In the world of computer hardware, choosing the right motherboard is crucial, especially when I have a powerful processor like the i7 4790K.
As a proud owner of the Intel i7 4790k, I can personally attest to its incredible power. Yet, to truly unleash its full potential, I need the perfect companion—a motherboard.
Join me in this guide as I delve into the nuances of selecting the ideal motherboard for my i7 4790k, ensuring a high-performance computing experience tailored to my needs.
Why Recommend Motherboard For i7 4790k:
The Core i7 4790K processor is one of the most cutting-edge choices available, surpassing Intel Celeron processors’ speed and core count.
As someone seeking optimal performance, I will appreciate its notable advantages over the slower and less core-rich Intel Celeron processors.
Opting for Intel Core i7 CPUs ensures you enjoy top-notch speeds and a range of capabilities. These processors often come equipped with additional features, such as
- Expansion cards
- Extra expansion slots
- PCIE connections,
And more, setting them apart from other processors on the market.
To elevate your everyday gaming experience, consider pairing your Intel Core i7 4790K processor with a premium-grade motherboard.
This strategic move unlocks your processor’s full potential, leading to a significant boost in performance. With the correct motherboard, your PC can support any game you desire to play seamlessly.
General Features Of Motherboard For i7 4790k– Must Consider 5th Step!
The Intel Core i7-4790K processor does not pertain to a specific motherboard. However, I can provide with some general features and specifications of the i7-4790K processor:
- Processor Family: Intel Core i7 4th Generation (Haswell)
- Socket: LGA 1150
- Number of Cores: 4
- Number of Threads: 8
- Base Clock Speed: 4.0 GHz
- Maximum Turbo Boost Speed: 4.4 GHz
- Cache: 8MB SmartCache
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4600
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): 88W
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To use the i7 4790K processor, select a compatible motherboard that supports the LGA 1150 socket. Let’s review 7 best motherboards that are ideal for the i7 4790k now:
7 Best Motherboards For i7 4790K: Feature-Rich Selection!
To make a well-informed decision, let’s delve into a comparison of crucial features among the motherboards I recommend:
1. MSI Z97 Gaming 3- Optimal Gaming Motherboard for the i7-4790K!
Specs in a Glance: | Details |
Name | MSI Z97 Gaming 3 |
Form Factor | ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 32GB |
Max. Memory Speed | 3000 MHz |
No. of SATA Ports | 6 |
M.2 Slots | None |
PCIe Slots | 4 |
The MSI Z97 Gaming 3 is an excellent choice for me, hailing from a reputable brand. When it comes to top-tier motherboards, MSI has consistently dominated the industry, providing exceptional value without breaking the bank, and this particular model lives up to that reputation.
With its 6 SATA ports, the MSI Z97 Gaming 3 enables me to connect:
- Hard disk drives
- Solid-state drives (SSD)
- CD drives
These SATA 3 ports ensure impressive read and write speeds, saving me valuable time during crucial tasks. If I ever wonder whether the motherboard includes SATA cables or if I need to purchase them separately, I can consult a guide for clarification.
What impresses me further is the incorporation of 3 PCI-E Gen 3.0 slots, perfect for gaming, and 4 PCI-E x1 slots for extra features like WiFi connectivity.
Gaming enthusiasts like me will appreciate that this motherboard supports Scalable Link Interface (SLI), allowing the installation and connection of three graphics cards, significantly enhancing the gaming experience.
The 4 DIMM slots supporting up to 32GB of memory with a dual-channel memory architecture are valuable for video editing and filmmaking.
It’s worth noting that only DDR3 memory is compatible; I should steer clear of DDR4 as it won’t work with this motherboard.
With a generous offering of 8 USB 2.0 ports and 6 USB 3.0 ports, the MSI Z97 Gaming 3 lets me connect a wide range of devices to my PC.
Additional features like a 1 mSATA slot, VGA, DVI, HDMI, and Killer E2205 Gigabit LAN contribute to the motherboard’s overall versatility and functionality.
The inclusion of the OC Genie feature by MSI is noteworthy, especially for someone like me who is interested in overclocking my processor.
Safely and efficiently overclocking my CPU by up to 20% with OC Genie is an enticing prospect, and I can learn the ropes through a comprehensive guide.
In conclusion, the MSI Z97 Gaming 3 is the ideal motherboard for my i7 4790K, offering robust features at a competitive price point.
