The latest addition to the i7 13th gen, the Intel Core i7-13700KF, is a high-performing CPU built to give an amazing gaming experience. Since its release in October 2023, it has outperformed many of its rivals, including the AMD Ryzen 7000 chip. With an approximate price of $400, the i7-13700 KF still possesses enough horsepower to deliver a decent performance, undoubtedly making it one of the best CPUs. Before moving on to Best Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF, let’s look at some critical CPU details that might help you better understand our motherboard choice.
The i7-13700KF proves to be a beast as it comes equipped with a total of 24 cores, where there are 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores. The turbo speed is also impressive, with a frequency of 5.8 GHz. The smart cache size is yet another memory trait it possesses, with an L3 cache of 36MB. The i7-13700KF has a max turbo power rating of 252W, which is not much compared to the other units in the market and equals the i9-13900KF’s rating.
i7-13700KF uses the LGA 1700 socket; Intel hasn’t upgraded, and there is no need for it right now, as you will find many motherboards compatible with the LGA 1700 rating.
We have quickly observed what we will get from this newly released i7-13700KF. Now, let’s look at some motherboards we chose delicately that will be most suitable to use with the i7-13700KF.
Best Motherboards For i7-13700KF
Last update on 2023-06-04
After selecting your favorite CPU, the next thing you will be looking for is a motherboard that works efficiently with your CPU. As we have learned about the capabilities of the i7-13700KF CPU, we will now see which motherboards are the best match for this processor. The performance priorities change with the users’ requirements, so we will discuss various motherboards with different departments’ specialties.
Some users may like high-end performance, while others will choose mid-ranged options; similarly, one user would compromise on a good performance, while others would like a decent overall performance. That is why we have discussed motherboards in multiple categories like best overclocking capabilities, low price, overall performance, mini-ITX, and high-end performance.
If you’re specifically looking for Z790 Motherboards, BEST Z790 Motherboards In 2023 is your guide.
Our reviews are well-researched, and we have also covered all the important elements of each motherboard, including VRM designs, PCB layers, PCIe lanes, storage capabilities, cooling factors, aesthetics, and more. You don’t need to understand all these factors to choose the appropriate motherboard, as we have also explained the pros and cons of each motherboard. After going through our reviews, we assure you that you will have no problems picking the best motherboard for your PC that meets your requirements.
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO
Best High-End Motherboard For i7-13700KF
Specifications = Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory: 4x DIMM 128GB, DDR5-7800+ MHz | USB Ports: 6x USB Type A 3.2 Gen 2, 4x USB Type A 3.2 Gen1, 1x USB Type C 3.2 Gen 2 | Network: Intel 2.5G Ethernet | Video outputs: HDMI, Thunderbolt 4 | Storage: 3x M.2 slots, 6x SATA
Cons
If you are looking for the best possible gaming experience for your i7-13700KF and have the budget for it, then you don’t need to look any further. The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO is the High-End Motherboard For i7-13700KF with its cooling features and overclocking capabilities that are out of this world.
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO does a great job in the power design department. It comes equipped with a 20+1 power phase capable of smoothly running your i7-13700KF at 105A power stage with no problems. It uses a 24-pin ATX power connector for power consumption, which also does the job well. 2x 8-pin Pro Cool II connectors are also a part of this board; these connectors ensure safe connectivity to PSU power lines and play a part in heat dissipation. Also, the addition of thermal pads and 4×4-pin fan headers makes it easier for the MAXIMUS Z790 HERO to cool down faster.
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO features a water flow tachometer, a water in/out sensor, and a water pump header, which also significantly dissipates the heat from the CPU, which is a huge advantage for users looking for high-end overclocking. And above that, the components are soldered on an 8-Layer PCB which can be quite effective for smoother power delivery, and the board will not heat up easily. With these beastly features, your i7-13700KF will face no overclocking issues and can work at its finest.
The motherboard also supports 4x DIMM DDR5 RAM slots; it lives up to its name, the High-End Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF, by providing a memory capacity of 128 GB with an overclocking speed of 7800 MHz which is more than enough for you to get the best overclocking experience with your i7-13700KF. The PCIe lanes it offers for graphics are 3x PCIe x16 slots, where 2x are Gen 5.0, and 1x is 4.0. These x16 lanes are another reason you should pick this motherboard for your i7-13700KF.
