GIGABYTE Z790 Gaming X AX Gaming Motherboard
Best Intel 14th gen motherboard in 2024 – our top, mid & budget picks
The best motherboard for the brand new Intel 14th generation
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Intel has just released its 14th-generation processors into the world, and many people are wondering what the best Intel 14th-gen motherboard might be to pair them with.
Choosing a compatible pairing is vitally important when selecting a motherboard, because not only does it have to be compatible with the rest of your system, but it also has to have the connectivity to suit your needs.
We’re here today to solve the mystery of motherboard pairings and help you find the best Intel 14th-gen motherboard that’s right for you. If you’re interested in how the 14th generation CPUs perform, we have a Core i9-14900K review and a Core i5-14900K review live to put any questions you have to rest.
Best Intel 14th gen motherboard
fortunately, Intel stuck to its guns and kept the LGA 1700 socket alive, meaning that you can place any 14th-generation chip into an Intel 600 series motherboard if you want – the compatibility is there. Whether that will be the best choice from a performance standpoint remains to be seen.
if you want to squeeze the best performance and have your motherboard play host to the fastest connectivity, the 700 series is the way to go. So, with that being said, here are the best Intel 14th gen motherboards.
Best motherboard for Intel 14th gen – ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero
Form factor
ATX
Power stages
20+1 phase
Connectivity
2.5Gb LAN, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5, audio, USB4, USB-C, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt 4
PCIe Gen 5
GPU x16 and M.2
DDR5
Yes
- 24+1 phase VRM design
- 10 GbE LAN port
- 5 M.2 slots
- DDR5
- PCIe Gen 5
- Expensive
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero stands out as the ultimate choice for Intel’s 14th-gen processors, offering unparalleled performance and features. Equipped with the Intel LGA 1700 socket, it not only supports 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Intel Core processors but also provides compatibility with Windows 11, embracing the latest advancements in technology. With support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, this motherboard ensures your system is future-proof.
What sets the Maximus Z790 Hero apart is its intelligent control system. ASUS’s proprietary tools like AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, AI Networking (GameFirst VI), and Two-Way AI Noise-Cancelation simplify configuration, enhancing your system’s efficiency and stability.
This motherboard’s robust power solution incorporates 20+1 teamed power stages rated for 90 A, ProCool II power connectors, MicroFine alloy chokes, and premium metallic capacitors, ensuring reliable and efficient power delivery.
To maintain optimal thermals, the Maximus Z790 Hero boasts VRM heatsinks, an integrated aluminum I/O cover, a high-conductivity thermal pad, triple M.2 heatsinks with embedded backplates, and a dedicated ROG Water-Cooling Zone.
When it comes to networking, it excels with onboard WiFi 6E, Bluetooth V5.2, Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, and ASUS LANGuard, providing high-performance connectivity for gaming and content creation. In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is the best choice for Intel’s 14th-gen processors, offering a perfect blend of performance, intelligent control, robust power delivery, optimized thermal design, and high-performance networking. Your PC deserves nothing less.
Runner up 14th gen motherboard – MSI Z790 TOMAHAWK WiFi
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi Gaming Motherboard
Form factor
ATX
Power design
16+1+1 Duet Rail Power System
Connectivity
PCIe 5.0, M.2, 2.5Gbps LAN, USB 3.2 Gen2
Wifi
Wi-Fi 6E
- 16+1+1 phase Duet Rail power delivery system
- WiFi 6E
- DDR5
- Less features than boards of similar prices
The MSI MAG Z790 TOMAHAWK WIFI earns its place as a commendable runner-up motherboard for Intel’s 14th-gen CPUs, offering a compelling blend of features and performance. Notably, it boasts extensive CPU compatibility, accommodating a broad spectrum of processors, including 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core CPUs, as well as Pentium Gold and Celeron processors. This versatility ensures that users have the flexibility to choose the CPU that best aligns with their computing needs, be it gaming, content creation, or heavy workloads.
One of the motherboard’s standout features is its support for DDR5 memory, with speeds reaching up to an impressive 7200+ MHz when overclocked. This enables the system to handle data at lightning-fast rates, enhancing multitasking capabilities and overall system responsiveness.
In terms of power delivery, the motherboard features a robust 16+1+1 Duet Rail Power System, and dual 8-pin CPU power connectors, and employs Core Boost and Memory Boost technologies. These components work together seamlessly to ensure efficient power distribution, optimizing the performance of both the CPU and memory.
For gamers, the motherboard provides a high-speed gaming experience with a PCIe 5.0 slot that can accommodate top-tier graphics cards. Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2 slots and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 offer rapid data transfer speeds, creating a seamless and responsive gaming environment.
Efficient cooling solutions are also at the forefront of this motherboard’s design. The extended heatsink design and M.2 Shield Frozr work in unison to dissipate heat effectively, ensuring that your system remains cool and reliable, even during demanding workloads and extended gaming sessions.
Best Gigabyte 14th gen motherboard – Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX
Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX
Form factor
ATX
Power stages
16+1+2 phase VRM design
Connectivity
2.5 GbE LAN, audio, DisplayPort, WiFi 6E, USB 3,2, thunderbolt 4, and more.
PCIe Gen 5
GPU X16 slot and M.2 slot
DDR5
Yes
- 16+1+2 phase VRM design
- WiFi 6E
- Stealthy, less RGB than most models
- not as feature rich as other motherboards in the same price range.
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX stands as the pinnacle among Gigabyte motherboards for Intel’s 14th-gen CPUs, offering an array of cutting-edge features and powerful components that make it a top choice.
Firstly, it supports 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Intel Core Series Processors, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of CPUs for various computing needs. Moreover, its DDR5 compatibility with 4 SMD DIMMs and support for XMP 3.0 Memory Modules bring superior memory performance to the forefront, allowing for rapid data processing and seamless multitasking.
