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Not sure what is the best motherboard to pair with the Intel Core i5 13600k?
With the Intel Core i5 13600k processor, you need a motherboard that can deliver in terms of power, performance, and reliability.
Whether you’re looking for a budget, mid-range, or high-end option, this list provides a range of motherboards to consider, each offering a unique balance of features, aesthetics, and price. So go ahead, take your pick, and give your PC the strong foundation it needs!
Before moving on make sure you check the following detailed tutorial on how to choose the best motherboard for you: How To Choose The Right Motherboard For Your Needs: A Comprehensive Guide
Our Top 3 Picks
- ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 – Best Motherboard For i5 13600k
- ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero – Best High-End Motherboard For The intel Core i5 13600k
- MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 – Best Budget Motherboard For the intel core i5 13600k
Why Should You Trust Me?
Starting my journey with my first PC build at the age of 14, I have spent more than two decades honing my skills and understanding of PC components for the perfect PC build.
My passion for technology and gaming has driven me to dive deep into the intricacies of motherboards, enabling me to provide detailed and insightful comparisons and reviews.
My extensive experience in the tech industry, coupled with my practical knowledge of PC building, is what makes me trustworthy. My recommendations are not just based on theory or specifications, but also on real-world performance and reliability.
When I suggest a motherboard, you can trust that it has been thoroughly evaluated and tested, ensuring it meets the highest standards of quality and performance.
How We Choose the Best Motherboards For Intel Core i5 13600k
When choosing the best motherboards for the Intel Core i5-13600K, I consider several key factors:
- Compatibility: The first and most important factor is compatibility. The motherboard must be compatible with the Intel Core i5-13600K processor. This includes the correct socket type (LGA 1700 for the i5-13600K) and support for the processor’s features.
- RAM Support: Even though DDR5 memory is faster it’s also way too expensive for someone who wants to build a mid-range PC build with the 13600k so most of the motherboards I suggest support DDR4 RAM with the exception of the high-end pick, as this is the latest standard and offers the best performance. For an i7 and i9 it would worth it to use DDR5 but for an i3 or i5 processor, DDR4 is the best option.
- Expansion Slots and Ports: A good motherboard should have multiple PCIe slots for adding GPUs or other expansion cards. It should also have plenty of USB ports, including the latest standards like USB 3.2 and USB Type-C.
- Storage Options: The motherboard should support multiple storage devices. This includes multiple M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs and several SATA ports for HDDs and SATA SSDs.
- Overclocking Capabilities: Since the 13600k is an unlocked processor for users who want to push their system to the limit, the motherboard should have robust overclocking capabilities. This includes a strong VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) design to provide stable power delivery under heavy loads. However it’s probably not ideal to overclock a budget PC and that’s why I preferred to save a few dollars and suggest a motherboard that does not support overclocking for our budget pick.
- Networking Features: Good motherboards should come with high-speed Ethernet controllers and, if possible, built-in Wi-Fi support. The latest Wi-Fi 6E standard is preferred for its increased bandwidth and lower latency.
- Aesthetics and Form Factor: While not as important as the technical features, the look of the motherboard and its size can also be a deciding factor for some users. Some might prefer a compact Mini-ITX board for a small form factor build, while others might want a full-size ATX board with RGB lighting.
- Price and Value: Finally, the price of the motherboard is a crucial factor. It should offer good value for its price, providing all the necessary features without breaking the bank. Since the 13600k is more of a mid-range cpu I didn’t go over the top with our suggestions
- User Feedback and Brand Reputation: The experiences of real-world users and the reputation of the motherboard manufacturers have a significant role in our selection. Positive reviews and reliable after-sale support indicate higher product quality and customer satisfaction.
By considering all these factors, I recommend the following motherboards for the Intel Core i5-13600K.
5 Best Motherboards For The 13600k Reviews
Number 1. ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 – Best Motherboard For i5 13600k
Pros:
- One of the most affordable Z790 motherboards available.
- Striking all-black design across the PCB.
- Abundance of high-speed rear IO.
Cons:
- Limited RGB lighting.
- No DDR5 Support
- Supports WiFi 6 instead of the more advanced WiFi 6E.
Taking the top spot in our list is the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4, an affordable powerhouse motherboard that pairs perfectly with the Intel Core i5 13600k. This DDR4 motherboard is a pc builder’s dream, boasting a plethora of features in a very competitive price that make it stand out in the crowd.