MAXIMUS Z790 HERO is also quite good regarding storage capabilities as it comes with 5x M.2 slots with 2x ROG Hyper M.2 expansion cards comprising both PCIe 5.0 and 4.0, and 3x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots along with a 6x SATA. The ROG hyper slots also have a huge heatsink for temperature compensation. This board also gives you access to many USB ports, including 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, 6x USB 3.2 Gen 2, and 2x Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports. A total of 12 USB ports makes connectivity much more comfortable for users, especially with Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Lastly, the aesthetics are also likable as the board comes in matte black with a huge ROG logo printed on its heatsink and rear side. The RGB headers also add to its looks, making it more eye-pleasing.
What We Liked:
Almost everything about the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO is quite impressive. The number of cooling methods it has makes you less worried than ever before about i7-13700KF overheating. 21-phase power design ensures your i7-13700KF runs smoothly, and DDR5 RAM support (Read Best DDR5 Ram) up to 7800 MHz is the cherry on top. Adding 12 USB ports is another great thing about this board.
Also Read: Best Ram For i7-13700K
What We Disliked:
The high price is the only dislikeable thing we found in the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO; it delivers all the high-end performing features for the ultimate gaming experience but can also be a heavy load on your pocket.
Why we picked it?
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO speaks for itself as to why anyone should pick it. Almost all its features are exceptional and will surely provide a great experience, especially if you use it with the i7-13700KF.
Who’s it for?
Z790 HERO is the dream motherboard for gamers or productivity users looking for the best possible experience. With all the features discussed above, you wouldn’t ever need to worry about getting a mid-performance. But remember to check your wallets before buying, as the price can be high for some users.
Verdict:
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO is undoubtedly the Best High-End Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF. You will be getting; exceptional cooling features, 12x USB, 21 phase power system, amazing overclocking speeds, and more for a bit high price. All these features are ideal for the best gaming experience, which is why it is an ideal choice.
GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX
Best Overall Motherboard For i7-13700KF
Specifications = Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory: 4x DIMM 128GB DDR5-7600 MHz | USB Ports: 2x USB Type C, 7x USB 3.2 | Network: 1x 2.5 G Ethernet, WiFi 6E | Video Outputs: HDMI | Storage: 4x M.2, 6x SATA.
Pros
Cons
When it comes to the Overall Motherboard For i7-13700KF, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX stands on top. With great features like amazing VRM design, overclocking limits, and exceptional cooling, it makes itself a great overall performing motherboard.
Z790 AORUS ELITE AX features a Twin 16+1+2 VRM design with a 70A power stage which helps in a smooth power flow, good enough for i7-13700KF to perform well. The addition of a 6-layer PCB further ensures good performance and eliminates any chances for the meltdown of the motherboard, so you don’t have to fear pushing your Core i7-13700KF for high-end performance. There is also a dual 8-pin EPS connector to deliver the necessary power safely; it also uses 24 pin ATX connector for power consumption. It has a 6mm Heatpipe along with 7W/mK thermal pads to maintain a safe temperature so your i7-13700KF can operate in pristine conditions. The MOSFETs used in the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX come covered with heatsinks, further stabilizing the operating temperature. With these cooling features, overclocking also becomes easier for i7-13700KF.
The storage capabilities of the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX are also quite decent. It supports 4x DIMM DDR5 RAM slots with a memory capacity of 128 GB, allowing it to overclock with a max frequency of 7600 MHz, which is more than good for i7-13700KF.
Talking about expansion slots, it contains 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and 2x PCIe 4.0 x4 slot. The storage compatibilities contain 4x M.2 PCIe 4.0 ports and 6x SATA ports where 2x of the PCIe M.2 ports have a shared bus with SATA ports which is why you won’t be able to use all the SATA ports if you are using the last 2x M.2 ports. The USB ports are also great, as Z790 AORUS ELITE AX offers 10x total USB ports; these ports contain 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type C rated at 20GB/s, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type A, 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1, and 4x USB 2.0/1.1 ports.
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also does a great job regarding its aesthetics; the PCB highlights itself in black, whereas the heatsinks give a black-greyish look; a little touch of RGB is also there for gamers to enjoy.
What We Liked:
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is the Best Overall Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF for many reasons; the nicest things about this board are its twin 19-phase power system which is a great advantage for i7-13700KF and the cooling features which allow your i7-13700KF to operate at high temperature requiring conditions easily.
What We Disliked:
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX has many pleasant things, but one thing you can criticize is the lack of availability of all 6x SATA ports simultaneously. If you are using the last two M.2 ports, you won’t be able to use all the SATA ports at that time.
