implemented.

The board’s overall appearance is contemporary and attractive, and it would be a great addition to any gaming setup. We prefer a more subdued application of the design over the I/O cover, but the current design is striking in its own right.

More premium Gigabyte motherboards can be found in our list of the best motherboards for i7 12700K.

Ultimately, the Z790 AORUS Master is one of the finest motherboards available and ought to be taken into consideration if you’re looking for the ideal choice for the i7 13700K. With a feature set that is so extensive and a robust power delivery system, it has almost unrivaled overclocking potential.

Its pricing, which is among the most expensive options, is the only drawback. However, the Z790 AORUS Master should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for the best overall motherboard for i7 13700K.

2. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO

Best Premium Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Robust Power Delivery
Loads of Connectivity
Unique Aesthetics
Excellent Storage Suite

Cons

Extremely Expensive

378 Reviews

Check Price

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is one of the best premium motherboards available for the i7 13700K at the very top end of the pricing range. It provides a superb overclocking platform and is crammed full of features. The build quality is great as well, even though the cost is a bit excessive.

Keeping pricing to one side, we can safely say that the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is one of the best motherboards for gaming on the Z790 platform.

The power delivery system is unquestionably this board’s shining beacon. One of the top VRMs available on any motherboard on the market is found in the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO. It is a 20+1+2 phase VRM and makes use of some of the highest caliber parts. The powerful VRM of the Maximus Z790 HERO allows for unrestricted overclocking of the Core i7 13700K.

Additionally, for maximum heat dissipation, the VRM assembly is cooled by sizable aluminum heatsinks connected to heat pipes. As it can handle any CPU you throw at it and provides rock-solid power delivery for stable performance, this motherboard is ideal for overclocking and gaming.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO

Regarding features, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is a deluxe motherboard with a ton of special attributes that make it perfect for gaming and other demanding tasks. It has five M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe SSDs, which makes it perfect for gamers that need to store a lot of data.

Moreover, the motherboard has integrated WiFi 6E and 2.5 GbE LAN connectivity so you can have a constant online connection. On this particular motherboard, ASUS has not added a 10 GbE LAN connector, which would have been a very nice addition and can be quite useful for creative professionals.

Likewise, it boasts a total of 12 rear USB ports, so you won’t have to worry about running out of ports when connecting all of your accessories. This motherboard offers every capability and is excellent for both gaming setups and PCs with a productivity focus.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO’s design is certain to draw attention. The powerful red and black color combination highlights the aggressive design, while the RGB lighting gives a touch of luxury. The overall aesthetic is one of strength and sophistication, and it will stand out in any gaming setup.

We really appreciate the new ROG retro style, which is visible in several RGB lighting locations. This board stands out from the competition due to its pixelated ROG script and logo. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO features everything you require, whether you’re seeking style or functionality.

A similar ASUS option was selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X as well.

One of the leading premium options for the Core i7 13700K is the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO. If you’re looking for a top-tier Z790 motherboard without any budget constraints, this one should be at the top of your shortlist since it delivers all the premium features and amazing performance.

The cost, which is among the highest you’ll find, is the one drawback. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO, nevertheless, is our pick for the best premium motherboard for i7 13700K if you’re ready to pay more for quality.

3. MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi

Best Overclocking Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Excellent VRM Setup
Nice Design Elements
Versatile Networking
Premium Storage Options

Cons

Expensive

147 Reviews

Check Price

One of the finest motherboards available for the i7 13700K is the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi. This top-tier motherboard blends excellent features with overclocking performance. Provided that the motherboard is used with a high-end CPU like the i7 13700K, the price is not completely outrageous.

It is common knowledge that a solid power delivery system must be used with a high-end CPU like the 13700K. Premium components and a reliable cooling unit are used in the 19+1+1 phase VRM design of the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi. Even when the Core i7 13700K is overclocked, this VRM is more than capable of handling it.

Three separate heatsinks that are connected by copper heat pipes cool the VRM simultaneously. Due to this setup, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon’s VRM design as a whole is of a high caliber and ought to be able to withstand even the most demanding overclocking scenarios.

MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi

With its wealth of features, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi offers consumers unrivaled networking and storage options. Your storage requirements are met by its five M.2 slots for PCIe Gen 4 SSDs or even Gen 5 NVMe devices, and Wi-Fi 6 is available for networking. It also has a 2.5 GbE LAN port if you prefer to stay wired and need more conventional functionality.

The board is crammed with USB ports of all different sizes and shapes on the connectivity front. Although this is to be expected from a board in this price range, it is still great to see. For troubleshooting, the Clear CMOS button is a helpful small addition.

When selecting a motherboard, aesthetics are crucial, and the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi doesn’t fall short in that regard. The board has a stylish appearance because of its sleek black design and subtle accents. This particular motherboard does an excellent job of departing from MSI’s conventional design language.

The MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi motherboard, despite being mostly focused on gaming, wouldn’t look out of place in a professional setup either, provided you turn off the MSI Dragon logo. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi has excellent overall aesthetics and will look terrific in any setup.

A similar MSI option was also selected in our roundup of the best motherboards for i5 12600K.

All things considered, if you’re looking to build a high-performance gaming system based on the Core i7 13700K, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is one to shortlist. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi’s exceptional overclocking capability, strong power delivery, and top-notch networking are some of its finest qualities.

Considering its overclocking prowess and relative pricing, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi might be the best overclocking motherboard for i7 13700K currently available.

4. MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4

Best DDR4 Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Relatively Affordable
Support for DDR4 Memory
Great Networking Features
Competent Power Delivery

Cons

Lack of RGB Lighting

623 Reviews

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Considering how well this combination works from a value standpoint, we also wanted to add a DDR4 model in our roundup of motherboards for the i7 13700K. The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 is our choice for the best DDR4 motherboard for i7 13700K. Despite its slightly obnoxious naming pattern, the board is incredibly potent and actually competes with boards that cost significantly more money.

Our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 5 7600X also has more options worth checking out!

The 16+1+1 phase VRM arrangement is particularly intriguing since, considering the cost, it is a fairly durable setup overall. Tomahawk boards are incredibly popular thanks to their robust VRMs, and the Z790 variant maintains the trend. The Core i7 13700K is the ideal CPU for this particular board since you may overclock the CPU to your heart’s content and the board will be able to keep up with it.

MSI has also carefully considered the VRMs’ thermal solution. The heatsink assembly is massive and includes a heat pipe as well as numerous fin stacks. The power delivery components of this board are more than sufficiently cooled by this approach, and even when heavy loads are applied, the VRM configuration maintains its cooling and stability.

MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK DDR4

The Tomahawk is adorned with all of the modern features because it is a Z790 motherboard. The board provides seven SATA ports and four M.2 slots for your storage drives, while WiFi 6E and 2.5 GbE LAN are used to handle networking. This specific variant, as previously noted, offers DDR4 memory at speeds of up to 5333 MT/s, which is the optimal balance of performance and cost.

There are 10 USB ports of varying speeds and generations in the rear I/O, which is likewise substantially loaded. On the rear I/O, MSI has also included HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, which can be helpful for troubleshooting. Really, this motherboard’s feature set doesn’t have many shortcomings in it.

In terms of aesthetics, MSI has adopted an intriguing approach. The Tomahawk series has been updated to an all-black aesthetic, which is fairly quiet and unobtrusive. This variant looks pretty good and adheres to the same design principles. Although there are no garish design elements or excessive Mystic Light RGB lighting, the board nonetheless has a striking appearance.

For the modern trend of all-black or stealthy builds, this motherboard would be a perfect match. However, it lacks RGB lighting, which may be a contentious decision given your position on the issue. However, in our opinion, the board’s minimalism makes it look rather appealing.

All things considered, the MSI Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 is a solid choice. It has no glaring flaws, and generally, the feature set is fairly tempting given the price. If you look at the whole package, the DDR4 memory generation and the absence of RGB lighting are really the only minor drawbacks.

5. ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi

Best Value Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Another DDR4 Option
Quite Affordable
Decent Features

Cons

Plain Design
Unremarkable VRM Cooling

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For the past few years, the ASUS TUF line has been recognized for its reliable and simplistic motherboards. The ASUS Z690-Plus WiFi board, one of the newest members of this illustrious bunch, delivers noteworthy features for its inexpensive price. Since we have chosen the DDR4 version of this board for this roundup, you do not even need to be concerned about throwing away your previous DDR4 modules.

Although the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WiFi is not particularly expensive, ASUS did not skimp on the power delivery system. For any modern Raptor Lake CPU, the 14+1 phase VRM design is quite durable, and you may even experiment with moderate overclocking on your i7 13700K. The overclocking results might not be the highest, but you can certainly delve into moderate CPU overclocking with this combination.

Then again, the i7 13700K is already one of the best CPUs for gaming right now, so you afford to be a bit conservative with your overclock.

On this board, ASUS has also included some sizable VRM heatsinks that are sufficiently finned to improve heat dissipation. Even though you shouldn’t expect competitive overclocking results from a premium CPU like the i7 13700K, this configuration ought to be adequate for the majority of gamers out there.

ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi

Compared to other motherboards in its class, the TUF Z690 Plus lacks an excessive number of USB ports. However, it does have typical 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi capabilities for your networking needs. To improve this segment, we would have loved to see a few extra rear USB ports.

However, ASUS has included 4 M.2 storage slots on the board, which is a pretty respectable selection for modern gaming PCs. There is a DisplayPort output on the rear I/O, however, there isn’t an HDMI port, which would have been useful for troubleshooting.

We chose the DDR4 variant because the TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS is a good choice for those on a limited budget. The board natively supports DDR4 modules up to 5333 MHz and XMP memory overclocking. This motherboard’s value proposition is greatly enhanced by the usage of DDR4, making it a fantastic option on the cheap.

This motherboard looks exceptionally nice and adheres to the TUF brand’s aesthetic standards. Depending on your RGB configuration, the TUF logo illuminates in various colors, and the heatsink for the chipset even emits an RGB glow. However, the general design is rather dull and plain which may not be a perfect fit for a flashy gaming PC with RGB lighting everywhere.

In conclusion, the TUF Z690 Plus WiFi is a fantastic low-cost solution for gamers who seek performance and value without breaking the bank. You won’t be disappointed with this purchase because the board delivers its claims. The best value motherboard for i7 13700K can be identified as this one.

This particular motherboard was also chosen in our selection of the best Z690 motherboards.

6. ASUS PRIME Z690-A

Best Budget Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Unique White Theme
Very Inexpensive

Cons

No WiFi
Few Rear USB Ports
Mediocre VRM Cooling

447 Reviews

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The ASUS PRIME Z690-A, one of the most affordable Z690 motherboards on the market, is our next pick for the i7 13700K. It’s a brilliant choice for anyone looking for a competent and reasonably priced Z690 motherboard. The PRIME Z690-A is one of the most underappreciated motherboards right now on the market owing to its decent features and VRM performance.

Be sure to check out our selection of the best motherboards for Ryzen 9 7950X as well for more ASUS motherboards.

The Z690-A PRIME’s VRM components are not the greatest in the industry since it is a value-oriented motherboard. With the exception of a handful of the most demanding SKUs, it is nevertheless adequate for the majority of the Intel 13th Gen Raptor Lake lineup. As a result, you can count on the 16+1 phase VRM to manage the Core i7 13700K using the default voltage settings.

Furthermore, the VRM’s substantial heatsinks are connected via a heat pipe to provide adequate cooling. The board’s thermal performance isn’t as good as some of the aforementioned options, but it’s still serviceable for daily use in a gaming PC.

ASUS PRIME Z690-A

When it comes to the feature set, the ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a basic motherboard that makes some sacrifices. The PRIME Z690-A has a 2.5 GbE LAN port for fast networking, but the version we chose does not include WiFi. We believe that using this cost-cutting approach on a Z690 motherboard in 2024 is unacceptable and ASUS should have included WiFi 6E on all available variants.