The board offers a high-speed rear IO that doesn’t include any outdated USB 2.0 ports. It’s ready for the future, with all M.2 slots being PCI-E Gen4 compatible and the main GPU slot offering Gen5 compliance. This means you’re all set for the new wave of PCI-E 5.0 graphics cards. Also its industrial aesthetic is a bonus for those who prefer a darker themed PC setup.
The motherboard’s specifications are impressive. It supports CPU overclocking, has a 16+1 VRM power phase design, and can handle up to 128GB DDR4 memory. It offers a variety of PCI-E slots, including a x16 PCI-E 5.0 slot and multiple PCI-E 4.0 slots. The USB connections are plentiful, both at the rear and front, and it features a 2.5 Gigabit LAN and a WiFi 6 module.
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 stands out with its unique design that gives your system an industrial edge. It’s not just about looks, though. The motherboard offers a wealth of connectivity options, particularly for a DDR4 design. The storage support is a standout feature, with 4 x4 PCI-E 4.0 slots for high-speed M.2 SSDs, providing ample space for even the most extensive game libraries.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. RGB enthusiasts might be disappointed with the lack of lighting effects on this motherboard. While the design itself is striking enough to set this board apart, those who want to add a splash of color to their build might feel let down. Additionally, while the motherboard is versatile in terms of connectivity, the networking options are somewhat limited due to the inclusion of a WiFi 6 module instead of the more powerful WiFi 6E.
In conclusion, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 is an excellent choice for mid-range gamers seeking a Z790 to pair with the intel core i5 13600k that strikes a balance between performance, connectivity, aesthetics and price. A few improvements, like WiFi 6E and DDR5 support and more RGB, could make it even better, but it remains a solid choice for mid-range PC builds with the 13600k.
This motherboard is ideal for gamers who prioritize performance and connectivity over aesthetics. However, it might not be the best choice for those who want a motherboard with extensive RGB lighting or the latest WiFi technology.
Check This: Best Z790 Motherboards
Number 2. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero – Best High-End Motherboard For The intel Core i5 13600k
Pros:
- You can overclock DDR5 RAM up to 7800 MHz.
- Robust 20+1 power stages VRM design and excellent cooling.
- 12x rear USB ports.
Cons:
- High price point.
- Can’t use both PCIe 5.0 slots at x16 mode simultaneously.
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero takes the crown as the top-tier motherboard for the Intel Core i5 13600k. This motherboard is a dream come true for those who love to push their components to the max, thanks to its robust power capabilities and exceptional cooling system.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is a powerhouse, equipped with 8+8 pin Dual ProCool II power connectors and a 20+1 power stages VRM design. This ensures that your i5-13600K has all the power it needs, no matter how hard you push it. To handle the heat generated by such a robust VRM design, the motherboard features multiple 4-pin PWM fan headers and large VRM heat sinks integrated with IO covers for efficient heat dissipation.
The motherboard’s cooling capabilities are further enhanced by an 8-layer PCB sandwiched between thermal pads and heatsinks for three of its M.2 slots. There’s even a dedicated water in/out sensor and water flow tachometer, making this motherboard a cooling powerhouse.
The overclocking potential of the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is evident in its memory support. With 4x DIMM slots supporting up to 128 GB of DDR5 memory, you can overclock RAM memory to exceed 7800 MHz. The AI SUITE 3 further enhances the overclocking capabilities by analyzing your PC’s capabilities and suggesting the best overclocking configuration.
When it comes to expansions, the motherboard offers 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots and 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. However, note that you can’t use both PCIe 5.0 slots at x16 mode simultaneously. The motherboard also provides ample storage options with 3x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, 2x ROG Hyper M.2 expansion card, and 6x SATA ports.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero doesn’t skimp on connectivity, offering a total of 12x rear USB ports, WiFi 6E, 2.5 GB LAN ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.2. The aesthetics are equally impressive, with the iconic ROG logo on the rear IO and a sleek dark theme.
The standout feature of the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is its robust 20+1 VRM Power Stage, which ensures safe overclocking. The dual 8-pin connectors for extra power supply are also a notable feature. However, the inability to use both PCIe 5.0 expansion slots at x16 mode simultaneously is a slight drawback.
In conclusion, if you’re planning to overclock your i5-13600K, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is your best bet. It offers a solid VRM design, excellent cooling, and a host of features to assist in overclocking. However, its high price tag might deter budget-conscious buyers.