Why we picked it?
The reason for picking the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX would be its exceptional cooling features, great VRM design, and overclocking abilities.
Who’s it for?
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is a worth-checking motherboard for users looking for great cool-down features and the best gaming experience. The price is a bit high, but it is not much compared to other good-performing motherboards in the market.
Verdict
Undoubtedly, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX can be labeled as the Best Overall Motherboard For i7-13700KF. With the memory ability to overclock at 7600MHz, components to cool down the CPU, and a 19-phase VRM design, it becomes worth your money. It also has a disadvantage; lack of ability to utilize all SATA ports at once, but it is a great overall choice for your i7-13700KF.
GIGABYTE Z690 AERO D
Best White Motherboard For i7-13700KF
Specifications = Chipset: Z690 | Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-6400 MHz | USB Ports: 2x 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, 6x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports | Network: WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, Intel 2.5GbE LAN chip | Video Outputs: DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1 | Storage: 4x M.2, 6x SATA
Pros
Cons
The GIGABYTE Z690 AERO D is one of the best white motherboards human-eye has ever witnessed. For highly theme-conscious people, this delicately-crafted motherboard is made to match your i7-13700KF-powered white-themed PC. The combination of black PCB alongside white and silver heatsinks can leave no eye unappealed.
But looks don’t define the performance; that’s why it has a long range of specifications that makes it stand as one of the Best Motherboard For i7-13700KF. Starting with its thermal capabilities, the M.2 Thermal Guard III seems to be the only choice for stabilizing the M.2 SSD temperatures. With a 16+1+2 phase digital power supply circuit-based VRM, it has become evident that its thermals are top-notch work; the 8+4 pins power the VRM circuit. To facilitate the 19-phase VRM on board, Z690 AERO D comprises a 6-layer PCB design to improve sturdiness overall.
While looking at its heatsinks, one can deduce how massive they are, and only true users will understand their need for a highly sophisticated motherboard. Integrated with a Direct-Touch Heatpipe II helps maintain the temperatures even during extreme processing; such integration makes the motherboard a very low noise and highly productive choice.
Are you worried about the sound? Z690 AERO D comes with DTS:X Ultra, one of the best choices for delivering an immersive and grasping sound experience. Channel, scene, and object-based support makes your movies and games more engaging.
Networking was never faster than ever with its Marvell AQtion 10 GbE Ethernet, which showed performance up to 10x faster than Gigabit Ethernet. Combined with Intel 2.5 GbE network connectivity support makes data transfer even faster. Furthermore, Intel WIFI 6E takes your WiFi experience level to new heights with its 6Hz bandwidth.
There are 6x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports in the rear IO; not only this, but the motherboard also comes with 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports giving you a seamless and instant connection. It supports up to 20Gbps of data transfer. Surprise continues with its highly intuitive VisionLink, with which you can connect your pen display without using too many cables but just a USB Type-C cable between your PC and pen display. Last but not least, 2x Thunderbolt 4 steps in to make its I/O richer.
Three power connectors come packed with this E-ATX form factor motherboard; a 24-pin ATX main power connector, an 8-pin ATX power connector, and a 4-pin ATX 12 V power connector. The E-ATX form factor helps get better thermal dissipation and space for more expansion slots, which’s a huge edge compared to other motherboards on this list.
As far as memory is concerned, this motherboard supports dual-channel DDR5 memory with 4x DIMM slots. With the capability of taking the DDR5 clock speed up to 6400 MHz, this motherboard justifies its memory overclocking performance. In a nutshell, the memory support is 128 GB, which makes it clear that you will have ample memory.
Regarding expansion slots, AERO D comes with three full-length PCIe slots, having 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots which you can use for PCle 5.0 GPU or NVMe storage, and 1x PCIe 3.0. One thing you need to take into account is that the two PCIe 5.0 lanes are not the same, rather one of them runs at x16 mode, and the other runs at x8 mode; if the latter PCIe 5.0 slot is under heavy utilization, then the first one will start to run at x8 mode. While using just one GPU, consider plugging it into the PCIe x16 slot for maximum performance; the third PCIe 3.0 slot is dedicated to running at x4 mode.
Moving towards storage, the Z690 AERO D has 4x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, of which only one can run SATA-based drivers. Apart from this, 6x SATA ports are also provided.
