Top 5 Best Motherboard for i7-8700K in 2023
Intel’s 8th generation i7-8700K is quite a rage, especially amongst gaming enthusiasts. With its rising popularity, it becomes quite a task to choose the best motherboard for i7 8700k. If you want to enhance its capabilities and performance further, you must get the best gaming motherboard for it from all those available in the market. In this article, we will help you out with the best motherboard for i7 8700K in 2021 to choose from.
A motherboard is one of the most critical components of any computer. It is the primary circuit that links all the separate parts of your computer with one another and is responsible for interaction between different elements such as CPU, Graphics card, I/O, RAM, storage, etc. We also call it the ‘backbone’ of our computer.
In the case of a gaming PC, it also plays a unique role. With an excellent motherboard, you can utilize your processor all the better with increased processing speed. Also, it lasts for a more extended period and has a lot more advantages. In simpler words, a better motherboard essentially helps you get a better performance out of a processor.
What are the things that one should consider before purchasing a motherboard for Intel Core i7 8700K processor? How do you know which motherboard is the best for i7 8700K or any other processor for that matter? Keep on reading to see the answer to these questions.
How to Choose a Motherboard for i7 8700K?
There are a lot of questions that you must be having in your mind while buying a motherboard for your computer and, in this case, for i7 8700k. Here are some parameters that you must look for while purchasing a mobo, i.e., a gaming motherboard:
Compatibility
A compatible motherboard for your computer is the primary parameter to look for before buying one. The Intel i7 8700K is consistent with the 300-series motherboards like Z370 or Z390 motherboards. So, check motherboard compatibility and your requirements and then plan to pick a well-matched motherboard for your computer.
Form Factor
The form factor on motherboards indicates the size and shape of the motherboard. For high performance, you should go for a more significant form factor from a list of compatible ones, such as E-ATX, ATX, Mini-ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX, XL-ATX, etc.
Motherboards Variants
You get a lot of variants of a motherboard that differ in features. And, for getting a perfect motherboard variant for a high-end computer like i7-8700K, you must be considerate. We would recommend a variant that provides you a better cooling system.
Chipset
Motherboards have multiple chipsets having a set of distinct features. There are numerous series available for different processors, including B-series, H-series, Q-series, and Z-series. B360, H370, and H310, Z370, and Z390 motherboards are supported by i7 8700K.
Z370 Aorus and Z390 motherboards are highly recommended as they are great for gaming or high-end PCs. They have some extra features over other motherboard series like overclocking, up to 24 PCIe lanes, full 6 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, etc., and are great for those who want to get the most out of their computer.
CPU Socket
The processor socket is another critical thing that must be considered while buying a gaming motherboard. Some of the available sockets include LGA, PGA, and BGA. Although, i7 8700K is most compatible with LGA sockets.
PCI Slots
PCI slots must be there in your Motherboard to attach expansion cards, including graphics cards, sound cards, etc. For a better gaming experience, you must look for a more significant number of PCI slots on your Motherboard.
RAM
It is the basic configuration that people have in mind when buying a motherboard. A higher RAM size guarantees the smooth functioning of the system. At least a RAM of 16GB is advised for a multitasking and heavy-duty PC.
SATA Ports
Your motherboard must have all the Serial AT Attachment (SATA) ports that connect the host controller to required drives.
CPU Cooling Technology
While performing heavy-duty jobs (mostly in gaming PCs), the CPU tends to heat up, leading to systems’ instability and performance deterioration. The best motherboards incorporate advanced CPU cooling systems to ensure the PC stays in a calm and well-to-do state. So, do get a motherboard that provides a smart and intelligent cooler technology for your i7 8700k PC.
Special Requirements
Based on your specific requirements, you can look for more features in a motherboard, including:
- A better onboard sound system
- RGB lighting control
- WiFi connectivity, etc.
These are what you should keep in the head if you want to utilize your 8700k computer to the fullest. To make it easier for you, we reckon all these factors and curated a list of top motherboards for i7 8700K. So, without much adieu, let’s get started with the best motherboards for i7-8700k PCs.
