Welcome to our guide for choosing the Best Motherboard in 2024! The motherboard is the backbone of any gaming PC, responsible for connecting and managing all other components. When shopping for a new motherboard, it's essential to consider several factors, such as processor compatibility, form factor, chipset, and feature set.
We've researched the latest offerings from leading manufacturers to provide you with a curated list of top picks across various price points and gaming needs. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision to build the perfect foundation for your 2024 gaming PC. Whether you're an Intel or AMD fan, value-conscious consumer, overclocker, or custom loop enthusiast, we've got you covered. Stay tuned to find out which motherboard will serve as your dream team's captain!
ASUS ROG Maximus XIV Extreme: Best High-End Enthusiast Motherboard
ROG Maximus XIII Extreme (WiFi 6E) Z590 LGA 1200(Intel® 11th/10th Gen) E... -- 699.99(Amazon)
ROG Maximus Z690 Extreme(WiFi 6E)LGA 1700(Intel 12th Gen)EATX gaming mot... -- 890.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The ASUS ROG Maximus XIV Extreme is a powerhouse of a motherboard, designed for the most demanding PC enthusiasts and overclockers. It offers top-tier performance, extensive overclocking support, and a premium build quality that is hard to match. With its future-proof features, including PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 compatibility, it's built to take advantage of the latest high-performance components and provide a cutting-edge gaming experience.
Who It's For
This motherboard is best suited for hardcore gamers, PC builders, and enthusiasts who demand the best performance and are willing to invest in a high-end setup. It's also ideal for users who plan on extensive overclocking and require robust thermal solutions and power delivery. However, it may not be the best value for average users who won't utilize all the advanced features and can find more cost-effective options for their needs.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 offers future-proofing for next-gen components | ❌ Very high price point may not justify the cost for average users |
| ✅ Robust power delivery with 24+1 power stages for stable overclocking | ❌ Some features may be overkill for those not utilizing extreme overclocking or multiple M.2 drives |
| ✅ Comprehensive cooling solutions, including five M.2 heatsinks and water-cooling zone | ❌ EATX form factor requires a compatible case and may not fit in standard builds |
MSI MEG Z790 Godlike: Best High-End Gaming Motherboard
MEG Z790 GODLIKE Gaming Motherboard (Supports 12th/13th Gen Intel Proces... -- 1198.75(Amazon)
MSI Z790 Meg Godlike Intel LGA 1700 EATX Motherboard -- 1198.99(Newegg.com)
MEG Z790 GODLIKE MAX Gaming Motherboard (Supports 12th/13th/14th Gen Int... -- 1198.99(Amazon)
MSI MEG Z790 Godlike Max LGA 1700 E-ATX Intel Motherboard, Intel Z790 Ch... -- 1127.95(Microless.com)
Why We Picked It
The MSI MEG Z790 Godlike stands out as a top-tier motherboard designed for enthusiasts and power users who demand exceptional performance and cutting-edge features. Its robust power delivery system, advanced thermal solutions, and comprehensive connectivity options make it an ideal choice for high-end gaming rigs and demanding productivity tasks.
Who It's For
This motherboard is best suited for hardcore gamers, professional content creators, and tech enthusiasts who require the utmost in performance and are willing to invest in a premium product. It's not the best fit for budget-conscious builders or those with compact PC cases due to its high price and large E-ATX form factor.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Outstanding power design with 26+2+phases and 105A Smart Power Stage for maximum performance | ❌ Extremely expensive, making it less accessible for the average consumer |
| ✅ Rich feature set including Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, and M-Vision Dashboard for enhanced user experience | ❌ Large E-ATX form factor may not be compatible with all PC cases |
| ✅ Support for the latest 12th/13th Gen Intel processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing | ❌ Potential overkill for users with moderate computing needs |
GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Xtreme: Best High-End Motherboard for Enthusiasts
Z790 AORUS Master EATX Motherboard with DDR5, PCIe 5.0, WiFi 6E, 10GbE L... -- 449.99(Amazon)
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Xtreme x Intel LGA 1700 EATX Motherboard -- 878.36(Jar Hearts)
Why We Picked It
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Xtreme motherboard is a top-tier choice for enthusiasts looking to harness the power of Intel's latest 13th and 12th Gen Core processors. With its commanding power design and advanced thermal solutions, it offers exceptional overclocking capabilities. The inclusion of next-gen connectivity options and dynamic audio features make it a comprehensive platform for gamers and creators who demand the best performance and features.
