Intel processors have been the top choice for users looking to assemble their PC for gaming due to the single-core performance in their processors. The Intel Core i7-10700K falls in the upper mid-range CPUs and is a performance champion in the 10th generation series of Intel processors.
If you’re building a high-end gaming PC without overspending, the i7-700K is a great CPU alternative. Also, choosing a compatible motherboard is critical to your PC’s performance. A wrong one will pose problems, and you can incur unnecessary expenses. As a result, finding the best compatible motherboards for your i7-10700K is important.
Top List of Products
- MSI MEG Z490 Unify – Editor’s Choice
- ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming – Best Mid-Range Option
- Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Xtreme – Great Premium Option
- MSI Z490-A Pro – Excellent Budget Option
- ASUS TUF Gaming Z490-Plus – Great Z490 Motherboard Choice
1. MSI MEG Z490 Unify
MSI MEG Z490 Unify
The MSI MEG Z490 Unify might appear minimalist, but it’s an ideal high-end alternative for hardcore gamers. It offers a new dimension without RGB, that’s most common with premium motherboards. This motherboard includes a built-in rear I/O shield and delivers impressive networking due to the WiFi 6 802.11ax and 2.5G Ethernet LAN technology.
Pros: Cons:
Enjoy a memory speed of 4800MHz and 32GB memory storage capacity. You’ll get four DDR4 DIMM slots and a RAM maximum capacity of 128GB. Also, the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 allows you to transfer files faster, up to speeds of 20Gb/s. The MSI MEG Z490 Unify motherboard supports PCIe 4.0 and features Frozr Heatsink technology for effective heat dispersion. Furthermore, it’s compatible with gaming consoles and the Intel Pentium Gold and Intel Celeron processors.
2. ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming
ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming
The ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming is among the best mid-range motherboards on the market. It features outstanding aesthetics, AI overclocking, and Aura Sync RGB lighting, which gives you top-notch personalization. It also has remarkable cooling innovations, featuring thermal pads, dual M.2 heatsinks, a MOS heatsink with Heat Pipe, Fan Bracket, and MOS Fan.
Pros: Cons:
Many USB options are accessible on the rear I/O of this ASUS motherboard. ASUS also included a 2.5 GigE Ethernet port and WiFi 6 adapter for the best of networks. It’s an ATX Form Factor motherboard that utilizes 14+2 Power Stages, Procool II Power Connectors, Digi+ Power Control, Alloy Choke, and Capacitor for strong digital power control.
You get a RAM size of 128GB, four memory slots, and a 24-pin primary power connector type. Furthermore, it includes a rich BIOS feature, with two available M.2 slots for a fast and flexible M.2 platform.
3. Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Xtreme
Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Xtreme
Experience the premium features of the Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Xtreme. This motherboard delivers optimal performance to power up one of Intel’s finest 10th-generation processors. Showcasing a unique build with impressive functionality and incredible connectivity, this flagship keyboard has all it takes to compete.
Pros: Cons:
To achieve a faster VRAM speed, the Z490 Aorus Xtreme utilizes an “XTREME Memory” technology, reducing electrical interference and noise. You’ll get 4 x DIMM slots, Bluetooth 5.0, Intel WiFi 6, and True 16-Phase Digital VRMs. Also, it features 3x M.2 connectors, RGB Fusion 2.0, and thermal reactive armor that deals with heat by using different parts of the Gigabyte Z490 Aorus Xtreme as a heatsink.
4. MSI Z490-A Pro
MSI Z490-A Pro
This MSI motherboard combines top-notch performance and stable functionality for a steady workflow. This Z490-A Pro board features DDR4 memory support and Realtek ALC892 Codec for improved audio performance. Also, there’s LGA 1200 CPU socket, 3x PCle 3.0 x1 expansion slots, and up to 128GB RAM size.