List of Top 5 Best Motherboard for i7-8700K:
- MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE
- ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero
- Asus ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming Motherboard
- GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS ULTRA
- GIGABYTE Z390 UD
MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE
Processor Socket: LGA 1151 | RAM Memory Size: DDR4 | Form Factor: E-ATX | Compatible Processors: Intel Celeron, 9th Generation Intel Core, 8th Generation Intel Core, Intel Pentium Gold | Chipset: Intel Z390 Chipset | Graphics Card Interface: 4x PCIe 3.0 x 16 slots | Memory Slots: 4 | Number of USB 2.0 Ports: 1 | Item Dimensions: 12 x 10.7 x 1.2 inches | Item Weight: 4.3 lbs | Features: Xtreme Audio DAC, Integrated OLED display, Extraordinary audio output, Mystic Light Infinity, Game boost button, appreciable cooling solution.
MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE is a motherboard series for high-end gaming computers. Its name, “Godlike,” kind of gives away a lot about it as it is ideal in a lot of aspects. 8th and 9th generation Intel processors are supported by this motherboard that includes i7 8700K, i7-9700K, i9-9900K, etc. It has a dual-channel DDR4 memory, a total of 2 USB ports, and supports 802.11a/b/g/n/ac wireless type. You can build a strong connection with xTend technology to enjoy unhindered wired/ wireless connectivity.
Its audio capabilities are excellent as well, comes with dual HD audio processors, which are EMI-shielded with add-ons of built-in amplifiers, WIMA and Nichicon gold capacitors, and also a 6.3mm headphone jack.
This motherboard series enables you to customize your computer with a vast number of colors, a total of 16.8 million colors and 29 effects, using the Mystic Light App. It has many more advanced features, including exceptional overclocking capability, the transfer speed of up to 32 GB/s, 18 phase VRM, four PCI slots, and more.
The appearance of this motherboard series is also great, depicting the “Godlike” term perfectly. All in all, this motherboard series is a one-stop solution for gamers who want nothing but the BEST Motherboard for i7 8700K.
What I liked
- We integrated the I/O shield.
- Exceptional Overclocking Feature
- Great integrated sound system
- Right PC cooling solution with M2 drive heat-sinks
- Switches to toggle BIOS profiles
- Fascinating RGB Effects
What I disliked
- Expensive
- Probably not for beginners
- The armor shield is missing on the back
ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero (WiFi)
Processor Socket: LGA 1151 | RAM Memory Size: DDR4 | Form Factor: ATX | Compatible Processors: 8th Generation Intel Core | Chipset Type: Intel Z390 | Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E | Memory Slots: 4 | Total USB Ports: 10 | Number of USB 2.0 Ports: 2 | Wireless Type: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Item Dimensions: 14.57 x 4.25 x 12.28 inches | Item Weight: 1 lbs | Features: Z390 Gaming Motherboard, comes with SupremeFX S1220A audio solution, has a 64 GB DDR4 memory, uses 5 way optimization technique, great overclocking function.
ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero (WiFi) is a series of motherboards introduced by a recognized brand. It is one of the best motherboards for i7 8700K and other Intel 8th Generation processors, well suited for gaming computers.
ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero supports Windows 10 64-bit operating system and Bluetooth 5.0 version. With dual M.2 heatsinks, the SSDs are kept within low-temperature range. Furthermore, it contains an exclusive IC to prevent fan headers from overheating. A special mention to its overclocking feature with an integrated clock generator; it is simply outstanding. The intelligent overclocking part of this motherboard makes it all the faster and sharper. It has header zones for water cooling as well. The ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero motherboard features OptiMem II and T-Topology layout to further improve system stability and overall speed.
It offers the SupremeFX onboard audio system with S1220 codec, which is excellent for gaming headsets. The Aura Sync RGB lighting function is another prominent feature of this Motherboard. It has a vast number of colors accompanied by several in-sync effects. Pre-mounted I/O shield to cover the back of your computer and 4 phase VRM are some more specifications of the ROG Maximus X motherboard.
