10 Best I7 Motherboards 2025 in the United States

The EVGA Z690 DARK K|NGP|N motherboard is built for users seeking top-notch performance in their PCs, particularly those using 12th Gen Intel Core processors. This motherboard features the advanced Intel Z690 chipset, allowing it to handle the latest high-speed components. It has an EATX form factor, which means it's larger and provides more space for expansion and cooling options, but it may not fit in all computer cases, so check compatibility first.

With 2 RAM slots supporting up to 64GB of DDR5 memory, it offers impressive speed, though the RAM capacity might be limiting for users needing more memory for heavy multitasking or content creation. The inclusion of PCIe Gen5 ensures future-proofing for the next generation of graphics cards and other peripherals. Additionally, it has robust storage options, including 6 SATA ports and 4 M.2 slots, allowing for a mix of high-speed SSDs and traditional hard drives.

Connectivity is a strong point with this motherboard, featuring 2.5Gb LAN for fast wired internet, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and an array of USB ports for various devices. The onboard audio is good enough for most users, but audiophiles might prefer a dedicated sound card. BIOS/UEFI is user-friendly, offering plenty of customization options for overclocking and managing system settings. The motherboard's high-end features and advanced capabilities may be overkill for casual users or those on a budget, but for enthusiasts and gamers looking for top performance and extensive connectivity options, the EVGA Z690 DARK K|NGP|N is a solid choice.

The Intel Core i7-13700K paired with the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi motherboard is an excellent setup for users seeking high performance and gaming capabilities. Featuring 16 cores and 24 threads, it combines performance hybrid architecture to optimize workload distribution, making it highly efficient for multitasking and demanding applications. The processor can reach speeds up to 5.4 GHz and includes 30M cache, ensuring quick and responsive performance. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 adds to its versatility by providing decent graphics capabilities without the need for a separate GPU for basic tasks.

This combination supports the latest DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0, ensuring future-proofing for advanced hardware upgrades. The ATX form factor offers ample space for additional components, and the numerous expansion slots (including PCIe 5.0) provide flexibility for future upgrades. The TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi motherboard excels in durability with its enhanced power solution and military-grade components, making it reliable for long-term use. Comprehensive cooling solutions help maintain optimal performance, even during heavy usage. Connectivity options are robust, featuring multiple USB ports, WiFi, and Ethernet, ensuring seamless internet and peripheral connections.

Audiophiles will appreciate the high-quality audio capabilities for an immersive experience. The BIOS/UEFI interface is user-friendly, providing easy navigation for system tweaks and updates. However, users should be aware that adopting DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0 may involve higher initial costs, and those sticking to older hardware might find it less beneficial. Additionally, as with many high-performance components, ensuring adequate cooling and power delivery from the power supply unit (PSU) is crucial. This setup is most beneficial for gamers, content creators, and users who require significant computing power for complex tasks.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II is a solid choice for gamers and power users. This motherboard is built with an Intel Z790 chipset and supports Intel's 14th, 13th, and 12th generation processors, making it versatile for various CPU upgrades. It features a robust 16+1+2 power stage design that ensures stable power delivery, which is great for handling heavy workloads and multi-core processes.

The optimized VRM thermals with massive heatsinks and high-conductivity thermal pads help maintain performance under load by keeping the components cool. It also offers ample memory support, with DDR5 RAM slots that can hold up to an impressive 192 GB, which is ideal for multitasking and future-proofing your system. For storage, the motherboard has five M.2 slots, allowing for fast and expansive storage options.

Connectivity is another strong point, with multiple USB ports, including a front-panel USB that supports Power Delivery 3.0 for quick charging. The inclusion of WiFi 7 ensures fast and stable wireless internet connections. The extensive features and high-end components could make this motherboard more expensive than other options. Additionally, the advanced features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support mean that older components may not be compatible, potentially requiring additional upgrades. This motherboard is best suited for gamers and users who need high performance and are looking to future-proof their systems.