Pros: Cons:
The Extended Heatsink and core boost help maintain component function for better operating conditions. Experience double power with the 8+4 pin connectors that provide sufficient power, even when overclocking.
Furthermore, the MSI Z490-A Pro includes six SATA ports and two PCIe x16 with three PCIe x1 slots. Although it doesn’t come with RGB lighting, the Z490-A Pro features a debug LED array. Also, a 2.5G Ethernet LAN, Twin Turbo M.2 and M.2 Shield Frozr enhance the motherboard’s connectivity.
5. ASUS TUF Gaming Z490-Plus
ASUS TUF Gaming Z490-Plus
For a mid-range cost, this ASUS motherboard promises exceptional delivery for your i7-10700K. Powered by the Intel Z490 chipset, it comes with a strong VRM configuration and fits your i7-10700K. It has a 4-pin/8-pin power input system that accompanies the Z490 motherboard series, which perfectly works with the i7-10700K.
Pros: Cons:
This ASUS motherboard includes a comprehensive cooling solution of hybrid fan headers, Fan Xpert 4 utility, VRM heatsink, high-quality thermal pads, and M.2 heatsinks. It has great overclocking capabilities, and the six SATA ports on the right of the motherboard provide extra storage. Also, it has 128GB memory storage and features outstanding network and connectivity technology, making this motherboard ideal for online gaming.
Buying Guide: Important Considerations Before Purchasing the Best Motherboard for the I7-10700K
• Form Factor
ATX motherboards are the most common motherboard form factors. Others, like the mini and micro form factors, also exist. When purchasing a new motherboard, and you’re unsure of the compatible size, always measure the old one and compare it with the new motherboard to confirm its size. Note that the bigger the form factor, the more RAM and card slots.
• Chipset
The chipset of any motherboard enables communication between the processor, storage devices, connected expansion, and other peripherals. Selecting a motherboard with the wrong chipset can lead to a flawed performance of the motherboard. Therefore, knowing which chipset your CPU supports helps in selecting a compatible motherboard for the processor.
• CPU Socket
It’s important to check the CPU socket before making a purchase. CPU sockets come in different sizes, shapes, and pin counts. Intel processors and compatible motherboards used the LGA 1151 CPU Socket for a while. However, a few years ago, the LGA 1200 CPU socket was launched, and it’s the standard CPU socket for the motherboards on our list.
• Budget
Calculating your budget before purchasing a new motherboard for your i7 10700K processor helps narrow down your options. The Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Xtreme is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something high-end. However, if you want to cut expenses and still get a motherboard that delivers on performance, consider the MSI Z490-A Pro.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I choose a motherboard for my i7-10700K?
Choosing a compatible motherboard for your i7-700K involves knowing certain motherboard specifications that pair well with the i7-700K processor. Your preference also matters when making a decision. Some may prefer a premium motherboard, while others want something mid-range and affordable. You can check out our buying guide for tips on selecting motherboards for the i7-10700K processor.
2. Can I pair my old motherboard with the i7-10700K?
Before pairing your old motherboard with the i7-10700K CPU, consider the socket type and the chipset. The i7-10700K only pairs effectively with the Intel Z490 chipset and the LGA 1200 processor socket.
3. Does brand matter when purchasing a new motherboard?
Over time, some brands have earned a good name for themselves due to their top manufacturing quality. Although there are many brands out there, the brands included in our list are reliable and manufacture quality products. Brands like Gigabyte, Asus, and MSI are big names in the industry, and you can trust them to deliver.
Conclusion
The i7-10700K is a top-performing gaming CPU, and one can only think of the best motherboards to pair with this gaming monster. Choosing the best compatible motherboards for the i7-10700K involves detailed analysis. We’ve done the most challenging part by comprehensively reviewing our best picks.
Note that every motherboard has its pros and cons. Therefore, you should always consider the cons of each motherboard before deciding to buy. If you can put up with the drawbacks of your preferred choice, go ahead and make a purchase.
