Best Motherboard for i5 13600K

We’ve all been there: you’re building your gaming rig and suddenly, the multitude of motherboard options feel like an unsolvable puzzle. It’s a challenge, for sure, but one that we’re ready to tackle.

Today, we’re simplifying that motherboard maze for you, particularly if you’re eyeing the i5 13600K. We’ve sifted through the tech jargon, studied the specs, and prepared a comprehensive list of the best motherboards for this processor.

From performance metrics to compatibility details and standout features, we’ve got it all covered. By the end of this, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision on the perfect motherboard for your needs.

So, ready to decode the motherboard mystery? Let’s get started.

List of the Best Motherboard for i5 13600K in 2024

Detailed Review of the Best Motherboard for i5 13600K

1. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero (Best Over All)

If you’re on the hunt for a motherboard that keeps up with your work and play, while offering top notch performance, look no further than the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero. This beast is not only powerful, but also stylish and brimming with cutting-edge features that make your life easier and gaming sessions way more enjoyable.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero lets you breeze through work tasks thanks to the LGA 1700 socket, which supports both 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core processors. With memory speeds at a whopping 7000 MHz and up to 128 GB DDR5 RAM, your workflow will be as smooth as melted butter on a hot skillet.

The high-performance networking options also have you covered—onboard WiFi 6E, Bluetooth V5.2, and Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet ensure you stay connected, whether it’s for Zoom meetings or sending files faster than a cheetah chasing its prey.

When it comes to connectivity options, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero offers  dual Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C ports for ultra-fast data transfers, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C front-panel connector with Quick Charge 4+ up to 60W, and six additional USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for all your peripheral needs. With two PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots and an HDMI 2.1 port, you’ll have plenty of room for graphics cards and display connections.

When it comes to gaming. The ASUS-exclusive tools, like AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, and AI Networking, might sound like they belong in a sci-fi movie, but they’re here to revolutionize your gaming experience. 

And let’s not forget gaming temperatures! Say goodbye to the fear of overheating during those intense gaming marathons. The optimized thermal design, featuring VRM heatsinks, an integrated aluminum I/O cover, and triple M.2 heatsinks, keeps things cool under pressure.

However, there is one potential set back to this motherboard and that is its heavy price tag which makes it a less likely option for those on a budget. Overall, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is the ultimate choice for those who have a decent budget and are looking for a powerful and feature-rich motherboard for their gaming needs.

2. MSI MEG Z790 ACE (Best Gaming Motherboard)

Want a motherboard that’s got your back during those intense work hours and gaming marathons? Then look no further as the MSI MEG Z790 ACE is here to save the day – and your sanity!

Boasting the latest LGA 1700 socket, it supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, ensuring you get top-notch performance at work and during your gaming sessions. And let’s not forget the jaw-dropping DDR5 memory support, delivering dual-channel DDR5 7800+MHz (OC) for lightning-fast performance. No more staring at a frozen screen during an important presentation or an epic boss battle!

Now, let’s talk about the “wizardry” behind the Z790 ACE – the dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. These bad boys offer true 40 Gb/s speeds, 8K display support, and daisy-chaining capabilities, so you can connect your gadgets without breaking a sweat. And with five M.2 connectors, you’ll have more storage options than you can shake a stick at.

The MSI MEG Z790 ACE also offers excellent cooling solutions, including an extended heatsink design for better heat dissipation, double-sided Shield Frozr on M.2 connectors to prevent SSD throttling, and a robust heat pipe connecting heatsinks. With multiple fan headers and a dedicated water pump header, you can work hard and game harder while keeping your system cool and efficient.

But, as with any superhero, there are a few potential weaknesses. The Z790 ACE might be a bit much for some professionals who don’t need all that power. However, if you’re the type who’s always pushing the limits, this motherboard is your trusty sidekick.

