The year of 2022 is about the upgraded components, users are interested to know about the Best Z790 motherboards. To tackle the power of new Intel core or Ryzen 7000 series processors you need a Z790 based board. They are designed by many brands, to choose your suited product we have shortlisted some worthy options. Without further wait, let’s dive into details!
A board is a base component for your computer so if you update your gaming PC then you should need a Z790 chipset as well. On our list we titled MSI PRO Z790-A as an overall best motherboard. For the lower budget users we recommend ASUS Prime Z690-P D4, it is a worthy board at a minimal cost. This chipset supports LGA 1700 CPU sockets and makes the installation on the PCB much easier.
Several brands construct their Z790 board so it comes in different dimensions, and gets the most suited form factor. Look for 4 DIMM slots so you have multiple options to add your required RAM kits. When you are building a workstation or gaming setup you need multiple graphics processing units so get a board with Multi-GPU Configuration. Most commonly the Z790 boards support PCI express 5.0 Gen that is a better option for stable and secure GPU connection with it.
Furthermore, when you have a high end processor you must want to get it to full potential, so your board should support overclocking. A smooth gameplay is not possible without fast networking, and for this WiFi 6E is responsible. If you are building your setup for the first time then usability features such as M.2 latch and PCIe Q latch are necessary to make your processor much easier. To make your system colorful look at the board support of FUSION 2.0.
Scroll down for a buying guide!
Our Recommended list of the Best Z790 Motherboards
- ASUS Prime Z690-P D4 ATX Gaming Motherboard
- ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme WiFi 6E EATX Gaming Motherboard
- MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard
- GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX Gaming Motherboard
- GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC Gaming Motherboard
- MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi Z790
Z790 Motherboards Requirements
- Form Factor: Go for the size which suits you the best
- DIMM Slots: Look for your required memory support
- Multi-GPU Configuration: More than 1 GPU support will be better
- Usability Features: Buy a board with extra M.2 latch and PCIe Q latch to make it DIY friendly
- Chipset: Z790 compatible with 12th and 13 Gen of Intel and Ryzen 7000 series
- Socket: LGA 1700 supported
- Overclocking Potential: Support overclocking of CPU and memory to their extremely limits
- Cooling: Get enough space for cooling
- Ports: Connectivity ports on the front panel are preferable
- Networking: Wifi 6E
- RGB Support: Optional
Z790 Vs. Z690
Z790 is the latest innovation in the world of motherboards whereas Z690 is an older chipset. Although there are no big differences in specifications, with the Z790 you can achieve big improvements in performance as compared to the Z690 motherboard. Let’s have a look at their specs!
- Release Date: September 28th 2022 Vs November 4, 2021
- Compatibility: 12th, 13th Gen Vs 12th, 13th Gen
- Overclocking Support: Yes Vs Yes
- Memory Overclocking: Yes Vs Yes
- Memory Support: DDR4, DDR5 Vs DDR4, DDR5
- Max Support To Memory Kits: 4 Vs 4
- Memory Capacity: 128 GB Vs 128 GB
- TDP: 6W Vs 6W
- PCIe 5.0 Lanes: 20 Vs 20
- Max Number of Chipset Lanes PCI-E 3.0/4.0: 28 Vs 28
- DMI 4.0 Lanes: x8 Vs x8
- Max Number of SATA 6.0 GB/s: 8 Vs 8
- RAID Support PCIe / SATA: 15, 10 Vs 15, 10
- Max Number of USB Ports: 14 Vs 14
- Max USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Ports (20Gbps): 5 Vs 4
- Max USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 Ports (10Gbps): 10 Vs 10
- Max USB 3.2 Gen 1×1 Ports (5Gbps): 10 Vs 10
- Max USB 2.0 Ports: 14 Vs 14
1- ASUS Prime Z690-P D4 ATX Gaming Motherboard
If you want a lot of tuning options then you can consider ASUS Prime Z690-P D4. This board is especially designed for the computer builders and offers them a range of tuning choices. By using intuitive software and firmware features they can do their best job for the PCs. Just bring this motherboard in your life and get the full juice out of your selected components.
Expertly engineered for the gamers so they can unleash the full potential of their updated parts. Specifically, this circuit is born to serve the needs of Intel core 13th Gen processors and 12th Gen as well. For the insurance of stable and continuous power for your board it features 4+1 DrMOS power stages. For the prevention of heating issues it also provides a comprehensive cooling solution.
