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Is your motherboard getting old? Do you think it's finally time for a replacement? Or, do you just want to build an entire PC from the ground up?
Whatever your reason is, you know that the motherboard is an essential part of any PC without which it can't work. We will be going over some of the whys, hows, and whens.
By the end of this review guide, we hope that you will know which is the best Z390 motherboard for you and your PC build needs.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Z390 Motherboards
- OUR TOP PICK: GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE
- RUNNER-UP: MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Asus ROG Strix Z390-E
Comparison of the Best Z390 Motherboards
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When is It Time to Replace My Motherboard?
The motherboard is a complex piece of intricate circuits that integrate to interconnect all the different components such as a CPU, GPU, RAM, and power supply to form a working PC. It isn't as simple to set a specific time, after which you should replace your motherboard. However, if you happen to experience any of the following problems, it might be time to replace it.
- The system display becomes blank
- You see an error code appear on your screen
- You might hear a few beeps
- The system might get locked
- System reboots
- The famous Windows blue screen of death pops up
- Expansion slots fail
- Memory modules fail
Other than that, water damage, fire damage, snapped pins, or even physical damage from impact can all lead to a damaged motherboard, sparking a need for repair or replacement.
GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE
What Makes a Great Z390 Motherboard?
There are several reasons that make the intel Z390 motherboard one of the best motherboards for graphics-intensive processes on the market. Whether it be gaming, content creation, or professional use, here are a few of the recurring factors which makes a great Z390 motherboard:
Best CPU Support
The Z390 motherboards that support the 8th and 9th generation of Intel Core Processors and provide a great rig to overclock those processors are a great choice.
Multi-GPU Setups
Z390 motherboards support more than one installed graphics card running simultaneously. This helps in rendering the same 3D imagery with more GPUs at the same time, increasing graphic performance by running higher resolutions and higher frames per second with additional filters.
Fast RAM
The model's support for newer and faster iterations of RAM, such as DDR4 memory support up to 4266MHz, makes for higher and faster performance.
Review of the Best Z390 Motherboards
Now that we’ve seen some of the core features that make for a great Z390 as well as the appropriate requirements where you might need to upgrade, let’s look at some top Z390 motherboards that make for a great pick.
Best Overall:
GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
A lot of the users bought this motherboard to run macOS even though it's not officially supported. Many report it as being a really good motherboard for Hackintosh. The rear IO panel's versatility and functionality is another major aspect that is greatly appreciated by buyers. And lastly, according to many users, the Thunderbolt 3 ports are an essential part of any motherboard buying decision.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Gigabyte Z390 Designare supports 9th and 8th generation Intel CPUs packed to the brim with features. It was built with a specific group of individuals in mind, which include professionals, designers, and creators. It features a multitude of features, such as multiple and full-bandwidth NVMe storage support with both M.2 and PCI Express slot connections.
Furthermore, the 3rd x16 slot can be switched between CPU and PCI lanes, the VRM temperatures are decent even under overclocking stress tests, and it features dual Intel Gigabit LAN with a decent RGB feature if you want to use it.
Though this motherboard doesn't officially support macOS, many buyers used it for Hackintosh. It is versatile enough to work as a gaming motherboard as well effectively, and overall the performance is great and remains steady even under overclocking.
Bottom Line
If you are a creator, there isn't much of a reason that justifies not getting this incredible motherboard. It has an immense range of features and functionality available for almost every need possible and more.
Runner-up:
MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users found themselves extremely pleased with how incredibly well-built this chipset is. Moreover, the richness in terms of features really sealed the deal for them. They reported back saying the motherboard holds up well, is exceptionally stable, and runs efficiently. Users even claimed to max out the memory and GPU settings, and it still performed superiorly.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The MSI MEG includes every feature you could possibly want, jampacked with a multitude of overclocking features. The device showcases two eight-pin EPS connectors, the main 24-pin, and then there’s a six-pin for the graphics to ensure extra power.
There are various ports and connectors around the top of the board, like fan headers, RGB connectors, USB 3.1 gen 2x2, etc. In terms of the core specifications, the four steel-supported memory slots can hold up impressively 128GB of DDR4.
This ‘Godlike’ braces 9th i9-9900K, i7-9700K, i5-9600K, and the 8th Generation Intel Core, Pentium Gold, Celeron processors for LGA 1151 socket. There's a total of four PCI-E slots, all-steel bolstered, whereby the top slot has the capability to run at full 16x speed.