And let’s face it, the price tag may make you raise an eyebrow, but consider the top-tier specs and features – it’s an investment in your work-life-gaming balance. In summary, the MSI MEG Z790 ACE is ready to be your trusty sidekick that  can help you conquer both work and play.

3. GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX (Best with 128 GB Memory Size)

Need a motherboard that can keep up with your dual life and has a large memory size to support your gaming. Well then, meet the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX motherboard that offers DDR5 compatibility and support for up to 128 GB RAM at a speed of 7600 MHz, so you can enjoy smooth gaming and multitasking capabilities.

The Z790 AORUS Elite AX also boasts a commanding power design, featuring a twin 16+1+2 phases digital VRM solution with 70A power stage. This means reliable and consistent performance during those intense gaming sessions. Plus, its cutting-edge thermal design, including M.2 Thermal Guard III, MOSFET heatsinks, and PCIe Ultra Durable Armor, keeps your system cool and efficient. Amazing, right?

When it comes to connectivity, this motherboard has you covered with SMD PCIe 5.0, 4* PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2, and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C. The fast networking options include 2.5GbE LAN and Intel WiFi 6E 802.11ax for a lag-free online gaming experience. And let’s not forget the dynamic audio with high-end audio capacitors and audiophile WIMA capacitors for an immersive gaming atmosphere.

However, one possible drawback is that One M.2 port shares the bus with two SATA ports which reduces the bandwidth and performance of the SATA ports. But considering its features and performance, it’s a worthwhile investment for working professionals who enjoy mid-level gaming.

In summary, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX is an excellent choice for working professionals who want a decent performance motherboard for gaming at a budget friendly price. 

4. MSI MPG Z790 Carbon (Best with Fast Memory Speed)

If you’re a working professional who’s all about that data transfer life, then buckle up, because the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon is ready to rock your world! With support for 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, this motherboard lays the groundwork for both your gaming escapades and work-related conquests.

Now, let’s talk about memory magic. The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon boasts DDR5 memory speeds up to a blazing 7600+ MHz (OC), so you can multitask like a boss and game without a hitch. Plus, with PCIe 5.0 slots, Lightning Gen 5 x4 M.2, and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, you’ll be transferring data faster than ever before.

But, with great power comes, great cooling responsibility! Thankfully, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon has your back with its premium thermal solutions – an enlarged heatsink with heat-pipe, MOSFET thermal pads rated for 7W/mk, additional choke thermal pads, and M.2 Shield Frozr. So say goodbye to overheating worries and hello to non-stop, high-performance gaming and working.

As for connectivity, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon is like a swiss army knife, offering Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, and Ethernet ports. And while the onboard audio might not blow your socks off, you can always grab a dedicated sound card for those eardrum-pleasing tunes.

One potential drawback of the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon is that it lacks Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, which might be limiting for some people. But for most work and mid-level gaming, it’s a sweet spot.

To sum it up, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon is your ultimate wingman for striking that work-gaming balance. It’s powerful, future-proof, and keeps things cool under pressure.

5. MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi (Best for Mid-Level Performance)

Don’t have high demands for your motherboard and want something that can get you through your work and gaming requirements? Well then look no further than the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi. This bad boy is tailored to your needs, offering a killer combo of performance and features that’ll keep you productive and entertained all day long.

Let’s talk about what makes this ATX form factor motherboard a perfect match for you. First off, it supports 12th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors for LGA 1700 socket, ensuring compatibility with the latest CPUs. With DDR5 memory speeds of up to 5600 MHz (OC) and a max RAM capacity of 64 GB, you’ll enjoy fast multitasking and a smooth gaming experience.

Moreover, thanks to its 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi 6E Solution you won’t have to worry about your internet disconnecting while you’re working on a big project or gaming with friends. So kiss goodbye to lag and hello to a secure, stable, and speedy network connection!