What We Liked:
Z690 AERO D’s connectivity options remained our apple of the eye; Dual Thunderbolt 4 at rear IO is a good fit. Apart from this, no one can deny the stunning GIGABYTE Z690 AERO D aesthetic looks, nor do we. The motherboard also utilizes the E-ATX advantage it gets from more space.
What We Disliked:
Among all those shine and glitters, there’s something that this motherboard lacks, the RGB. Talking about the second PCIe 5.0 slot, it would be great if it could utilize it without lowering the first PCIe 5.0 slot to x8 mode. No cover for CPU or EPS power connectors also rings some bells, and their addition would’ve been the icing on the cake.
Why we picked it?
The reason for picking up the Z690 AERO D as the Best White Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF out of so many different types of white motherboards is due to its aesthetic white moonlight looks, which makes it appealing and unique in its quality. Secondly, the swift DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 slot support make it a reliable choice. Thirdly, the systematic heat dissipation through massive heatsink and form factor advantage is a shine to its name. To conclude, the above-defined features are some of the differences that made us choose this motherboard as the best choice against its competitors.
Who’s it for?
If you are looking for a true and dependable Z690 motherboard with outstanding specs and stunning artistic white looks, then Z690 AERO D is made for you. The blend of white and silver contrasts added to its creativity, thus, making it place on the top of the list of Best Z690 Motherboards.
Verdict
For those who are theme-conscious, especially those who love white and silver contrast, the GIGABYTE Z690 AERO D is crafted for you; considering its VRM design, connectivity alternatives, and cooling potential, its the perfect match for your i7-13700KF.
MSI PRO Z690-A
Best Value Motherboard For i7-13700KF
Specifications = Chipset: Z690 | Memory: 4x DIMM 128 GB, DDR5-6400 MHz | USB Ports: 6x Rear, 9x Internal | Network: Intel 2.5 GbE LAN, WiFi 6E | Video Outputs: HDMI, DisplayPort | Storage: 4x M.2, 6x SATA
Pros
Cons
MSI came out with MSI PRO Z690-A, a motherboard from its Pro Series, as an option for gamers who look for the best value-to-money ratio when looking for a motherboard. It provides features we cannot expect from a motherboard at this price range. The specs may not look amazing at first glance, but compared with the price point of view, they provide the complete package; this is why we nominated MSI PRO Z690-A as the Best Value Motherboard.
The motherboard has 4x PCIe M.2 slots, with PCIe Gen 4 support, and a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, which may not seem too far-fetched for a motherboard, but still provides decent performance and gaming experience to its users. The memory specifications are up to par with most high-end motherboards as a 4x DIMM DDR5 memory clocking up to a maximum of 6400 MHz is provided. The bundle also comes with fast USB ports and a 2.5 Gbe LAN port, lacking only the integrated I/O shield at the rear. If you want WiFi, you can check out the MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi, as it comes with the same specs other than the Intel WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 support.
The MSI Pro Z690-A has a 14+1+1 power stage design with a Digital PWM IC at its core to provide eventually stable and effective power to the CPU cores via the 2x 8-pin connectors. Transmission of electricity to the Duet Rail CPU Power System, which employs cutting-edge thermal dissipation methods, is carried out by 14 of those power stages. A bulky 2oz 6-layer PCB and IT-150 server-grade material came in handy to construct the PCB.
Also Read: Best CPU Coolers For i7-13700K
MSI PRO Z690-A uses an extended PWM heatsink along with MOSFET thermal pads so the processor can provide optimal performance unabridged by heating problems. You can expect an overall decent performance as there isn’t much lack in thermal capabilities; however, there might be a problem with CPU overclocking. Other than that, the motherboard is complete package for their target audience.
The design features can be controversial; MSI focused primarily on loading the features and left the aesthetics completely out of the bracket. The RGB lighting is dropped from the list, and a simple yet sleek black design comes in. There are far better options for better-looking motherboards at even lower rates than MSI PRO Z690-A. However, one cannot find another setback regarding the motherboard except the lack of fancy looks.
What We Liked:
The DDR5 compatibility, PCIe 5.0 x16 port, and memory speed are all present in the MSI PRO Z690-A. Customers can, therefore, still enjoy the best gaming experience even after spending very small cash on their motherboard. A 14+1+1 VRM architecture was chosen, which caters well to the i7-13700K and is unusually large for a Z690 board in this price range. It is unlikely that a board with such a low cost can provide outstanding results, but MSI has managed to do it.