The device further underpins two different GPUs, Nvidia SLI and quad-GPU AMD CrossFire, meaning that the graphics performance with this motherboard will be phenomenal.
Bottom Line
Wondering why it's called Godlike? It's because, in addition to the robust core features corroborated by this motherboard, there's a whole new world of attributes controlling and enhancing the overclocking and tweaking aspect.
The two 8-pin CPU power plug, coupled with the six-pin power plug above the PCI slot, works to deliver optimal CPU and GPU performance.
Best for the Money:
ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The design choices with the expansive LED RGB features and BIOS are the most recurring factors that users enjoy with this motherboard. They also love the functional features such as reliable performance and fast memory support. It is incredibly easy to build a rig using this motherboard even if you are a complete beginner.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E is a powerful gaming motherboard designed to support 9th generation Intel processors with compatibility with the 8th generation as well. It has efficient power delivery, better cooling systems, and higher memory frequencies, making it great for gaming.
With support for the latest Asus five-way optimization by using thermal telemetry and smart prediction, the intelligent chipset will automatically create the most optimal overclock. It supports up to 64GBs of DDR4 memory with stronger memory support and signaling. It further features dual M.2 NVMe sockets and triple PCI Express x16 slots with two supporting Asus safe slot technology.
The rear IO panel comes pre-mounted, making it easier to build, and support for AuraSync can help make the RGB lights complement the black metallic aesthetics.
Bottom Line
If you’re planning on building your first gaming PC rig on your own, this is a great motherboard to get started with. It's powerful, efficient, and great value for your money. It features excellent audio implementations, making you able to hear your enemies first. This is still one of the best mid-range motherboards available on the market today.
Best Z390 Motherboard For Gaming:
GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS ULTRA
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers report that the claim of this motherboard being great for overclocking is true. The updated BIOS is a significant improvement, and it's absolutely amazing to pair with your intel 9900K processor. It works excellently, maintaining quality, performance, and heat upon its power delivery. The RGB lighting works well to compliment the neutral black board with its silver accents.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Ultra is a great gaming motherboard for 9th generation CPUs while being compatible with the 8th generation processors as well. The board features an excellent cooling system with multiple heatsinks. The onboard sound quality is so good that you will not require a dedicated card at all.
The board is weighted and overall seems well-built. It further features dual WIFI, Bluetooth 5, AMP-UP Audio, Intel i219v GbE LAN, Front USB 3.1 2nd Generation Type-C Header, and multiway graphics support, to name a few.
It boasts RGB lighting on the IO cover, audio cover, front edge, and the PCH heatsink, which can all be controlled by the Gigabyte RGB Fusion software. It also supports addressable RGB LED & LED strips for more gaming aesthetic details.
In addition, it features Smart Fan 5 and an incredibly advanced thermal design, which will definitely help in keeping temperatures low to maintain those high frame rates. With features like triple M.2, durability with AUROS 360 Armor, ultra-fast WiFi, and with cool accessories in the box, it is quite hard to see why this isn't the perfect Z390 motherboard.
Bottom Line
To conclude, we stick by our title of this being one of the best Z390 motherboards, if not the best for gaming. It has all the right features. It is extremely efficient for overclocking in terms of both temperatures and performance, owing to the VRMs and the cooling system. An upgraded update for the BIOS can significantly enhance the overall experience and make it perfect.
Best Z390 Motherboard For Overclocking:
GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WIFI
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Individuals who purchased this chipset report nothing but positive things about this device. As it is loaded with a variety of premium features, each buyer appreciated a unique set of attributes according to their experiences and requirements. They were confident that this piece of electronics is a fine blend of value and performance.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Gigabyte paid immense focus on durability and temperature senses while constructing this device, and it shows. This is why this piece of chipset features two M.2 thermal guards on the board to prevent throttling and bottlenecks, getting rid of heat before it even becomes an issue.
What stands out to us the most is that users who decide to purchase this product will get three NVMEs (Non-Volatile Memory Express), PCIe, and M.2 with dual thermal guards. In terms of speed, it can handle DDR4-4226. Both ECC and non-ECC memory are compatible with it.
