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Being a gaming pro, you need to have the fastest processor. Although Intel's i5 processors are old, they are still the best processors for gaming purposes.
The i5 processor runs at 3.5 GHz (3.9 GHz overclocked) and has the ability to process up to 4k resolution.
However, if you need to work the processor up to its full power, you need the most compatible one.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Motherboard For I5 6600k
- OUR TOP PICK: GIGABYTE GA-Z170X-Gaming 3
- RUNNER-UP: MSI Z170A PC Mate
- BEST GAMING MOTHERBOARD FOR I5 6600K: ASRock Z170M EXTREME4
Comparison of the Best Motherboards For i5 6600k
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Can Any Motherboard Be Used With an i5 6600k?
No, as the Intel i5 6600K processor is assembled explicitly for LGA 1151 motherboards, not all motherboards are compatible.
Every chipset has its own unique specifications, as well as features. These differences make them compatible and perfectly fitted for particular processors like the Intel i5 6600K processor.
The processor works well with both DDR3 & DDR4 memory chips. Getting a motherboard that supports DDR4 and has a large power delivery system will help you reach the extreme-end of your processor's potential performance. With the most compatible motherboard, you will have the fastest, as well as most accelerated, gaming experience.
GIGABYTE GA-Z170X-Gaming 3
What Makes a Motherboard Great For an i5 6600k?
Here are the highlighted features that make a motherboard great for an I5 6600k.
Form Factor
Every motherboard has its own shape and size. Along with that, there are connectors, port types, as well as locations to consider. The mounting holes and entire layout of the power interface matter, as well. A compatible design that fits seamlessly should be your priority.
Supported RAM
You will need a motherboard that will support the existing RAM of your Intel i5 6600k and to consider a model that also supports RAM sticks.
Supported Processor, Expansion Ports, as Well as Slots
The Intel i5 6600k is considered the fastest, but to achieve its maximum, you will need a compatible motherboard that should give you more than the required ports and slots for future expansions. Your selected model should support the current speed of your processor, as well.
Chipset Support
For building a PC that will be solely used for gaming, you will need chipset 100 Series motherboards. These chipsets are not replaceable, so make sure you know the specification of the model you are buying.
Review of the Best Motherboards For i5 6600k
Whether you are a novice or professional gamer, it's always a proficient habit to compare all the options before selecting one. Here are some top models reviewed to help you choose better.
Best Overall:
GIGABYTE GA-Z170X-Gaming 3
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
There are negative reviews regarding the compatibility with Kabylake 7th Generation CPU, but other than that, it's all praises for this model. The fact that it's excellent for later expansions, as well as has the best audio gaming experience, goes a long way with the consumers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
There are many features that make the motherboard stand out most prominently. First of all, it comes with extra M.2 slot and additional USB ports that are great for future upgrades. Furthermore, it gives you competitively faster data transfers (16 Gbps on SATA and 32 Gbps on M.2).
Who Will Use This Most
It's the perfect motherboard for gamers who are looking to build an ITX box, as well as someone who has an i5 6600k, as well as an i7-6700K. It's the most compatible board made for novices looking to build their computers for gaming purposes.
Bottom Line
All in all, the praise bar has been pretty high on this one. From the extra slots for future upgrades to clean and smart design to an exceptional audio gaming experience, this one has it all. If you are willing to ignore the minor quirks, this board is a good investment.
Runner-up:
MSI Z170A PC Mate
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
To start with, it's a great board that the majority of the buyers loved, however, some did have qualms about the design of the board and installation. However, most consumers claimed that it's versatile and works exceptionally well with i5-6600k. All in all, it’s a good investment for premium gaming.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Its value for money stands out the most as it is a functional unit at an exceptionally great price. Other features that stand out are the smart and big design that makes it easy to plug the attachments, equipped with an Overclock Genie for novices. It's easy to navigate, as well.
Who Will Use This Most
This motherboard is ideal for anyone who wants to get themselves an economical Skylake motherboard. It's also for those engineers who are trying to get their hands on PC building. Pairing up this model with the i5, GTX 960, or AMD's R9 380X (graphic card), will let you enjoy the latest games without any hassle.
Bottom Line
The price and the features of this motherboard make it a perfect buy in the eyes of all the gamers who are already enjoying its perks. The many positive reviews about its design, as well as its performance, make it a good match for i5 6600k.
