Best Motherboard for i7 9700K in 2023

The arrival of 9th generation processors has defined the new gaming culture. Generally speaking, the previous generations lagged behind a couple of percentages because of the not-so-sophisticated planning implemented. But this time, Intel did wonders.

The Intel Core i7 9700K is the series that takes on the “K” version and makes it more dynamic and workable in terms of tasks tending and evaluation. The i7 9700K chipset was released in 2019, proposing the concept of hyperthreading (work through multiple cores and threads), and brought in a major difference in performance ratio.

It’s still considered a backlash from the fandom of Intel that the 9th generation processors, especially Core i7 9700K, were built on a 14nm chip. This means it lacks a higher transistor density and enough processing units for enhanced performance. Anyway, it’s a debate for another time. For this article, we will be shedding light on the best motherboards for i7 9700K.

What’s the reason for choosing Core i7 9700K as an ideal gaming processor?

Intel Core i7 9700K brings in all the dedicated and advanced proprietary features, which are important for coping up with degrading performance. The K version of the processors allows all sorts of overclocking profiles, which aid in skyrocketing the game performance.

Not to mention, the i7 9700K requires the best gaming motherboard for perfect synching properties. That’s the reason why we are targeting the best gaming motherboard for i7 9700K.

Apart from this, the processor is usable on so many motherboards like H310, B360, H370, Z370, and Z390 which sort of expands one’s horizons. Now you can slot your i7 9700K on your older motherboards without needing an upgrade. That’s excellent and charming at the same time.

Now we will be moving towards the actual product review session. Without any further ado, let’s begin the guide to finding the best i7 9700K compatible motherboard. we will now discuss a few really good motherboards for i7 9700K. We test each board with an Intel Core i7 9700k to make sure it will work great and deliver optimum performance!

Top 10 Best Motherboards for Intel i7 9700K (Quick Overview)

Award Earned	Model	Price
Best Gaming Motherboard for i7 9700K	MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon	Check on Amazon
Best Overall Motherboard for i7 9700K	MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE	Check on Amazon
Best Efficient Motherboard for i7 9700K	GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS Ultra	Check on Amazon
Best Budget Motherboard for i7 9700K	GIGABYTE Z390 UD	Check on Amazon
Best Overclocking Motherboard for i7 9700K	MSI MAG Z390 Tomahawk	Check on Amazon
Best Micro ATX Motherboard for i7 9700K	ASUS ROG Strix Z370-G Gaming	Check on Amazon
Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i7 9700K	ASUS ROG Strix Z390-I Gaming	Check on Amazon
Best Mid-range Motherboard for i7 9700K	GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS Pro	Check on Amazon
Best Performative Motherboard for i7 9700K	ASUS TUF Z390-Pro Gaming	Check on Amazon
Best Aesthetic Motherboard for i7 9700K	ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero	Check on Amazon

The God of all, MSI MPG Z390 gaming pro carbon, smooths out the overall performance. For what it’s worth, the MSI MPG Z390 brings in a detailed and easy guide to slotting in all the components, making it the easiest motherboard to set up on the list.

User’s experience

From the recently published reviews of users on different forums and blogs, we concluded that if you are going for i7 9700K, then MSI MPG Z390 is what you should be pairing up with your processor. The reason is quite easy to understand because the MOBO provides and offers every feature to sustain high-end gaming.

Think about it for a second, that you have an i7, and that too of 9th generation, you’ll definitely game at higher settings. To make it possible, MSI MPG Z390 pitches in all overclocking profiles, Wi-Fi Adaption, and an excess of USB ports for higher connectivity.

Prominent features

1. The motherboard has support for 9th, 8th generation processors, which means you can even roll back to previous generation entities for ease of use.
2. The MOBO also supports DDR4 memory modules of 4400 MHz on overclocked mode. This means that you can now have an enhanced gaming experience with zero lags.
3. Do not get me started on the lights. The MOBO comes with mystic lights that jingle across the room for aesthetics and looks. You can use the synching software for channeling between 29 effects.
4. MSI MPG makes use of lighting fast gaming junctions: 2x Turbo M.2, Intel Optane Memory Ready, M.2 Shield Frozr, and Turbo USB 3.1 Gen2 ports. These specifications ensure that your system outperforms many triple-A titles.
5. It also includes Pre-installed I/O shielding for protection against sparks and eddy currents.
6. It comes with dedicated heatsinks for reducing high temperatures due to overclocked components.
7. The motherboard also provides the users with golden audio jacks for efficient connectivity.
8. DIY friendly, and inspiring design and build

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB

Support for HDMI, DirectX, and SLI

SATAIII: 6

M.2 Slot: 2

It’s time to celebrate the appearance of MSI for the second time on the list of Best Motherboards for i7 9700K, and that consecutively. To be honest, MSI motherboards are unparalleled and designed for high-end gaming. Well, MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE brings in all advanced and superb features for turning on your powerhouse.