What We Disliked:
As previously mentioned, the only drawback of the motherboard remains the design aesthetics. MSI could have provided much better graphics and perks but opted for full, raw performance, which is one up for the target audience. However, considering the adequate set of specs the motherboard provides, it still gives an aura of value to money. It looks as if MSI thought it was safe to assume that the specified audience does not consider the board’s design and aesthetic. However, a little RGB lighting may have been a good step, as the modern world prefers fancy and lit-up PC systems instead of a dull and simple design.
Why we picked it?
MSI Pro Z690-A is the best option for a budget category motherboard; we sifted through multiple options and settled for Z690-A as a clear winner. It provides its users with a decent performance and is even capable of overclocking the latest processor, like Core i7-13700KF, to some extent. Ignore the dull looks and only focus on the performance and the astonishingly low price bracket. It is the best option as it packs the fast DDR5 memory configuration, a decent 14+1+1 VRM design, and PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and can run the latest 13th gen processor at such an appealing price range.
Who’s it for?
Some gamers look for a motherboard that can extract as much CPU performance as possible at the minimum cost. MSI designed this motherboard to provide the best option for this sect. The Z690-A can provide them with exactly what they want. They will have a great gaming experience at a much lower price bracket despite being unable to overclock their Core i7-13700KF processor fully.
Verdict
On the list of the Best Value Motherboard For i7-13700KF currently available, MSI PRO Z690-A is the best choice. It will be a highly appreciated option for folks who don’t want to spend much money on a motherboard because it provides equivalent performance, heat dissipation, and power supply at a much cheaper price range.
ASUS ROG STRIX Z690-I Gaming WiFi
Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For i7-13700KF
Specifications = Chipset: Intel Z690 | Memory: 4x DIMM 128GB, DDR5 6400(OC) | USB Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB 2.0 | Network: 1x Intel 2.5Gb, Bluetooth 5.2 | Video outputs: HDMI, Thunderbolt | Storage: 2x M.2, 4x SATA III
Pros
Cons
One of the most well-known computer hardware manufacturers, ASUS, introduced ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi for the targeted audience that prefers a mini-ITX motherboard for their compact built PC systems. They are designed to include all the perks and features while maintaining a size that fits in a small casing and has a mini-ITX form factor. Although it is very difficult to achieve this feat, ASUS dropped some features to accommodate the shortcomings, as the mini-ITX motherboards lack a lot of headroom. However, we were also surprised to discover that ASUS achieved this feat and introduced the Best Mini-ITX. Here we will dive into the specifics and cover all aspects of the mini-ITX motherboard.
While manufacturing this product, ASUS made sure not to cut corners to accommodate the motherboard’s compact and limited size. They included 2x M.2 slots, a PCIe Gen 5.0 slot, and an excellent three-layered thermal dissipation system. Although it seems unimpressive, having two M.2 slots in a compact-sized motherboard is not a small objective to achieve. DDR5 memory clocking up to a staggering 6400 MHz caught our eye; one can not simply expect such features from a Mini-ITX form factor motherboard.
Additionally, the ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi has two thunderbolt connectors which help in high-speed data transfers and double up as Display Ports, which is a smart way to overcome the limited room drawback. ASUS also included 2x SATA connection ports on the front panel, totaling up the tally to four ports to allow better functioning and optimize the performance when the ports are idle.
Despite the small form factor, the motherboard’s power delivery is still a major determinant, especially when using the motherboard with a 13th gen i7 processor. When running a Core i7-13700K processor, the power delivery is a major concern which ASUS managed to counter by providing a 10+1 phase DIGI+ VRM, due to which the power delivery is very efficient and helps to perform admirably, along with a 105A rating for each phase. They also soldered all the stuff on a 10-layer PCB to slow down the heating and give more time for the cooling mechanics to dissipate heat from the system. The cooling system, which is one of the best ones to be found in a Mini-ITX form factor motherboard, cools the VRM heatsinks as well as the two M.2 slots. All in all, ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi has one the best cooling systems in a Mini-ITX motherboard.
Another point to note is that this 600 series motherboard’s price is very reasonable compared to other options with the same specifications.
If you need a PC Case for your Mini-ITX build, glance at our Best Airflow PC Cases guide so that your build remains as cool as a cucumber!
What We Liked:
The inclusion of two M.2 slots, DDR5 memory up to 6400 MHz, PCIe Gen 5.0 x16 slot, 10-layer PCB, and a sturdy 10+1 phase VRM all seem too much for a Mini-ITX motherboard. On top of that, Thunderbolt connections and 4x SATA ports also come in the package, forcing us to pick this motherboard to top the leaderboard.
