Top i7 13700k Motherboards that Can Boost Your PC Performance

It may be thrilling and difficult to construct a new computer, especially when it comes to selecting the correct components. The motherboard is one of the most crucial parts of your computer. Your system’s motherboard, sometimes known as the “motherboard,” powers your system and controls the CPU and memory you may utilize and the quantity and kind of peripheral connections and extension possibilities.

Ensure you get a motherboard that gives the optimum performance and compatibility when selecting one for the Intel Core i7-13700K. The finest motherboards for the Intel Core i7-13700K and what to consider when buying a motherboard will be covered in this post.

i7 13700k Specs

Intel’s 16-core, 24-thread Core i7 13700K desktop CPU for socket LGA-1700. Turbo Boost technology allows the CPU to reach 5300 MHz from its 3400 MHz base speed. It’s 30 MB. This chip’s integrated graphics are Intel UHD Graphics 770.

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1. Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master – Best Motherboard for i7 13700K

The Intel 13700K processor works well with the high-performance Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master motherboard. This motherboard is one of the best choices for people who want to build a high-end gaming or workstation PC because it has many features and is well-made.

One of the best things about the Z790 AORUS Master is that its VRM has a 20+1+2 phase design that gives the CPU and other parts enough power. This should lead to stable performance, even if the 13700K processor is overclocked.

$194.99 at Amazon

The Z790 AORUS Master gives users a lot of storage options. It has five M.2 slots and four SATA ports. This leaves much room for both fast NVMe solid-state drives and traditional hard drives or solid-state drives. This means that demanding applications can have a lot of storage space.

The Z790 AORUS Master also has fast ways to connect. It has 1 10 GbE LAN for fast Ethernet and 1 Wi-Fi 6E for wireless connections. This should give you a lot of bandwidth for high-speed file transfers and applications that use a lot of bandwidth.

The Z790 AORUS Master also looks good, with RGB lighting accents and a sleek design that will work well in any high-end PC build. The motherboard is built well, with sturdy parts and well-thought-out cooling solutions that keep it stable even when it’s under a lot of stress.

Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master Pros and Cons

Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master Review

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master is a great motherboard with many features and a solid build. It’s a great choice for building a high-performance gaming or workstation PC because it works with the 13700K processor and has a lot of storage, connectivity, and power options.

• Form Factor: E-ATX
• Chipset: Z790
• Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-8000
• Video Outputs: DisplayPort
• USB Ports: 14x rear IO, 9x internal
• Network: 1x 10 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E
• Storage: 5x M.2, 4x SATA
• VRM: 20+1+2 Phase

Form Factor: E-ATX – The motherboard has an Extended ATX form factor, bigger than ATX and Micro-ATX form factors. Most high-performance desktops and workstations use E-ATX motherboards because they have more room for extra components and ports.

Chipset: Z790 – The motherboard uses Intel’s Z790 chipset, which is made to work with Intel processors. The Z790 chipset is great for high-performance systems because it has advanced features and performance.

Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-8000. The motherboard has four DIMM slots holding up to 128GB of 8000 MHz DDR5 memory. This should give you enough memory for high-performance applications and games.

Video Outputs: DisplayPort: The motherboard has a digital interface connecting a display called a DisplayPort output. DisplayPort can send high-definition video and audio over a single cable, making it a great choice for high-performance gaming and multimedia applications.

USB Ports: 14x rear IO and 9x internal. The motherboard has 14 USB ports on the rear IO and 9 USB ports on the inside. This gives you a lot of ways to connect external devices like keyboards, mice, and storage devices.

Network: 1x 10 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E – The motherboard has one 10 GbE LAN port for fast Ethernet connections and one Wi-Fi 6E port for wireless connections. The 10 GbE LAN makes network connections quickly and reliably, and the Wi-Fi 6E supports the latest wireless standard for faster speeds and better performance.

Storage: 5x M.2, 4x SATA – The motherboard has five M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe solid-state drives and four SATA ports for regular hard drives or solid-state drives. This gives you a lot of storage options for high-performance applications and games.

VRM: 20+1+2 Phase – The motherboard has a voltage regulator module (VRM) with 20+1+2 phases. This module gives power to the CPU and other parts of the computer. The 20+1+2 phase VRM is perfect for high-performance systems because the more phases it has, the more stable and overclockable it is likely to be.