You can easily fix that by picking up any one of the best PCIe WiFi cards out there.

Along with numerous SATA connections for conventional hard drives and SSDs, it also has four M.2 slots for ultrafast NVMe SSDs. The PRIME Z690-A has a total of eight rear USB ports, which is also a limited number in terms of connectivity. The addition of a Thunderbolt 4 port on the back I/O, which is unusual for budget motherboards, is a nice touch.

The ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a true beauty in terms of appearance. This may be regarded as the motherboard’s distinguishing quality, and it is unquestionably a selling point. The motherboard has a streamlined and fashionable appearance that is enhanced by its all-white color scheme. The board works well with current gaming PC designs, especially if you plan to build a white-themed PC.

The board also has RGB lighting that is customizable to produce a variety of styles. The placement and layout of the RGB zones were also carefully considered.

On the subject of value-oriented motherboards, don’t forget to check out our selection of the best B450 motherboards as well.

All things considered, the ASUS PRIME Z690-A is an excellent board for anyone searching for a high-quality 13^th Gen Intel motherboard without going over the budget. It works fairly well in terms of power delivery and has all the features you would want in a good board. The ASUS PRIME Z690-A is the best budget motherboard for i7 13700K on our list, and should definitely be considered.

7. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I

Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i7 13700K

Pros

Ideal for Compact PCs
Loads of Features

Cons

Limited Expansion
Only 2 DIMM Slots
Quite Expensive

167 Reviews

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The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is our choice for the best mini ITX motherboard for i7 13700K, and for a number of good reasons. Compact gaming PCs are currently quite prevalent, so now is the time to build a small form factor gaming rig with this motherboard. If you’re shopping for a high-end, compact 13^th Gen motherboard with all the bells and whistles, it’s one of the best options available.

Our selection of the best mini ITX motherboards for i9 9900K can also be helpful for users of that platform.

It also stands out from all the motherboards that seem similar due to its distinctive design. Gamers are always concerned with a product’s appearance, and the motherboard is no exception. There is no doubt that users will like the sleek and contemporary look of this motherboard. The RGB lighting adds a dash of elegance while maintaining the classic gaming aesthetic of black and silver.

The I/O section of the motherboard is also covered by a shroud, which looks nice and keeps the PCB organized. The ROG eye, which has become a recognizable design element in gaming devices, is included in the corner of the I/O cover.

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I

The ROG Strix Z690-I is not all about looks, however. The motherboard’s 10+1 phase architecture and excellent components make its VRM setup fairly durable. This guarantees stable power delivery, even while overclocking Raptor Lake CPUs that are more demanding. Although the VRM is not as powerful as some of the more costly ASUS motherboards, it still does a good job.

Large aluminum heatsinks are used to cool the VRM, which also aids in regulating temperatures. Almost any 13th Gen CPU can be handled by the Strix Z690-I, however, there are practical limits to its power that should be respected. You cannot expect a lot of overclocking output from this motherboard when paired with the Core i7 13700K.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is a very competent mini ITX motherboard with a broad feature set and excellent networking capability. The motherboard has two M.2 slots for super-fast storage, while the networking suite is comprised of WiFi 6 compatibility for lightning-fast wireless rates, and a sturdy 2.5 GbE LAN port, making it perfect for tiny form factor designs.

The motherboard also offers a wide range of connectivity options, including rear HDMI and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The HDMI port is handy for those sporadic times when troubleshooting is necessary. The Strix Z690-I, however, has the same drawbacks as other mini-ITX motherboards due to their size constraints.

There are just 2 DIMM slots available for DDR5 memory, which may prove to be a drawback in the future. Additionally, there is just one full-size x16 PCIe slot available on the board for expansion. The mini-ITX form factor, not the board itself, is to blame for these shortcomings.

Nevertheless, the ROG Strix Z690-I is one of the best mini ITX boards available, and if you’re looking for a high-performance option, it should be on your list. Because of its remarkable power delivery system, it boasts respectable overclocking capability and a robust feature set that is uncommon in a mini-ITX board.

