Best Z790 Motherboard for i9 14900K / 14900KF (Gaming, DDR5, Compatible)

What Best Z790 Motherboard I should pair with Intel Core i9-14900K and 14900KF processors.

These are the Best Z790 Motherboard for 14900K / 14900KF (Gaming, DDR5, Compatible)

• Best Overall: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk
• Best Gaming: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
• Best Asus Motherboard : ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II
• Best White: Gigabyte Z790 Vision G
• Best Mini-ITX: ASRock Z790 Phantom Gaming-ITX/ax

The Intel Core i9-14900K is an extremely powerful CPU that requires a fully-featured motherboard to unlock its full potential. The Intel Z790 chipset is an optimal match for the i9-14900K because it provides:

• Support for speedy DDR5 RAM up to 6000 MHz – The 14900K utilizes cutting-edge DDR5 memory, and the Z790 allows frequencies up to 6000 MHz for lightning fast performance in gaming and creative applications.
• PCIe 5.0 compatibility – The 14900K harnesses PCIe 5.0, the newest PCIe standard. The Z790 chipset enables connecting to state-of-the-art PCIe 5.0 graphics cards and SSDs.
• Overclocking capabilities – The Z790 chipset enables CPU and memory overclocking to enhance performance even further.
• Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 – The Z790 provides the most advanced Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth for incredibly fast wireless connectivity and stable device connections.

Additionally, the Z790 has other crucial features for high-performance systems:

• Multiple M.2 slots – The Z790 permits installing several high-speed NVMe SSDs for ample ultra-fast storage capacity.
• Sturdy power delivery – The Z790 is engineered to supply ample power for even the most demanding CPUs like the 14900K.
• Extensive cooling options – The chipset supports air, liquid, and customized cooling solutions for maximum flexibility.

The Z790 chipset is an ideal pair for the 14900K, delivering the connectivity, power, and capabilities essential to fully exploit the potential of this cutting-edge CPU. The 14900K and Z790 combo will drive top-tier gaming PCs and content creation workstations.

Below we’ll give you an overview of top 5 z790 motherboards that are compatible with 14900K cpu based on usage, performance and budget.

What to Look for in a Z790 Motherboard?

When selecting a Z790 motherboard to pair with your Core i9-14900K CPU, there are several key factors to evaluate:

• Form factor – The dimensions and layout that determine space requirements and expansion capabilities. Main options are full-size ATX, compact Micro-ATX, and ultra-small Mini-ITX. ATX has the most features but needs a large case. Micro-ATX sacrifices some expandability for smaller size. Mini-ITX is very limited but fits in tiny cases.
• Power delivery – The voltage regulator module (VRM) that supplies clean and stable power to the CPU and other components. Quality VRMs have ample phases, durable parts, effective cooling, and smart power control for overclocking potential.
• Memory support – The Z790 platform supports speedy DDR5 and DDR4 RAM. DDR5 is faster and more efficient but is pricey and scarce. DDR4 is cheaper and readily available. Choose based on memory needs and budget.
• Storage – Z790 works with fast PCIe and SATA SSDs. PCIe 4.0 and 5.0 SSDs are much quicker than SATA, but PCIe 5.0 is costly and uncommon currently. Ensure enough M.2 slots and SATA ports for storage devices.
• Connectivity – Look for USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, Gen 2, and Gen 1 ports, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, Thunderbolt 4, 10Gb Ethernet, WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2 to connect peripherals and devices.
• Aesthetics – Motherboard appearance varies from RGB lighting to minimalist designs. Pick visuals that match your style and build.

Considering these factors will help select the ideal Z790 motherboard to maximize your Core i9-14900K’s capabilities. Prioritize critical performance factors like power delivery and memory support, along with connectivity and expansibility needs.

Overview of Top Z790 Motherboards You can pair with Intel Core i9-14900K Processor

Best Overall: MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk

The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk is our top pick for the best overall Z790 motherboard for the Intel Core i9-14900K CPU. This ATX board balances performance, features, and value for most users.

The Tomahawk has a robust 16+1 power phase design with 90A stages to deliver stable power, even when overclocking. It supports DDR5-5200+ and DDR4-5333+ memory with four DIMM slots for up to 128GB.

For storage, the Tomahawk has four M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 and three M.2 Shield Frozr heatsinks. There are also six SATA ports with RAID support. The three PCIe slots support PCIe 5.0 for graphics cards, with steel armor and multi-GPU capability.

Connectivity includes two USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, six USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 4, and two 2.5G LAN ports. It also has Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.

The Tomahawk has a black PCB with gray accents and RGB lighting on the chipset and rear I/O cover. It has fan and RGB headers for cooling and lighting customization.

The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk delivers excellent well-rounded performance for productivity, and office use, ample features like PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 6E, and great value for a high-end Core i9-14900K build. It’s a great choice for gaming, content creation, and productivity use cases.

Best High-End: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is an excellent high-end Z790 motherboard for the Core i9-14900K. This ATX board delivers premium performance, features, and quality for enthusiasts and professionals.

The impressive 18+2 power phases with ProCool II connectors, MicroFine alloy chokes, high-quality capacitors, and dual onboard fans ensure optimal power delivery when overclocking. It supports DDR5-6400 OC and DDR4-6000 OC memory with four slots for up to 128GB.

There are four M.2 slots with PCIe 5.0 x4 and ROG DIMM.2 modules for vertical GPU installation and airflow. Six SATA ports allow RAID 0/1/5/10 configurations. Three reinforced PCIe slots support PCIe 5.0 for graphics cards.

Connectivity includes two USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, six USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, four USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 4, and more. Dual 2.5G and 10G Ethernet alongside Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 provide high-speed networking.