To conclude it all, ASUS ROG Maximus is an excellent option for PC gamers looking for high performance and exceptional WiFi connectivity.
What I liked
- ASUS AI Overclocking feature
- Superb WiFi Connectivity for gaming
- Smart cooling solution with water cooling header zones
- Greater SupremeFX audio system
- Good Built
What I disliked
- Pricey
ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming Motherboard
Processor Socket: LGA 1151 | RAM Memory Size: DDR4 | Form Factor: ATX | Compatible Processors: 8th Generation Intel Core | Chipset: Intel Z390 Chipset | Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E | Memory Slots: 4 | Number of USB 2.0 Ports: 2 | Item Dimensions: 13.5 x 3.03 x 10.75 inches | Item Weight: 1 lbs | Features: Provides 5-way optimization, Good Cooler with PWM/DC fan headers, SupremeFX audio solution, complete RGB lighting control, Integrated I/O Shield.
ASUS offers some great motherboards, one of which is the ROG Strix Z390-E Gaming Motherboard for 8th Generation Intel Core processors, including core i7 8700K. It comes with a Safe Slot, ESD guards, and DRAM to corroborate better durability of elements. ASUS ROG Strix uses smart 5 way optimization overclocking technique with intelligent prediction and thermal telemetry principles that ensures better performance.
The motherboard supports latest platforms,such as Windows 10. Then there are some other features, including HDMI/DP graphics card, SupremeFX S1220A Audio, 64 GB DDR4 Memory, 802.11ac wireless type, and Aura Sync, etc. It also comes with full RGB lighting control to provide you more splendid aesthetics and themes for your PC.
In case of boot failure, MemOK fixes it all for you. The two NVMe drives have heatsinks so that the SSDs are cooled down whenever required.
Overall, ASUS ROG Strix is the best motherboard for i7 8700K, having all the sufficient features you’d want.
What I liked
- CPU cooling solution with exclusive DC/PWM fan headers
- Great BIOS with Customizations
- Nice design
- Pre-mounted I/O shield
What I disliked
- Slightly Lacks in Build Quality
- A bit Costly
Gigabyte Z390 AORUS Ultra
Processor Socket: LGA 1151 | Computer Memory Type: DDR4 SDRAM | Memory Speed: 4400 MHz | Form Factor: ATX | Compatible Processors: 9th and 8th Intel Core processors | Chipset Type: Intel Z390 | RAM Maximum Size: 64 GB | Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E | Memory Slots Available: 4 | Memory Storage Capacity: 10000 TB | Item Dimensions: 13.58 x 11.57 x 3.14 inches | Item Weight: 3.00 lbs | Features: 13 (12+1) Phases Digital VRM with DrMOS, Intel Optane Memory, 3 x M 2 Thermal Guard, Front USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C Header, Intel CNVi 802.11AC 2×2 wave 2 Wi-Fi connectivity, RGB combined with multi-zone LED.
Gigabyte is one of the best motherboard brands, and with its Z390 AORUS ULTRA series, it has become all the more reliable and trustworthy. Exclusively designed for gaming enthusiasts, this motherboard enables you to get the best performance out of your PC. Much similar to Z370 AORUS Ultra on platform compatibility, this model supports all major Windows systems, including Windows 10.
It comes with an advanced thermal design to provide better heatsink performance and a better cooling solution. The high-speed WiFi offers untroubled video streaming and gaming experience.
The Smart Fan 5 technology improves the CPU cooling service by moderating the flow rate and temperature. It has a triple M 2 thermal guard that further enhances the durability, preventing throttling and bottlenecks.
The RGB lighting makes the design aesthetically appealing. The DLED and LED pins on the board look pleasing. Functions like onboard I/O shield, PCIe armor, memory armor make it one of the best gaming motherboards around.
