This is the best motherboard for Intel Core i7 4790K processor review with many details, including ratings, pros, and cons. Unfortunately, finding the best gaming motherboard with future-proof specs and features is always challenging, especially for beginners and inexperienced users. As a result, our experts wrote this comprehensive guide featuring six impressive motherboards with the comment cancel reply feature and super-fast memory speeds.
Keep reading this complete article to learn everything about these unique motherboards with advanced specs and features.
Contents
- Comparison Table
- The 6 Best Motherboard for Intel Core i7 4790K Reviews
- 1. MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard
- 2. MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard
- 3. Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard
- 4. GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard
- 5. ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard
- 6. ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard
- Final Conclusion
Comparison Table
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The 6 Best Motherboard for Intel Core i7 4790K Reviews
Although you now know a lot more about these six impressive gaming motherboards, it is not enough to become a professional. Fortunately, we list the pros and cons in the following sections and rate the product’s vital criteria. Keep reading to learn all the in-depth details.
1. MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard
Pros:
- It offers the most expansive RAM support of all featured units in this guide
- The Intel Z97 chipset is excellent for mid-range gaming and editing
- The Sound Blast Cinema 2 provides excellent sound output
- There are three PCIe x16 3.0 and four PCIe x1 slots for connectivity
Cons:
- Customers cannot use the latest AMD Ryzen 5000 processors
- There is no RGB LED lighting for an improved visual appearance
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor: 8 out of 10
- Memory (RAM):5 out of 10
- Expansion slots:5 out of 10
- SATA ports: 9 out of 10
The MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard is the first featured unit in this guide with exciting specs and features. Although this might not be the best choice for professional gaming, unlike the Asus Rog Maximus VII, it offers standard processor support. Namely, customers can use the latest Intel processors using the Intel Z97 chipset that is compatible with most gaming products. As a result, our experts give a final rating of 8 out of 10 for the processor critical criterion.
On the contrary, the MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard does not perform well for the following criterion due to the lack of memory specifications. Namely, all customers get is maximum memory storage of 32 GB DDR3, so it is challenging to work with large files.
As a result, you have to look for an alternative solution during extended gaming or heavy video editing. Therefore, the MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard receives a 7.5 out of 10 rating for the memory (RAM) critical criterion, this unit’s worst rating.
Fortunately, the MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard has improved connectivity and compatibility specs and features. For instance, customers can experience the typical HDMI, USB, DVI, and Display ports on the back, but unfortunately, there is no aluminum heat sink to prevent overheating.
On the flip side, customers can enjoy the 3-way CrossFireX and 2-way SLI-ready technologies boosting performance and connectivity. Thus, we give a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the expansion slot vital criterion.
Lastly, the MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard has several SATA3 ports that customers can use to install external memory devices and gadgets. Consequently, you can boost your system’s memory capacity by adding an SSD. Luckily, there are three PCIe x16 3.0 and four PCIe x1 slots for memory connectivity and performance. Hence, our experts agreed on a 9 out of 10 final rating for the SATA port critical criterion, finishing our thorough review.
Overview
The MSI Z97-G45 GAMING ATX 2600 DDR3 Motherboard has excellent connectivity and compatibility but lacks memory capacity. Thus, customers wanting a compatible and affordable unit will benefit the most from this motherboard’s specs and features. Also, it is an excellent choice for beginners.
2. MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard
Pros:
- This gaming product comes with four DIMM DDR3 slots
- The Intel Z87 Express chipset works well with most modern processors
- There are many connectivity and compatibility slots and ports
- It includes the Killer E2205 PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet controller
Cons:
- It is one of this article’s least affordable gaming units
- The top memory speed is not ideal for premium gaming and editing
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor:5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 8 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 9 out of 10
- SATA ports: 9 out of 10
The MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard offers customers unique features and gaming options. Although customers cannot use the latest AMD Ryzen processors, unlike the Rog Maximus XI, there is appropriate mid-range support for casual gamers. For example, you can quickly use the Z87 Express chipset and LGA 1150 socket to install several modern Intel CPUs. Consequently, our experts give a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the processor critical criterion.
Although not many similarly priced motherboards have premium memory options, the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard will do the job for most basic operations. Namely, customers can store and keep documents using the total memory capacity of 64 GB DDR3, which is significantly better than the previous units.
However, the top memory speed of only 1,000 MHz is not ideal for demanding operation and premium games. As a result, we are confident this unit deserves an 8 out of 10 final rating for the memory (RAM) criterion.
Luckily, the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard overperforms the former unit regarding expansion slots and ports. Namely, customers can use six USB 3.0 and eight USB 2.0 ports through the internal USB connectors and back.
In addition, the Killer E2205 PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet controller boost speed during heavy operations, especially file transfer and gaming. Hence, the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard receives a rating of 9 out of 10 for the expansion slot criterion.
Although the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard is not the best choice for storing large files, customers can quickly install external memory devices. Namely, users can use six SATA3 ports and a single mSATA port supporting the RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 feature.
