The Best Motherboard for i7 8700k

So, you’ve got your hands on the mighty Intel Core i7 8700k processor, a true powerhouse when it comes to computing. Now, all that’s left is finding the perfect motherboard that can handle its raw capabilities and unlock its full potential. Look no further!

In this article, we’ll guide you through the world of motherboards specifically designed for the i7 8700k, helping you choose one that suits your needs like a glove.

Best Motherboard for i7 8700k

Product Name	Check Price
ASUS ROG Strix B560-F Gaming WiFi 6	Check Price
MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon WiFi	Check Price
Gigabyte B560 AORUS Pro AX	Check Price
ASRock Z590 Extreme WiFi 6E	Check Price
EVGA Z590 FTW WiFi	Check Price

1. ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming

Specification	Details
Form Factor	ATX
CPU Socket	LGA 1151
Chipset	Intel Z370
Memory Support	DDR4, up to 64GB (4133MHz)
Expansion Slots	PCIe x16 (3), PCIe x1 (4)
Storage	M.2 slots (2), SATA III ports (6)

Regarding gaming motherboards, one name that often shines above others is ASUS ROG. The ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming is no exception – it packs a punch with its impressive features tailored for gamers and PC enthusiasts.

Upon unboxing this beauty, I was immediately struck by its sleek design and attention to detail. The black PCB combined with RGB lighting accents gives it an elegant yet aggressive look that would complement any high-end gaming rig. But enough about appearances; let’s get down to business!

One standout feature of the ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming is its solid performance capabilities. With support for Intel’s powerful i7 8700k processor and overclocking-friendly features like robust VRMs and advanced cooling solutions, you can push your CPU to new heights without breaking a sweat. Whether engaged in intense gaming sessions or tackling resource-hungry tasks like video editing or rendering, this motherboard ensures smooth operation even under heavy loads.

Focusing on connectivity options, this motherboard leaves no stone unturned. It offers numerous USB ports, including USB 3.1 Gen2 and Type-C ports, ensuring high-speed data transfer and compatibility with the latest peripherals. Including dual M.2 slots for ultra-fast storage options and support for up to six SATA III drives provides ample space for your games, applications, and multimedia files.

One aspect that truly impressed me was the audio quality delivered by the SupremeFX S1220A codec. Crystal-clear sound reproduction and immersive surround capabilities made my gaming experience exceptional. Whether I was creeping through enemy territory or immersing myself in an epic battlefield, every sound detail came through vividly.

Now, let’s take a balanced look at some pros and cons:

Pros:

• Excellent performance and overclocking capabilities
• Sleek design with customizable RGB lighting
• Impressive connectivity options including USB 3.1 Gen2
• SupremeFX audio delivers exceptional sound quality

Cons:

• Pricey compared to some competitors
• Limited PCIe slot configurations may limit expansion options

2. MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC

Specification	Details
Chipset	Intel Z390
Socket	LGA 1151
Memory Slots	4 x DDR4 DIMM
Expansion Slots	3 x PCIe x16, 3 x PCIe x1
Storage	6 x SATA, 2 x M.2
USB Ports	USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A/C

As an avid tech enthusiast and gamer, I recently tried out the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC motherboard with my trusty i7-8700K processor. Let me begin by saying that this board truly impressed me with its performance and features.

One standout feature is undoubtedly its sleek design and aesthetics. The black PCB, coupled with RGB lighting accents, gives it a modern and visually appealing look that adds flair to any gaming rig or workstation setup.

The MSI MPG Z390, Gaming Edge AC, offers excellent overclocking capabilities for enthusiasts who want to push their i7-8700K processor beyond its factory limits. With robust power delivery components and advanced BIOS options, achieving stable overclocks was a breeze.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the onboard audio quality provided by the Realtek ALC1220 codec. Whether I was immersing myself in intense gaming sessions or enjoying high-quality music playback, the audio clarity was exceptional, without any noticeable distortion or background noise.

In terms of connectivity options, this motherboard shines as well. It features Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and Bluetooth support, allowing for seamless wireless connections without relying on additional adapters or dongles.

However, I noticed a few minor drawbacks during my usage. Firstly, the placement of certain connectors on the motherboard could have been more user-friendly. In some cases, cable management became slightly challenging due to their positioning.

Additionally, while the board offers decent overall performance and features for its price range, it may not be the top choice for extreme overclockers who require even more robust power delivery or additional PCIe slots.

Key Features:

• Sleek design with RGB lighting accents
• Excellent overclocking capabilities
• High-quality onboard audio (Realtek ALC1220 codec)
• Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and Bluetooth support

Pros:

1. Stylish and visually appealing design.
2. Impressive overclocking capabilities.
3. Great onboard audio quality.
4. Convenient wireless connectivity options.

Cons:

1. Some connectors’ placements are not ideal for easy cable management.
2. May lack advanced features required by extreme overclockers.

3. Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Pro WiFi

Specification	Details
Form Factor	ATX
CPU Socket	LGA 1151
Chipset	Intel Z390
Memory Support	DDR4, up to 64GB (4266MHz)
Expansion Slots	PCIe x16 (3), PCIe x1 (3)
Storage	M.2 slots (3), SATA III ports (6)

When finding the perfect motherboard for your high-performance system, you can’t go wrong with the Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Pro WiFi. Packed with an array of impressive features and built with exceptional quality, this motherboard delivers both power and versatility.

As soon as I unboxed this beauty, I was struck by its sleek design and robust build. The black PCB, coupled with stylish RGB lighting accents, exudes a premium feel that instantly adds flair to any gaming rig or workstation setup.

One standout feature of this motherboard is its excellent performance capabilities. You can push your CPU to new heights without compromising stability or efficiency with support for Intel’s formidable i7 8700k processor and advanced power delivery solutions like digital PWM controllers, solid capacitors, and multi-phase VRMs. Whether engaging in intense gaming sessions or tackling demanding tasks such as content creation or video editing, this motherboard ensures smooth operation even under heavy loads.

Connectivity options are plentiful on the Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Pro WiFi. It offers multiple USB ports, including USB 3.1 Gen2 and Type-C ports, ensuring fast data transfer speeds and compatibility with the latest peripherals. Including triple M.2 slots for ultra-fast storage options and support for up to six SATA III drives provides ample space for your games, applications, and multimedia files.

One aspect that impressed me was the integrated Intel CNVi 802.11ac Wave2 2T2R Wi-Fi module. With blazing-fast wireless connectivity speeds and improved network stability, I experienced seamless online gaming sessions without any latency issues or drops in performance.

Now let’s take a balanced look at some pros and cons:

Pros:

• Excellent performance capabilities
• Sleek design with customizable RGB lighting
• Abundant connectivity options, including USB 3.1 Gen2
• Integrated Wi-Fi module provides reliable wireless connectivity

Cons:

• Limited PCIe slot configurations may restrict expansion options
• BIOS interface can be overwhelming for beginners

4. ASRock Fatal1ty Z370 Gaming K6

Specification	Details
Chipset	Intel Z370
Socket	LGA 1151
Memory Slots	4 x DDR4 DIMM
Expansion Slots	3 x PCIe x16, 3 x PCIe x1
Storage	6 x SATA, 2 x M.2
USB Ports	USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A/C

As an avid PC gamer and hardware enthusiast, I recently tested the ASRock Fatal1ty Z370 Gaming K6 motherboard with my trusty i7-8700K processor.

Let me start by saying that this board truly impressed me with its performance and features.

One notable feature is its robust power delivery system, which ensures stable overclocking capabilities for enthusiasts who want to push their i7-8700K processor to its limits. Thanks to this well-designed power delivery solution, I achieved impressive overclocks without any stability issues or excessive heat buildup.

The ASRock Fatal1ty Z370 Gaming K6 boasts a striking design with red accents that give it a bold and aggressive look. The build quality is excellent, offering durability and reliability for long hours of gaming sessions or demanding workloads.

Another standout feature is the support for high-speed storage options. With six SATA ports and two M.2 slots, this motherboard provides ample storage possibilities for gamers who require fast loading times or professionals dealing with large files daily.

I particularly appreciated the onboard audio solution Creative Sound Blaster Cinema 5 technology provided. The audio output was crystal clear, delivering immersive soundscapes during gaming sessions and enhancing the multimedia experience.

However, I observed a few minor drawbacks during my usage. Firstly, the positioning of certain connectors on the motherboard could have been more user-friendly. This made cable management slightly challenging in some cases.

Additionally, while the ASRock Fatal1ty Z370 Gaming K6 offers solid performance and features for its price range, it may not have all the advanced features required by extreme overclockers or those seeking additional PCIe slots for multiple graphics card setups.

Key Features:

• Robust power delivery system for stable overclocking
• Striking design with red accents
• Support for high-speed storage options (six SATA ports and two M.2 slots)
• Crystal-clear onboard audio (Creative Sound Blaster Cinema 5)

Pros:

1. Excellent power delivery system for stable overclocking.
2. Striking design with bold accents.
3. Ample storage possibilities with six SATA ports and two M.2 slots.
4. High-quality onboard audio solution.

Cons:

1. Some connectors’ placements are not ideal for easy cable management.
2. May lack advanced features required by extreme overclockers or multi-GPU setups.

5. EVGA Z370 FTW

Specification	Details
Chipset	Intel Z370
Socket	LGA 1151
Memory Slots	4 x DDR4 DIMM
Expansion Slots	3 x PCIe x16, 2 x PCIe x1
Storage	6 x SATA, 2 x M.2
USB Ports	USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A/C

Having used several motherboards in my gaming and content creation endeavours, I recently tried out the EVGA Z370 FTW with my trusty i7-8700K processor. Let me share my personal experience and thoughts on this motherboard.

Right off the bat, what struck me was its robust build quality and attention to detail. The board feels solidly constructed, ensuring durability during long hours of heavy usage or overclocking sessions. The black PCB coupled with sleek design elements, enhances its overall aesthetics and blends well with various system builds.

The EVGA Z370 FTW offers excellent power delivery capabilities, making it ideal for those who wish to push their i7-8700K beyond stock frequencies using manual overclocking techniques. With sufficient VRM cooling and a well-designed power phase layout, I achieved stable overclock without encountering thermal throttling or instability issues.