What We Disliked:
There are not a lot of expectations when it comes to a mini-ITX motherboard because of the space limitation. However, future upgradeability can be a problem faced by many mini-ITX motherboards. While all of that does restrict upgradeability, it shouldn’t be a major problem if you intend to upgrade in a few years.
Why we picked it?
What made us choose ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I as one of the Best Motherboards For Core i7-13700KF was that you could compare its features to most of the ATX motherboards found in the market. Besides its VRM, you could easily choose this motherboard as an ATX motherboard if it wasn’t advertised as a Mini-ITX.
Who’s it for?
Some people prefer small PC builds with a powerful setup over large, bulky, flashy PC systems; this motherboard caters to this target audience. It is the best option if you want a reliable motherboard to extract the most juice out of your Core i7-13700KF processor while opting to keep your PC compact.
Verdict
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFI raises the standards of expectations from a Mini-ITX form factor board, boasting all the newest features in a considerably small build. We confidently recommend it as the Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF because of its outstanding cooling performance and heat dissipation, along with all other soft features and perks.
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME
Best Overclocking Motherboard For i7-13700KF
Specifications = Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory: 4x DIMM 128GB, DDR5 7800 (OC) | USB Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, 8 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 | Network: 1 x Marvell 10Gb, 1 x Intel 2.5Gb, WiFi 6E | Video outputs: HDMI, Thunderbolt | Storage: 3x M.2, 6 x SATA III
Pros
Cons
The ROG MAXIMUS EXTREME variants always come to the rescue when it comes to the best overclocking abilities. Continuing with the norm and solid specs MAXIMUS EXTREME offers, we have opted to go with ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME as the Best Overclocking.
At first glance, one can not stop admiring the design aesthetics used by ASUS when manufacturing the MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME; it catches the eyes of a PC admirer straight away. RGB lighting and an additional OLED panel take the game to a new level; the OLED display can show statistics and even display customized GIFs and photos, sitting on top of the PCIe slot. That is something not commonly seen in many options, but ASUS opted to leave no complaints from their end users and provided everything regarding design aesthetics one could wish for.
ASUS used top-of-the-line VRM heatsinks to add to the overclocking ability of the motherboard. The motherboard holds a VRM design that cannot be compared to any other motherboard we could lay our hands on; it provides a breathtaking 24+1 phase VRM design, each rated to cater to 105A, which can provide record-breaking performance. Bulky and integrated heat sinks sit on top of the M.2 slots to cool off the excessive heat produced when overclocking the 13700KF to its limit or extensively using the NVMe SSDs.
DDR5 memory support to a maximum frequency of 7800 MHz is also there to enjoy. 2x PCIe Gen 5.0 x16 slots and 1x extra 4.0 x4 slot come with 5x M.2 slots and 6x SATA connections. With a single thunderbolt port that supports data transfer rates of up to 40Gbps, a 10G Ethernet connection, and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, the ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME makes a fully loaded board. On top of that, extra overclocking facilitation with the Overclocker’s Toolkit comprising a powerful set of hardware-level controls which optimize the overclocking experience, makes the whole setup a crowning achievement.
Everything one can ever wish for in a motherboard is provided in this ultimate package. However, one may find the price bracket a bit disturbing. But what can one expect? When it comes to the best, the price always comes accordingly. Either way, some may find the price worth it, as it can provide the best overclocking abilities for the newest Core i7-13700KF processor.
What We Liked:
The support for a whopping fast 7800 MHz DDR5 RAM, a sturdy 24+1 phase VRM rated at 105A, 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, and Thunderbolt 4 make it such a solid package for overclocking that you cannot deny its existence. The built-in support for optimized cooling using Overclocker’s Toolkit, solid cooling features, and on-point visual aesthetics makes it the complete package you’ll find for an overclocking setup.
What We Disliked:
Speaking of the best overclocking motherboard, the only setback one can find is the price bracket. Topping every other feature, ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME also tops the price chart. Reaching the staggering 1000 USD mark, it is one of the highest-priced motherboards one can ever set eyes upon. However, the ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME is designed for those who demand the highest performance possible, no matter the cost.
Why we picked it?