The Z390 utilizes a 12+1 phase digital CPU power configuration and has 8+4 solid-pin CPU power connectors. This is specially designed for enthusiasts so they can enjoy the optimal and superior performance of the highest degree out of this chipset.
If you want to ensure a strong foundation for your gaming sessions, this chipset will cover that for you. It comes with the main arrangement layered with ultra-durable protection like an Integrated I/O shield, memory armor, and PCIe armor.
Bottom Line
The Z390 is not a weak contender; it's highly competitive and provides one of the fastest ever POST times we’ve seen so far. Superiorly crafted while keeping thermals and speed in mind, the company makes sure users extract the best possible performance out of this motherboard.
Best Z390 Motherboard For i9 9900k:
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers really went all in while praising the ASUS ROG Maximus. Some of the top features highlighted by most consumers included the integrated I/O shield, outstanding VRM cooling, and Improved audio. Overall, they were all pleased with their purchase and were confident in recommending it to future buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Styling-wise, the ASUS ROG Maximus looks premium. It appears professional, and it looks like it really means business.
While talking about heat dissipation, there seems to be a lot of cooling on this board. The chunky heatsink itself is a major feature but what it further encompasses is a heatsink that goes around the CPU socket. Together with the PCH heatsinks and the M.2 slots, you can be absolutely sure you won't experience any heating issues.
Moving onto memory support, we have 4 DIMM slots in total; it supports up to 64 GB of DDR4-4400 MHz with full XMP 2.0 support as well. To ensure extra stability, the DIMM slots fashion a metal brace locked into place.
Making use of the five-way optimization technology, ASUS made sure that this chipset was loaded with simple yet flexible tools, enabling you to tweak any system aspect you fancy.
Last but not certainly not least, the superior overclocking showcased on this board cannot be overlooked. Featuring dedicated onboard clock generators, the ROG Maximus delivers dynamic reference clocks to the CPU as well as the prominent sub-domains. What this essentially does is give you the headroom to coax every bit of power from the system.
Bottom Line
The ROG Maximus XI offers more cores for more performance. With the five-way optimization system mentioned earlier, your board will corroborate the highest overclocking efficiency by employing smart prediction and thermal telemetry. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the performance.
Best Z390 Motherboard Under $200:
GIGABYTE Z390 M Gaming
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users were extremely satisfied with the quality and features of this motherboard, calling it a steal for the price. It supports both 9th and 8th generation Intel processors. The integrated I/O shield made for a durable, stable, and easy build at home.
The BIOS is incredibly easy to upgrade, and the board has a nice layout with support for RGB lighting, which is quite essential among the gaming community which this motherboard is targeted at.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Gigabyte Z390 M Gaming has a small MicroATX Form factor build, which packs a heavy and powerful punch at the price point it’s at. It features an advanced thermal design with thick thermal padding and MOSFET heatsinks that significantly increase heat dissipation. It boasts compatibility with DDR4 to 4133MHz and even further under the right settings.
It helps enhance graphics and frame rates with its dual two-way CrossFire Multi-Graphics while also being VR-ready at such an affordable price point. The RGB lighting setup is minimalistic and aesthetic, and the software provides much control over it through different modes such as still, beat, flash, etc. It further supports expansion with support for RGB light strips.
The enhancing cooling setup with smart fan 5 includes fan stop, hybrid fan headers, and the software all help regulate the temperatures and effectively note and provide the data/status at all times. It is designed to be a durable motherboard that lasts for a long time with double locking brackets, solid plates, stainless shielding, and DualBIOS, which provides backup against malfunctioning.
Bottom Line
All in all, its support for 4K and VR gaming makes it a motherboard that won't just be able to sustain itself right now, but also in the future with both aforementioned gaming features being on the rise. With a good CPU and GPU with the right build, it will be a force to be reckoned with.
Comparison Overview
The Z390 motherboard is often compared to common competitors to help you understand why it makes for a better choice. Let us now compare and contrast the following motherboard designs, so you know what exactly you are looking for.
Z370 vs. Z390 Motherboard
There doesn’t seem to be a huge jump or significant difference between the Z390 and its predecessor from a year past, the Z370.
Major Improvements
The major changes include more USB 3.1 ports (up to six), the Wi-Fi has improved, and lastly, the VRM power management implementation has been leveled up.
