The venerable Intel Core i7-13700KF is a high-performing CPU that has outperformed many of its rivals, cementing itself as one of the fastest gaming CPUs in my testing. The i7-13700 KF possesses enough horsepower to deliver excellent all-around performance, undoubtedly making it one of the most powerful CPUs. To maximize its performance, let’s look at some of the very best motherboards that you can pair with the i7-13700KF, based on my testing.
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Best Motherboards For i7-13700KF
I chose these motherboards for the i7-13700KF based on my testing and hands-on experience:
- Best Overall Motherboard For i7-13700KF: Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX
- Best High-End Motherboard For i7-13700KF: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO
- Best White Motherboard For i7-13700KF: Gigabyte Z690 AERO D
- Best Value Motherboard For i7-13700KF: MSI PRO Z690-A
- Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For i7-13700KF: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi
- Best Overclocking Motherboard For i7-13700KF: ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Extreme
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.
Cons
Design and Build Quality: Keeping things simple, Gigabyte has gone with an all-black theme that looks sophisticated as well as stylish. The subtle silver accents provide personality to the board. The addition of a 6-layer PCB further ensures good build quality and eliminates any chances for the meltdown of the motherboard.
Performance: The 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 in my testing. 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.
Features and Connectivity: The storage capabilities of the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX are also quite decent. Talking about expansion slots, it contains 1x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and 2x PCIe 4.0 x4 slot. The USB ports are also great, as Z790 AORUS ELITE AX offers 10x total USB ports of varying speeds.
Our resident motherboard specialist, Nauman Siddique, had the following to say about the Z790 AORUS Elite AX.
“The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is a good-quality computer board that has everything most people need for everyday use.”
Buy It If:
We took the following shots in our Z790 AORUS Elite AX review:
You want a robust power delivery system: The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX stands out as an excellent choice for this processor, primarily due to its twin 19-phase power system, which is excellent for the i7-13700KF according to my test results.
Don’t Buy It If:
You need to use all SATA ports and M.2 slots simultaneously: The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX has many positive aspects, but one notable limitation is that you cannot use all 6x SATA ports concurrently when using the last two M.2 ports. This may pose a challenge if you require all these connections simultaneously.
What Makes It The Best Overall Motherboard For i7-13700KF?
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.
| VRM Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 8/10 |
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
Design and Build Quality: 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.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.
Performance: It comes equipped with a 20+1 power phase capable of smoothly running your i7-13700KF at 105A power stage with no problems, according to my tests. Also, the addition of thermal pads and 4×4-pin fan headers makes it easier for the MAXIMUS Z790 HERO to cool down faster, making overclocking a breeze.
Features and Connectivity: TheMAXIMUS 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.
Buy It If:
Take a look at a few of our ASUS Maximus Z790 HERO shots:
You require an exceptional power design: My testing shows that the 21-phase power design ensures stable and efficient operation for your i7-13700KF, enhancing its overall performance.
You need ample USB connectivity: The addition of 12 USB ports provides great flexibility and connectivity options.
Don’t Buy It If:
You’re on a tight budget: The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 HERO’s high price is the primary drawback. While it delivers a wealth of high-end features for an exceptional gaming experience, it can be a significant investment, so it may not be suitable for budget-conscious users.
What Makes It The Best High-End Motherboard For i7-13700KF?
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.
| VRM Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 9/10 |
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
Design and Build Quality: The GIGABYTE Z690 AERO D is one of the best white motherboards human-eye has ever witnessed. The combination of black PCB alongside white and silver heatsinks can leave no eye unappealed. To facilitate the robust VRM on board, Z690 AERO D comprises a 6-layer PCB design to improve build quality overall.
Performance: 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. Integrated with a Direct-Touch Heatpipe II helps maintain the temperatures even during extreme overclocking with the Core i7-13700KF in my results.
Features and Connectivity: 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. Networking is faster than ever with its Marvell AQtion 10 GbE Ethernet, which showed performance up to 10x faster than Gigabit Ethernet.
Buy It If:
You value connectivity options: The GIGABYTE Z690 AERO D stands out with impressive connectivity features, including Dual Thunderbolt 4 at the rear I/O, which can be a significant advantage for various devices and peripherals.
You appreciate aesthetic looks: The motherboard’s stunning aesthetics are undeniable and can be a compelling factor if you’re looking to build a visually appealing system.
Don’t Buy It If:
You prioritize RGB lighting: This motherboard lacks RGB lighting, so if you’re a fan of colorful and customizable lighting options, you might find it lacking in this department.
You require full utilization of PCIe 5.0 slots: The inability to use the second PCIe 5.0 slot without lowering the first PCIe 5.0 slot to x8 mode may be a limitation for users who want both slots to run at full speed simultaneously.
What Makes It The Best White Motherboard For i7-13700KF?
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, it’s the perfect match for your i7-13700KF. The blend of white and silver contrasts added to its creativity, thus, making it the Best White Motherboard For i7-13700K.
| VRM Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 10/10 |
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
Design and Build Quality: 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. A bulky 2oz 6-layer PCB and IT-150 server-grade material came in handy to improve build quality.