The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi also boasts a premium thermal solution, featuring an extended heatsink design and M.2 Shield Frozr, so you can push your system to its limits without worrying about overheating. And let’s not forget about the Lightning M.2, running at PCIe Gen4 x4, maximizing performance for those NVMe-based SSDs. You’ll feel like you’re riding a digital rocket!

The only setback the MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi  faces is that its RAM maxes out at 64 GB, which might be a bit limiting for some high-demand applications. However, for most work and mid-level gaming scenarios, it’s more than enough. 

Wrapping it up, The MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi is your go-to motherboard for a seamless blend of work and play. It’s got the features, the performance, and the style to make your digital life a breeze. Just keep in mind the RAM limitation and onboard audio, and you’re all set.

6. ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E (Best Cooling and Overclocking Capability)

Want a motherboard with great cooling and overclocking features? Well then, hold onto your hats and get ready to embark on an exhilarating adventure with the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E! This spectacular motherboard is your ticket to an electrifying world of blazing-fast performance and mind-blowing connectivity.

Pop the hood on this bad boy, and you’ll find an LGA 1700 socket that’s raring to go with 12th & 13th Gen Intel Core processors. The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E also supports PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory at speeds up to 7000 MHz, and a max RAM capacity of 128 GB. So you can unleash the beast within and conquer the digital realm with ease!

If you often come across connection issues the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E has got your back with onboard WiFi 6E and Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANGuard. So you can cruise through your workday with a fast, stable, and secure network connection.

Connectivity-wise, this motherboard is a true marvel. With a smorgasbord of USB ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C with PD 3.0 up to 30W, you’ll enjoy lightning-fast data transfers and rapid device charging. And don’t forget the HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, offering plenty of options for your eye-popping display setup.

The real magic behind this motherboard lies in its AI technology. AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, AI Networking, and AI Noise Cancellation join forces to streamline your setup and supercharge your performance. The robust power solution and optimized thermal design, complete with VRM heatsinks, PCH fanless heatsinks, and double-sided M.2 heatsinks, ensure your system stays frosty even when you’re pushing it to the max.

The only issue with the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E is that it only has four SATA ports, which might be limiting for some users with multiple storage drives. However, you can always use M.2 slots or opt for external storage solutions. In a nutshell, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E motherboard is the ultimate partner in crime for hardworking professionals who want to inject some serious fun into their lives. 

7. Gigabyte B660 Gaming X (Budget Motherboard)

If you’re seeking a motherboard that offers a decent performance while still being easy on the pocket, the Gigabyte B660 Gaming X is the perfect solution. This motherboard is designed specifically for 12th Gen Intel Core processors, allowing you to experience the power and efficiency that comes with the latest technology.

One of the best things about the Gigabyte B660 Gaming X is its support for 128 GB of DDR4 RAM at a clock speed of 3200 MHz. This means you’ll have enough memory for multitasking during your workday and enjoy smooth gameplay during your downtime. The 8+1+1 Hybrid Digital VRM Design with DrMOS ensures stable power delivery to your components, keeping your system running smoothly even during the most demanding tasks.

The fully covered thermal design with high coverage VRM heatsinks provides excellent cooling to keep your system performing at its best. This is particularly important when you’re juggling work and gaming on the same machine, as it ensures that your components remain cool and stable.

The Gigabyte B660 Gaming X also boasts an impressive array of connectivity options like WiFi 6, 2.5GbE LAN, HDMI, DisplayPort, a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C® port, and two PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots so you can have faster data transfer speeds and connect it with a wide range of devices.

Of course, every product has its drawbacks. The Gigabyte B660 Gaming X features an Intel B660 chipset, which may not provide the same level of performance as higher-end chipsets like the Z-series. However, for mid-level gaming and work, this motherboard still delivers excellent value for the price. So if you’re looking for a cost-effective yet powerful solution, the Gigabyte B660 Gaming X is definitely worth considering.

8. MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk (Best Connectivity)

Do you often have to connect several peripherals with your computer and are looking for something that can offer you a great deal in terms of connectivity? If yes, you should bet on the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk as it’s the king of the jungle when it comes to connectivity. With its PCIe 5.0 slot, Lightning Gen 4 x4 M.2, and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, you’ll experience lightning-fast gaming and data transfers.

It’s also got Wi-Fi 6E, so you can enjoy seamless wireless connectivity for all your work and gaming needs. Need a wired connection? No problem! The Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet provides a fast and stable internet experience, perfect for those all-important video conferences and online multiplayer gaming sessions. 

Moving forward, the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk comes with an LGA 1700 socket, supporting 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron Processors. Its DDR4 memory, clocking in at 5333 MHz, provides ample power for both work tasks and gaming sessions.

Wait, there’s more! The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk boasts an extended heatsink design and M.2 Shield Frozr, providing a premium thermal solution for high-performance systems and non-stop work. So you don’t have to worry about overheating during intense gaming marathons or crunch time at the office.

One potential drawback of the B760 Tomahawk is that it supports DDR4 memory which isn’t as fast as the DDR5. But don’t fret! The DDR4’s 5333 MHz speed is still plenty fast for mid-level gaming and work-related tasks. Plus, it’s more budget-friendly than DDR5. All in all, the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk is an exceptional choice with unparalleled connectivity options and thermal solutions.

9. MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi DDR4 (Most Affordable)

Looking for a motherboard that doesn’t break the bank but still keeps you in the game? Say hello to the MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi DDR4 – the wallet-friendly powerhouse that packs a punch for professionals who enjoy mid-level gaming!

This mighty little board supports the latest 12th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors, keeping your gaming rig up to speed with the cool kids. And speaking of cool, the MAG B660M boasts a premium thermal solution with an extended heatsink design and M.2 Shield Frozr. So, you can kiss those “hot and bothered” gaming sessions goodbye!

Need to stay connected to the digital world? The 2.5G LAN and Intel Wi-Fi solution have got you covered, letting you game, stream, and chat without missing a beat. And with DDR4 memory support and a Lightning M.2 slot, this motherboard ensures your system is as quick and agile as a caffeinated ninja!

The MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi DDR4 is part of the MAG series, known for being as sturdy as a superhero’s suit. With an easy installation process and user-friendly interface, even the tech-averse can assemble their dream gaming machine without breaking a sweat.

But every hero has a weakness. The MAG B660M’s memory speed is capped at 2133 MHz, which might make some speed demons frown. Plus, the two USB 2.0 ports might have you playing musical chairs with your peripherals. But hey, nothing a little USB hub can’t fix!

So, in a nutshell, the MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi DDR4 is the perfect sidekick for working professionals who love mid-level gaming without emptying their pockets. With its blend of performance, affordability, and reliability, you’ll be able to save the day – or at least save some serious cash!

10. ASUS ROG Strix B660-A (Best Style and Aesthetics)

Want to turbocharge your mid-level gaming experience while keeping it sleek and stylish? Look no further than the ASUS ROG Strix B660-A, the perfect motherboard to turn your gaming rig into a lean, mean, fun machine!

This bad boy is designed to handle the might of 12th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors, with a memory speed of 5333 MHz and DDR4 RAM support. Kiss goodbye to lag and welcome the silky smooth gameplay you’ve always dreamed of.

Let’s talk about customization. With ASUS-exclusive Aura Sync RGB lighting, one RGB header, and three addressable Gen 2 headers, you can create a gaming rig that truly reflects your inner gaming guru. But wait, there’s more! With Intel Wi-Fi 6 and 2.5 Gb Ethernet, you’ll be blazing through online games, streams, and cat videos like nobody’s business. And with HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 output, and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C support, you can connect all your gadgets and gizmos with ease.

Concerned about power and overheating? The ASUS ROG Strix B660-A has got you covered! With a 12+1 power stage design, ProCool power connectors, and high-quality alloy chokes, this motherboard is as cool as a snowstorm. And with integrated I/O cover, VRM heatsinks, and three onboard M.2 heatsinks, you can game away without breaking a sweat.