Besides flashing arguably the best graphics and aesthetics ever seen in a motherboard, ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME is the total package. Stuffed with all the features one could think of, the motherboard promises the best performance and overclocking abilities for any flagship processor still available in the market. The ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME’s superior thermal performance gives the processor adequate thermal headroom to turbo absurdly high clock speeds without encountering any problems.
Who’s it for?
It is the perfect product for gamers looking for the best looks, distinctive style, and power delivery paired with excellent heat dissipation, all adding up for the best overclocking score possible. Adjusting 5x M.2 ports, PCIe Gen 5.0 x16 sockets, not to mention the SATA ports and Thunderbolt connection, it is a top-notch Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF for those who are ready to pay the highest price for the best performance.
Verdict
The ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME is a unique motherboard that covers every possible functional angle. The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME is the ideal candidate to win the title of Best Overclocking Motherboard For i7-13700KF because it offers unrivaled performance and is powerful enough to overclock even the enormous processor.
DDR4 vs DDR5 Motherboards For i7-13700KF
Intel launched its Raptor Lake series processors comprising i5, i7, and i9 13th generation CPUs. For the Core i7 series, Intel released the Core i7-13700KF and Core i7 13700K based on LGA 1700 sockets, which means they are compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5. If you want fast speed and quality processing, you should upgrade to DDR5, but if you already have DDR4 RAM, you can go with that if you don’t need the DDR5 richness. If you find it difficult to choose a DDR4-compatible motherboard or a DDR5 one, we will help you make a wise decision.
Have a quick peek at BEST Motherboards For i7-13700K for a solid comparison.
There are many noticeable differences between DDR4 and DDR5, such as the unregistered dual inline memory module; the UDIMM capacity of DDR4 is 32 GB, while DDR5 has 128 GB. Regarding the bandwidth required for faster data transfer and efficient gaming performance or other applications, DDR5 provides you with double the bandwidth of DDR4 memory, which is 12800MB/s to 25600 MB/s in DDR4; in comparison, it is 38400 MB/s to 57600 MB/s in DDR5 with less power consumption. As we take a look at the base and effective frequency of DDR4 and DDR5, we will find a huge difference; DDR4 has a base frequency of 800 MHz to 1600 MHz and an effective frequency of 1600 MHz to 3200 MHz, whereas DDR5 has a base frequency of 2400 MHz to 3600 MHz and an effective frequency of 4800 MHz to 7200 MHz. There is a minute difference in the power consumption, which is high in DDR4 as it works on 1.2V, while DDR5 works on 1.1V.
DDR5 has an additional feature named ECC, which DDR4 does not provide; it helps the system check errors and corrects the data before sending it to the CPU, eventually enhancing the dependability and decreasing defect rates.
If we look at the price, we find that DDR5 is more expensive than DDR4. In many advantages, DDR5 has the disadvantage that it isn’t backward compatible; it can only support the motherboards that are DDR5 compatible and won’t run on DDR4 compatible motherboards. If you get a DDR4 motherboard, you won’t be able to upgrade it in the future, and you will have to buy a specific motherboard for DDR5.
A general question is raised when the topic is DDR4 vs. DDR5: Is it worth upgrading to DDR5 just now? There are two different answers to this, DDR5 is just on the rise, and as we saw in the Alder Lake, Raptor Lake, and AMDs series utilizing the DDR5, we can predict that the use of DDR5 will get common in the future. On the other hand, buying a DDR5 will restrict you to the motherboards that are DDR5 compatible and are released at that time; you can no longer buy the old or inexpensive motherboards that support DDR4. If you compare the frequency and bandwidth, DDR5 can be the choice.
Our Selection Criteria
Core i7-13700KF, a processor with a price tag of about $400, is not pocket friendly for a user who has to buy all the components of a computer. For this type of processor, everyone expects a very high-end performance that meets the processor’s value; for that, a good motherboard is required that helps you attain the best out of your processor.
When purchasing a motherboard, you need to be extra vigilant because you wouldn’t want your processor to get damaged or malfunction because of your carelessness. You must consider some key factors before buying a motherboard, and If you want to upgrade and looking for a guide to help you select the best motherboard for your costly processor, you are at the right spot.
VRM
VRM, which can be a fundamental factor when choosing a motherboard, is responsible for supplying equivalent voltage to all the computer components and ensuring that all the components work perfectly on the required voltage. A motherboard that provides rigid VRM can help you overclock smoothly without facing any limitation, especially for a beast-like processor like i7-13700KF; people love to get such motherboards that help them get the maximum performance of their processor.
