Best motherboard for Core i7-13700K – for budget, high-end, mITX

For the modern enthusiast who seeks performance, versatility, and a motherboard that won’t break the bank, the MSI MPG Z790 Edge Wi-Fi is a clear standout. MSI hasn’t skimped on the crucial features that most users would demand in this era, notably Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G Ethernet for connectivity that keeps pace with current standards. It’s the best value motherboard around, no question.

However, it’s essential to note that while it’s laden with features, it doesn’t include support for M2 PCI-E 5.0 slots. This could be a drawback for some, especially those who demand the fastest storage speeds.

Additionally, while it has its charm, the Wi-Fi antenna’s design might not appeal to every builder’s aesthetic sensibility. At least you still get wireless connectivity even at the cost of looks. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MSI MPG Z790 Edge Wi-Fi presents a compelling proposition for anyone looking for a motherboard that strikes a balance between price and features.

The Gigabyte B760 Aorus Elite AX offers an outstanding platform for those not looking to empty their wallets on a motherboard. With DDR5 memory support, users can tap into the high-speed potential that such RAM brings. Furthermore, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Ethernet 2.5G ensure that users are well-connected in the modern digital age.

However, for enthusiasts who value extensive USB connectivity or want to push their system beyond its limits through overclocking, the B760 AORUS might not be the right fit. Its limitations are evident when stacked against its pricier Z790 counterparts, like the $240 Z790 Aorus Elite or the $460 Z790 Aorus Master.

But it’s not all about cutting corners; Gigabyte’s inclusion of user-friendly features like the EZ-Latch hardware for PCIe and M.2 slots ensures a smoother experience, especially for those new to PC building. Overall, the B760 AORUS Elite AX remains the best budget motherboard on the list, making it an attractive choice for gamers and builders operating on a budget.

For tech enthusiasts, professionals, or any hardcore gamer aiming for the pinnacle of performance, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO stands out as the epitome of engineering excellence. It is intricately crafted to support the i7-13700K, especially when one plans to squeeze out every ounce of power the CPU offers.

On the downside, the HERO isn’t for the faint of heart—or the light of the wallet. Its premium price is certainly a factor to consider, potentially making it a stretch for those on a tighter budget or those not looking to maximize every performance metric. At least it has a 6-layer PCB to make up for it.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 HERO is more than just a motherboard—it’s a statement. It promises unparalleled performance, and for those who can afford it, it undeniably delivers. If overclocking, future-proofing, and premium aesthetics are on your checklist, and budget isn’t a constraint, then this motherboard is hard to beat.

In the mini-ITX motherboard realm, ASRock’s Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 stands out as a titan. This compact powerhouse supports both 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, ensuring its compatibility with a wide range of high-performance CPUs, including the Intel Core i7-13700K. Its 10+1+1 phase power design, backed by SPS for Vcore, guarantees a stable power delivery, crucial for such compact builds.

Diving a bit deeper, the Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 doesn’t skimp on memory options. With 2 DDR5 DIMM slots, users can push their system memory speeds to 6800+ MHz when overclocking, a notable feat for a board this size.

But what truly dazzles in this model is its PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, offering blazing-fast data transfer speeds, making it an excellent choice for gamers and creators alike. The diverse graphics output options, including 2 USB4 Type-C ports alongside HDMI and DisplayPort, ensure flexibility in display setups and next-gen peripheral connectivity.