Best Z790 Motherboard: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Choosing the right motherboard is the most critical decision when building a new PC. It’s the central hub that connects every component, dictating your system’s capabilities and future upgrade paths. After extensive testing and hands-on evaluation of the market’s top contenders, we’ve found that the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard ATX DDR5 PCIe 5.0 M.2 Wi-Fi 6E stands out as our top pick. It strikes an exceptional balance between next-generation features, robust power delivery, and overall value. With its support for the latest Intel processors, high-speed DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, and ample M.2 storage, it provides a powerful and future-proof foundation for any high-end gaming or workstation build without an exorbitant price tag.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Z790 Motherboard

#1 MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard ATX DDR5 PCIe 5.0 M.2 Wi-Fi 6E – Ideal for: High-Performance Intel Builds

From the moment we unboxed the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard ATX DDR5 PCIe 5.0 M.2 Wi-Fi 6E, we were impressed by its substantial build quality. The heatsinks are heavy and well-machined, inspiring confidence in its thermal management capabilities. During our testing with an Intel Core i7-14700K, the board remained remarkably stable, even under heavy loads, thanks to its robust VRM cooling. The inclusion of a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot ensures it’s ready for next-generation graphics cards, while the four M.2 Gen4 slots provided us with ample, blazing-fast storage options. We found the installation process to be refreshingly simple, a sentiment echoed by many users who praised the clear markings and intuitive layout. The BIOS is another high point; it’s clean, easy to navigate for beginners in EZ mode, yet offers deep customisation for seasoned overclockers. A few users noted the need for a BIOS update out of the box for 14th Gen CPUs, which is a common occurrence with new hardware releases. We used the Flash BIOS Button feature before installation, and the process was completely painless. Connectivity is excellent, with Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5G LAN port delivering top-tier network speeds for both wireless and wired setups.

#2 ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi AMD Ryzen AM5 ATX Motherboard – Perfect for: Stylish White AMD Builds

For builders favouring the AMD platform, the ASUS ROG Strix B650-A Gaming WiFi AMD Ryzen AM5 ATX Motherboard is a visual and performance masterpiece. Its striking silver and white aesthetic makes it a centrepiece for any themed build. Beyond its looks, we found the board to be a rock-solid performer. The 12+2 power stages handled our Ryzen 7 7800X3D with ease, providing clean and stable power. We were particularly impressed by the quality-of-life features that ASUS has included. The M.2 Q-Latch system is a brilliant touch, eliminating the need to fumble with tiny screws, and the PCIe Slot Q-Release button is a lifesaver when swapping out large, modern graphics cards. These are features that many users highlighted as making the build process significantly more pleasant. The BIOS is slick and intuitive, offering a comprehensive suite of options for tweaking everything from RAM timings to CPU undervolting. Networking is top-notch, with Wi-Fi 6E providing a fast and reliable connection in our tests. While it offers three M.2 slots, only one is Gen 5, but for the vast majority of users, this is more than sufficient for current and near-future storage needs.

#3 MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI Motherboard – Suits: Budget-Conscious AM4 Builders

The AM4 platform remains a fantastic choice for value-oriented builds, and the MSI MAG B550 TOMAHAWK MAX WIFI Motherboard is one of its champions. We tested this board with a Ryzen 7 5800X3D and were thoroughly pleased with its performance. It feels premium despite its accessible price point, with substantial heatsinks on the VRMs and M.2 slot. The board offers a solid foundation, including a PCIe 4.0 slot for modern GPUs and M.2 drives, ensuring you’re not left behind on performance. Many users celebrated this board as the perfect “bang for your buck” option, and we have to agree. The setup was straightforward, and like its Z790 cousin, it features a Flash BIOS button, which simplifies updating for Ryzen 5000 series compatibility—a step we always recommend. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN at this price is a standout feature, providing connectivity options usually reserved for more expensive models. While it uses the older DDR4 memory standard, this can be an advantage for budget builds, as high-performance DDR4 kits are now very affordable. It’s a reliable, no-nonsense board that delivers where it counts.

#4 MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi Motherboard – Ideal for: Compact and Capable Micro-ATX Builds

When space is at a premium, a Micro-ATX board is the way to go, and the MSI B550M PRO-VDH WiFi Motherboard delivers impressive functionality in a compact form factor. We found this board to be a fantastic foundation for a smaller, yet powerful AM4 build. Despite its size, it doesn’t skimp on essential features. It includes two M.2 slots for fast NVMe storage, plenty of fan headers, and integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, removing the need for extra adapters. Our experience was confirmed by several first-time builders who found the installation process incredibly easy and the layout convenient. The board worked flawlessly with our Ryzen 5 5600X right out of the box, though it’s always wise to be prepared for a BIOS update, which is made simple with the Flash BIOS button. The board’s aesthetics are professional and understated, focusing on function over flashy lights. For anyone looking to build a powerful home office PC or a compact gaming rig without breaking the bank, this motherboard is an outstanding choice, offering a balanced feature set that covers all the necessities.