User’s experience

The recent reviews speak volumes about how magnificent this MOBO is in terms of providing users with easy-to-use and versatile features for gamers. Many users went on board to support how the motherboard is working perfectly around the clock. Although there were some discriminating and cross-comparison comments between different entries, the motherboard still outperformed around 90% of the products to date which makes it the best gaming motherboard for i7 9700K in my opinion.

Prominent features

1. The MOBO supports 9th and 8th generation processors, with an option of roll back to Pentium gold and Celeron processors.
2. It comes with overwhelmingly 18 VRM phases for voltage regulation. Well, the reason is quite sensitive in considering how the motherboard constantly goes through electron exchange phases, so the need for having a featurette VRM is mandatory.
3. The design is on-fleek most of the time because it uses brushed and polished ebony color with heatsinks everywhere. These heatsinks allow the temperature to have a decent flow; ultimately, leading to significant temperature reduction.
4. The motherboard also has dedicated RGB lighting, which you can use for aesthetics and looks. The RGB fan headers and stand-alone slots on the motherboard can be put to use for variable fan profiles and RGB synching: 19 effects and 16.8 million colors await you.
5. On top of that, the motherboard also offers 1x Turbo U.2, 3x Turbo M.2, Shield Frozr, and dual front USB 3.1 Gen2 Type for accessibility and protection.
6. It also comes with Pre-installed I/O shielding for protection against EMI spillages on the motherboard.
7. Have dedicated, dynamic dashboard, wireless extender, and audio jacks

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB

SATAIII: 6

M.2 Slot: 3

CrossFire: Yes

The best efficient motherboard title goes to Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Ultra. The reason for awarding this category is crystal-clear because Gigabyte ensures every ergonomic and value-added for the users. In my opinion, Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Ultra is no different and brings in excess features for high-end gaming.

User’s experience

Positivity highlights include enhanced performance ratio to flagship models, incorporation of value-added features for connectivity and looks, and exceptionally high functionality. To be honest, no wonder why the hype for the Z390 Aorus Ultra is at an all-time high. Apart from this, the motherboard was able to go a notch further in terms of memory timings and heatsink punctuation all over the place. It’s a majestic and amazing motherboard that you can get hold of in 2023.

Prominent features

1. The motherboard uses 12+1 VRM phases for controlling voltage spikes.
2. It also has a direct touch heat pipe and heatsinks for reducing soaring temperatures. It’s a requirement because gamers and enthusiasts love overclocking, and to combat high temperatures, a needed cooling solution is required. That’s only possible with the help of heatsinks and heat pipes.
3. The motherboard has dedicated 802.11ac Wireless connections and supports Intel Gigabit LAN with cFosSpeed.
4. The MOBO also supports both 8th and 9th generation processors for enhanced connectivity. Now you can slot both the series processors without buying another motherboard.
5. Have dual-channel Non-ECC unbuffered DDR4 (four) DIMMs. You can connect the RAM modules in the dual-channel without any issue.
6. Have dedicated onboard Wi-Fi. Use it to power on your Pc without any ethernet cable.
7. The motherboard comes with RGB Fusions 2.0 and has a significantly higher brightness ratio. Simply use the RGB lights with RGB headers and bingo, your motherboard gives off beautiful colors.
8. Have Front USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C headers and support for multiple ports.
9. Smart Fan 5 features for temperature sensing and fan curves.
10. The motherboard makes use of triple ultra-fast NVMe PCIe Gen3 x 4 M.2 slots for SSD slotting.

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual and unbuffered

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB

1 x HDMI port

Realtek ALC1220-VB Codec

LAN: Intel GbE LAN chip

Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac

This time we will be talking about some friendly and in-budget motherboard for i7 9700K. Higher generation motherboards are indeed quite expensive, especially the “K” versions, but to satisfy our fellow enthusiasts’ desires, the manufacturers have put in the effort to bring us something out-of-the-box. The Gigabyte Z390 UD brings in all efficient and breathtaking features that are enough to turn on your gaming powerhouse.