Number 3. MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 – Best Budget Motherboard For the intel core i5 13600k
Pros:
- Supports PCI-E 5.0 for future-proofing.
- Sleek and sophisticated aesthetic.
- Affordable price point.
Cons:
- Limited usability features.
- No overclocking support
- Few high-speed USB ports on the rear.
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 is a budget-friendly motherboard that doesn’t compromise on performance or aesthetics, making it an excellent choice for the Intel Core i5 13600k. MSI has a knack for creating visually appealing motherboards, and the MAG B760 Tomahawk is no exception. Its all-black design, including the PCB and various heatsinks, gives it a sleek and sophisticated look that will complement any build style.
Despite its budget-friendly positioning, the MAG B760 Tomahawk is packed with features. It boasts a PCI-E 5.0 slot, providing future-proofing for upcoming graphics cards. It also includes three Gen4 M.2 slots, offering up to 64Gbps for optimal read and write speeds.
The motherboard also features an integrated IO shield, reducing the hassle of installing a separate one. The rear IO is generous, including a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C port, integrated WiFi and Bluetooth, and 2.5 Gigabit LAN.
One of the standout features of the MAG B760 Tomahawk is MSI’s EZ M.2 Clip, which provides a tool-less installation process for M.2 SSDs. This simplifies the building process and eliminates the need for tiny screws.
Despite its lower price point, the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk comes with some handy accessories, including a WiFi antenna for the integrated WiFi 6E and Bluetooth, an EZ M.2 Clip for easy SSD installation, and SATA cables for older storage mediums.
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk supports a wide range of 12th and 13th-Gen CPUs, making it a versatile choice for budget, mid-range, or high-end systems. However, it’s best suited for the Core i3 and i5 ranges due to its lack of overclocking support and lower PCI-E lane count.
In conclusion, the MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 is a great choice for those looking for a budget-friendly motherboard that doesn’t skimp on features or aesthetics. Its future-proofing capabilities and sleek design make it a standout choice for the Intel Core i5 13600k if you are on a budget.
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Number 4. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I – Best Mini ITX Motherboard for i5 13600K
Pros:
- Excellent networking options
- Ideal for compact builds
- Stylish design
Cons:
- High price point
- Limited expansion capabilities
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I is a top-tier mini ITX motherboard that is a great pair for the i5 13600K, making it an excellent choice for compact gaming PCs. If you’re looking for a small, high-end Z690 motherboard that doesn’t skimp on features, this motherboard is a standout choice. Its unique design sets it apart from the competition.
The motherboard’s 10+1 phase configuration and high-quality components ensure a robust VRM, providing stable power delivery even when overclocking more demanding Raptor Lake CPUs. While its VRM may not be as powerful as some pricier ASUS motherboards, it still performs admirably.
The VRM is cooled by large metal heatsinks, helping to manage temperatures effectively. The Strix Z690-I can handle almost any 13th Gen CPU, but it’s best paired with the Core i5 13600K, one of the top gaming CPUs currently available.
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I, as reflected in its price, is a high-performance mini-ITX motherboard with a comprehensive feature set and excellent networking options. It boasts two M.2 slots for speedy storage, WiFi 6 compatibility for fast wireless speeds, and a robust 2.5 GbE LAN port, making it ideal for compact form factor PCs.
The motherboard also provides a variety of connectivity options, including rear HDMI and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for high-speed peripherals. However, like all mini-ITX motherboards, the Strix Z690-I has its limitations, including limited expansion slots and a somewhat limited memory upgrade path.
Aesthetics are important to gamers, and this motherboard doesn’t disappoint. Its sleek, modern design will appeal to consumers, with RGB lighting adding a touch of class while maintaining the classic black and silver gaming aesthetic.
The motherboard’s I/O section is covered by a shroud, which not only looks good but also helps keep the PCB tidy. The recognizable ROG eye design element is included in the corner of the I/O cover, adding to its gaming appeal.
Overall the ROG Strix Z690-I is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a high-performance mini ITX option. Its impressive power delivery system allows for high overclocking potential, and it offers a rich feature set that’s rare in a mini-ITX board.
The only downside to the ROG Strix Z690-I is its relatively high price. However, if you’re willing to invest in quality, it’s our top pick for the best mini ITX motherboard for the i5 13600K.