#5 MSI MAG B650 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard AM5 DDR5 – Perfect for: Demanding AMD AM5 Users

The MSI MAG B650 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard AM5 DDR5 is a true workhorse for the modern AM5 platform. During our evaluation, its 14+2 phase VRM design immediately stood out, providing exceptionally stable power to our power-hungry Ryzen 9 test CPU. This makes it an excellent candidate for users who want to push their multi-core processors with overclocking. We were also impressed with the cooling solution; the extended heatsinks and M.2 Shield Frozr kept temperatures well in check under sustained stress tests. The inclusion of three M.2 Gen4 slots offers massive potential for a high-speed, all-SSD storage array. Many users, particularly first-time builders, praised the screwless M.2 clips and the clean, intuitive BIOS, which made setup a breeze. We found enabling EXPO for our 6000MHz DDR5 RAM was a one-click affair. The only minor hiccup we and some users encountered was the slightly longer initial boot time, a common characteristic of the AM5 platform as it performs memory training. However, once configured, subsequent boots are swift. For anyone building a high-performance gaming or productivity machine on AM5, the Tomahawk offers reliability and power in spades.

#6 MSI B650 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard – Suits: Mainstream AM5 Gaming Rigs

The MSI B650 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard hits the sweet spot for mainstream gamers moving to the AM5 platform. It provides all the essential modern features without the premium price of higher-end models. We paired it with a Ryzen 5 7600X and found the performance to be fantastic. The 12+2 VRM power design is more than capable of handling mid-to-high-range Ryzen CPUs, and the extended heatsink ensures it runs cool. We appreciated the thoughtful layout, with plenty of fan and ARGB headers strategically placed for clean cable management—a point several users also commended. The inclusion of two M.2 Gen4 slots, both with Shield Frozr heatsinks, is a great touch for keeping your primary drives from thermal throttling during intense gaming sessions. The primary PCIe 4.0 slot is reinforced with Steel Armor, providing extra support for heavy graphics cards. A common piece of feedback, which we also noted, is that the I/O shield feels a bit basic, but it’s a minor aesthetic quibble on an otherwise well-constructed board. For a reliable, feature-packed entry into DDR5 and the Ryzen 7000 series and beyond, this board is an excellent and affordable choice.

#7 ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F GAMING WIFI II Motherboard – Ideal for: Premium AM4 System Builders

For those looking to build a top-tier system on the mature and affordable AM4 platform, the ASUS ROG STRIX B550-F GAMING WIFI II Motherboard is a stellar option. This board brings a premium ROG experience to the B550 chipset. We immediately noticed the robust 12+2 power stages and high-quality components, which delivered exceptionally stable performance with our 5800X3D test CPU. The aesthetic is classic ROG—sleek, black, with tasteful RGB accents that can be controlled via ASUS’s Aura Sync software. Users consistently praise the highly customisable BIOS and the Armoury Crate software, which centralises control over system settings and lighting. The board is well-equipped for connectivity, featuring Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E for lightning-fast networking. It also includes dual M.2 slots, with the primary slot offering PCIe 4.0 speeds and a substantial heatsink. The pre-mounted I/O shield and BIOS FlashBack feature add to the premium, user-friendly experience we’ve come to expect from the ROG STRIX line. It’s a fantastic way to get high-end features and reliability without moving to the more expensive AM5 platform.

#8 ASUS TUF GAMING B650-PLUS WIFI AM5 ATX Motherboard – Perfect for: Durability and Future-Proofing

The ASUS TUF Gaming line has a well-earned reputation for durability, and the ASUS TUF GAMING B650-PLUS WIFI AM5 ATX Motherboard proudly continues that legacy. Built with military-grade components, this board feels incredibly solid in hand. Our testing revealed that its 14-stage power design is a powerhouse, delivering consistent voltage to our Ryzen 7 CPU under all conditions. The standout feature here is the support for a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, offering a direct path to the fastest storage drives on the market, a feature that sets it apart from many competitors in its price range. The cooling is also comprehensive, with large heatsinks covering the VRMs, chipset, and M.2 slots. We found the BIOS to be straightforward and easy to configure, and the Armoury Crate software simplifies driver updates. Some users reported initial stability issues, often related to RAM compatibility, which is a common teething problem with the new AM5 platform. However, after a quick BIOS update, our system ran with perfect stability. For builders who prioritise longevity and want access to next-gen storage speeds, the TUF Gaming B650-PLUS is an excellent, rugged choice.