The motherboard’s commanding power design, featuring a Twin 16+1+2 Phases Digital VRM Solution with 70A Power Stage, guarantees efficient and stable power delivery to the CPU and components. This results in optimal system performance, even under heavy workloads.
Cutting-edge thermal solutions, including M.2 Thermal Guard III, fully covered MOSFET heatsinks, PCIe Ultra Durable Armor, and a 6-layer PCB, ensure that the system remains cool and reliable during intensive tasks and extended usage.
In terms of connectivity, it offers SMD PCIe 5.0, four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports, delivering ultra-fast data transfer speeds for a seamless computing experience. The inclusion of PCIe 5.0 EZ-Latch with a Quick Release and Screwless Design simplifies hardware upgrades and maintenance.
The Z790 Aorus Elite AX doesn’t skimp on networking capabilities, providing 2.5GbE LAN, Intel WiFi 6E 802.11ax, and BT5 with an AORUS Antenna, ensuring fast and reliable connections.
A dynamic audio experience is also guaranteed, thanks to high-end audio capacitors and audiophile WIMA capacitors, delivering exceptional sound quality for entertainment and gaming.
With fine-tuning features such as RGB FUSION 2.0, support for addressable LED and RGB LED strips, Smart Fan 6, and Q-Flash Plus for BIOS updates without CPU, memory, and GPU installation, this motherboard offers customization and convenience.
Best budget 14th gen motherboard – ASUS PRIME Z790-A WIFI
ASUS PRIME Z790-A WIFI
Form Factor
ATX
Power stages
16 + 1 DrMOS power stages
Connectivity
USB 3.2, USB Type-C, DisplayPort, Audio, and 2.5GB/s ethernet.
PCIe Gen 5
Yes
DDR5
Yes
- Cost effective
- Compatible with 12 and 13th gen CPUs
- Less features then premium boards on lesser chipsets
The Asus Prime Z790-P emerges as the ultimate budget-friendly motherboard for Intel 14th Gen CPUs, offering remarkable value without compromising on key features and performance.
The Z790-p is equipped with an Intel LGA 1700 socket, providing compatibility with 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors, ensuring your system stays up to date with the latest technology.
Its enhanced power solution, featuring a 14+1 DrMOS setup, a durable 6-layer PCB, ProCool connectors, alloy chokes, and robust capacitors, guarantees stable and efficient power delivery. This results in a reliable and responsive system performance, even under demanding workloads.
The motherboard also boasts next-gen connectivity, including DDR5 memory support, PCIe 5.0 for high-speed data transfer, Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast networking, and a range of USB options, including USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C and front panel USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C. Thunderbolt (USB4) header support and three PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots provide versatile storage options.
Exclusive Memory Technology, such as ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile II and ASUS OptiMem II, further enhances system performance by optimizing memory operations.
Comprehensive cooling is a priority with large VRM heatsinks, a flexible M.2 heatsink, a PCH heatsink, hybrid fan headers, and Fan Xpert 4 with AI Cooling II, ensuring that your system remains cool and stable, even during extended usage.
Things to consider when shopping for a new 14th gen motherboard
When shopping for a new 14th-generation motherboard, there are several critical factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice for your specific needs. Because of this, we will try to keep this as short as possible.
- Processor Compatibility: Ensure the motherboard is compatible with 14th gen Intel Core processors. Check the socket type and chipset to verify compatibility.
- Form Factor: Choose a motherboard with a form factor that fits your case. Common form factors include ATX, Micro ATX, and Mini-ITX.
- Memory Support: Consider your RAM requirements. Look for DDR5 memory support and check the number of RAM slots available.
- Expansion Slots: Determine the number and type of expansion slots you need, such as PCIe slots for graphics cards, M.2 slots for SSDs, and USB slots for peripherals.
- Connectivity: Ensure the motherboard offers the connectivity you need, including USB ports, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and audio ports. Consider future-proof features like USB 3.2 Gen2x2 and Wi-Fi 6E.
- Power Delivery: Evaluate the power delivery system, including VRM configuration and CPU power connectors, to support your processor’s power requirements.
- Storage Options: Consider the number of SATA and M.2 slots available for hard drives and SSDs. Check for support for PCIe 4.0 and the latest storage technologies.
- Overclocking: If you plan to overclock, ensure the motherboard offers robust overclocking features and a strong power delivery system.
- Cooling Solutions: Consider the cooling capabilities of the motherboard, including heatsinks, fan headers, and support for liquid cooling if needed.
- Build Quality: Look for a motherboard with high-quality components, like durable capacitors and reinforced PCIe slots.
- Brand and Model: Research motherboard brands and models to find reputable manufacturers with a track record of reliability and customer support.
- BIOS and Software: Check if the motherboard has a user-friendly BIOS interface and useful software for system management and tuning.
Don’t forget to check your cooler!
Intel 14th gen runs very hot in cerain conditions, especially when MCE on ASUS boards is allowed to run a mock. Ensure you have enbough cooling capacity. Just because the CPUs belong to the same socket, doesn’t mean the TDP will be the same.
Best Intel 14th gen motherboard
If you need a new motherboard for the Intel 14th gen, look no further than the ones we have on offer today. We have collected the best motherboards in the business to showcase to you, our valued readers. If you don’t find something here you like, there are plenty of motherboard deals live on Amazon that you can browse down below.
Amazon motherboard deals
MSI PRO Z790-A MAX WiFi ProSeries Motherboard
Gigabyte B550 Gaming X V2 Gaming Motherboard
Micro Center Intel Core i5-13600K CPU with MSI Pro Z790-P motherboard
Asus Prime X299- A II ATX Motherboard