We also crowned this motherboard as one of the best motherboards for i9 12900K.

The ROG Strix Z690-I is a great choice for the i7 13700K if you are building a compact gaming rig, with the only major drawback being that it is relatively pricey.

How we picked and tested

Since the Intel Core i7 13700K is one of the fastest gaming CPUs available, selecting the appropriate motherboards for it requires considerable diligence. Naturally, we established rigorous criteria for the purposes of this roundup.

We first focused on the quality and quantity of VRM phases provided by the motherboard, which could have a significant impact on performance. The Core i7 13700K’s key selling feature is its ability to overclock, thus the motherboard’s power delivery system must be able to keep up with these demands.

Since any VRM configuration is only as good as the cooling system attached to it, we also gave top priority to the cooling system adopted by motherboard manufacturers to cool the VRM components.

We also made sure that the selected motherboards provide all of the connectivity and networking features that one could need with a Core i7 13700K in order to get the optimal day-to-day experience. These features are necessary for a gaming motherboard to deliver the best experience in gaming and productivity tasks.

Although aesthetics are a subjective matter, we did give priority to motherboards that were more well-liked by consumers due to their design. Any key missing features in this department were also noted.

Finally, the motherboards’ value proposition served as the main decisive element. Despite the fact that the Core i7 13700K is a premium gaming CPU, it doesn’t hurt to look for the maximum value when you are searching for the ideal motherboard for it.

Our diligent group of hardware professionals did a thorough job of testing our final motherboard choices to establish a useful set of data. To create an empirical and objective conclusion on the boards, the team thoroughly investigated every facet of the motherboards.

To make things more specific, we conducted comprehensive VRM testing by monitoring the temperatures of the boards’ VRMs while a Core i7 13700K processor was overclocked and kept in a closed chassis for prolonged periods of time.

This gave the editorial team a great idea of the quality of the different VRM setups employed by the motherboards.

Combining the testing data with the objective analysis of the motherboards’ features and price, we have curated a selection of the best motherboards you can buy for the Core i7 13700K.

Intel Core i7 13700K vs AMD Ryzen 7 7700X

As soon as the Intel Core i7 13700K was officially released by Intel, enthusiasts started drawing comparisons to AMD’s Ryzen 7 7700X CPU. Both these high-end gaming CPUs fall around the $400 mark, so it is quite a straightforward comparison when it comes to value.

According to initial benchmark findings, the Core i7 13700K beats the Ryzen 7 7700X in most gaming scenarios. This puts the 13700K at a major advantage in terms of value as well, considering the Intel CPU is roughly the same price as the Ryzen offering at MSRP.

Depending on the situation, the Ryzen 7 7700X and Core i7 13700K exchange blows in productivity workloads. While some tasks benefit from the “real” cores of the Ryzen CPU, others get superior overall performance from the Intel CPU’s E-cores.

Not to mention, the Core i7 13700K supports older Z690 motherboards and less expensive DDR4 memory. On Intel, the whole platform price is substantially lower, which is not something we typically associate with Intel. The cost of entry is lower, and the value proposition is higher if you go with the blue team in this comparison.

The main advantage that swings in the favor of the Ryzen 7 7700X is the upgrade path. The AM5 platform of the Ryzen 7000 series is significantly more “future-proof” than the Intel 13^th Gen platform, and AMD has promised to support that socket for a few more years still. On the flip side, this is the last generation of CPUs that will be released on the LGA1700 socket from Intel.

At the end of the day, you can’t really go wrong with either of the two choices. The Intel Core i7 13700K gets our slight recommendation due to its superior gaming performance and cheaper cost of entry right now, but that can change in a few years when the AM5 platform’s upgrade path will hold more value.

Z790 vs. Z690

Even though Z790 is a brand-new chipset developed specifically for 13th Gen Raptor Lake processors, it doesn’t offer many ground-breaking innovations. It is a gradual improvement over Z690 and does not necessarily call for users of the Z690 platform to upgrade.

