When building any PC, choosing the right motherboard is an integral part of that process. But sometimes making the right decision can be a tricky one, considering the many options available on the market. There are models ranging from premium to budget models. Thus, you need to make a smart decision without overpaying for it.
For this reason, we’ve carefully handpicked and reviewed the top 4 best z170 motherboards on the market to help you build the perfect PC without having to break the bank.
Without further ado, let’s consider the best z170 option for you:
Reviews of Top 4 for the Best z170 motherboard
1. Asus Z170-A ATX DDR4 Motherboards
Coming with a white aesthetic to mesh well with an array of designs and chassis colors, the Asus Z170-A ATX DDR4 Motherboard sport 5-Way Optimization offering the perfect combination to handle 6th Gen Intel Core Processors.
This model comes with an elegant standard design, not really fancy, but still appealing to the eyes. It’s all white with black parts that are durable, strong, and good components.
Another thing about the design is its impressive color combination, but as I already stated, nothing really special. It lacks RGB lights, which doesn’t come in handy, but looks amazing.
It sports several great features despite its price tag—this unit sports a big CPU to fit any preferred cooler. Also, there are four RAM slots for an optimal 64GB with and a maximum speed of 366MHz. While the RAM’s speed isn’t crucial, I think it’s a good addition.
This model does not come with tons of ports, just 3 USB Type-A ports. Nonetheless, it includes a USB 3.1 for faster performance than the typical 3.0 ports, a USB Type-C port, to allow everyone to connect their devices.
This board’s sound is surprisingly great. Featuring Crystal Sound 3, you can’t expect anything less except good sound. However, if you are in for something more than good sound, then consider purchasing a new sound card. But for people who don’t care much for mind-blowing sound, this motherboard should do just fine.
More importantly, Asus Z170-A ATX DDR4 Motherboards come with 3 PCIe x16 ports without any protection. I prefer boards featuring steel on the connectors for better protection.
More so, it comes with 1 M.2 slot to ensure the model is pretty fast and includes 6 SATA connectors. Asus Z170-A ATX DDR4 Motherboards overclocks easily and takes only a little knowledge to get your CPU from 4.0GHz to 4.80GHz. This feature is surprising, considering its price range.
Pros:
Faster storage design
Crystal Sound 3 for excellent sound
More reliable, faster ethernet
Multiple port options
Cons:
Customer support could be better.
2. Gigabyte LGA1151 Intel Z170 Micro ATX DDR4 Gaming 5 Motherboards
Now, it’s our second choice for the best z170 motherboard is Gigabyte LGA1151 Intel Z170 Micro ATX DDR4 Gaming 5 Motherboards because of the incredible high-end gaming experience it offers.
This option is a perfect fit for people looking to own the best affordable z170 motherboard without sacrificing performance. It comes with powerful features to provide users with a new and fresh experience.
To begin with, this model supports 6th / 7th Gen Intel® Core™ Processors and 4 DIMMs, Dual Channel DDR4. Another interesting thing about this model is its compatibility with 3-Way Graphics Support. More so, it features a metal shielding to protect Dual PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2 Connectors and the PCIe Slots. Plus, it has a memory with an impressive data transfer up to 32Gb/s.
Other incredible features include 3 SATA Express Connectors and data transfer up to 16Gb/s, which set it apart from the competition. This gaming motherboard combines the Advanced Creative SBX PRO STUDIO Audio Suite and the first Quad-Core Creative Sound Core3D Audio Processor.
For the sake of excellent audio immersion, it’s equipped with SBX Pro Studio™ suite of audio playback technologies to offer a more realistic surround sound. With SBX Pro Studio, this board delivers an overall experience, either its music, games or movies.
The GA-Z170X-Gaming 7 is the right choice for game lovers, which supports multi-graphics configuration to offer brilliant graphics performance to suit gaming enthusiasts. Also, it ensures you don’t have to compromise resolution for achieving the highest frame rates.
For Gigabyte LGA1151 Intel Z170 Micro ATX DDR4 Gaming 5 Motherboards, you enjoy the quality and top-notch performance.
Pros:
Thunderbolt Ready
Supports 6th Generation Intel Core Processors
Intel USB 3.1 with USB Type-C
3-Way graphics support
Cons:
Kabylake (7th gen) CPUs standard not supported
3. MSI Enthuastic Gaming Intel Z170A LGA 1151 DDR4 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard
Next is MSI Enthuastic Gaming Motherboard with outstanding performance and speed. It’s quite similar to other models on this list and offers equally high performance.
This model lives up to its hype and a top choice for people looking to get the most out of their PC. MSI Enthuastic Gaming Motherboard supports 6th / 7th Gen Intel Core/ Celeron / Pentium processors and DDR4-4133+(OC) Memory.
On top of that, it comes with an extra feature to offer a powerpack performance with the Steel Armor features designed to provide DDR4 memory with a boost for amazing speed, especially during high-end games.
Even, it comes with Lightning USB 3.1 Gen2, Turbo U.2, M.2 Shield. Intel Optane Memory Ready, and Triple Turbo M.2. For the sake of remarkable audio experience, it’s equipped with Audio Boost 4 PRO with Nahimic 2: 2x dedicated audio processors for an unbelievable gaming experience. Plus, it comes with Multi-GPU with Steel Armor PCIe slots.
Pros:
Steel Armor PCIe slots for better cooling and protection
Crossfire ready
Realistic sounds with Audio Boost 3 & Nahimic Audio Enhancer
Lots of port options
Cons:
Overclocking this motherboard might spell trouble.
4. Asus optimized Z170 ATX Intel Pro Gaming Motherboards
When it comes to motherboards offering great value for the money, Asus optimized Z170 ATX Intel Pro Gaming Motherboards earns this spot. This product is a go-to for people not looking to splurge on board and miss out on amazing features.
One of its many features to love is its easy overclocking feature. Plus, its RAM operates excellently to make work much better. For gamers, this model comes with SupremeFX to offer 115dB signal to noise ratio.
The manufacturer offers a motherboard without having to spend more – what a perfect match for your pocket. And, it’s built to offer a better sound experience for a more engaging game than ever.
Pros:
Easy layout
Aesthetic look with LED lights
Affordable options
Detailed manual for users
Quick and easy overclocking.
Cons:
Support could be more helpful.
Things to Consider When Purchasing a Z170 Motherboard
Procuring the right Z170 model has to do with some key characteristics discussed in this section. Having a detailed knowledge about its properties will guide you to the perfect one.
CPU Compatibility
Obviously, the importance of CPU can not be overemphasized when building a PC, which is why you should ensure that the motherboard is compatible with your preferred CPU option.
The kind of motherboard you’ve in your computer often determines the CPU it features. For instance, the Socket 1151 supports a wide range of processor functions. These models work well with most CPU generations from 6th – 8th Gen.
Non-integrated or Integrated
When it comes to Z170 motherboards, there are two main types: integrated and non-integrated models. Each model comes with its own benefits and flaws. The integrated models are common options since they are cheaper to produce. This model has its ports, connectors, and other peripheral devices integrated on the board.
However, if you prefer to modify your motherboard, then you should opt for the non-integrated models. Using the integrated models does not allow modification and is often thrown out.
Pricing
As said earlier, there are different models available at different prices. This means a model with lots of slots will come pricey. For the sake of an easy decision process, you should determine your budget first to ensure you are going for a model within your budget range.
Conclusion
Choosing the best z170 motherboard should be easier with our top 4 picks, but if you still have trouble picking the right model, then you check out our buying guide to ensure you make a smarter decision.
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