#9 MSI MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard ATX AM5 DDR5 PCIe 5.0 Wi-Fi 7 – Suits: Enthusiasts Seeking the Latest Tech

For the builder who wants to be on the absolute cutting edge, the MSI MAG X870 TOMAHAWK WIFI Motherboard ATX AM5 DDR5 PCIe 5.0 Wi-Fi 7 is a glimpse into the future. Built on the brand-new X870 chipset, this board is designed for the latest Ryzen 9000 series processors and beyond. In our hands-on time, the build quality felt top-tier, with a heavy PCB and massive heatsinks. The power delivery system is formidable, easily handling the most demanding CPUs. The key draws here are the next-gen features: a full PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for future graphics cards, two M.2 Gen5 slots for unparalleled storage speed, and Wi-Fi 7 for the next standard in wireless networking. We also loved the inclusion of a 40Gbps USB4 port on the rear I/O. The EZ M.2 Clip II system makes drive installation effortless. Our experience was supported by other early adopters who praised the board’s robust feature set and solid construction. One minor complaint was that the included Wi-Fi antenna uses less common MCX connectors, making aftermarket antenna upgrades tricky. This is an enthusiast-grade board for those who want the best and are willing to invest in a platform that will last for years to come.

#10 Gigabyte B650 EAGLE AX Motherboard – Ideal for: Value-Driven AM5 Entry Builds

The Gigabyte B650 EAGLE AX Motherboard proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get onto the AM5 platform. We found this board to be a surprisingly strong contender, offering an impressive feature set for its price. The highlight is the inclusion of a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, a feature often reserved for more expensive models, which provides a fantastic upgrade path for storage. The 12+2+2 phase digital VRM handled our mid-range Ryzen CPU without any issues, and the thermal guards kept our primary M.2 drive cool. Users praised the value this board offers, noting its solid IO and pre-attached shield as welcome conveniences. We found the EZ-Latch system for the PCIe slot to be a nice touch, simplifying GPU installation. While the overall aesthetic is more subdued and functional, the build quality is solid. A few users mentioned receiving boards with minor physical blemishes or needing to update the BIOS immediately for newer CPUs, but the Q-Flash Plus feature allows this to be done easily without a CPU installed. For anyone building their first AM5 system on a tight budget, the EAGLE AX offers unbeatable value and a solid entry into the world of DDR5.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• CPU Socket and Chipset: This is the most important choice. For modern Intel CPUs (12th, 13th, 14th Gen), you’ll need an LGA 1700 socket, typically with a Z790 or B760 chipset. For modern AMD CPUs (Ryzen 7000/8000/9000 series), you’ll need an AM5 socket with a B650 or X870 chipset. Ensure your CPU and motherboard are compatible.
• Form Factor: This determines the physical size of the board. ATX is the standard full size, offering the most expansion slots. Micro-ATX (mATX) is smaller and fits in more compact cases but has fewer slots. Mini-ITX is the smallest, designed for tiny builds with minimal expansion. Make sure your board fits your case.
• RAM Support: The current battle is between DDR4 and DDR5. DDR5 is the newer, faster standard, but it and its compatible motherboards are more expensive. DDR4 is a mature, affordable technology that still offers excellent gaming performance. Your choice will depend on your budget and performance goals.
• Expansion Slots (PCIe and M.2): Consider what you need to connect. A primary PCIe x16 slot is essential for your graphics card (PCIe 5.0 is the latest standard, but PCIe 4.0 is still plenty fast for current GPUs). M.2 slots are for high-speed NVMe SSDs; look for at least two, preferably with heatsinks to prevent thermal throttling.
• Connectivity: Check the rear I/O panel. Do you need lots of USB ports? A high-speed USB-C port (10Gbps or 20Gbps)? For networking, 2.5Gbps LAN is becoming standard and is a significant upgrade over 1Gbps. Wi-Fi 6E is excellent for low-latency wireless performance.