Finally, if you’re searching for the best motherboard with your i7 13700K, you should think about the Z790 AORUS Master. It has nearly unequalled overclocking potential thanks to its comprehensive feature set and powerful power delivery mechanism.

The only negative aspect is its price, which is high compared to other alternatives. If you’re searching for the best motherboard for your i7 13700K, the Z790 AORUS Master should be at the top of your list.

2. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO – Premium Motherboard for i7 13700K

The powerful Intel Core i7-13700k processor can be used with the high-end ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO motherboard. It stands out from other motherboards because it has many high-tech features and a strong design.

The motherboard’s design starts with its ATX form factor, which offers a good balance of features, performance, and size. The motherboard also comes with a 20+1 phase VRM, which gives the CPU and other parts enough power. This ensures the processor works well and gives the best performance possible.

$699.00 at Amazon

The motherboard also has a lot of ways to connect to other devices. It has HDMI, two USB-C video outputs, 12 USB ports on the back, and 9 USB ports on the inside. It also has a Wi-Fi 6E port for wireless connections and a 2.5 GbE LAN port for fast Ethernet connections.

The motherboard has 5 M. of storage space.

There are two slots for fast NVMe solid-state drives and six SATA ports for hard drives or solid-state drives. This gives you a lot of storage options for high-performance applications and games.

In terms of memory, the motherboard can support up to 128GB of DDR5 memory running at 7800 MHz or higher. This gives you a lot of memory for high-performance applications and games.

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO Pros and Cons

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO Review

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is a top-of-the-line motherboard that gives even the most demanding users excellent performance and advanced features. The best high-end motherboard for the Intel Core i7-13700k processor is the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO. You can use it to build a high-performance gaming system or a powerful workstation.

• Form Factor: ATX
• Chipset: Z790
• Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-7800+
• Video Outputs: HDMI, 2x USB-C
• USB Ports: 12x rear IO, 9x internal
• Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E
• Storage: 5x M.2, 6x SATA
• VRM: 20+1 Phase

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is a high-performance ATX motherboard for advanced gaming and workstation applications. The motherboard is based on the Intel Z790 chipset and works with the latest Intel processors, such as the Intel Core i7-13700k.

Memory: The motherboard can handle up to 128GB of DDR5 memory with a speed of at least 7800 MHz. This gives you a lot of memory for high-performance applications and games.

Video Outputs: The motherboard has a number of ways to send video out, including two USB-C ports and an HDMI port. This gives you a lot of different ways to connect multiple displays, even 4K displays.

USB Ports: The motherboard has 12 USB ports on the back IO and 9 USB ports on the inside. This gives peripherals and other devices a lot of ways to connect.

Network: The motherboard has a Wi-Fi 6E port for wireless connections and a 2.5 GbE LAN port for fast Ethernet connections. This gives both wired and wireless networks high-speed ways to connect.

There are two slots for fast NVMe solid-state drives and six SATA ports for hard or solid-state drives. This gives you a lot of storage options for high-performance applications and games.

VRM: The motherboard has a 20+1-phase VRM, which gives the CPU and other parts enough power. This ensures the processor works well and gives the best performance possible.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is a top-tier motherboard compatible with Intel’s Core i7 13700K. This Z790 motherboard should be at the top of your choice if you have a high budget and are seeking a top-tier option.

One negative aspect is the price, which is somewhat pricey compared to similar options. However, if you are willing to spend more on a premium product, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is the finest premium motherboard for the i7 13700K.

3. MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi – Best Overclocking Motherboard i7 13700K

The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is a high-end ATX motherboard with impressive specifications and features. A Z790 chipset provides ample processing power for demanding applications and games. The motherboard supports up to 128GB of DDR5-7600+ memory, making it ideal for demanding video editing and rendering tasks.

The video outputs on the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi are limited to HDMI, which may be disappointing for users who require a wider range of options. However, the motherboard features an impressive 10 USB ports on the rear IO and 7 additional ports for internal use.

$469.99 at Amazon

One of the standout features of the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is its network connectivity. It features a 2.5 GbE LAN for fast and reliable wired networking and Wi-Fi 6E for wireless connectivity. This combination of options makes the motherboard suitable for home and office use.

In terms of storage, the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi has plenty of options. It features 5 M.2 slots and 6 SATA ports, allowing users to install multiple high-speed solid-state and mechanical hard drives. This is more than enough for most users, and the M.2 slots are particularly useful for those who require fast storage for demanding applications.