Another noteworthy feature is its extensive connectivity options. The six SATA ports provide ample storage possibilities for hard drives or SSDs while offering two M.2 slots for high-speed NVMe storage solutions—a great advantage regarding quick boot times and data transfer rates.

Regarding expansion slots, the EVGA Z370 FTW provides three PCIe x16 slots and two PCIe x1 slots. This allows for multi-GPU setups or the addition of various expansion cards such as sound cards, network adapters, or capture cards.

However, it is worth mentioning that the positioning of certain connectors on this motherboard could be improved to enhance the ease of cable management. In some cases, routing cables neatly became slightly challenging due to their placement close to other components.

Key Features:

• Robust build quality with sleek design elements
• Excellent power delivery capabilities for overclocking
• Ample storage possibilities with six SATA ports and two M.2 slots
• Multiple expansion slots for customization options

Pros:

1. Solid construction and attractive design.
2. Efficient power delivery system for stable overclocking.
3. Abundant storage options, including NVMe support.
4. Versatile expansion slot configuration.

Cons:

1. The placement of certain connectors can hinder cable management.

Your Expert Buying Guide for the Best Motherboard for i7 8700k

As an expert in PC hardware, I’m here to provide a comprehensive and detailed overview of what factors you should consider when making this crucial decision. So, let’s delve into the world of motherboards and find the ideal match for your needs!

1. Compatibility: The first step is ensuring compatibility between your i7 8700k processor and the motherboard. Look for a motherboard that supports LGA 1151 socket, as this is specifically designed for Intel processors like the i7 8700k.
2. Chipset: Opting for a motherboard with an Intel Z370 or Z390 chipset is highly recommended with an i7 8700k CPU. These chipsets offer robust overclocking capabilities and advanced features that can fully leverage its power.
3. Form Factor: Consider the size of your PC case and choose a compatible form factor such as ATX, Micro-ATX, or Mini-ITX accordingly. ATX offers more expansion slots while Mini-ITX provides compactness if space is limited.
4. Power Delivery & Cooling Solutions: Ensure that the chosen motherboard has reliable power delivery components such as VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules) capable of handling high-performance CPUs like the i7 8700k without overheating or voltage drops.
5. Memory Support & Expansion Slots: Check whether it supports DDR4 memory modules with sufficient slots to accommodate your desired RAM capacity (up to 64GB). Additionally, ensure there are enough PCIe x16 slots if you add multiple graphics cards in SLI/Crossfire configurations.
6. Connectivity Options: Consider which connectivity options matter most to you – USB ports (preferably USB 3.1 Gen2 and Type-C), SATA III ports for storage devices, M.2 slots for high-speed SSDs, and additional features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
7. Audio & Networking: If audio quality is important, look for motherboards with enhanced onboard audio solutions, such as dedicated sound cards or premium codecs like SupremeFX from the ASUS ROG series. Similarly, consider built-in Ethernet controllers with advanced networking features if online gaming or streaming is a priority.

FAQs

1: Can I use a Z390 motherboard with an i7-8700K processor?

A: Yes, you can use a Z390 motherboard with an i7-8700K. However, Z390 motherboards were designed primarily for 9th-generation Intel processors. While they are compatible with 8th gen processors like the i7-8700K, it’s important to ensure BIOS compatibility and apply any required updates.

2: Will a Z370 motherboard support DDR4 memory at its maximum speed for the i7-8700K?

A: Yes, most Z370 motherboards support DDR4 memory at maximum speed for the i7-8700K processor. However, checking each specific model’s specifications and supported memory speeds is crucial, as variations may vary depending on the manufacturer and board design.

3: Are all LGA 1151 socket motherboards compatible with the i7-8700K CPU?

A: No, not all LGA 1151 socket motherboards are compatible with the i7-8700K CPU out of the box. The initial LGA 1151 boards (100-series) series released before Coffee Lake CPUs require a BIOS update to work properly with this particular processor model.

4: Is Wi-Fi built-in on every motherboard suitable for an i7-8700k?

A: No, not every motherboard suitable for an i7-8700k has built-in Wi-Fi capabilities by default. You need to specifically look for models that explicitly mention integrated Wi-Fi or wireless connectivity options if you require them.

5: Can I use multiple graphics cards with any motherboard compatible with the i7-8700K?

A: While many motherboards compatible with the i7-8700K support multiple graphics card configurations, not all do. If you plan on running multiple GPUs in SLI or CrossFireX, checking whether your chosen motherboard supports this feature and has enough PCIe slots for proper installation is essential.

Conclusion

Choosing the best motherboard for your Ryzen 5 5700G processor is an important decision that can greatly impact your system’s performance and overall experience. You can find a motherboard that perfectly suits your needs by considering factors such as compatibility, chipset, form factor, power delivery, memory support, connectivity options, and audio/networking features.

Remember to thoroughly research and compare different options to make an informed decision. With the right motherboard at its core, your Ryzen 5 5700G will shine bright and deliver exceptional performance in all your computing endeavours. Happy building!