User’s experience

Many users reported that the motherboard was working all fine, except for a few glitches in overclocking profiles. Since it’s a cheap motherboard, it’s necessary to bring in perfection. Nonetheless, it’s an excellent piece you can use. Not to mention, the motherboard was able to enhance the processor’s performance, which is crucial in determining how efficiently your chipset works in parallel with your MOBO. On top of that, you get an amazingly laid-out aesthetic design for looks.

Prominent features

1. The motherboard welcomes 9th and 8th generation processors alike.
2. Supports unbuffered dual-channel DDR4 RAM Modules.
3. Have 10+2 phase VRM, which is enough for regulating voltage spikes.
4. Comes with a lot of sprinkled heatsinks for reducing the soaring temperatures.
5. The motherboard also offers support for NVMe PCIe Gen3 x 4 22110 M.2 connectors.
6. Also, you get to bask under RGB light strips, which sort helps in illuminating your motherboard and clocks in under beautiful lights.
7. You also get to hold of Smart Fan 5 features for temperature sensing and Hybrid fan headers.
8. Support for Intel Optane Memory.
9. Have Multi-way graphics support.

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual and unbuffered

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB

1 x HDMI port

Realtek ALC887

LAN: Realtek GbE LAN chip

Support for AMD Quad-GPU CrossFire

MSI MAG Z390 Tomahawk is a masterpiece in itself. Considering how Tomahawk on different variants performs, no doubt that it’s the best MOBO that you can get for your intel Core i7 9700K. Although Tomahawk is quite expensive, it doesn’t mean you can’t afford it. There are times when Tomahawk goes on sale when they release their new unit, so I guess, keep waiting?

User’s experience

MSI MAG Z390 outperforms many of the entities in the list, especially the ones below it. A lot of users changed their motherboards to Tomahawk, and to be honest, not even one was disappointed. That’s classical and futuristic in itself. Anyways, the MSI MAG Z390 tomahawk is a dream motherboard for everyone.

Prominent features

1. The motherboard offers supports for different variants of processor
2. Have support for DDR4 (4400 MHz on overclocked mode)
3. It comes with an integrated I/O design for shielding and protection. Not to mention, the motherboard has a lot of heatsinks for reducing the rising temperatures
4. Have Turbo M.2, Intel Optane memory ready slots
5. Offers 8+4 VRM for voltage regulation
6. Have mystic light (16.8 million colors and 29 effects) for aesthetic and looks
7. Offers M.2 Shield Frozr and different thermal solutions for enhanced performance

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB

1 x HDMI port

M.2 slots: 2

SATAIII: 6

1x DisplayPort

For Micro ATX cases, ASUS ROG Strix Z370-G Gaming is the best one to get for your system. Although the smaller factor sort of reduces the chances of upgrading to future components, it’s still worth a shot. The design is on-fleek and gives the motherboard its jinxing look.

User’s experience

Many users were happy, and only a few of them pitched in negative reviews. It’s not much of a concern because all the negative reviews were about less room for upgrading. To be honest, it doesn’t make sense because micro ATX factors are there to offer less. You went onboard for buying such a factor; no one forced you. Other than that, the MOBO has amazing and withstanding reviews about how perfectly it matches your chipset.

Prominent features

1. Although the motherboard uses 8th generation chipsets, it can be flashed to slot in 9th generation processors like intel Core i7 9700K.
2. Offers Aura sync for turning on RGB lights. Simply use the discrete profiles for changing the RGB mode.
3. 5-way optimization for thermal control, and cooling solution.
4. Offers Dual M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A connectors for enhancing connectivity.
5. Have Gigabit Ethernet, LANGuard, and GameFirst.
6. Support for DDR4 RAM modules.

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z370-G

Memory channel: Dual and unbuffered

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 64 GB

IGFX

M.2 slots: 2

SATAIII: 6

1x DisplayPort

Intel Optane Ready

For ITX builds, ASUS ROG Strix Z390-I is a brilliant and fascinating motherboard, but the headroom for upgrading is too less since the factor is too small. To tackle this problem, what you have to do is slot in all the high-end components for future-proofing; otherwise, in the coming years, you would have to change the MOBO as well.

User’s experience

The pleasing positive reviews left me speechless because I didn’t expect such a response from the ITX gang. Although the motherboard is small and has restricted up-gradation, it still offers an excess of amazing features that can leave you in awe.

Not to mention, ITX builds are easy to carry around and are portable in every aspect. No wonder why it earned a 95% confidence level from all over the world.

