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The i5 4690k is arguably the most popular and budget-oriented CPU for gaming enthusiasts that Intel has offered to date. The combination of this multipurpose CPU with the best motherboard helps you get the most out of your Intel Core i5 4690k.
A complementary motherboard helps you pull everything in your PC together and fulfill your needs as they grow. In this article, we have laid down the review of our top-picked motherboards for i5 4690k currently trending in the market.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Motherboards For I5 4690k
- OUR TOP PICK: GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WI-FI Gaming Motherboard
- RUNNER-UP: ASUS Z97-A
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Gigabyte GA-Z97X-UD3H
Comparison of the Best Motherboards For i5 4690k
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What Are the Benefits of Upgrading Your Motherboard?
The motherboard is undoubtedly an incredibly important component of a PC as it determines the functionality of other parts in your PC, as well. In case you are exhausted with your PC's performance, upgrading the motherboard can be of immense help. Although a new one will offer multiple new options, this can be really expensive at the same time.
If we count on the benefits of this upgrade, it all comes down to a worthy investment.
Faster CPU
Getting a new motherboard will help the CPU gain superior performance. On the other hand, you can always upgrade your motherboard for massive gains. The only thing is that it must be capable of handling and supporting this upgrade.
Gigabyte GA-Z97X-UD3H
Faster Data Transfer
Upgrading your motherboard can be really helpful in increasing the transfer speed of data from one hardware to another. For example, the incorporation of a top-notch SSD card can help you reach 2 Gbps when it comes to speed.
Better Graphics
In case you are a gaming enthusiast, a new motherboard with a better performing GPU can highly enhance your gaming experience. There would be less lagging plus better graphics when compared to the previous unit.
Similarly, if you are a video editor or a usual web surfer, this upgrade will surely bring value to your bucks.
Why Did These Motherboards Make Our List?
Even the thought of choosing the right motherboard can be daunting, especially when you are left with a range of options. We have listed some essential features that must not be overlooked whenever you are in the market to make a purchase.
Brand
There are multiple manufacturers on the market that offer remarkable aftermarket services and have a history of producing quality products. Any model from a reputed brand holds a level of expertise which greatly affects the drivers and their compatibility.
Reliable RAM
Advanced motherboards are equipped with DIMM slots that stand for a double inline memory module. These are one of the latest RAM slots that are capable of running on a faster 64-bit bus. It is highly recommended to opt for a motherboard with space for at least 16GB. Plus, a motherboard having 4 or more slots is highly preferred.
GPU Support
The incorporation of GPUs in the CPUs helps in displaying the output on the monitor. A powerful GPU is highly recommended for gaming or other applications with rapid processing.
Great Storage
It goes without saying that you need to store your operating system, application, and data before powering off the PC. One of the significant features of a high-end motherboard is reliable storage for all your data. It comes with multiple memory slots to save the data for future use.
Pocket-Friendly
Another essential thing to keep in mind is always to consider your budget. It is a fact that high-quality motherboards with exceptional features can be really expensive. Try to pick a model that comes with all the crucial features and fits your budget. However, you are recommended to always prioritize quality over money in order to avoid any regret, especially when it comes to the components of your PCs.
Review of the Best Motherboards For i5 4690k
Now, if you’ve decided to buy a motherboard for your i5 4690k CPU, you should make your way through the review of some top-notch motherboards we have laid down for you. This will surely help you get enough information about the right model for you.
Best Overall:
GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WI-FI Gaming Motherboard
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WI-FI Motherboard benefits Windows users as it is enabled for versions 7, 8, 8 Pro, and 10 operating systems. On the other hand, this advanced board gets hotter at peak speeds, so it's ready for running up to 6 fans for adequate cooling.
Why It Stands Out to Us
Take your gaming to the next level with GIGABYTE’s Z390 AORUS PRO WI-FI. This device supports clock speeds of up to 4260 MHz, ensuring superior frame rates and performance.