Check this: The Best Mini ITX Motherboards
Number 5. MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi D4 – Best micro-ATX Motherboard for i5 13600K
Pros:
- Many Gen4 slots
- Great-looking white heatsinks
- Supports the latest generation of NVIDIA and AMD GPUs
Cons:
- Micro-ATX design might not suit everyone
- The exposed PCB gives a barebones look
The MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi D4 is a micro-ATX motherboard that’s been on the market for some time, yet it continues to impress. That’s why it’s our choice as the best micro-ATX board for the 13600k. While its compact size means you’ll have to forego a few PCI-E slots and perhaps some RGB flair, MSI compensates with a host of excellent features.
This motherboard is ready for the latest GPUs and drives, boasting Gen4 ready x16 and x4 slots. It’s designed to facilitate a high-performance system build. One of its standout features is the integrated IO shield, which eliminates the hassle of installing the typically sharp and annoying metal piece. The rear IO also comes equipped with a generous number of high-speed USB ports, ensuring quick transfers for your peripherals and accessories.
The B660M Mortar supports up to 128GB DDR4 memory and features a 12+1+1 VRM power phase design. It doesn’t support RAM overclocking, but it does support CPU overclocking. The rear IO offers a variety of USB connections, including a USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C port. It also features WiFi 6E and 2.5 Gigabit LAN for fast and reliable connectivity.
Despite its compact design, the B660M Mortar doesn’t skimp on features. It’s designed to meet the needs of a mid-range gaming PC, offering support for the latest GPUs and SSDs, and a number of USB-C ports for gaming peripherals and external devices.
The silver heatsinks scattered around the board make it a great fit for a compact, white-themed gaming PC. They beautifully complement white RAM kits or graphics cards, and they do an excellent job of reflecting RGB to create a bright, colorful interior.
However, the micro-ATX form factor might not appeal to everyone. If your PC case can accommodate a larger ATX motherboard, you might want to consider one for a more expansive feature set. Also, the silver and black aesthetic might not be to everyone’s taste, especially if you’re not planning a white-themed build.
In conclusion, the MSI MAG B660M Mortar WiFi D4 is an excellent choice for those building a compact, white-themed gaming PC with the intel core i5 13600k. It offers impressive performance and connectivity for a micro-ATX board. However, if you have room for a larger ATX design, you might find other options more appealing.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the importance of a motherboard in a PC?
The motherboard is the backbone of your PC. It connects all the different components, including the processor, RAM, graphics card, and storage devices, and allows them to communicate with each other. It also determines what type of components you can use and the features your PC will have.
2. Does the size of the motherboard matter?
The size of the motherboard, also known as the form factor, does matter depending on the size of your PC case and the number of components you want to install. Larger motherboards like ATX offer more expansion slots and features, while smaller ones like Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX are suitable for compact builds.
3. What motherboard is compatible with i5 13th Gen?
Motherboards compatible with i5 13th Gen Intel CPUs, specifically the i5 13600K, need to have an LGA 1700 socket. This includes motherboards with 600 and 700 series chipset: Z690, B660, H610, H670, Z790, B760, H770
4. Will Intel 13th Gen use DDR4?
Yes, Intel’s 13th Gen processors, including the i5 13600K, can use DDR4 RAM
5. Is i5 13600K DDR5 compatible?
Yes, the Intel Core i5 13600K is DDR5 compatible. It supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, allowing you to choose based on your performance needs and budget.
6. Is 13600K good for gaming?
Yes, the Intel Core i5 13600K is excellent for gaming. It offers strong performance and supports the latest technologies, making it a great choice for gamers.
7. What is the power difference between 12600K and 13600K?
The main difference between the 12600K and 13600K is in their performance and power efficiency. The 13600K is slightly more powerful and efficient, making it a better choice for demanding tasks and high-performance gaming.
8. Can B660 handle 13600k?
Yes, a B660 chipset motherboard can handle the i5 13600K. It offers a good balance of features and affordability, making it a suitable choice for this processor.
9. Does Z690 support 13th Gen?
Yes, the Z690 chipset motherboards support 13th Gen Intel processors, including the i5 13600K. They offer advanced features and high performance, making them a great choice for high-end builds.
10. Does Intel 13th Gen need BIOS update?
Whether the Intel 13th Gen processors need a BIOS update depends on the specific motherboard. Some motherboards may require a BIOS update to support these processors, while others may not. It’s always a good idea to check the motherboard manufacturer’s website for the latest BIOS updates.
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