Pros & Cons of MSI Z97 Gaming 3:
Pros | Cons |
Several SATA ports. | Bluetooth and WiFi are not provided. |
SLI is a perfect addition. | |
Has a good appearance. |
2. Gigabyte GA-Z97X-GAMING 5 – The best Micro ATX motherboard for the i7-4790K!
Specs in a Glance: | Details |
Name | Gigabyte GA-Z97X-GAMING 5 |
Form Factor | ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 32GB |
Max. Memory Speed | 3200 MHz |
No. of SATA Ports | 6 |
M.2 Slots | 1 |
PCIe Slots | 3 |
Much like MSI, Gigabyte has carved a solid reputation for delivering top-notch motherboards to us consumers, a legacy spanning over two decades.
In their lineup, the Gigabyte GA-Z97X-GAMING 5 stands out as a mid-range motherboard tailor-made for gamers operating at low to medium levels.
The visually striking red and black scheme adds a gaming aesthetic that caught my attention. The GA-Z97X-GAMING 5 impressively offers 4 DIMM slots, allowing me to install up to 32GB of RAM running at a swift 3200 MHz, a competitive feature compared to other options.
Notably, the motherboard comes with the convenience of dual BIOS, acting as a crucial failsafe in case of a primary BIOS failure or similar issues.
Gigabyte has endowed this motherboard with 6 SATA connectivity ports, proving invaluable when connecting multiple devices to my PC.
Additionally, its inclusion of an M.2 slot boasting a rapid transfer speed of 10 Gb/s caught my eye. I’d recommend installing the operating system on an M.2 SSD drive to enjoy quick boot times and significant time savings.
A standout feature that genuinely impressed me is the inclusion of 3 PCI-Express 3.0 slots. This opens up exciting possibilities for a remarkable 3-way crossfire or 2-way SLI configuration, unlocking exceptional gaming potential, especially when paired with the i7-4790K processor.
Moving on to connectivity, I’ll find 4 USB 2.0 and 4 USB 3.0 ports, offering ample options for connecting various devices to my computer. While this motherboard supports overclocking, caution is essential when venturing into such endeavors.
Pros & Cons of Gigabyte GA-Z97X-GAMING 5:
Pros | Cons |
Red and black go beautifully together. | Slightly more expensive than similar products. |
M.2 drive is unquestionably advantageous. |
3. MSI Z97 Gaming 5 – Sleek and Powerful!
Specs in a Glance: | Details |
Name | MSI Z97 Gaming 5 |
Form Factor | ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 32GB |
Max. Memory Speed | 3300 MHz |
No. of SATA Ports | 6 |
M.2 Slots | 1 |
PCIe Slots | 3 |
The MSI Z97 Gaming 5 is an excellent gaming motherboard that I find perfectly tailored for my Intel Core i7-4790K processor. It comes packed with impressive features that truly cater to my gaming needs.
With 4 DIMM slots, this motherboard allows me to push the boundaries, supporting up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM running at speeds up to 3300MHz.
This substantial memory capacity and high speed make it an ideal companion for multitasking, gaming, and handling other demanding tasks.
I particularly appreciate the inclusion of 6 SATA ports for storage devices and the convenient M.2 slot that simplifies SSD installation, adding to the overall versatility of the motherboard.
In the realm of gaming capabilities, the MSI Z97 Gaming 5 stands out with its 3 PCI-E X16-3 slots, supporting both SLI and Crossfire configurations.
This means I have the flexibility to harness the power of multiple graphics cards for an enhanced gaming experience.
Additionally, the motherboard offers 4 PCI-E X1 slots, providing room for installing additional components such as WiFi and sound cards.
When it comes to connectivity, MSI has me covered with a comprehensive range of ports, including 6 USB 3.0 ports, 8 USB 2.0 ports, VGA, HDMI, and DVI. This ensures that I have all the necessary connections for my gaming setup.
While the MSI Z97 Gaming 5 unquestionably stands as a good motherboard for my i7-4790K, the higher price point might raise some concerns.
As someone dedicated to the MSI brand, this motherboard suits my preferences. However, for those open to exploring alternatives, it’s advisable to consider other options within the available selection.