Best Gaming Motherboard For i5 6600k:
ASUS Z170 PRO Gaming
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Related to this, recent buyers have mixed opinions. While some found the USB 3.0 unreliable on W7 /W10, others praised the exceptional gaming features, as well as the stable BIOS. A lot of reviews report that it's an excellent motherboard for overclocking. It's the perfect model for a gamer's needs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The extreme overclocking feature is the most prominent thing that stands out with this motherboard. The smart design that matches almost all the gaming computers, as well as the brilliant LED display, are yet other sweet points. It also gives you access to 16 GBs of RAM.
Who Will Use This Most
Pro-gamers will have the time of their life with this model. It's the perfect micro-ATX board that will allow any gamer to handle high-end gaming experience. This should be your ultimate choice if you are looking for stress-free optimization to construct a high-end gaming PC on a tight budget.
Bottom Line
The dual-DDR4 support that comes with this gaming motherboard makes it the most sought-after product for pro-gamers. It's a great motherboard, as it gives you high-end gaming solutions on a budget. It also comes with has USB 3.1, as well as type-C and type-A connections, and ASUS LAN guard protection.
Best Motherboard For Overclocking i5 6600k:
MSI Z170A Krait Gaming
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers have commented on the overclocking stability, as well as the ease of use. But there have been a couple of complaints regarding the SATA ports and reports of average performance. Many buyers have logged in positive reviews regarding the BIOS being easy to navigate, which is perfect for gaming beginners.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The board stands out mostly due to its solid build, so there will be no bending or sagging after adding extra weight like adding components or connectors on it. The red LED under-glow, as well as the glossy finishing of the motherboard, give you leverage to build a handsome PC.
Who Will Use This Most
As this motherboard is perfectly compatible with both dual, as well as single-GPU gaming, it targets a huge audience. From gamers to graphic designers, all can benefit from the brilliant features, as well as the affordable price it is available at. It's easy to assemble, making it great for beginners building their first PC.
Bottom Line
The Gaming Pro Motherboards may not be your standard powerhouse but is faultlessly adequate with a very handsome and solid build. It isn't for extreme overclocking, but it is pretty decent if you are looking for a stylish fit. Moreover, it's easy to install and boot.
5. ASRock Z170M EXTREME4
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
As per most recent buyers, this is the most trusted when it comes to motherboards. Many have praised the speed of the system, as well as its compatibility with various processors. Some have complained about the fixed voltage overclocking issue, but all in all, it is perfect for gaming or designing PC.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This motherboard comes with exceptional features in a compact design, as well as an affordable price range. If that's not enough for standing out, it has more. It comes with an M.2 slot for future upgrades, all ports that are needed for mid-range gaming PC, and four slots for RAM.
Who Will Use This Most
This motherboard is pretty versatile, so it's for people who are looking to construct a PC for their mid-range gaming or graphic designing. It is also for the ones who want a minimalistic style computer system. Despite the compact design, its wonderful graphics performance will leave you stunned.
Bottom Line
This particular model from ASRock will give you a top-rated gaming experience, exceptional graphics designing features in a compact design, and brilliant price rage. It also comes with 12 power phases that offer greater OC, as well as power stability. Investing in it would be the best thing you'd do for your gaming PC.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Investing in a New Motherboard
Upgrading your PC and installing a new motherboard has its perks. However, it might not be the best course of action for everyone. Let’s see why.
MSI Z170A PC Mate
Advantages
The following are a few advantages of investing in a new motherboard.
Accelerated Performance
Your computer can't work to its maximum capacity if it's not paired with a compatible and diligent motherboard. This is the main reason you should invest in a new one. Your upgrade should be according to the use of your computer, whether it's for work or gaming. For gaming, your motherboard should have speed and processing power, as well as adequate overclocking.
Reliability
A good motherboard will ensure that your computer is stable, and you can rely on it for extensive work. It's the central connection to all peripheral devices, and it is important that the motherboard stays stable and reliable.
Disadvantages
Where there are benefits, there are also some drawbacks. Here is the disadvantage of having a new motherboard installed.
Time and Effort
With a pre-built system, all you have to do is turn the system on, and you are good to go. However, when investing in a new motherboard, there is always the hassle and waste of time that comes with installing the unit, then checking for any malfunctions, and reinstalling it again.
Conclusion
Choosing the best motherboard for your i5 6600k is not an easy task. There are all sorts of features to consider, and also the compatibility itself needs to be checked thoroughly before buying. Choosing a motherboard for a gaming PC is expensive, as well as high risk. This review will surely help you select the best one for an exceptional gaming experience.
More Motherboard Buyer Guides
Below are some other motherboard reviews:
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