In addition, the three PCI Express 3.0 x16 and four PCI Express 2.0 x1 slots work flawlessly under heavy pressure and extended use. Thus, our experts agreed on a score of 9 out of 10 for the SATA port critical criterion, identical to the previous score.
Overview
The MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard is a great all-around choice for beginners and professionals. For instance, you will enjoy its excellent connectivity and processor compatibility. Fortunately, the black and red color combination look stunning.
3. Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard
3. Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard
Pros:
- There is SATA express & M.2 support up to 10Gb/s data transfer
- The Crystal Sound 2 provides a flawless audio output that boosts the gaming experience
- Customers can use the Remote GO feature to control it anytime
- There is a decent top memory speed for a product at this cost
Cons:
- There is low memory storage capacity for extreme gaming
- Users reported certain overheating issues during intense video editing
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor:5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM):5 out of 10
- Expansion slots:5 out of 10
- SATA ports:5 out of 10
The Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard is an excellent choice for beginners because it is efficient and affordable. The critical criteria ratings prove that the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has unique features, but memory support is the most prominent drawback.
But first, the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard uses the standard LGA 1151 socket so that customers can quickly install mid-range processors. As a result, our experts give an 8.5 out of 10 final rating for the processor criterion.
As explained before, the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has several memory issues because of insufficient storage capacity and speed. Namely, users get four DIMM DDR3 memory slots with a maximum memory capacity of 32 GB, which is not ideal for extreme operations.
Fortunately, the top memory speed is slightly higher than similar motherboards because it overclocks at 1,600 MHz, a speed that will do the job for most basic tasks. Consequently, we give a final rating of 7.5 out of 10 for the memory (RAM) criterion, this unit’s lowest score.
Fortunately, the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has excellent connectivity features, although customers get a standard set of slots. Namely, there are several USB, HDMI, DVI, and Display ports, but there is no heat sink to prevent occasional issues.
Fortunately, the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has the Crystal Sound 2 feature that boosts the audio output during heavy gaming. Therefore, the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard deserves an 8.5 out of 10 final rating for the expansion slot criterion.
The final criterion is the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard’s most prominent feature because it has incredible speed. Namely, customers get SATA Express and M.2 support with rates of up to 10 Gb/s so that customers can transfer data efficiently.
In addition, the Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has the Remote GO option that provides complete control anytime and anywhere. Hence, our experts believe this unit deserves a 9.5 out of 10 rating for the SATA port criterion, missing a perfect score by a fraction.
Overview
The Asus Z97-A DDR3 2600 LGA 1150 Motherboard is an excellent choice for beginners because it has unique SATA ports and average processor support. Unfortunately, professional users will find memory support insufficient during heavy use. Also, there is no RGB LED lighting.
4. GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard
4. GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard
Pros:
- There is identical processor support to the Asus TUF motherboard
- The latest hybrid digital PWM design looks modern and visually appealing
- There is an ultra-fast M.2 with PCIe Gen3 x4 and SATA interface
- High-quality audio capacitors and audio noise guard with LED trace path lighting
Cons:
- There is no RGB LED lighting or headers
- It might be challenging to find this fantastic motherboard in local stores
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor: 9 out of 10
- Memory (RAM):5 out of 10
- Expansion slots:5 out of 10
- SATA ports:5 out of 10
The GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard is the best-rated featured unit in our complete guide. Hence, it is an excellent purchase for professional and casual use because customers get a boosted and improved performance. For example, you can quickly pair the latest 9th and 8th Generation Intel processors or use another Celeron or Pentium CPUs. Consequently, our experts give a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the processor critical criterion, which is a great start.
Luckily, the GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard gets a nearly ideal rating for the following three criteria, proving the incredible power. For instance, customers get this article’s best memory support because you can store files using the maximum memory capacity of 64 GB DDR3 using any of the four DIMM slots.
Moreover, you can overclock the system and boost performance by the top memory speed of 2,666 MHz, which is superb for a product at this cost. Thus, we provide a final rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the processor criterion.
Thanks to the advanced support, the GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard deserves an identical rating for the expansion slot criterion. For example, the latest hybrid digital PWM design keeps all connectivity slots and ports safe, and customers can quickly locate them.
Namely, several USB 3.1 Type-A, USB 3.0, HDMI, DVI, audio, and Display ports on the back work well with most modern devices. Hence, the GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard deserves a 9.5 out of 10 rating for the expansion slot criterion.
The GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard’s last vital criterion receives the same ratings due to the impressive graphics interface. Namely, customers get an ultra-fast M.2 with PCI Express Gen 3 x4 slots and a potent SATA ports interface with several slots.
Fortunately, customers can install external memory devices and keep their large files safe. Therefore, the GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard gets a final rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the SATA port critical criterion.
Overview
The GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard is the highest-rated product in our comprehensive guide. As a result, it is the finest choice for professionals and gamers because they can experience incredible speeds and features. Similarly, there is no RGB LED lighting.
5. ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard
Pros:
- Customers can experience the ASUS 5X Protection technology
- The Network iControl option provides real-time network management
- The AI Suite 3 feature gives one-stop access to futuristic ASUS features
- The overall design is excellent and will fit any gaming PC setup
Cons:
- The memory storage capacity of 32 GB DDR3 is insufficient
- It is an outdated gaming unit to current standards
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor:5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 8 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 9 out of 10
- SATA ports:5 out of 10
The ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard is the second to last featured unit, and although there are no exceptional ratings, it is a unit you must consider. Namely, you can experience the typical LGA 1151 socket support, which is usually all causal gamers and editors need.
For instance, this product supports all 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors. Therefore, the ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard receives a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the processor criterion.
Furthermore, the ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has medium memory features. So all customers can experience is a top memory speed of 1,600 MHz (OC) and a maximum storage capacity of 32 GB DDR3 using the four DIMM slots.
As a result, it might be challenging to use this motherboard professionally and for an extended period. Thus, our experts believe this unit deserves a final rating of 8 out of 10 for the memory (RAM) critical criterion.
This motherboard’s most prominent feature is the expansion slots because there is excellent support. Namely, the ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has USB 3.0 Boost technology that outputs faster transfer speeds than traditional USB 3.0 slots.
As a result, customers can quickly and efficiently transfer demanding files and data from and to the computer. Hence, we give a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the expansion slot vital criterion, this unit’s highest rating.
Ultimately, the ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has a typical SATA port support, which is excellent for casual use. Namely, customers get several SATA ports and the impressive AI Suite 3 technology boosting the unit’s overall performance and transfer speed.
In addition, the Network iControl supports real-time network bandwidth management that is handy during extended and heavy use. Consequently, the ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard gets an 8.5 out of 10 rating for the SATA port critical criterion.
Overview
The ASUS DDR3 Micro B85M-G ATX 1600 LGA 1150 Motherboard has excellent all-in-one specs with advanced USB slots. Thus, customers wanting to experience the USB 3.0 Boost feature will benefit the most from this product’s specs and features. Also, you can use the latest Intel processors.
6. ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard
Pros:
- The micro form factor is excellent for small and compact PC builds
- The HDMI and DVI outputs provide high-definition visual enjoyment
- It is the most affordable featured unit in this guide
- The black and gold color combination looks futuristic and appealing
Cons:
- There is low memory storage and top speed during overclocking
- There are only two memory DIMM DDR3 slots
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor:5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 7 out of 10
- Expansion slots:5 out of 10
- SATA ports: 8 out of 10
The ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard is this article’s lowest-rated unit due to the lack of modern features and options. However, it is still an excellent choice for beginners and people not into computers because it is affordable and compatible.
Namely, the ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard has the standard LGA 1151 socket supporting all 8th Generation Intel processors. Consequently, our experts give a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the processor criterion, similar to the previous units.
Sadly, the ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard has terrible memory specifications to modern gaming standards. Namely, there is maximum memory storage of only 16 GB DDR3 and a top memory speed of 1,600 MHz, so it significantly underperforms compared to similar products.
In addition, there are only a couple of DIMMs DDR3 RAM slots, so there is little room for improvement. Therefore, we give a final rating of 7 out of 10 for the memory (RAM) criterion, this product’s worst rating.
Although the ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard supports the USB 3.0 Boost feature, there is an insufficient number of ports. Namely, there are only a few USB ports and a single HDMI, DVI, and Display slot.
Fortunately, customers can experience the impressive ASUS 5X Protection technology that protects the overall computer from overheating and lagging. Thus, the ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard gets an 8.5 out of 10 final rating for the expansion slot critical criterion.
Ultimately, the ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard has the typical SATA port support because four slots are available. But unfortunately, the port’s top transfer speed is only 6 Gb/s, which is significantly lower than the previous products. Also, customers get three PCI Express slots, so multiple connectivity and compatibility options exist. Hence, our experts agreed on a rating of 8 out of 10 for the SATA port critical criterion.
Overview
The ASUS H81M-A Micro DDR3 1333 ATX LGA 1150 Motherboard is this product’s worst-rated gaming unit. Nevertheless, it is an excellent choice for beginners because it is affordable and supports 8th Generation Intel processors. Also, the USB 3.0 Boost technology works great.
Final Conclusion
Beginners and inexperienced users have trouble finding the ultimate motherboard for Intel Core i7 4790K processors because many units have similar specs and features. As a result, our experts created this comprehensive guide featuring six impressive gaming units with premium features and an affordable cost.
Therefore, we recommend purchasing the GIGABYTE B365M ATX LGA1151 Intel Micro DS3H Motherboard because it has premium features and is its highest-rated product. On the contrary, it would be best to purchase the MSI Z87-G45 GAMING DDR3 ATX Computer Corp. Motherboard because it is compatible with most modern gaming devices. Luckily, all products in this guide are excellent and will be well worth your budget.