Who It's For
This motherboard is best suited for high-end PC builders and enthusiasts who require robust overclocking support, cutting-edge connectivity, and premium audio quality. It's ideal for gamers, content creators, and power users who want to build a system without compromises. However, due to its premium price and E-ATX form factor, it may not be the best fit for those on a tight budget or with space constraints in their PC case.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Direct 20+1+2 Phases Digital VRM with 105A Power Stage for stable and efficient power delivery | ❌ Premium price point may be prohibitive for some budgets |
| ✅ Comprehensive thermal design including M.2 Thermal Guard III and Fins-Array III with NanoCarbon Coating | ❌ E-ATX size may not fit in all PC cases, limiting compatibility |
| ✅ Next-gen connectivity with PCIe 5.0, 10GbE LAN, WiFi 6E, and multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C ports | ❌ May offer more features than necessary for average users, leading to underutilization |
ASRock Z790 Taichi: High-Performance Enthusiast Motherboard
ASRock Z790 Taichi Lite Intel Z790 LGA 1700 Extended ATX -- 341.99(Newegg.com)
MB Z790 Taichi R -- 516(Amazon)
ASRock Z790 Taichi Lite LGA 1700 EATX Motherboard, Intel Z790 Chipset, 4... -- 417.12(Microless.com)
ASRock Z790 Taichi Carrara Intel LGA1700 EATX Mainboard , 4 Slots Ddr5, ... -- 577.99(Techinn.com)
Why We Picked It
The ASRock Z790 Taichi series offers a robust platform for high-end computing, catering to the needs of power users and enthusiasts. With support for the latest 13th Gen and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, advanced power design, and high-speed connectivity options, it's a motherboard that balances performance, aesthetics, and features for those looking to build a powerful PC.
Who It's For
The ASRock Z790 Taichi is best suited for serious PC builders, gamers, and professionals who require top-tier performance and are willing to invest in a premium motherboard. It's ideal for those who need a reliable foundation for overclocking, multi-GPU setups, or running resource-intensive applications.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports the latest 13th Gen & 12th Gen Intel Core processors | ❌ Premium price point may be prohibitive for some budgets |
| ✅ High-speed connectivity with PCIe 5.0 and USB4 Type-C | ❌ Specific aesthetic may not appeal to all users |
| ✅ Robust 24+1+2 Phase Power Design for stable overclocking | ❌ EATX form factor requires a compatible case and may not fit all setups |
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi: High-End Gaming Motherboard
ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II LGA 1700(Intel 14th & 13th & 12th Gen)AT... -- 479.99(Amazon)
Micro Center Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor 24 Cores up to 5.8 G... -- 969.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II motherboard is a powerhouse for gamers and PC enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance, connectivity, and cooling solutions. With support for the latest Intel 13th & 12th Gen processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0, it's built to handle demanding gaming and multitasking. The inclusion of WiFi 6E ensures high-speed wireless connectivity, while the robust power solution and optimized VRM thermals guarantee stability under load. Its design, featuring Aura lighting and a futuristic aesthetic, adds a vibrant look to any build.