You’ll surely attain new heights of adventure and victory with this gaming motherboard. The ultimate pick for gamers works with the all-new 8th and 9th generation Intel Core processors.
Its DDR4 RAM Memory Technology allows various features that will make your massive computing and graphics simulation experience smoother, more immersive, and enjoyable.
Who Will Use This Most
Introducing the Z390 AORUS PRO WI-FI motherboard! This fantastic device is tailor-fit for gamers and power users who want to get the most out of their machines. Its advanced heat management capabilities ensure that your system runs cool even when pushed to the limit.
Bottom Line
The GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WI-FI board supports Intel Core 8i and 9i processors, so you can be sure that it will provide you with all the power you need to game like a pro. On the flip side, its bulky and heavy design requires a sturdy CPU case for structural stability.
Runner-up:
ASUS Z97-A
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This runner-up model has also succeeded in getting the confidence of multiple users due to its high-grade performance. According to them, it is one of the finest models with an attractive design as well as top-notch functionality. Moreover, the price is relatively affordable compared to other units on the market.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ASUS motherboard mainly stands out to us for its nice design and extra cool features. It is incorporated with crystal audio 2 to provide clear sounds, SATA express, and M.2 to mark perfection. Moreover, it offers remote control functionality to add to the comfort level of the user. One of the major attractions is the affordable price tag.
Who Will Use This Most
With a great set of features, this model is a suitable option for all the gaming enthusiasts out there. The dual intelligence processor makes it a popular choice for i5 4690k CPU to achieve quality performance. Moreover, it comes with a remote control feature to save the user from any inconvenience.
Bottom Line
One of the remarkable motherboards, this unit from ASUS is meant to serve the user in the long run. It comes with a cool black design, which is greatly complemented by high-end features including dual processor, Turbo app, crystal sound, and much more. Overall, this is the best deal you'll find on the market.
Best for the Money:
Gigabyte GA-Z97X-UD3H
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users have found this model extremely attractive due to its reasonable price tag. It comes with all the essential features without getting heavy on the pocket. Users report that the design is remarkable, plus the performance is also great to carry out their usual tasks without any buffering or lagging. Moreover, the data transfer speed is appreciable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This unit primarily stands out from its competitors for exhibiting a relatively affordable price tag. The features include Z97 express chipset, DIMM slots, dual-channel, and a maximum capacity of 32 GB to ace perfection. The most striking point is that you get to have everything listed at such an amazing price.
Who Will Use This Most
The budget-friendly model is surely a go-to choice of many customers who do not want to spend a lot of money on a motherboard. This efficient model incorporates some high-end features in combination with enhanced functionality, making it just the right choice for gamers as well as video editors.
Bottom Line
The unique design plus multi-graphic support makes this motherboard a versatile unit to go with your i5 4690k. Not only is the design impactful, but it also includes specifications like high definition audio, SATA, 32 B capacity, and compatibility with 4th and 5th generation processors without any hassle.
Best Motherboard for i5 4690k Gaming:
MSI Z87-G45 GAMING
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This model is highly appreciated by customers for offering remarkable performance when combined with the i5 4690k system. The most striking feature is its great color scheme of black and red. Moreover, it comes with a lot of 3.0 USB ports to enhance the gaming experience, plus the BIOS is quite user-friendly.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you are looking for a reliable motherboard to enhance the performance of your i5 4690k, then you should definitely get your hands on this unit from MSI. Ideally known for its attractive color scheme, this model is packed with various 3.0 USB ports, audio boost, sound blaster, SATA, and dual-channel to make it perfect for gaming.
Who Will Use This Most
Ideally designed for gamers, this model ensures reliable gaming experience whenever you want. It comes with all necessary features to make it compatible with an i5 4690k CPU. Moreover, the BIOS is easy to use and, therefore, saves the user from any inconvenience and confusion during operation. Therefore, it could also be suitable for beginners making a gaming setup for the first time.
