10 Best I7 Motherboards 2026 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 MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi II Gaming Motherboard stands out in the i-7-motherboard category, offering robust support for 12th, 13th, and even the upcoming 14th Gen Intel processors, thanks to its LGA 1700 socket. The Intel Z790 chipset ensures high performance and compatibility with the latest technologies. The form factor is ATX, providing ample space for expansion and fitting into most standard cases.

With 4 RAM slots supporting DDR5 memory up to a blazing 7800+ MHz, this motherboard is perfect for high-speed gaming and intensive multitasking. It also supports PCIe 5.0 slots and Lightning Gen 5 x4 M.2 slots, enabling ultra-fast data transfer rates, which are crucial for gamers and content creators needing quick access to large files. Connectivity is impressive with 2.5Gbps LAN, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring stable and fast network connections.

The audio quality is solid, offering an immersive sound experience. The BIOS/UEFI interface is user-friendly, making system tweaks and updates straightforward. However, the premium features come at a higher price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users. Additionally, users with older DDR4 memory won't be able to use it, necessitating an upgrade to DDR5 RAM. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon WiFi II is a powerful, feature-rich motherboard ideal for gamers and power users looking to future-proof their systems with the latest technologies.

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.