Both the built-in Wi-Fi 802.11ac support and USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10Gbps) did not exist on the 370 though this depended on the motherboard manufacturers who did add them on using separate controllers.
Final Verdict
If you already own and operate on a Z370 motherboard in perfect condition, we don’t see any significant reason why you should upgrade to the Z390 Motherboard. However, if you want to crank up your CPU performance or you’ve bought a new system with a Core i9 9900K or i7 9700K, upgrading to a Z390 might be ideal for you.
ASUS vs. MSI Motherboard Z390
While comparing ASUS and MSI Z390 motherboard, it's important to consider the following specifications:
Display
The display on the MSI Z390 incorporates one VGA, one DVI-D, and one display port. ASUS, on the other hand, features one display port 1.2 and an HDMI port.
Audio
The MSI motherboard contains 6 x 3.5mm golden audio jacks while the ASUS encompasses 5 x 3.5mm audio jacks as well as an S/PDIF.
Expansion Slot
Comparing the two models, MSI’s expansion slots constitute two PCIe 3.0 x16 and four PCIe 3.0 x1. On the other hand, ASUS has two PCIe 3.0 x16, one PCIe 3.0 x16 (x4 mode), and three PCIe 3.0 x1.
Multi GPU Support
MSI supports two-way AMD CrossFireX. On the contrary, ASUS underpins two-way NVIDIA SLI and three-way AMD CrossFireX.
Air Cooling
Air cooling on the MSI motherboard is handled by 1 x 4-Pin CPU and 5 x 4-Pin System. The other one handles cooling by employing 1 x 4-Pin CPU, 3 x 4-Pin System, 1 x 4-Pin Assistant, 1 x Thermal Sensor, and 1 x 4-Pin M.2.
Asus ROG Strix Z390-E
How to Install a Z390 Motherboard
When building an entire PC DIY-style, you might find it troublesome to install the motherboard. For that reason, we’ve made a step-by-step guide. Things you will require are a screwdriver and a thermal compound in case you are using a pre-used CPU.
- Begin by placing your motherboard on a soft but sturdy surface like the box it came in.
- Install the RAM chips in the respective slots by reading the instructions and placing them accordingly.
- Install the CPU by removing the CPU cover on the motherboard. Pull the spring arm and lightly pull away from the retainer clip to release the CPU holder.
- Align the notches on the CPU chip by placing them on the motherboard CPU connector tabs and gently restoring it without applying force. Now, place the CPU holder back and push back the spring to complete.
- Depending on whether your Z390 motherboard comes with an I/O shield or an integrated I/O shield, place the motherboard into the PC case.
- Align it perfectly and screw it in.
- Install the CPU cooler by putting the thermal compound on the CPU chip first (if it already doesn’t have it in case it’s new) and then place the cooler on it.
- Install the power cables before mounting the radiator for better ease.
- After you are done installing the cooler on your CPU, install your CPU radiator and screw that into the correct position.
- Finish your cable connections and install your hard drive into the SATA ports or M.2 drives.
- Make sure all the connections are correctly integrated and snuggly fit. They will all be labeled. Use the manual your motherboard comes with for an accurate and easier guide.
- Also, be sure all your CPU fans, CPU cooler, and case fans are plugged into the motherboard or the external controller.
- Lastly, install your GPU in the correct slot. This will require a firm press, and you will hear or feel when it's inserted correctly. Attach the cables and plug in the power supply if required.
Make sure to double-check before you plug in the monitors and boot your PC. You don't want a short circuit or damage anything due to loose or incorrect fittings. For a further in-depth guide, use the manual which came with your motherboard. You can also refer to the following video for a better understanding of the process:
How to Update Bios on a Z390 Motherboard
The BIOS (which is also known as the basic input/output system) is the paramount low-level interconnect between the motherboard, the components plugged into the board, and the OS. If you're someone who wants to update the BIOS on your Z390 motherboard, here’s what you must do.
- First of all, you must know the motherboard model and BIOS version you're running on already. In order to do so, hit the Windows key from your desktop, type in MS info into the search bar that pops up, and you’ll discover all the important details about your rig.
- The specification under the baseboard manufacturer is the motherboard model that you’ll need. In addition to this, you’ll need the manufacturer name in the cell titled BIOS version/date.
- Also, note the value under this cell, which tells you the exact BIOS version your PC is currently running.