What I liked
- CPU overclocking is excellent
- Aesthetically appealing
- Onboard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Rear I/O shield
What I disliked
- A bit hard for beginners to set up
- RGB Fusion 2.0 is just about decent
Gigabyte Z390 UD
Processor Socket: LGA 1151 | RAM Memory Size: DDR4 | Form Factor: ATX | Compatible Processors: 9th and 8th Intel Core processors | Chipset Type: Intel Z390 | RAM Maximum Size: 64 GB | Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E | Memory Slots Available: 4 | Memory Storage Capacity: 10000 TB | Memory Speed: 4400 MHz | Item Dimensions: 12.79 x 10.23 x 2.75 inches | Item Weight: 1.0 lbs | Features: 10+2 Phase Digital VRM, Realtek 8118 Gaming LAN, Full Color RGB Light Strip, CEC for power saving, Features Smart Fan 5
The next motherboard featuring on this list is Z390 UD by Gigabyte. It works well with 8th and 9th Gen Intel Core processors and is an excellent choice for high-performance PCs. Also, it supports Windows 8.1, Windows 8 Pro, Windows 7, and Windows 10 platforms.
It has a 10+2 phase PWM that upgrades VRM design. Plus, to ensure support for all kinds of computer configurations, it uses ATX 24pin & ATX 12V 8+4 solid plated pin headers. This is great for overclocking function as the CPU can maintain its consistency and performance throughout.
The Smart Fan 5 function of this mobo uses thermal sensors and automatically increases fan speed if the CPU is hot. And thus, providing an excellent cooling solution and making sure your CPU is well within the low-temperature range.
Thanks to PCIe / SATA M 2 technology, this motherboard has the ability to utilize the system’s potential to the fullest. Meanwhile, it’s ultra-robust and durable armor lets you incorporate heavy graphics cards within.
It is arguably one of the best motherboards with more significant overclocking and PC cooling features for core i7 8700K. The price is reasonable too.
What I liked
- Affordable price tag
- Multi-Way graphics support and durable with heavy graphics cards
- The overclocking feature is useful.
- Long-lasting design
- Good CPU cooling solution
What I disliked
- BIOS is a bit let down
What We Learnt So Far
A motherboard is a building block of a computer. For gamers, it is even more important to get a prominent motherboard, which is best in all aspects. This is why multiple criteria run through your mind before you buy a motherboard. Therefore, thorough research is vital before buying a motherboard for i7 8700K or any other processor.
The best motherboard for gaming should have these features among others:
- CPU compatibility
- Chipset information
- Form factor
- Compatibility with i7 8700k
In case you are a bit directionless, above mentioned characteristics will be more than helpful in making the right purchase. If you know what exactly you want in your motherboard, you will never be disappointed at all.
Now, coming to the central part, which is the best Motherboard for i7-8700K options. The i7 8700k compatible motherboards in our top 5 list represent reputable brands, including ASUS, Gigabyte, and MSI (Micro-Star International). While most are a bit pricey, you can ensure high-quality performance from them. You can go through the technical details of each before making your decision.
Most of the listed motherboards are compatible with the 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core Processors. You can build a high-end gaming PC with the help of these options. What’s more, you also get better overclocking features, such as enhanced cooling solution, more significant VRM phases, increased durability, well built, RGB with LED pins, and more elements in them.
Conclusion
Now that you know all about the best motherboards for i7-8700k PCs, which one’s your favorite? Do you want us to recommend the best one?
Our top recommendation is MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE, which is one of the best in all departments. It features an upgraded overclocking feature, a built-in I/O shield, a massive onboard sound system, beautiful RGB effects, M 2 drive heatsinks solution, and many more. Probably, a gaming enthusiast should go for it.
Another good one is the ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero motherboard, which is less costly than the MSI motherboard. If you want to choose the most affordable one with all the essential functions, go for GIGABYTE Z390 UD.
Hopefully, this article helped you solve your confusion regarding which Motherboard to choose for your i7 8700K processor. Check all the details and then go for the one that best suits you.
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