This will be an ideal purchase for the daily users and DIYers because of its easy to use functionalities. Via using the latest LGA 1700 socket you can attach your CPU with the motherboard in a convenient way. The PCI express 5.0 version will make a stable and secure connection between the graphics processing unit and board. You can install up to 128 Memory sticks off DDR4 which will make your system desirely fast.
For the stability and durability ProCool connector and alloy chokes ensure it for you. Large VRM heatsink, flexible M.2 heatsink, PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 4 guarantee the next level cooling. Features ASUS OptiMem II proprietary trace layout that enables the memory kits to go up to the extreme frequencies. For an ultrafast connectivity Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet, USB ports and Thunderbolt 4 header support are there in the board.
Comparison:
There are 2 variants of the same product by ASUS in its Prime series, Z690-P and Z690-P D4. These products are entirely the same, the only difference is that the Z690-P is 25% cheaper than the Z690-P.
Pros:
- Good mid-range board
- Support overclocking
- High quality
- All heating elements have radiators
- power supply for VRM zones
Cons:
- Chipset area gets hot
- Needs troubleshooting
2- ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme WiFi 6E EATX Gaming Motherboard
If you have upgraded to a 13th Gen processor then it’s time for the selection of a compatible board. In this situation here is ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme that will cover you in an excellent way. This board is fully armed even if you push your processors to its limits. Get this motherboard and feel free to push your high frequencies and enjoy sky high limits.
The Z790 extreme is born to give you an edge of performance envelope to you. As it is expertly engineered for the delivery of an ultimate performance to get an optimized overclocking. A blend of overclocking, high performer memory and comprehensive cooling controls. One of the attractive features is that it supports 2 methods of cooling fans and water controls.
Provides your dominant power solution by having 24 + 1 power stages and 105A with dual ProCool II power connectors. For the durability of the board high-quality alloy chokes, and premium metallic capacitors are there. Having next level specs it lets you install multi graphics processing units so you can make your system super powerful. With the board you enjoy an optimized VRM thermals with the massive heatsinks integration.
Supports next level M.2 slot for the insertion of SSDs that give storage capacity along with high performance. On board you have support of both PCI express versions, 4.0 and 5.0 for the stable and secure installation of components. There are enough USB ports, Thunderbolt and HDMI 2.1 that make it connectivity flexible. Intelligent AI controls and on the board Intel WiFi 6E improve the overall performance of the setup.
Comparison:
Let’s have a look at the differences between Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme and Maximum Z790 Hero. Extreme is better than Hero because of more 1 x RJ-45 ports, 2 x USB 3.2, 1 x PCIe and has dual BIOS. You can go for 1 x Thunderbolt and for aptX over Z790 Extreme.
Pros:
- Enthusiastic
- Extreme performer
- High quality
- Plenty of internal headers and buttons
- Optimized VRM
Cons:
- Expansive
3- MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard
When your preference is tons of tools offered by your board then you always have MSI Pro Z790-A on your table. This board will give you flexibility of advanced specs that is a requirement of modern ages. On the top of all, on the board you get fast networking and DDR5 memory support. MSI created its Pro series to serve the professionals so they never feel alone in the walks of life.
The Pro lineup has all the specs that lead to an impressive performance with high quality. MSI is one of the most famous tech brands because they aim to give products to offer incredible experiences to them. You can select this board if you want productivity and efficiency together, you will never disappoint. As this motherboard assists the serious users to enjoy multitasking and increased efficiency and this gaming board is also compaible with i7-13700K board.
Based on the latest chipset Z790 that makes it supremely compatible with Intel Celeron and Pentium Gold processors. When it comes to fast computing you can install DDR5 on the board and all your speed issues will be solved. Up to 128 GB memory at 7200 MHz plus overclocking speed, an attractive feature. Enhanced power design and durability give you peace of mind and guarantee a long lifespan.
Engineered with 16+1+1 DRPS with 80A SPS and dual 8-pin CPU power connectors make it power efficient. To provide you a premium thermal solution it is designed with an extended Heatsink and MOSFET thermal pads. Choke pads and M.2 Shield Frozr are there for thermal solutions. In a short way this is built to deliver high performance and non-stop usage experience.