- Open the web browser and type in the name of your motherboard that you noted earlier.
- Open the official product page and navigate down to the support or download section. Here, you need to look for the BIOS/Firmware download page.
- Download the latest BIOS version available, extract it, and copy it onto a USB device.
- Note down your overclock setting as you’ll need them once the update is finished.
- During start-up, boot into the BIOS camp by constantly pressing the delete key on your keyboard.
- Press F7 to open advanced mode.
- Next, navigate to 'tools' and open the ASUS EZ Flash 3 utility.
- Select your USB stick with the extracted BIOS file on it from the storage device list.
- Select the BIOS file and confirm that you wish to read this file.
- Confirm that you want to go ahead and update BIOS.
- Allow the entire update process to finish. Do not turn off your PC during this process and do not restart until you’re a hundred percent sure the update process has been completed.
- Now, reapply your settings, and that's about it!
If you want to understand this visually and in more detail, refer to the following video:
Conclusion
The motherboard is an intricate piece of circuitry that essentially contains a whole universe of electronic data and is the hub of communication between all other crucial electronic components. That's precisely why investing in a great one is a prerequisite for all other major upgrades that are to follow. We can't emphasize its importance enough; we're sure the detailed guide you just read did that for us.
People Also Ask
Have a look at the following question/answer guide to know more about the renowned Z390 motherboard. If you still have some questions in mind, this section might just help with that.
Can I Use 8700k on Z390?
The Z390 motherboards support both 9th generation processors and 8th generation processors. Since the Intel 8700k is an 8th generation CPU, it will have no issues with the Z390 motherboard.
Are Z390 Motherboards Good?
Yes, Z390 motherboards are an excellent choice, considering that these are the only motherboards manufactured by Intel capable of supporting CPU and memory overclocking. Other than that, they can also handle gaming rigs by making use of multiple graphics cards and offer the fastest I/O lanes.
Do All Z390s Have Wi-Fi?
Z390 motherboards can feature the Intel 802.11ac Wi-Fi with wireless speeds of up to 1.73Gbps integrated into the motherboard itself if the manufacturer chooses to include it. In comparison, others can use external connections for Wi-Fi.
MSI MEG Z390 GODLIKE
Does the Z370 Support i9 9900k?
The Z370 motherboards should support 9th generation processors such as the Intel 9900k though the real question is how well would it support said component.
A cheaper Z370 with weak VRMs will probably not be able to handle the power-hungry 9900k. A higher-end Z370 motherboard with good VRMs might not face the same troubles. It is recommended that you get a Z390, which is built for the 9th generation CPUs and is better equipped to handle it.
How to Overclock on a Z390 Motherboard
You can't overclock a motherboard, let alone a Z390 board. What you can overclock is the CPU or GPU, and the Z390 is a powerful device that enables CPU and memory overclocking. You basically overclock the processor on a Z390 chipset.
What Chips Do Z390 Motherboards Support?
Z390 motherboards support 9th generation and 8th generation Intel CPUs. They feature the LGA1151 or the Socket H4, which is an Intel processor compatible socket/connection.
How Many Fans On a Z390 Motherboard?
The number of fans you’ll get in a Z390 motherboard really depends on the model you’re going to buy and the company you’re going to choose. Many will give you the option to interchange their fan headers at different locations on the motherboard to reflect different thermal sensors.
How to Change the Color on a Z390 Motherboard
This depends on the brand you choose and the variant you get. There may be external buttons on the motherboard or the software that comes with the motherboard to change the RGB lighting. Some motherboards also feature remote control for their RGB lighting features.
GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WIFI
How to Jump a Z390 Motherboard
Before jump-starting your Z390, you should have an adequate understanding of all the different components, tools, and what exactly is happening.
- Start off by setting your meter to continuity, which is a Wi-Fi-like symbol on the digital multimeter.
- Next, take the two leads and short them out by touching them together.
- Once you hear a noise, you can confirm that the meter works fine.
- Next, take the ATX switch and put the two leads on the two terminals of the switch.
- Once this is done, press the button on the ATX switch. If you hear a sound, that means the circuit is closed, and we have continuity as opposed to normally open contact.
- Locate the system panel header on the motherboard.
- Use a screwdriver to touch two of the terminals from this header that are for ‘power’ and ‘ground’ together for a split second.
- Check if your PC starts.
And that's it!