Performance: Under the VRM heatsinks, the MSI Pro Z690-A boasts a robust 14+1+1 power stage configuration, featuring a core Digital PWM IC, to deliver clean and consistent power to the CPU according to my test results. This advanced power delivery system incorporates strong thermal dissipation techniques, utilizing 14 of these power stages.
Features and Connectivity: 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 to its users. The board also comes with fast USB ports and a 2.5 Gbe LAN port, lacking only the integrated I/O shield at the rear.
Buy It If:
You want DDR5 compatibility: The MSI PRO Z690-A offers DDR5 compatibility, ensuring you can take advantage of the latest memory technology even on a tight budget.
You’re budget-conscious: Despite its affordable price, the motherboard provides excellent VRM performance in my tests, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Don’t Buy It If:
You prioritize design aesthetics: The motherboard’s design aesthetics are basic, and it lacks RGB lighting. If you prefer a more visually appealing and colorful system, this motherboard may not meet your aesthetic preferences.
What Makes It The Best Value Motherboard For i7-13700KF?
For the title of the Best Value Motherboard For i7-13700KF currently available, the MSI PRO Z690-A is the best choice. It will be a highly appreciated option for folks who don’t want to spend extra money on a motherboard because 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.
| VRM Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 7/10 |
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
Design and Build Quality: The ROG Strix Z790-I is 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. ASUS has soldered all the stuff on a 10-layer PCB to slow down the heating and provide a sense of durability to the system.
Performance: 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 in my testing, along with a 105A rating for each phase.
Features and Connectivity: 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. Additionally, the ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi has two Thunderbolt connectors.
Buy It If:
You want a feature-packed Mini-ITX motherboard: The Mini-ITX motherboard offers an impressive array of features, including two M.2 slots, DDR5 memory support up to 6400 MHz, a PCIe Gen 5.0 x16 slot, a 10-layer PCB, and a robust 10+1 phase VRM.
Don’t Buy It If:
You prioritize future upgradability: Mini-ITX motherboards often face limitations due to space constraints, which can affect future upgrade options. While this motherboard is feature-rich, its small form factor may restrict potential upgrades.
What Makes It The Best Mini-ITX Motherboard For i7-13700KF?
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.
| VRM Performance: 8/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Design: 9/10 |
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
Design and Build Quality: The board 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. It even showcases outstanding build quality.
Performance: The ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME provides a breathtaking 24+1 phase VRM design, with stages rated to cater to 105A, which can provide record-breaking performance in my overclocking tests. ASUS used top-of-the-line VRM heatsinks to add to the overclocking ability of the motherboard, making it truly exceptional.
Features and Connectivity: The 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.
Buy It If:
You’re into extreme overclocking: The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME a robust 24+1 phase VRM rated at 105A, along with built-in support for optimized cooling through the Overclocker’s Toolkit, solid cooling features, and striking visual aesthetics, making it an exceptional overclocker according to my test results.
Don’t Buy It If:
You’re on a tight budget: The primary drawback of the ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 EXTREME is its high price. It’s one of the highest-priced motherboards on the market, so if you’re price-conscious and seeking a budget-friendly option, this motherboard may not be suitable for you.
What Makes It The Best Overclocking Motherboard For i7-13700KF?
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 VRM performance and is powerful enough to overclock even the powerful Core i7-13700KF while providing an array of exceptional features and superb aesthetics.
| VRM Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 10/10 | Design: 9/10 |
How We Tested & Picked The Best Motherboards For i7-13700KF
- VRM: VRM, which can be a fundamental factor when choosing a motherboard, is responsible for supplying equivalent voltage to all the computer components. A motherboard that provides robust VRM can help you overclock smoothly without facing any limitations, especially for a processor like i7-13700KF
- Overclocking Potential: 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.
- 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.
- 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, as well as USB ports, whether 3.0 or 4.0, which can help you connect extra peripherals and reduce the input latency of the peripherals.
- 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.
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.
- October 24, 2023: Few text changes to improve readability. No products were changed.
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[Casings & Motherboards Expert]
Faizan Ahmed is a Computer Hardware Specialist and professional writer covering all the ranges of different PC Casings alongside the latest Motherboards. He is the man to read when you’re buying a casing for your PC, need a Motherboard for your specific processor, or are concerned about the socket or CPU Cooler.
Having a keen eye for the details, his research includes the latest updates and technologies implemented in the sector and the quick response to approaching them ASAP. Before working on Tech4Gamers, Faizan has written immensely on freelancing platforms under the Tech niche, ranging from PC Components to different smart devices, software, and even Game Reviews and Guides.
He’s also written on websites like WhatIfGaming and Mondestuff. Faizan is an early PC gamer, and this prolonged interaction with the PC and Games has made him the perfect candidate for expressing his ideas and concepts in words for others in the community.
Get In Touch: faizan@tech4gamers.com