Comparison:
MSI PRO Z790-A and PRO Z790-P are from the same series with similar specs. For the more USB ports Pro Z790-A is better than Z790-P. But if you need PS/2 then you have to choose Z790-P over Z790-A because it lacks it.
Pros:
- WiFi 6E
- ATX
- PCIe 5.0
- High quality
- High Memory speed
Cons:
- Thunder port missing
- No RGB
4- GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX Gaming Motherboard
To avail a screwless design of a motherboard, look no further than GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX. This board is based on the latest chipset Z790 and supports LGA 1700 CPU socket. When it comes to the processors compatibility you can get it for 12th and 13th Gen processors from Intel. To make your system powerful it supports DDR5 memory that will enhance your data access speed.
You can install 4 sticks of DIMMs up to 128 GB memory size, which is a large number when it comes to RAM capacity. For gamers overclocking is a must have spec on the board you will get XMP 3.0 memory module support. The commanding power design is constructed by Twin 16+1+2 Phases Digital VRM Solution and 70A Power Stage. For the heating issues M.2 Thermal Guard III, PCIe Ultra Durable Armor, Fully Covered MOSFET Heatsinks, and 6-Layer PCB.
The support of PCIe 4.0 and 5.0 enables the secure insertion of GPU and other components. Also you get M.2 slots so you can use SSDs for storage capacity and fast speed computing. You have USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C that will provide you high transfer speed. EZ-Latch is there that enables quick release and screwless design and makes creation of your setup easier.
For fast gaming you need fast networking that is provided by this board through 2.5GbE LAN and Intel WiFi 6E 802.11ax. High-End Audio and Audiophile WIMA Capacitors offer dynamic and clear audio experience. FUSION 2.0 enables your board to support Addressable LED and RGB LED. with the help of Q flash you can update BIOS without upgrading processor, memory or graphics card.
Comparison:
Gigabyte Z690 AORUS ELITE AX and AORUS MASTER are comparable. You can buy Elite AX for 2 reasons, 1 more USB 3.2 Gen port and also it is 35% cheaper than AORUS Master. However from these 2 motherboards for fast memory speed and 1 USB 3.2 Gen 1 port you should go for AORUS Master.
Pros:
- 16+1+2 Power Phases
- Effective VRM
- MOSFET Cooling
- EZ-Latch on PCIe Slot and M.2 Ports
- Good enough USB ports
- Quick Flash Plus Button
- Subtle RGB Lighting
- Wi-Fi 6E
- 5 GbE LAN Connectivity
- 3 Bluetooth
- Clear CMOS Button
Cons:
- No ports for external temperature
- No Debug LED
5- GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC Gaming Motherboard
For high grade connectivity you must need a board that can fulfill it for you, so we recommend you to choose GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC. The support of LGA 1700 CPU socket and Z790 chipset make it compatible for the upgraded PCs systems. This socket makes the installation of PCB so easy and quick plus secure. You can trust this board if you are using a processor of 12th or 13th Intel core series processors.
For the fast computing speed RAM is an important factor this board lets you select the DDR5 memory module. On the board you get 4 memory slots so you can add your required number of memory kits. The supported memory is 4400 MHz which is not a bad number for overclockers to enjoy the up boost of their processors. Sturdy power design gives you peace of mind and surety of your durability of the board.
To make it power efficient it is designed with 16+1+1 Twin Hybrid Phases Digital Power Design and 60A DrMOS. Comprehensive thermal design is there for dealing with the overheating issues of the board. Fully covered MOSFET heatsink, ultra durable Armor, M.2 thermal guard and 6 layer PCB are the insurance of the board. Next Gen Connectivity of PCIe 5.0 version is responsible for the secure connection of your board with the GPU.
Plus there are 3 x NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots that ensure the installation of SSDs and you get storage capacity of your choice. To provide you super speed of transferring files it has USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C. Having 2.5GbE LAN and Intel Wi-Fi offers fast networking that is required by most games. Fine tuning features like RGB FUSION 2.0 enables the support of Addressable and RGB LED Strips.
Comparison:
We have GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX and GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC. Both are based on the same chipset Z790 and support Intel 12th and 13th Gen processors with LGA 1700 socket. AORUS Elite AX is better because of high memory speed and wiFi 6E. As Z790 UD AC supports WiFi 6E, rest of all features are the same.
