Many people assume that spending more on a motherboard automatically provides a massive jump in frame rates. While that makes for a great marketing story, the reality is far more subtle and grounded in how you handle your data.
Focusing on the best 790 motherboards helps you prioritize stability and expansion options rather than just chasing hype. A smart build relies on the right foundation, so let’s get into the specifics of what actually matters for your upcoming desk upgrade.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize your power phase design if you plan on running a high-end processor at its maximum frequency for long periods.
- Verify your case size to ensure the motherboard form factor matches your physical desk space limitations.
- Check the number of M.2 slots available if you manage a large library of high-speed storage drives.
- Confirm your memory generation requirements because DDR4 and DDR5 slots are not physically interchangeable.
- Look for integrated wireless connectivity if you prefer a clean setup without bulky Ethernet cables running across your room.
| Solid Performance Foundation |  |
Gigabyte Z790 Eagle AX Motherboard | Reliable power delivery | Easy component installation | Modern connectivity options | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Budget Friendly Workhorse |  |
MSI PRO B760-P DDR4 Motherboard | DDR4 memory support | Fast wired networking | Stable professional design | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Enthusiast Tier Powerhouse |  |
ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming Motherboard | Exceptional power stages | Advanced overclocking tools | Latest Wi-Fi 7 | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Premium Feature Loaded |  |
MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi | High speed networking | Gen5 M.2 support | Robust aesthetic | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Sleek Aesthetic Choice |  |
ASUS ROG Strix X870-A Gaming Motherboard | Attractive white styling | Helpful AI overclocking | PCIe 5.0 support | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Mid-Range Performance King |  |
MSI MAG B850 Tomahawk Motherboard | Impressive power delivery | High memory frequency support | Fast 5G networking | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Value Focused Gamer | MSI B850 Gaming Plus Motherboard | Fast wireless connectivity | Modern networking speeds | Flexible slot configuration | View on Amazon | Read Review | |
| Compact System Builder |  |
MSI PRO B760M-P Micro-ATX Motherboard | Space saving form factor | Essential connectivity included | Reliable for daily tasks | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Balanced Enthusiast Board | Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX | Strong power phase layout | Extensive storage options | Easy BIOS updates | View on Amazon | Read Review | |
| Future Proof Foundation |  |
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk Motherboard | Latest networking standards | Future proof connectivity | Reliable build quality | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
-
Gigabyte Z790 Eagle AX Motherboard
If you want a dependable base for a high-end Intel build without unnecessary fluff, this board is your best bet. It manages a 12+1+1 power phase design, which provides the stable power delivery needed for 14th Gen processors.
You get three M.2 slots for storage and the convenience of the EZ-Latch mechanism, which makes installing components much simpler. Just keep in mind that the audio codec is standard, so if you are an audiophile, you might want a dedicated sound card.
- Brand:Gigabyte
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Power Phase:12+1+1
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 6E
- Additional Feature:Q-Flash BIOS updates
- Additional Feature:EZ-Latch mounting
- Additional Feature:RGB Fusion lighting
-
MSI PRO B760-P DDR4 Motherboard
This board is a smart pick for anyone looking to keep their build costs down by utilizing existing DDR4 memory. It handles the latest Intel chips while maintaining a no-nonsense layout that fits perfectly into a professional workspace.
The inclusion of 2.5Gbps LAN ensures your wired connection stays fast for large file transfers. Do note that you are limited to PCIe 4.0, which is perfectly fine for most users but may not satisfy those needing the latest data speeds.
- Brand:MSI
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR4
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 6E
- Additional Feature:Bluetooth 5.3
- Additional Feature:2.5Gbps LAN
- Additional Feature:Multiple display outputs
-
ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming Motherboard
When you want the absolute best for an AMD AM5 build, this board delivers with an 18+2+2 power stage layout. It is designed for those who enjoy pushing their hardware to the limit, especially with features like the Dynamic OC Switcher.
The Wi-Fi 7 connectivity is a significant upgrade that prepares your system for next-generation wireless speeds. You will find it quite large, so ensure your case has enough clearance for a high-performance ATX layout.
- Brand:ASUS
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Power Phase:18+2+2
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 7
- Additional Feature:USB4 connectivity
- Additional Feature:Q-Release Slim mechanism
- Additional Feature:AI networking optimization
-
MSI MPG X870E Carbon WiFi
This board serves as a stylish centerpiece for any high-end gaming machine. It supports the latest Ryzen processors and offers massive bandwidth via its USB 40Gbps ports and Gen5 M.2 slots.
You get a 5Gbps LAN port, which is a nice jump over the standard 2.5Gbps options found on lesser boards. It is a dense piece of hardware, so be prepared to spend a little extra time during the cable management phase of your build.