Pros & cons of the MSI Z97 Gaming 5:
Pros | Cons |
Great build quality | Quite expensive |
Perfectly suitable for gamers |
4. MSI Z87-G45 GAMING – Exceptional Performance!:
Specs in a Glance: | Details |
Name | MSI Z87-G45 GAMING |
Form Factor | ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 32GB |
Max. Memory Speed | 3000 MHz |
No. of SATA Ports | 6 |
M.2 Slots | None |
PCIe Slots | 3 |
I recently got my hands on the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING motherboard, and let me tell you, it’s a real game-changer. The design is not just modern; it’s stylish, bold, and attractive.
It’s a breath of fresh air, especially if the previous MSI Z97 Gaming 5 didn’t quite do it for you. This one, though? It’s bound to catch your eye and earn some admiration.
When it comes to features, the Z87-G45 GAMING doesn’t disappoint. It rocks 4 DIMM slots, matching the standard set by other motherboards in its league, giving you a max RAM capacity of 32GB.
Need storage options? It’s got you covered with 6 SATA ports and 1 mSATA port for all your devices. The only bummer? No M.2 port feels a bit off, given the price tag.
Now, for graphics card enthusiasts, MSI didn’t hold back. 3 PCI-Express 3.0 slots support both SLI and Crossfire setups. Plus, 4 PCI-Express 2.0 x1 ports, 6 USB 3.0 ports, 8 USB 2.0 ports, VGA, DVI, HDMI, and Killer E2205 LAN – talk about connectivity options, right?
And here’s the kicker. You can overclock your i7-4790k processor up to 4.4 GHz with this beast. That’s squeezing every bit of power for some serious speed and efficiency.
In a nutshell, the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING stands tall, especially for the i7-4790k. It’s not just good; it’s one of the top picks, especially for those demanding tasks requiring top-notch performance. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed.
Pros & cons of the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING motherboard:
Pros | Cons |
Very strong PCB | Availability issues |
Lots of USB options |
5. Asus B85M-G: Budget-Friendly Motherboard for i7-4790k!
Specs in a Glance: | Details |
Name | Asus B85M-G |
Form Factor | Micro ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 32GB |
No. of SATA Ports | 4 |
M.2 Slots | None |
PCIe Slots | 1 |
I recently picked up the Asus B85M-G, and let me tell you, it’s a real budget-friendly find from Asus that packs a punch, especially if you’re not much into gaming. Here’s the rundown.
Imagine this: the Asus B85M-G has four RAM slots, allowing me to load up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM. That’s a decent chunk of memory, ensuring smooth multitasking without hiccups. With four SATA ports, I’ve got many choices for connecting my storage devices. Admittedly, it misses out on an M.2 slot, but given its wallet-friendly price, that’s quite reasonable.
What caught my attention is the Fan Xpert software from Asus. It’s a nifty tool that allows me to easily control the i7-4790k processor and manage my system’s cooling. It simplifies the whole process of optimizing temperature management, which is pretty cool.
Now, this motherboard might not scream “gaming,” but it’s not holding back either. There’s one PCIe 3.0 slot and two PCIe 2.0 slots, giving me room for expansion. And kudos to Asus for not skimping on ports – eight USB 2.0 and four USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports ensure solid connectivity options.
And here’s the thing about overclocking – it’s on the table with the Asus B85M-G, although it does have its limits. It’s important to note that going all-out with overclocking might not be in the cards for this motherboard.
To sum it up, the Asus B85M-G delivers excellent value for its price, making it a solid choice for those who aren’t hardcore gamers but still want affordability and reliable performance. Trust me; it’s worth a closer look.
Pros and cons of the Asus B85M-G motherboard:
Pros | Cons |
Offers good value for an affordable price | Not built for gamers |
Fan Xpert is a valuable addition |
6. ASUS H81M-A- Efficient and Compact!
Specs | Details |
Name | ASUS H81M-A |
Form Factor | Micro ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 16GB |
No. of SATA Ports | 6 |
M.2 Slots | 1 |
PCIe Slots | 3 |
Alright, so I recently snagged the ASUS H81M-A, and if you’re anything like me—just after a motherboard that gets the job done without draining your wallet—this one might be right up your path.
Here’s the scoop: The ASUS H81M-A, a Micro ATX motherboard, caters to those of us with mid-range computing needs. If you’re on the hunt for decent performance without a hefty price tag, this might be the board to check out.
Now, it rocks 4 DIMM slots, which is cool, but here’s the twist—the max supported RAM caps at 16GB. Yeah, it’s a bit of a letdown that Asus didn’t go all-in with 32GB. If 16GB is enough for your multitasking needs, we can dive into the finer details. If not, there are other fish in the sea, my friend.