Finally, the VRM on the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is impressive, with a 19+1+1 phase design. This provides ample power delivery to the CPU, ensuring stable and reliable performance even under heavy loads.

MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi Pros and Cons

MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi Review

The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is a high-end ATX motherboard with impressive features and specifications. Its fast memory, ample storage options, and impressive network connectivity make it suitable for demanding applications and games. However, the limited video outputs may be a drawback for some users.

• Form Factor: ATX
• Chipset: Z790
• Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-7600+
• Video Outputs: HDMI
• USB Ports: 10x rear IO, 7x internal
• Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E
• Storage: 5x M.2, 6x SATA
• VRM: 19+1+1 Phase

On the connectivity side, the board is full of USB ports of all sizes and shapes. Even though this is what you would expect from a board in this price range, it is still great to see. The Clear CMOS button is a small but useful tool for troubleshooting.

When choosing a motherboard, looks are very important, and the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi doesn’t disappoint. The sleek black design and small touches of colour give the board a stylish look. This motherboard does a great job of breaking away from what MSI usually does with its designs.

Even though the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi motherboard is mostly made for gaming, it wouldn’t look out of place in a professional setup as long as the MSI Dragon logo was turned off. Overall, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi looks great and will look great in any setup.

All things considered, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi is a good choice if you want to build a high-performance gaming system around the Core i7 13700K. The best things about the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi are how well it can overclock, how well it delivers power, and how well it networks.

Considering how well it overclocks and how much it costs, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi might be the best overclocking motherboard for the i7 13700K right now.

4. MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 – Best DDR4 Motherboard for i7 13700K

The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 Motherboard is a well-rounded option for building a high-performance gaming or workstation PC. The ATX form factor allows for ample space for components and upgrades, while the Z790 chipset provides support for Intel’s latest processors, including the i7 13700K.

Memory support is robust, with four DIMM slots capable of accommodating up to 128GB of DDR4-5333 RAM, providing ample memory for even the most demanding applications. The video outputs, including HDMI and DisplayPort, make it easy to connect multiple monitors for a more immersive gaming experience or to increase productivity in a multitasking environment.

The 10x rear IO and 7x internal USB ports provide a good amount of connectivity options for peripherals, and the addition of Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5 GbE LAN provides fast and reliable network connections. The 4x M.2 and 7x SATA ports offer ample storage options for fast NVMe solid-state and traditional hard drives.

$309.99 at Amazon

Finally, the 16+1+1 phase VRM design helps ensure stable power delivery to the CPU, even under heavy loads, ensuring stable and reliable performance.

MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 Pros and Cons

MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 Review

The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 Motherboard is a well-designed motherboard that offers a great balance of features and performance, making it a good option for those looking to build a high-performance system.

• Form Factor: ATX
• Chipset: Z790
• Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR4-5333
• Video Outputs: HDMI, DisplayPort
• USB Ports: 10x rear IO, 7x internal
• Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E
• Storage: 4x M.2, 7x SATA
• VRM: 16+1+1 Phase

Since the Tomahawk is a Z790 motherboard, it has all the latest features. The board has seven SATA ports and four M.2 slots for your hard drives. For networking, it uses WiFi 6E and 2.5 GbE LAN. As was already said, this version has DDR4 memory with speeds of up to 5333 MT/s, which is the best combination of performance and price.

In the rear I/O, which is also very full, there are 10 USB ports with different speeds and generations. MSI has also put HDMI and DisplayPort outputs on the back I/O, which can help troubleshoot. Really, there aren’t many things wrong with this motherboard’s set of features.

MSI has taken an interesting approach to the way its products look. The Tomahawk series has been updated to look all-black, quiet, and doesn’t stand out too much. This version looks pretty good and follows the same rules for the design. Even though the board doesn’t have any flashy design elements or too much Mystic Light RGB lighting, it still looks great.

This motherboard would be perfect for the modern trend of all-black or stealthy builds. But it doesn’t have RGB lighting, which may be controversial depending on your feelings about the subject. But we think the board’s simple design makes it look pretty good.

The MSI Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 is a good choice, all things considered. It has no big problems, and the features are pretty good for the price. When you look at the whole package, the only small problems are the DDR4 memory generation and the lack of RGB lighting.

5. ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi – Best Value Motherboard for i7 13700K

The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi motherboard is a great choice for users looking for a reliable and high-performing motherboard for their Intel Core i7 13700K processor. This motherboard offers a number of impressive features and specifications, including:

One of the standout features of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi motherboard is its support for high-speed memory. With four DIMM slots that support up to 128GB of DDR4-5333 memory, users can achieve lightning-fast performance with their compatible CPUs.

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Another key feature is its ample USB connectivity, with a total of 15 USB ports, 8 of which are located on the rear IO and 7 of which are internal. This makes connecting multiple devices to the motherboard easy without running out of ports.

The motherboard also includes a 2.5 GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, providing users with flexible networking options. Additionally, the inclusion of four M.2 and four SATA storage options allows for a wide range of storage configurations to be set up, making this motherboard ideal for gamers and content creators alike.

ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi Pros and Cons

ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi Review

The 14+1 Phase VRM provides robust power delivery to the CPU, allowing for stable overclocking and consistent performance. The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi is an excellent value motherboard for the i7 13700K and offers users a wide range of features and capabilities at a reasonable price point.

• Form Factor: ATX
• Chipset: Z690
• Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR4-5333
• Video Outputs: DisplayPort
• USB Ports: 8x rear IO, 7x internal
• Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E
• Storage: 4x M.2, 4x SATA
• VRM: 14+1 Phase

The TUF Z690 Plus doesn’t have nearly as many USB ports as other motherboards in its class. It does, however, have the standard 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi for networking. We would have liked a few more USB ports on the back to improve this segment.

But ASUS has put 4 M.2 storage slots on the board, which is a pretty good number for a modern gaming PC. On the back I/O, there is a DisplayPort output, but there is no HDMI port, which would have helped with troubleshooting.

We chose the DDR4 version because the TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS is a good choice for people on a tight budget. The board works with DDR4 modules up to 5333 MHz and XMP memory overclocking right out of the box. The use of DDR4 greatly improves the value of this motherboard, making it a great choice for a low price.

This motherboard looks very nice and meets the aesthetic standards of the TUF brand. Depending on how you set up the RGB, the TUF logo lights up in different colours, and the chipset’s heatsink also gives off an RGB glow. But the overall design is pretty boring and plain, which might not work well for a flashy gaming PC with RGB lighting everywhere.

In conclusion, the TUF Z690 Plus WiFi is a great low-cost option for gamers who want performance and value without breaking the bank. This purchase won’t disappoint you because the board does what it says it will do. This is the best motherboard for the i7 13700K price.

6. ASUS PRIME Z690-A – Best Budget Motherboard for i7 13700K

The ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a great choice for users looking for a budget-friendly motherboard for their Intel Core i7 13700K processor.

One of the standout features of the ASUS PRIME Z690-A is its support for high-speed DDR5 memory, with four DIMM slots that support up to 128GB of DDR5-6000 memory. This high-speed memory support allows for fast and responsive performance when paired with a compatible CPU.

$239.00 at Amazon

The motherboard also features both HDMI and DisplayPort video outputs, allowing users to choose the best display options for their needs. Additionally, the 8 rear IO and 7 internal USB ports allow for easy connection of multiple devices without needing additional hubs or adapters.

The ASUS PRIME Z690-A features a 2.5 GbE LAN, providing reliable and fast network connectivity. Including four M.2 and four SATA storage options also allows for a wide range of storage configurations to be set up, making this motherboard a good option for users requiring ample storage.

ASUS PRIME Z690-A Pros and Cons

ASUS PRIME Z690-A Review

The 16+1 Phase VRM provides robust power delivery to the CPU, allowing for stable overclocking and consistent performance. Overall, the ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a great value motherboard for the i7 13700K, offering a range of features and capabilities at an affordable price point.

• Form Factor: ATX
• Chipset: Z690
• Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-6000
• Video Outputs: HDMI and DisplayPort
• USB Ports: 8x rear IO, 7x internal
• Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN
• Storage: 4x M.2, 4x SATA
• VRM: 16+1 Phase

The ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a basic motherboard that makes some sacrifices when it comes to features. The PRIME Z690-A has a 2.5 GbE LAN port for fast networking, but our chosen version doesn’t have WiFi. We think using this way to save money on a Z690 motherboard in 2023 is wrong, and ASUS should have put WiFi 6E on all available models.

You can fix that easily by getting one of the best PCIe WiFi cards on the market.