- Brand:MSI
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 7
- Additional Feature:Bluetooth 5.4
- Additional Feature:40Gbps USB ports
- Additional Feature:Integrated cooling heatsinks
-
ASUS ROG Strix X870-A Gaming Motherboard
If your build focuses on a clean, white-themed aesthetic, this board is the perfect starting point. It does not sacrifice performance, as the 16+2+2 power stages easily handle demanding tasks and gaming sessions.
The board includes AI-assisted overclocking to help you find your CPU's sweet spot without needing to be an expert. It has fewer M.2 slots than the extreme E-series boards, but four slots are plenty for most modern gaming libraries.
- Brand:ASUS
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Power Phase:16+2+2
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 7
- Additional Feature:USB4 support
- Additional Feature:Q-Release Slim
- Additional Feature:Integrated cooling shroud
-
MSI MAG B850 Tomahawk Motherboard
The Tomahawk line has a reputation for being the reliable backbone of many builds, and this model continues that legacy. With its 80A power stages, it is more than capable of running high-core-count processors under heavy loads.
The inclusion of 8400+ MT/s memory support gives you plenty of headroom for fast RAM kits. Just keep in mind that the design is utilitarian, favoring function over flashy visual flair.
- Brand:MSI
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Power Phase:80A SPS
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 7
- Additional Feature:PCIe 5.0 x16 slot
- Additional Feature:M.2 Gen5 support
- Additional Feature:Tomahawk durability
-
MSI B850 Gaming Plus Motherboard
This board is designed for gamers who prioritize core performance and networking speed over expensive aesthetic bells and whistles. It features Wi-Fi 7 and 5G LAN, which are impressive additions at this market position.
You get a solid mix of expansion slots, including PCIe 5.0 and 4.0, which allows for flexible component choices. While it lacks some of the premium heatsink coverage found on top-tier boards, it stays cool during standard gaming cycles.
- Brand:MSI
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 7
- Additional Feature:M.2 Gen5 slots
- Additional Feature:Memory Boost technology
- Additional Feature:5G LAN
-
MSI PRO B760M-P Micro-ATX Motherboard
When you need to fit a powerful system into a smaller case, this mATX board is a perfect fit. It manages to pack essential features like DDR4 support and multiple USB ports into a tiny footprint.
It is an ideal choice for a home office or basic gaming PC where space is at a premium. Because of the size, you have fewer expansion slots, so think about your peripheral needs before committing to a small build.
- Brand:MSI
- Form Factor:mATX
- Memory Type:DDR4
- Additional Feature:Multiple display outputs
- Additional Feature:PCIe 4.0 support
- Additional Feature:Standard M.2 storage
-
Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX
This board hits the sweet spot for many users by combining 16+1+2 power phases with a high-quality build. It provides a sturdy platform for overclocking and handling high-performance components without issue.
The four M.2 slots give you incredible storage flexibility, which is a major benefit for media creators. It is a substantial board, so make sure your case supports standard ATX dimensions to accommodate the heatsinks.
- Brand:Gigabyte
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Power Phase:16+1+2
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 6E
- Additional Feature:Q-Flash utility
- Additional Feature:EZ-Latch mounting
- Additional Feature:RGB Fusion support
-
MSI MAG X870 Tomahawk Motherboard
If you are planning for the next several years of hardware upgrades, this X870 board offers the modern standards you need. It includes USB 40Gbps and Wi-Fi 7, ensuring your I/O is ready for the fastest external devices.
The 5Gbps LAN is a welcome feature for those who transfer large files across a local network. Like all Tomahawk models, it focuses on sturdy construction, though it keeps the visual design fairly reserved.
- Brand:MSI
- Form Factor:ATX
- Memory Type:DDR5
- Wireless Standard:Wi-Fi 7
- Additional Feature:Bluetooth 5.4
- Additional Feature:Gen5 M.2 support
- Additional Feature:40Gbps USB ports
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to update the BIOS before using a 14th gen CPU?
Many Z790 boards shipped before the 14th generation launched, so they often require a BIOS update to recognize the newer chips. Look for boards with a BIOS Flashback button, which allows you to update the firmware using a simple USB stick without needing a processor installed.
Can I use DDR4 memory with a Z790 motherboard?
Some 790 boards are specifically manufactured to support DDR4 RAM, but they are not compatible with DDR5. You must choose your motherboard version carefully because the slots are physically different and will not accept the wrong type of memory.
Is a Z790 board overkill for a mid-range processor?
You might pay for features you never use, like advanced power phases for extreme overclocking. However, these boards offer better build quality and more expansion slots, which can be useful if you plan to upgrade your components in the future.
How many M.2 drives can I install?
The number varies by model, but most high-end 790 boards feature at least three or four M.2 slots. Check the manual to see if using certain slots disables other connections, as some boards share bandwidth between ports.
Does the motherboard come with Wi-Fi?
Most mid-to-high-end Z790 models include integrated Wi-Fi 6E or 7 modules. If you see a board without it, you can always add a wireless card later, but buying one with it built-in is usually more convenient.