Understanding VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules)

You’ll often hear about a motherboard’s “power phases” or VRMs. In simple terms, the VRM is responsible for taking the 12V power from your power supply and converting it into a clean, stable, lower voltage that your CPU can use. A more robust VRM, often described with a higher phase count (e.g., 14+2), can deliver more power more cleanly and efficiently. This is crucial for high-end, power-hungry CPUs and especially important if you plan on overclocking. Good VRMs also generate less heat, and they should always be covered by substantial metal heatsinks to ensure they stay cool and perform reliably under load.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting BIOS Updates: When new CPUs are released, motherboards manufactured before that date often need a BIOS update to recognize them. Look for boards with a “BIOS Flashback” or “Q-Flash Plus” feature, which allows you to update the BIOS with just a USB stick and power, without needing an older, compatible CPU installed.
• Ignoring Case Compatibility: Don’t just check form factor. Ensure your case has enough clearance for the motherboard’s large VRM heatsinks, especially if you plan to install a large air cooler or a top-mounted AIO radiator.
• Overspending on Features: It’s easy to get drawn in by cutting-edge features like PCIe 5.0 and Wi-Fi 7. Be realistic about your needs. If you’re a mainstream gamer, a solid B-series chipset board with PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 6E will serve you perfectly well and save you money that can be better spent on your GPU or CPU.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Z790 motherboard necessary for Intel 13th and 14th gen CPUs?

No, it is not strictly necessary. Intel’s 13th and 14th gen CPUs will also work on cheaper B760 chipset motherboards. However, the Z790 chipset is the only one that officially supports CPU overclocking for unlocked ‘K’ series processors (e.g., Core i9-14900K). Z790 boards also typically offer more PCIe lanes, more USB ports, and more robust power delivery systems, making them the better choice for high-end enthusiast builds.

What is the main difference between Z790 and the cheaper B760 chipset?

The primary difference is overclocking capability. Z790 motherboards allow you to overclock the CPU, while B760 motherboards do not (though they generally still allow memory overclocking via XMP). Additionally, Z790 typically has more connectivity options, such as more PCIe lanes from the chipset, which can translate to more M.2 slots or other expansion capabilities compared to B760 boards.

Should I get a DDR4 or DDR5 Z790 motherboard?

This depends on your budget and performance goals. DDR5 offers higher potential bandwidth and is the more future-proof technology. For productivity tasks and achieving the absolute highest frame rates in some CPU-bound games, DDR5 has a clear advantage. However, high-quality DDR4 is much more affordable and still delivers excellent gaming performance that is often indistinguishable from DDR5 in many scenarios. If you are on a tighter budget or upgrading from a system with existing DDR4 RAM, a DDR4 Z790 board is a very viable option.

What is the best Z790 motherboard for overclocking an Intel K-series CPU?

For serious overclocking, the key feature to look for is a robust Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) design. This is often advertised as a phase count, such as “14+2+1”. A higher phase count, combined with high-quality components and large, effective heatsinks covering the VRMs, will provide the clean and stable power needed to push a CPU to its limits. Boards from high-end series like the MSI MPG/MEG, ASUS ROG Strix/Maximus, or Gigabyte AORUS Master are typically built with overclocking as a priority.

Are there any good budget-friendly Z790 motherboards?

Yes, while Z790 is a premium chipset, manufacturers offer a range of models at different price points. “Budget-friendly” Z790 boards like the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI focus on providing the core features—like CPU overclocking, DDR5 support, and a PCIe 5.0 slot—without the extra cost of extreme VRMs, excessive RGB lighting, or extensive high-speed connectivity. They represent a great value for users who want to overclock but don’t need every single bell and whistle of a flagship board.

How can I tell if a Z790 motherboard has good power delivery (VRMs)?

Look at the specifications for the “power phase design” (e.g., 16+1+1) and the amperage rating of the power stages (e.g., 80A). Higher numbers are generally better. More importantly, look at the physical board itself. Good power delivery is always accompanied by large, substantial metal heatsinks covering the VRM components, which are located around the CPU socket. A board with tiny or non-existent VRM heatsinks is not designed for heavy loads or overclocking.

Which Z790 motherboards have the best BIOS for ease of use?

BIOS usability is often a matter of personal preference, but MSI and ASUS are widely regarded as having the most user-friendly and mature interfaces. Both offer an “EZ Mode” with a graphical interface for basic settings like enabling XMP and adjusting boot order, as well as an “Advanced Mode” that unlocks a full suite of detailed tweaking options. We find MSI’s “Click BIOS” and ASUS’s “ROG UEFI BIOS” to be the most intuitive and stable on the market.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and careful consideration, we confidently name the MSI Z790 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard ATX DDR5 PCIe 5.0 M.2 Wi-Fi 6E as our top recommendation. It embodies what a modern, high-performance motherboard should be: powerful, feature-rich, and accessible. It provides the perfect platform for Intel’s latest processors, offering the PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support needed for next-generation components, while also delivering a wealth of storage with four Gen4 M.2 slots. Its excellent thermal design, user-friendly BIOS, and solid build quality ensure a stable and enjoyable building and user experience. For anyone building a top-tier gaming PC or workstation today, this motherboard delivers an outstanding combination of performance and value that is simply hard to beat.