Like the Z690 platform, the Z790 chipset is compatible with both 12th and 13th-generation Intel processors. The connectivity and rear I/O specifications of the two motherboard chipsets are where the improvements are most noticeable. In comparison to Z690, the new Z790 chipset adds four additional PCIe Gen 4 downstream lanes, as well as an additional USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20 Gbps port.

The majority of these minor adjustments involve networking and storage functions. On Z790 motherboards, you could get an extra M.2 slot or a few extra USB ports here and there, but the improvements are, to put it mildly, incremental.

Therefore, you can go with either a Z790 or Z690 motherboard for the new 13^th Gen Intel processors without losing a whole lot. This is why we have recommended multiple Z690 motherboards for the i7 13700K in this roundup. These older motherboards can be found much more easily on the market, and are often cheaper than Z790 options.

Buyer’s Guide

It’s crucial to bear in mind a few factors that will make your shopping experience a lot simpler. Motherboards are infamously challenging to buy because their product pages don’t contain a great deal of useful information.

It can be challenging to determine how much you should really spend on a motherboard because the answer varies on a case-to-case basis. When selecting your new motherboard, keep the following things in mind.

Form Factor

The form factor is one of the most major elements to take into account when selecting a motherboard. The motherboard’s form factor, which refers to its size and shape, influences how much space it will occupy in your case. The ATX, micro ATX, and mini ITX form factors are the three most prevalent.

The ATX form factor is the biggest and offers the maximum room for multiple expansion cards and other components. Micro ATX is a smaller form factor that is more compact than ATX but still offers plenty of expandability. At the extreme end of the spectrum, mini ITX is the smallest form factor and is intended for small cases or projects where space is at a premium.

Nowadays we are also seeing a rise in the number of E-ATX or “Extended ATX” motherboards, which are even bigger than standard ATX motherboards. This form factor is usually employed in premium motherboards that offer a lot of features and capabilities.

You should think about how much space you have in your case and the components you need to fit before selecting a form factor. For instance, an ATX motherboard is essential if you wish to use several graphics cards in SLI or CrossFire. A mini ITX motherboard is the best option if you want a small setup that doesn’t take up much room.

In the end, it’s crucial to choose a form factor that offers you the optimal balance of size and features for your requirements.

Power Delivery

The VRM architecture or power delivery is one of the most crucial factors to take into account when purchasing a motherboard. Voltage Regulator Module, often known as VRM, is in charge of providing the CPU with stable and clean power.

While a bad VRM design can result in instability and overheating, a good VRM design will enable improved overclocking and stability. Modern CPUs are quite demanding in terms of power, so they can even alter their boosting behaviors depending on the quality of the VRM.

The Core i7 13700K needs a robust VRM design in order to be overclocked properly because it is a very power-hungry CPU. A good VRM design will also offer enhanced cooling thanks to the improved efficiency of the components. You should also take into account the design and efficacy of the VRM heatsinks on the motherboard itself.

Check the reviews of the VRM design when looking at motherboards to be sure you are buying a high-quality item. There is a ton of empirical data available online regarding the power delivery characteristics of various motherboards.

Remember that the number of “phases” a VRM has is not always a good indicator of the efficiency of the power delivery system. The best course of action is to read user and expert reviews regarding a specific motherboard’s VRM performance.

DDR5 vs. DDR4

Which type of RAM to select is one of the first concerns you’ll need to address while upgrading your PC. Do you choose the more established, more mature DDR4 standard or the more modern DDR5? Both have benefits and drawbacks, so it’s critical to recognize the differences before choosing one over the other.

The prevalent generation of memory is DDR4, with DDR5 projected to overtake it soon. DDR4 is therefore more readily accessible and typically less expensive. However, on the flip side, DDR5 has lower latencies and faster data rates than DDR4 and delivers a substantial performance improvement over DDR4.

Additionally, DDR5 consumes less power than DDR4 and can operate cooler, and have a longer lifespan. DDR5 is therefore anticipated to replace DDR4 as the new industry standard for high-end laptops and PCs.