Pros:
- PCIe EZ-Latch
- Multi-Key support
- PCIe 5.0
- Works great
- DDR5
- 2.5 GbE
Cons:
- Lacks WiFi 6E
6- MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi Z790
Introducing last but not the least option of Z790 based motherboard that you must like for your future setup. We are talking about the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk that is a name of reliability and trust. This member is from the MAG series by MSI and is expertly designed with Z790 used as foundation. This lineup is born to fight alongside the gamers and in the pursuit of honor.
Constructed with the military inspired elements that give it a symbol of durability and sturdiness. Its premium thermal solution makes it more attractive because you do not think about overheating. Pump fan support, extended heatsink and M.2 shield Frozr are there to cool down your setup. Designed with sever garde PCB gives the high level and stable electrical connections.
The best thing about this board is the memory support of DDR5 that is needed with high level setups. There are 4 x memory slots that enable you to add up to 56 GB memory sticks. Your inserted memory gives up to 7200 MHz speed that is more than enough for workstation and gaming setups. Plus, if you want installation of HDDs then you have SATA connectors that make it sure.
Dissipation of heat is possible through the heavy plated VRM heatsink as it covers the upperMOS. Extra choke thermal pads make sure that all the cores of your CPU work in high performance. This board supports the most famous AIO and customized liquid cooling method and this is alsosupported by i5-13600K. BIOS 5 designed to provide ease of use to the users so you can fine tune the board for high performance.
Comparison:
We are comparing MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK with MPG Z790 CARBON, these are from different series but the same brand, MSI. The Z790 is better because of 2 x more USB 3.0 Gen 1 port, DisplayPort and multiple memory speed support. You can go for MPG Z790 CARBON due to dual channel memory and ROM of 256 MB. Plus, MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK is almost 150 dollars cheaper in price as compared to the Z790 Carbon.
Pros:
- PCIe Gen 5.0 support
- 4x M.2 Gen
- 7.1 Analog Audio support
- 90 A Power Stages
- Excellent DDR4 Support
- LED Debugger
- BIOS EZ-Mode
Cons:
- Unlabeled motherboard headers
- Poor VRM thermals
Best Z790 Motherboards Buying Guide
When you buy a new board for your computer you must select a chipset and assign a budget to you. There are many options for the Best Z790 motherboards, shop carefully. From the above mentioned we selected MSI PRO Z790-A as the overall best product. For making your purchase more precise, below are some considerable factors, have a look at them!
Form Factor
To determine the size of your motherboard you should look at its form factor. Commonly, the motherboards are designed in 3 form factors, ATX, Micro ATX and Mini ITX. ATX is a standard size, Mini ITX refers to the smallest dimensions, EATX is something bigger than ATX. In our list you have ATX and EATX both products, From all of them choose that suits you most.
DIMM Slots
When you buy a board you should consider the number of DIMM slots, because it allows you for the memory insertion. We recommend you to go for at least 4 DIMM slots so you can add up to 4 RAM kits in your system. You can easily find this number in an ATX or EATX but for a compact size board normally this number ends on 2. We have given such products that offer 4 slots, you can trust them for your future upgrade.
Expansion Slots/Connectivity
Number of expansion slots and connectivity ports vary from motherboard to motherboard. Commonly a Z790 based board has multiple PCI-e 5.0×16 slots and enables the installation of multiple GPUs. Similarly on the board you get some USB ports or a thunderbolt to make connectivity flexible. Before you buy a board consider the expansion slots and connectivity ports, we recommend you to get your required number.
Cooling
Cooling solution of your motherboard needs your attention before making a decision. Your motherboard has a connection with all your computer components. It should not overheat as if it gets hot it can crash your entire desktop. You can buy MSI PRO Z790-A as it offers a premium thermal solution and keeps your board cool.
Usability Features
Usability features make creation of a board easier that is why it is important to consider for beginners builders. Extra specs like PCIe latch or M.2 latch enables you the removal and installation of components much easier. So when you DIY your motherboard then this feature is necessary as it will save you from suffering. On our list you also have such options that have these features and save your time, choose wisely.
FAQs
Below we have mentioned a few commonly asked questions about the Best Z790 motherboards!
Which Type of Memory Supported By Z790?
Basically Z790 is compatible with DDR5, but in some budget oriented variants it supports DDR4.
Which Socket Utilized By Z790?
The LGA 1700 CPU mounting is supported by the Z790.
How Long a Motherboard Last?
Normally the lifespan of a board is up to 20 years or even more than this.
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