One thing worth a nod is the “ASUS 5X Protection” they’ve tossed in. It’s like a security detail for your motherboard, ensuring top-notch protection with the highest quality and durability standards. Not too shabby, especially considering the price range.
Now, let’s talk connections—6 SATA and 3 PCIe ports offer some decent options. But here’s the twist: no M.2 slot. It could’ve spiced up the speed game, but you can’t have it all. Also, a heads up—overclocking your processor on this board might be a bit of a puzzle. Something to chew on if you’re thinking of heading down that road.
The ASUS H81M-A is a solid pick if you’re not chasing top-tier specs and just need a reliable, budget-friendly motherboard for your rig. It’s got its quirks, but for the price, it might just be the ticket for you.
Pros and cons of the ASUS H81M-A motherboard:
Pros | Cons |
Reasonable pricing | Overclocking not possible |
ASUS 5X Protection | Maximum 16GB RAM capacity |
7. Asus Z97-C: Reliable Performance!
Specs | Details |
Name | Asus Z97-C |
Form Factor | ATX |
No. of DIMM slots | 4 |
Maximum Memory Size | 32GB |
No. of SATA Ports | 6 |
M.2 Slots | 1 |
PCIe Slots | 3 |
So, the final contender in the i7-4790k motherboard lineup is the Asus Z97-C. Priced at just under $250, it’s giving a good run for its money with some pretty impressive features. Let’s break it down.
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Now, unlike the Asus H81M-A we discussed earlier, the Asus Z97-C lets you up your memory (RAM) game to a whopping 32GB, thanks to its 4 DIMM slots.
And it’s not just about quantity; it supports speeds up to 3200 MHz, giving you a ton of space for multitasking and handling those resource-hungry applications.
When it comes to storage, this motherboard doesn’t hold back. It boasts 6 SATA ports and throws in an M.2 drive port, ensuring enough connectivity for all your storage devices.
It’s a sweet deal that should cover the bases for most users. And for gamers, you’re covered with 3 PCIe ports for your graphics cards. Plus, including UEFI means you’re looking at faster boot times than old-school BIOS systems.
To sum it up, the Asus Z97-C is a robust motherboard that pairs well with the i7-4790k. It delivers a solid set of features, all without putting a strain on your budget. If you’re looking for a dependable option that offers great value for your money, this one deserves a closer inspection.
Pros & Cons of Asus Z97-C:
Pros | Cons |
Adding an M.2 slot for added versatility. | The color combination of the Mobo could be improved. |
UEFI provides a wide range of advanced features. |
Conclusion:
So, When it comes to picking the right motherboard for my i7-4790K, it’s all about optimizing performance and ensuring everything clicks with the other components. I’m diving into details like socket compatibility, chipset support, form factor, and VRM design to ensure a seamless fit.
Then comes the fun part – comparing features, checking out overclocking potential, and keeping a close eye on the price. It’s all about making an informed decision that aligns perfectly with my needs.
Because let’s face it, the motherboard is the backbone, the core of the system, and choosing the right one means unlocking the full potential of my i7-4790K.
It’s the key to building a setup that’s not just powerful but also rock-solid and reliable. So, the hunt is on for that perfect motherboard that’ll make my i7-4790K shine.
References:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/buildapc/comments/11lylnm/motherboard_for_gtx_980_and_intel_i7_4790k/
- https://forums.tomshardware.com/threads/which-motherboard-is-best-for-an-intel-i7-4790k.2164246/
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-best-motherboard-for-an-Intel-i7-4790k-processor
FAQs:
Q1. Is the i7 4790K compatible with motherboards that use various sockets?
No, it won’t work because it is a 4790k, which means it is a fourth-generation device. Additionally, an L115A1 socket is required.
Q2. Is PCIe 4.0 supported by the i7 4790K?
It does support PCIE 1, 2, and 3, but not 4.0.
Q3. How much can the i7-4790K be overclocked?
The Core i7-4790K may be overclocked from its 4.4GHz stock maximum speed up to 4.8GHz overclock using a motherboard with the Z97 chipset. Anything above that causes the system to become unstable.
Q4. Does the i7 4790K support DDR4?
Only DDR3 is supported with the i7-4790k and Z87/Z97 chipsets.
Q5. Does the i7 4790K support stream?
Streaming and high-quality settings are no problem on the Core i7-4790K.