DDR4 is still most likely your best option if you want to upgrade your PC right now. It makes a lot more sense from a value perspective as well. However, DDR5 is something to think about if you would like to go for the most recent and cutting-edge technology. However, early adopters will need to be ready to pay more for the ability to use cutting-edge memory.

This is one of the most important questions for those purchasing new Intel 13^th Gen motherboards because the answer will determine your entire upgrading route in the future. Be sure to take into account the chance that DDR5 memory could develop quickly over the next few years. This can mean that whatever DDR5 modules you buy today could be outdated in just a few short years.

Storage, Networking, and Connectivity

When choosing a motherboard for the Core i7 13700K, you should certainly look for a few key features. The three most important categories to consider are storage, networking, and connectivity features. You can also take into account diagnostic features but those are unique to each motherboard model.

For connectivity, the most important characteristics to look for are USB ports, Thunderbolt 4 connectors, and high-speed USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports. You should take into account both the number and the speed of the various USB ports offered by the motherboard.

Secondly, it is important to consider the storage characteristics of the motherboard. Nowadays, PCIe 4.0 SSDs are commonplace, and we are even expecting new PCIe 5.0 SSDs to hit the market soon. It is important to note how many PCIe M.2 slots are offered by the motherboard, and how many of them support PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 protocols.

In addition to these qualities, networking is a crucial factor to take into account when buying a motherboard. In a high-end gaming setup with the Core i7 13700K, premium networking features like 2.5 GbE LAN and WiFi 6E are practically essential. You can also look at motherboards with a 10 Gigabit LAN port if you are a creative professional. The most modern motherboards support these capabilities.

These are a few of the features that will work well with your premium Core i7 13700K processor.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics is largely viewed as a personal decision. However, aesthetics should unquestionably be taken into account while selecting a motherboard. The layout and appearance of a motherboard can significantly affect how a build appears overall. Additionally, factors like RGB lighting and software modification might have an impact on aesthetics.

Be sure to look for distinctive design elements that can make a motherboard stand out in your build. For RGB lighting, it is often helpful to take into account the software ecosystem of the particular motherboard. You should consider the possibility of tying in your motherboard’s lighting with the rest of your PC components.

Despite the fact that aesthetics are ultimately a matter of taste, it is nevertheless crucial to take into account how a motherboard will appear in a build before making a purchase. Given the wide variety of motherboards available, considering their appearance can help to reduce the available choices and make selecting the best board for a build much simpler.

If you’re still unsure about your motherboard choice, fret not. Our comprehensive motherboard buying guide will arm you will all the knowledge you seek about the motherboard buying experience.

Best Motherboard for i7 13700K - FAQs

Do I need DDR5 for i7 13700K?

You do not need DDR5 memory for i7 13700K. It supports both DDR5 and DDR4 memory, so you can use either memory technology with this CPU. However, you will need a motherboard that supports that particular memory generation specifically.

Which motherboards support i7 13700K?

The motherboards that support the i7 13700K include the Z790 and Z690 chipsets, as well as H670, B660, and H610 chipsets. The budget H770, H710, and B760 chipsets have not been released at the time of writing. You will need a BIOS update to run a 13th Gen processor with a 600 series motherboard.

Is i7 13700K better than Ryzen 7 7700X?

Generally, the i7 13700k is better than the Ryzen 7 7700X in gaming applications. The two CPUs are fairly competitive in productivity workloads, while the 13700K has the advantage of value. The Ryzen 7 7700X, on the other hand, has a better upgrade path for the future.

Can I use i7 13700K with Z690?

You can use an i7 13700K with a Z690 motherboard. The Intel 13th Gen Raptor Lake CPUs are compatible with all 600-series and 700-series motherboards. You may need a BIOS update to run the 13th Gen CPUs on an older 600-series motherboard.

Does i7 13700K support PCIe 5.0?

The i7 13700K does support PCIe 5.0 technology. You can get PCIe 5.0 lanes directly to the main PCIe x16 slot as well as multiple M.2 slots on a Z790 motherboard. However, there are very few PCIe 5.0 devices on the market that can take advantage of this new technology right now.

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