It has a lot of SATA ports for regular hard drives and SSDs, as well as four M.2 slots for very fast NVMe SSDs. The PRIME Z690-A only has eight USB ports on the back, which is also not a lot in terms of connections. It’s nice that there’s a Thunderbolt 4 port on the back I/O, which is rare on cheap motherboards.

In terms of looks, the ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a real beauty. This could be thought of as what makes the motherboard stand out and is definitely a selling point. The motherboard looks sleek and modern, and its all-white colour scheme makes it look even better. The board works well with modern designs for gaming PCs, especially if you want to build a PC with a white theme.

The board also has RGB lighting that can be changed to look different. There was also a lot of thought put into where and how the RGB zones were set up.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the best B450 motherboards while discussing cheap ones.

All in all, the ASUS PRIME Z690-A is a great board for anyone who wants a high-quality 13th Gen Intel motherboard without spending too much. It delivers power pretty well and has all the features you’d want in a good board. The ASUS PRIME Z690-A is the best budget motherboard for the i7 13700K on our list and should be considered.

7. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I – Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i7 13700K

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is a fantastic Mini ITX motherboard for users looking to build a small and powerful system with an Intel Core i7 13700K processor.

$359.99 at Amazon

One of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is its small form factor, which allows for creating a compact and powerful system without sacrificing performance. The motherboard supports high-speed DDR5 memory, with two DIMM slots that support up to 64GB of DDR5-6400 memory. This high-speed memory support enables fast and responsive performance when paired with a compatible CPU.

The motherboard features a single HDMI video output, which is suitable for most display setups. It also has 14 USB ports, with 9 on the rear IO and 5 internal, allowing for easy connectivity of a wide range of devices.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I comes with a 2.5 GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, providing users with flexible networking options. The motherboard also includes two M.2 and four SATA storage options, allowing a range of storage configurations to be set up.

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Pros and Cons

ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Review

The 10+1 Phase VRM provides reliable power delivery to the CPU, allowing for stable overclocking and consistent performance. Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is an excellent Mini ITX motherboard for the i7 13700K, offering a range of features and capabilities in a compact form factor.

• Form Factor: Mini ITX
• Chipset: Z690
• Memory: 2x DIMM, 64GB, DDR5-6400
• Video Outputs: HDMI
• USB Ports: 9x rear IO, 5x internal
• Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN, 1x Wi-Fi 6E
• Storage: 2x M.2, 4x SATA
• VRM: 10+1 Phase

The ROG Strix Z690-I is more than just a pretty face, though. The 10+1 phase architecture and high-quality parts of the motherboard make its VRM setup pretty durable. This ensures the power stays stable, even when more demanding Raptor Lake CPUs are overclocked. Even though the VRM isn’t as strong as the ones on some of ASUS’s more expensive motherboards, it still does a good job.

Large heatsinks made of aluminium are used to cool the VRM, which helps keep temperatures stable. The Strix Z690-I can handle almost any 13th Gen CPU, but there are practical limits to its power that should be considered. This motherboard is not very good at overclocking when paired with the Core i7 13700K.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is a great mini ITX motherboard with many features and great networking abilities. The motherboard has two M.2 slots for super-fast storage. Its networking suite includes WiFi 6 compatibility for lightning-fast wireless speeds and a strong 2.5 GbE LAN port, making it perfect for small form factor designs.

The motherboard also has a lot of ways to connect, like HDMI and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports on the back. The HDMI port is helpful for those rare times when you need to fix something. The Strix Z690-I, on the other hand, has the same size-related problems as other mini-ITX motherboards.

There are only two DIMM slots for DDR5 memory, which could be a problem in the long run. Also, there is only one full-size x16 PCIe slot on the board for adding more hardware. Not the board itself but the mini-ITX format that is to blame for these flaws.

Still, the ROG Strix Z690-I is one of the best mini ITX boards on the market, and it should be on your list if you want a high-performance option. It has a great power delivery system, so it can be overclocked, and it has many features that aren’t usually found on mini-ITX boards.

The ROG Strix Z690-I is a great choice for the i7 13700K if you want to build a small gaming PC. The only major downside is that it isn’t cheap.

What is the difference between Z790 vs. Z690?