Who It's For
Ideal for gamers, PC builders, and enthusiasts looking to assemble a high-performance, future-proof gaming rig with the latest technology. It's also a great fit for those who appreciate a motherboard that combines aesthetics with functionality. However, its price point may be a consideration for those on a tighter budget who might not require all its advanced features.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports latest Intel 13th & 12th Gen processors and DDR5 memory for cutting-edge performance | ❌ Slightly pricey compared to competitors with similar features |
| ✅ Robust power solution and optimized cooling for stability and longevity | ❌ May offer more features than a casual user needs |
| ✅ Comprehensive connectivity including WiFi 6E, PCIe 5.0, and multiple M.2 slots | ❌ Requires a compatible case and PSU for optimal utilization of its features |
MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi: High-Performance Gaming Motherboard
MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi II Gaming Motherboard (Supports 12th/13th/14th Gen ... -- 429.99(Amazon)
MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi Gaming Motherboard (Supports 12th/13th Gen Intel Pr... -- 399.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi series motherboards offer an excellent balance between price and performance, making them an attractive choice for mainstream gamers and PC enthusiasts. With support for the latest Intel processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0, these motherboards are designed to deliver high-speed performance. The inclusion of advanced connectivity options like Wi-Fi 7 in the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi II and Wi-Fi 6E in the MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi, along with aesthetic enhancements such as Mysticlight RGB lighting, make them stand out. Their robust power design and optimized DDR5 circuit further ensure stability and efficiency for gaming and multitasking.
Who It's For
These motherboards are best suited for gamers and PC builders looking for a high-performance foundation for their next-gen Intel-based systems without breaking the bank. They are also ideal for users who appreciate a motherboard that combines strong performance with striking aesthetics. However, extreme overclockers or those seeking the absolute pinnacle of performance features may need to look at higher-end options.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports the latest 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors for future-proofing | ❌ May lack some extreme overclocking features found in pricier models |
| ✅ Advanced connectivity with PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen2x2, and up to Wi-Fi 7 | ❌ The price point, while competitive, might still be a stretch for budget-conscious builders |
| ✅ Robust power design and high-speed DDR5 memory support for optimal performance | ❌ Wi-Fi 7 available only in the slightly more expensive MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi II version |
GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX: Best Value Gaming Motherboard
Z790 AORUS Elite AX (LGA 1700/ Intel Z790/ ATX/ DDR5/ Quad M.2/ PCIe 5.0... -- 229.99(Amazon)
Z790 AORUS Elite AX ICE (LGA 1700/ Intel/ Z790 X/ATX/ DDR5/ 4* M.2/ PCIe... -- 239.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX motherboard offers a compelling mix of features for gamers and PC enthusiasts looking for a robust platform without breaking the bank. It provides a strong foundation for high-performance computing with support for the latest 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0, making it a future-proof choice for mainstream users.
Who It's For
This motherboard is ideal for gamers and PC builders who want a high-quality, feature-rich platform that supports the latest hardware without the premium price tag of top-tier models. It's also suitable for those who prioritize fast networking and advanced thermal design but can manage with a moderate number of USB ports and expansion slots.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports latest 13th and 12th Gen Intel CPUs | ❌ Fewer USB ports compared to high-end models |
| ✅ High-speed DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 support | ❌ Limited expansion slots |
| ✅ Advanced thermal design and robust power delivery | ❌ May lack some niche features found in more expensive motherboards |
ASRock Z790 Pro RS: Best Budget-Friendly Motherboard for Modern Builds
ASRock Pro Z790 Pro RS WiFi Intel LGA1700 ATX Motherboard 4 Ddr5 Slots P... -- 189.99(Newegg.com)
Z790 Pro RS Intel Z790 Series CPU (LGA1700) DDR5 Memory Compatible Z790 ... -- 213.82(Amazon)
ASRock Z790 Pro RS/D4 LGA 1700 Intel Z790 DDR4 ATX Motherboard -- 296.13(eBay - retail_king)
Z790 Pro RS/D4 Motherboard, Supports Intel 12th and 13th Generation CPU ... -- 203.99(Amazon)
ASRock Z790 Pro RS ATX DDR5 Motherboard -- 216.95(Factorydunia.com)
Why We Picked It
The ASRock Z790 Pro RS series motherboards offer a balance between cost and performance, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious PC builders who still want access to the latest technologies. With support for the newest 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors and DDR5 memory, these motherboards provide a solid foundation for a modern system without breaking the bank.