The black PCB with silver accents has onboard RGB lighting on the heatsinks, rear I/O cover, and ROG logo controllable via Aura Sync software. Multiple fan and RGB headers allow for cooling and lighting customization.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero offers premium performance, features, quality, and aesthetics ideal for gaming, overclocking, content creation, and more. It’s a top choice for a high-end Z790 motherboard to pair with the Core i9-14900K. The impressive power delivery, connectivity, networking, and design make this an excellent enthusiast-grade board.

Best Asus Motherboard For 14th Gen CPU : ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II

The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II is an excellent match for the Intel Core i9-14900K CPU. With its robust power delivery, advanced cooling, and next-gen storage support, this Z790 motherboard can unlock the full potential of the powerful i9-14900K for gaming and creative workloads.

Key features that make the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II ideal for the i9-14900K:

Beefy 18+1+2 power stages with ProCool II connectors to provide rock-solid power for the 16-core i9-14900K even when overclocking.

Massive VRM heatsinks and L-shaped heatpipe keep temps low during extended workloads. PCIe 5.0 and four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots allow utilization of the fastest NVMe SSDs.

Abundant I/O like USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 20Gbps, WiFi 6E, 2.5Gb LAN, and HDMI 2.1 accommodates high-speed peripherals.

Advanced networking features like ROG RangeBoost provide lag-free wireless gaming. With the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II, you can expect excellent performance in gaming, content creation, and productivity when paired with the i9-14900K. 

Fast storage, clear networking, and robust power delivery fully support Intel’s new flagship CPU. For enthusiast-grade performance from the Core i9-14900K, the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II is a top choice.

Best White: Gigabyte Z790 Vision G

The Gigabyte Z790 Vision G is our top recommendation for a white Z790 motherboard perfectly suited for the Core i9 14900K. Its stylish demeanor, encapsulated by a white PCB and silver heatsinks, makes it a captivating choice for creators and professionals in need of a robust, versatile setup.

At its core, the motherboard boasts a robust 14+1 phase VRM, DrMOS power stages, and dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, ensuring stable, efficient power delivery, especially during overclocking scenarios. Its advanced thermal design, featuring a large heatsink and a heat pipe connecting to the chipset and M.2 heatsinks, is built to keep temperatures in check.

Memory support is top-notch with DDR5 up to 5200 MHz (OC) and DDR4 up to 5400 MHz (OC), alongside four DIMM slots allowing for a maximum of 128GB RAM. Storage and expansion options are plentiful with three PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 slots, six SATA ports supporting RAID configurations, and three reinforced PCIe x16 slots ready for multi-GPU setups with AMD CrossFireX.

Connectivity shines with a variety of ports including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt 4, alongside dual Ethernet ports and an Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210 module for speedy wireless connections. A splash of RGB lighting, controlled by Gigabyte RGB Fusion 2.0, adds a personalized touch, making it not just a powerhouse, but a visually appealing centerpiece for any build.

The Gigabyte Z790 Vision G melds aesthetic appeal with high-end performance and a rich feature set, making it an exemplary choice for those seeking to pair it with their Core i9 14900K for a range of tasks including gaming, content creation, and professional endeavors.

Best Mini-ITX: ASRock Z790 Phantom Gaming-ITX/ax

The ASRock Z790 Phantom Gaming-ITX/ax, our crowning glory for the finest mini-ITX Z790 motherboard tailored for the Core i9 14900K. Wrapped in a compact yet potent frame, this tech wonder is a pocket rocket filled to the brim with features, tailor-made for gaming aficionados and performance enthusiasts craving a sleek, portable, and powerhouse system on-the-go.

Under its hood lies a robust VRM with a 10+2 phase design, 90A power stages, and an 8-pin CPU power connector, all crowned with premium chokes and capacitors. This heart of steel is cooled by an XXL aluminum alloy heat sink connected via a heat pipe to the chipset and M.2 heatsinks, ensuring your CPU stays frosty, even when overclocked to the heavens.

Memory dreams? Realized, with support for DDR5 up to 5200 MHz (OC) and DDR4 up to 5400 MHz (OC) across two DIMM slots that can house a king’s ransom of up to 64 GB of RAM.

Storage and expansion take a front seat with two M.2 slots ready for PCIe 5.0 x4 SSDs, safeguarded against thermal throttling with an M.2 Armor heatsink, plus four SATA ports for RAID adventures.

Connectivity is a carnival with a medley of ports including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt 4, coupled with an Intel I225-V 2.5G LAN port and an Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX210 module for blazing wireless escapades.

The ASRock Z790 Phantom Gaming-ITX/ac isn’t just a motherboard; it’s your ticket to a realm where compact meets performance, making gaming, overclocking, and streaming a spectacular show. So, for those seeking a snug yet spirited heart for their Core i9 14900K processor, this tiny titan is the dreamboard ready to redefine your digital frontier.

Closing Words

The Intel Core i9-14900K is one of the most powerful CPUs on the market today, and it needs a motherboard that can keep up with its blazing speed and extensive capabilities. The Z790 chipset is the ideal platform for the 14900K, providing full support for DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 storage, extreme overclocking, Intel Optane Memory H20 caching, and more.

We’ve highlighted some of the top Z790 motherboards to pair with the Core i9-14900K for different builds and budgets. For an overall excellent balance of features, performance, and value, we recommend the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX. For a high-end build with all the bells and whistles, the MSI MEG Z790 Godlike is hard to beat. Those seeking a unique white aesthetic can choose the Asus ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming White Edition. And SFF builders should consider the ASRock Z790M-ITX WiFi 6E, an mITX board packing a punch.