The Z790 is a newly developed chipset designed specifically for 13th Gen Raptor Lake processors, but it does not bring any significant breakthroughs compared to its predecessor, the Z690. Although the Z790 chipset features improvements in connectivity and rear I/O specifications, such as four additional PCIe Gen 4 downstream lanes and an extra USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20 Gbps port, these changes are mostly incremental and centred around networking and storage functions.

The compatibility of both Z790 and Z690 chipsets with both 12th and 13th-generation Intel processors means that users can choose between the two platforms for the latest 13th Gen Intel processors without sacrificing much. Thus, in this roundup, we have recommended several Z690 motherboards for the i7 13700K, which are easier to find on the market and often cheaper than their Z790 counterparts.

While the Z790 chipset offers minor improvements, it is not a significant enough advancement to justify upgrading from a Z690 motherboard for users who already have one. Both chipsets are suitable for the latest 13th Gen Intel processors, and users can choose either without sacrificing much performance or functionality.

DDR5 vs. DDR4

When upgrading your PC, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is which type of RAM to select. DDR4 is currently the most prevalent generation of memory, while DDR5 is a more modern standard projected to replace DDR4 soon.

While DDR4 is more readily available and typically less expensive, DDR5 has lower latencies and faster data rates and delivers a substantial performance improvement over DDR4. DDR5 also consumes less power and has a longer lifespan, making it the new industry standard for high-end laptops and PCs.

If you are upgrading your PC right now, DDR4 is likely the best option from a value perspective. However, if you want to go for the most recent and cutting-edge technology, DDR5 is something to consider. Early adopters will need to be prepared to pay more for the ability to use the latest memory technology.

This is a crucial decision for those purchasing new Intel 13th Gen motherboards, as it will determine their entire upgrade path in the future. It’s important to consider the possibility that DDR5 memory could develop quickly over the next few years, which could make today’s DDR5 modules outdated quickly. Therefore, it’s essential to consider your current needs and future plans before making a decision on DDR4 vs. DDR5.

FAQs

Q1: Do I need DDR5 for i7 13700K?

For i7 13700K, you do not need DDR5 memory. It works with both DDR5 memory and DDR4 memory, so you can use either with this CPU. But you will need a motherboard made for that particular generation of memory.

Q2: Which motherboards support i7 13700K?

The i7 13700K can be used with the Z790 and Z690 chipsets and the H670, B660, and H610 chipsets. At the time of writing, the budget H770, H710, and B760 chipsets had not been released. To use a 13th Gen processor with a 600 series motherboard, you will need to update the BIOS.

Q3: Is i7 13700K better than Ryzen 7 7700X?

In general, the i7 13700k is better for gaming than the Ryzen 7 7700X. When it comes to productivity tasks, the two CPUs are pretty close, but the 13700K is a better deal. On the other hand, the Ryzen 7 7700X will be easier to upgrade in the future.

Q4: Can I use i7 13700K with Z690?

A Z690 motherboard can work with an i7 13700K. All 600-series and 700-series motherboards can work with the Intel 13th Gen Raptor Lake CPUs. If you want to run 13th Gen CPUs on an older 600-series motherboard, you may need to update the BIOS.

Q5: Does i7 13700K support PCIe 5.0?

PCIe 5.0 technology can be used with the i7 13700K. On a Z790 motherboard, you can get PCIe 5.0 lanes straight to the main PCIe x16 slot and more than one M.2 slot. But right now, there aren’t many PCIe 5.0 devices on the market that can use this new technology.

Q6: What are the benefits of choosing a Mini ITX motherboard for the i7 13700K?

Mini ITX motherboards are a great choice for people who want to build a small, powerful system without sacrificing performance. For example, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is a great Mini ITX motherboard that supports high-speed DDR5 memory, has a single HDMI video output, 14 USB ports, a 2.5 GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, four M.2 and four SATAII ports, and four M.2 and four SATAII slots.

Summary

The Intel i7 13700K is a powerful processor that works best when paired with a high-quality motherboard. In this article, we talked about seven great motherboards. Each one has its own features and specs that make it a great choice for the i7 13700K.

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master, ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO, MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi, MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4, ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-PLUS WiFi, ASUS PRIME Z690-A, and ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I all have different features and prices that make them good for different types of users.

When choosing a motherboard for the i7 13700K, it’s important to think about your needs and preferences, such as the form factor, chipset, memory support, video outputs, USB ports, network connectivity, storage options, and VRM. By doing this, you can find the best motherboard for your i7 13700K processor that meets your needs and lets it run at its best.