This motherboard has a limited number of SATA ports, which might cramp your storage expansion style. But hey, with three M.2 slots and today’s budget-friendly NVMe drives, you’ll hardly miss those extra ports!

In a nutshell, the ASUS ROG Strix B660-A is perfect for working professionals who want a powerful, eye-catching motherboard for mid-level gaming. So, put on your game face and build the gaming rig of your dreams.

Buying Guide: Best Motherboards for i5-13600K

Motherboard Chipset

Select a motherboard with a compatible chipset for the i5-13600K, such as Intel’s Z690 or B660 like the Gigabyte B660 Gaming X or MSI MAG Z690 Tomahawk WiFi. These chipsets offer good performance and support for advanced features such as overclocking, PCIe 4.0, and DDR5 memory. Ensure the chipset you choose meets your needs for performance, connectivity, and future upgradability.

RAM Support

Look for a motherboard that supports at least 32 GB of RAM or more, as this will provide smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. Opt for a board that supports higher-speed memory, such as DDR5 like the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon or MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk, to take advantage of the i5-13600K’s capabilities.

Expansion Slots

Choose a motherboard with sufficient PCIe slots to accommodate your graphics card, sound card, or other expansion cards like the Gigabyte B660 Gaming X. This is especially important if you plan on upgrading your GPU in the future or adding other components to enhance your gaming or work experience.

Storage Options

Select a motherboard that supports a combination of SSD and HDD storage solutions to enjoy faster boot times and ample storage space. Ensure the board provides enough SATA and M.2 connectors for your storage needs.

Connectivity

Opt for a motherboard with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, as well as a variety of USB, HDMI, and Ethernet ports like the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk to connect multiple peripherals and devices. USB Type-C and Thunderbolt ports are essential for fast data transfer and compatibility with modern devices.

Audio

Choose a motherboard with a decent onboard audio solution like the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX as this will enhance your gaming and multimedia experiences. Advanced audio features such as high-quality capacitors, dedicated audio processing hardware, and customizable audio settings are a plus.

Cooling Solutions

Ensure the motherboard supports your preferred cooling solution, be it air cooling, liquid cooling, or a combination of both. Look for features like fan headers and customizable fan control settings to optimize cooling efficiency and noise levels like in the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E.

BIOS and Overclocking

Select a motherboard with an intuitive and user-friendly BIOS interface to easily configure settings and manage your system. If you’re interested in overclocking your i5-13600K, choose a board that supports overclocking such as the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E and features such as voltage controls, advanced power delivery, and robust VRM cooling.

Aesthetics

Choose a motherboard with a clean and functional design that complements your other PC components. RGB lighting, customizable heat sink covers, and sleek design elements like in the ASUS ROG Strix B660-A can enhance the overall look of your build.

Build Quality and Reliability

Opt for a motherboard from a reputable manufacturer that offers solid build quality and durable components. Features like high-quality capacitors, reinforced PCIe slot, and robust power delivery systems are essential for long-term reliability.

Future-Proofing

Consider a motherboard that offers future-proofing options, such as support for upcoming processor generations, more PCIe slots, and RAM upgradability like the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero. This allows you to easily upgrade your system in the future without having to replace the entire motherboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Finding the Perfect Motherboard for Your Gaming and Work Needs

Out of all the products we reviewed, we can’t help but highlight the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero as a shining example. This isn’t just a motherboard; it’s a technological symphony that harmonizes beautifully with the i5 13600K. Its suite of features elevates your computing experience to new heights, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for premium performance metrics, diverse compatibility and connectivity options, and an amazing thermal management setup. If you’re seeking a blend of performance and reliability, this motherboard should certainly be on your radar.

For more insights and expert analysis, check out XYZ, or our other articles on similar topics.