Prominent features

1. Supports 8th and 9th generation processors alike.
2. It comes with Aura Synching properties for aligning different light components. You can switch between different modes and colors, depending on your taste.
3. The motherboard offers amazing connectivity with Dual M.2 and USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C.
4. Have withstanding DIY pre-mounted I/O shield for protection.
5. Offers 5-way optimization for automated tuning, A.I. overclocking, and cooling profiles.
6. The motherboard also slips in Gigabit Ethernet, Intel 2×2 802.11ac, and LANGuard.
7. Offers support for DDR4 RAM modules (4600+ MHz)

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual and unbuffered

DIMM Slots: 2

Max memory capacity: 64 GB DDR4

IGFX

1x DisplayPort

1 x HDMI

14 nm CPU

For mid-range combos, the GIGABYTE ZTE Z390 Aorus pro is the best, because number one, doesn’t cost you much, and number 2 comes with all the advanced features. The motherboard ensures that the user gets the most of its life, hence increasing the overall positive ratings.

User’s experience

There was an obvious increase in the number of sales made per million population, and it was only because of what the motherboard offers. Many users reported that the motherboard was functional on most of their gaming builds and sustain the notion of chipping in 8th and 9th generation processors without any known issue. On top of that, the motherboard’s average lifespan exceeds the lifespan offered by other flagship models.

Prominent features

1. Have support for 8th and 9th generation processors
2. Comes with dedicated RGB lights for illumination and aesthetics
3. Uses RGB Fusion 2.0 for various profiles
4. Intel Optane memory reader
5. 12+1 phase VRM for perfect voltage regulation
6. Offers dual-channel unbuffered DDR4 RAM module DIMMs
7. Smart fan five features for thermal reduction and cooling solution. You can monitor temperatures with the help of this feature
8. The motherboard also offers USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C
9. Have Dual Fast NVMe PCIe Gen3 x, 4 M.2 thermal guards
10. Punctuated with enough heatsinks for temperature reduction

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual and unbuffered

DIMM Slots: 2

Max memory capacity: 64 GB DDR4

1x DisplayPort

1 x HDMI

14 nm CPU

I was dying to review this product, not because I have biased opinions regarding it, but because of customizable options. The motherboard brings in a standard ATX factor with many features. You get to use OptiMem II, Aura Sync, RGB lighting, and a lot more at an affordable price factor.

User’s experience

The users were happy with the motherboard and sort of given positive reviews about the entity. Although, some of the reviews kept a positive approach because of biased opinions and personal taste buds. Nonetheless, it’s a majestic and sophisticated motherboard that you can get hold of in 2022. To be honest, you can take a leap of faith, since ASUS TUF Z390 puts everything at one’s disposal.

Prominent features

1. It comes with dedicated military guards for protection against heat gusts and electric shocks. Well, motherboards are subject to the production of eddy currents, and there’s no way but to use military guards for reduced impact.
2. Offers TUF Protection: SafeSlot, ESD guards, DDR4 overvoltage protection, Digi+ VRM, and an amazing steel frame and lining for the I/O panel.
3. Have MemOK! II for fixing boot-up windows.
4. The motherboard also offers Aura Synching properties for aligning different component’s lighting.
5. Offers Realtek S1200A codec for crystal-clear sound production.
6. Have a sensor for temperature reduction and custom Fan curve profiling.

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual and unbuffered

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB DDR4 (4266 O.C)

1x DisplayPort

Dedicated IGFX support

Nvidia 2-Way SLI

AMD 2-way CrossFireX

We will be saying farewell to each other, but before that, wait a minute. The last product is the model of perfection: ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero. You must be wondering why it lagged significantly. The reason is nothing but the unbiased reviews of people who don’t know anything about factors and outclass performance. Anyways, in my opinion, the last products are equally amazing and worth a shot.

User’s experience

A higher proportion of people provided positive reviews, but on the other hand, there was a discernible increase in negative reviews because of the price factor and a couple of features. Nonetheless, Asus Rog Maximus XI hero is a wonderful and majestic best mobo for 9700k.

Prominent features

1. The motherboard offers great numbers of heatsinks for temperature reduction on a larger scale
2. Have Synchronized RGB profiling for aesthetics and looks
3. Supports 8th and 9th generation processors equally
4. Have gaming durability
5. Offers 5-way optimization for sensing temperature spikes
6. The motherboard also offers Intel Gigabit Ethernet, LANGuard, and M.2 slots

Specifications

Socket: 1151

CPU (Max Support): i9

Chipset: Intel Z390

Memory channel: Dual

DIMM Slots: 4

Max memory capacity: 128 GB DDR4 (4400 O.C)

1x DisplayPort

1x HDMI

Final thoughts

Frequently Ask Questions