Who It's For
The ASRock Z790 Pro RS is best suited for mainstream users and budget-oriented gamers who are looking for a reliable motherboard with essential features for their build. It's also a good fit for those who want to take advantage of the latest Intel CPUs and DDR5 memory but don't require extensive overclocking capabilities or the most advanced features found in higher-end motherboards.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports the latest 13th Gen & 12th Gen Intel Core processors | ❌ Limited overclocking potential compared to more expensive models |
| ✅ Equipped with DDR5 memory slots supporting up to 6800+(OC) MHz | ❌ Fewer high-end features and connectivity options |
| ✅ Includes PCIe 5.0 support and multiple M.2 slots for fast storage options | ❌ Some versions only support DDR4, which might not be ideal for future-proofing |
ASUS Prime Z790-P WiFi: Best Value Intel Z790 Motherboard
Z790-P ATX Motherboard with WiFi 6, PCIe 5.0, DDR5, 14+1 Power Stages, 3... -- 226.58(Amazon)
Prime Z790-P WiFi D4 LGA 1700(Intel 14th,12th&13th Gen) ATX motherboard ... -- 219.99(Amazon)
Micro Center Intel Core i7-12700K 12 (8P+4E) Cores up to 5.0 GHz Unlocke... -- 449.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The ASUS Prime Z790-P WiFi motherboard is a well-rounded platform that offers a balance of performance, connectivity, and value for users looking to build a modern PC with the latest Intel processors. Its support for PCIe 5.0, DDR5, and WiFi 6 ensures future-proofing, while the comprehensive cooling and enhanced power solution cater to stable operation.
Who It's For
This motherboard is ideal for mainstream PC builders and daily users who require solid performance for work or play but do not intend to engage in extreme overclocking. It's also suitable for those looking for a motherboard that supports the latest technologies without breaking the bank.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 offers future-proofing | ❌ Basic VRM setup may limit heavy overclocking potential |
| ✅ Comprehensive cooling solutions for stable performance | ❌ Cooling might be insufficient for high-end CPUs under sustained loads |
| ✅ Rich connectivity with WiFi 6, 2.5Gb LAN, and Thunderbolt 4 | ❌ Some users may prefer more robust power delivery for enthusiast-level builds |
MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi: Balanced Motherboard for Professionals and Gamers
PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries Motherboard (Supports 12th/13th Gen Intel Proc... -- 189.99(Amazon)
MSI Pro Z790-P WiFi DDR4 LGA 1700 Intel ATX Motherboard -- 209.99(Newegg.com)
MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi ProSeries Computer Gaming Motherboard (Supports 12th... -- 139.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The MSI PRO Z790-P WiFi motherboard is a well-rounded platform that offers a balance of features and performance at a competitive price point. It supports the latest 12th and 13th Gen Intel processors, DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0, making it a future-proof choice for users looking to build a new system or upgrade an existing one. Its focus on enhanced power design and thermal solutions ensures stable performance for professional workloads and gaming sessions.
Who It's For
This motherboard is ideal for professionals who require a reliable system for multitasking and productivity, as well as budget-conscious gamers seeking a motherboard with the necessary features for a decent gaming experience. It may not be the best fit for enthusiasts looking for the highest-end build quality and the most advanced features available.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Supports the latest DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 for future-proofing | ❌ Lacks the premium build quality of high-end motherboards |
| ✅ Enhanced power design and premium thermal solutions for stable performance | ❌ May not have all the advanced features desired by enthusiasts |
| ✅ Affordable price with Wi-Fi 6E and decent connectivity options | ❌ Multiple price points may cause confusion among different DDR5 models |
Excited to help you find the perfect motherboard! If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!