Bottom Line
With increased smoothness and excellent performance, this MSI motherboard is surely one of the best choices to go with an i5 4690k. From exquisite and reliable construction to remarkable functionality, it is meant to never do you wrong during online gaming. In short, the speed boost and consistent data transfer ace your gaming experience.
Best ASUS Motherboard for i5 4690k:
ASUS B85M-G R2.0
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Just like our above-mentioned units, this motherboard has gained high ratings from the users. They report that it is one of the best and quiet motherboards offered by ASUS to go with i5 4690k. Similarly, the data transfer speed is great. Buyers also liked the all-round protection feature that has left quite a mark on them.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This motherboard from ASUS is recommended best for i5 4690k CPU due to its improved features. In this unit, we find 3.0 USB ports, Q-DIMM, ASUS protection program, and fan auto-tuning to offer a balance between reliable and quiet performance. Moreover, the simple plug and boost functionality makes this model user-friendly.
Who Will Use This Most
One of the major necessities during gaming is uninterrupted processing, which can be flawlessly achieved by this ASUS motherboard. It completely suits the i5 4690k CPU to achieve gaming along with other heavy-duty tasks. Moreover, the ASUS protection feature is useful for those who want to avoid additional expenditures for repairing.
Bottom Line
In case you need a versatile motherboard to upgrade the performance of your i5 4690k, then this is the right option for you. Packed with exceptional features to the brim, this model is meant to mark durability, quality as well as reliability. What more can you ask for?
Are All Motherboards The Same?
A motherboard is basically a Printed Circuit Board that acts as a major platform for communication among various parts of the computer. It usually consists of RAM slot, CPU slot, expansion slots as well as BIOS. Motherboards are essential components of tablets, PCs, laptops, and mobile phones. However, not all motherboards are the same.
They vary in their functionality with regard to the features and looks. Read on to find out various types of motherboards and learn about the features of each.
AT Motherboard
AT stands for Advanced Technology, and such motherboards are the oldest of its kind. They were used in earlier computers like in the mid-'80s. Due to their limited dimensions of 13.8x12 inches, it gets difficult to install advance drives in such motherboards.
ATX Motherboard
Developed in the mid-90s, these are the improved version of formerly used motherboards like AT, and they are still being used. ATX stands for Advanced Technology eXtended, and this 12x9.6 inch motherboard is the most common design employed in smaller boards.
Multiple factors, like more power phases and wider gaps between expansion slots, add up to provide superior performance.
Micro-ATX Motherboard
With the dimensions of 9.6x9.6 inches, these are relatively smaller than ATX motherboards. The major advantage it has over the predecessor is its compact and small size, which holds more ports and slots. Plus, it is a budget-friendly model when compared to its predecessors.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
A motherboard plays a crucial role in connecting all the components of the computer together and ultimately serves as a means of communication among them. Therefore, it is quite important to pick a model wisely. Since there are multiple options on the market, you might get confused about finding the best one.
In this section, we have summarized a few pointers to help you find the best motherboard according to your needs. Let’s discuss them one by one!
CPU Socket
One of the foremost aspects to consider is the selection of the CPU that easily fits your needs as well as budget. You will find various types of CPU sockets, and once you are done with getting the ideal CPU, you can go for the chipsets.
Chipsets
Chipsets are undoubtedly the major components that are incorporated in the motherboard as they make certain features work. With the advancement in technology, multiple chipsets have been introduced in recent times. Some of them are responsible for integrated graphics, while others allow more PCI express lanes.
With all of them exhibiting their own pros and cons, the ultimate choice is yours, depending on the features you will be needing.
Size
Motherboards are available in a wide range of sizes, which involve the use of form factor. The number of features that a motherboard can hold is directly affected by its size. In simpler words, a smaller unit can pack only two memory slots while a bigger one offers room for multiple features.
Conclusion
This concludes the review of some of the well-known motherboards available in the market. Getting an upgraded motherboard onboard not only helps you achieve faster processivity but also adds value to your money. Hopefully, you are now well-aware of the essential features of a great motherboard that can help you purchase a reliable model to meet your needs.
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