VRM can be a crucial factor for an overclocking enthusiast because it makes sure that it supplies rightful voltage to the GPU while overclocking without affecting the voltages of other components so they may keep running without the risk of damaging anything. Considering the processor’s price, we chose the motherboards with a VRM design that is light on the pocket so that a person may get that easily.
Overclocking Potential
Overclocking, a feature that every gaming enthusiast wishes for, is essential in boosting your system’s performance, whether you are gaming or doing some other work. Overclocking a processor like i7-13700KF can generate a lot of heat, as it requires 253W on max turbo power, for which a motherboard is necessary that can overclock while dissipating the heat and manage voltage equally along all components and maintaining the temperature to give you some intense performance.
Keeping in mind all the factors, we chose those motherboards which can help your system’s performance touch skies without facing any problems and attain the best out of your processor.
Heatsink – Cooling
Intel’s processors are known for performance, but with that comes enormous heat, which is supposed to be managed by the motherboard. Heatsinks, fans, and coolers play a huge role in dissipating the extra heat and try to maintain the temperature to normal for a smooth experience while using your system.
Keeping that in mind, as well as the performance and heat generated by the i7-13700KF, we chose the motherboards that will help you dissipate the heat and help you gain a lot better and smoother experience.
Features
If you are buying a motherboard or are planning to upgrade, some extra features will help you in future-proofing and present as icing on the cake.
Some of the features can be extra PCIe 5.0 lanes, and to connect components like GPUs or NVMe SSDs; you need some extra expansion slots that can help you with that, helping you boost data read and write speeds and giving you an extra amount of performance. Some extra RAM slots can help you increase RAM, eventually increasing your system’s speed.
Furthermore, some other features, like the software that controls the computer components, for instance, various dedicated softwares, help to control the RGB of the motherboard and keep an eye on the performance of the motherboard.
Thunderbolt 4 can also be a vital factor in improving data transfer speeds with the help of USB ports, whether 3.0 or 4.0, which can help you connect extra peripherals and reduce the input latency of the peripherals.
EZ Latch, another feature that comes in various motherboards, with a screwless and quick-release design, helps the user to swap GPU and SSDs without any hurdles. High performance and fast networking help gamers provide a millisecond response time which matters while playing online games.
Heatsinks with thermal pads, and VRM designs, are the features that matter a lot in choosing a motherboard because when overclocking or with an extensive load on the motherboard, they manage to keep the temperatures maintained to give you the best performance out of your system.
The inclusion of AI is also a breakthrough feature that comes with the new motherboards and helps manage things by itself; for instance, if the temperatures rise, the AI Cooler will help you dissipate heat and automatically bring the temperature to be normal.
We’ve selected all the i7-13700KF motherboards with the latest attributes, which may also improve your experience and assist you in the future.
Price
Price, a major factor while buying a motherboard, must be kept in mind apart from the features. Spending way extra bucks on the motherboard can be good for your PC, but your decision may stand well when you spend the proper amount of money on the motherboard, which helps you fulfill the requirements and save the extra money to spend on some extra peripherals.
On the other hand, spending less money on a vital component such as a motherboard may not be wise enough because buying some cheap components may end up damaging your crucial components, by which you have to bear a loss more than the investment on the motherboard. With the stats in mind, we selected the Best Motherboard For Core i7-13700KF that will help you fulfill the requirements of your system while staying within budget.
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Frequently Asked Questions
For Intel’s 13th generation Core i7-13700KF processor, you’ll need a motherboard with an LGA 1700 socket and a compatible 600-series or 700-series chipset. With an LGA 1700 socket onboard, your system will be compatible with DDR4 and DDR5, a bonus feature.
As the Core i7-13700KF processor uses LGA 1700 socket, users with DDR4 compatible motherboards can run 13th Gen processors just after having a BIOS update. You can go with the DDR5, too, if you require some heavy performance from your system.
You might not see a huge difference between DDR4 RAM and DDR5 RAM, but considering it especially for overclocking, DDR5 can give you faster speeds and a better experience, so it is the choice to make. However, if you already have an adequately performing DDR4 system, going with the DDR4 will be fine.
The Intel Core i7-13700KF offers incredible gaming and streaming performance, with access to 16 Cores – 8 Performance cores (P-Cores) and 8 Efficient cores (E-Cores). But you will have to get dedicated graphics to acquire some extreme gaming performance and graphics because Intel’s KF variants do not come with Intel’s Integrated Graphics.
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