8 Best Motherboard for i9-10900K [Tested & Reviewed in 2024]

To unlock the full power of the Intel Core i9 10900K processor requires a motherboard that can keep pace with its boundless potential.

After countless hours of testing, careful reviewing, and pushing the limits, we present to you the final result of our efforts: the ultimate list of motherboards for the i9 10900K.

In a hurry? Here’s our #1 pick Motherboard, the ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Apex Z590.

For more awesome boards, check out the table below.

Best i9 10900k Motherboards You Can Buy Right Now

Get ready to explore our handpicked selection, crafted to elevate your PC to unprecedented heights.

Here are the best motherboards for Intel Core i9-10900K:

1. Editor’s Choice: ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Apex Z590

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: ATX
CPU Socket: LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z590
Maximum Supported Memory: 64 GB
DIMM.2 Slots: 2
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 – 5133 MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 2
SATA Connectors: 8
M.2 Slots: 4
Network Jacks: 1x 2.5 Gb Ethernet
USB: 10 (1x USB 3.2 Type-C, 9x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Audio Chipset: SupremeFX ACL4080

Why We Picked It

As the i9-10900K is one of the top-tier processors, our top motherboard pick needs to not only support this beast of a CPU flawlessly but also suit the needs of gamers with its abundance of features. And let’s not forget about the importance of aesthetics too.

Enter the ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Apex. This motherboard has got it all! Though released a while back, after the Maximus XIII Hero, it still manages to outshine its sibling with even more overclocking features.

Let’s talk about its design. Maximus XIII Apex has a massive aluminum heatsink and a sleek all-black PCB. But the Apex has a more aggressive look. Its heatsinks are angular, the VRM and heatsinks are combined, and all the heat sinks have a sleek finishing touch.

With this motherboard, we’ve got two full-length PCIe Gen 4 x16 slots, which means you can really push the limits of your graphics cards. We also have four M.2 slots; two support Gen 4, while the others use PCIe 3.0. That’s some serious storage potential right there.

To know about the best-suited graphics cards, especially for the Core i9 10th gen processors, check out our list of top 6 best-performing GPUs For i9-10900K.

Now, let’s check the connectivity. The ROG Maximus XIII Apex has Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1, and a blazing-fast 2.5 Gb Ethernet. We never had to worry about lag or slow downloads during testing.

Plus, there are some handy onboard buttons like power reset BIOS and mode switches to save your precious overclocking profiles. Also, the ROG SupremeFX audio was perfect for our immersive gaming sessions.

But here’s the real star of the show: the massive 18-phase VRM design. This board features an enormous heatsink for the VRMs, taking full advantage of its extended ATX form factor.

This motherboard could handle both our CPU and memory overclocking processes efficiently. It’s built for enthusiasts and overclockers who want the best performance.

Who It’s For

The ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Apex is perfect for enthusiasts and overclockers who prioritize pushing their system to the absolute maximum, extracting every ounce of power from their 10th & 11th Gen Intel processors.

What We Liked Most

One of the standout features of the ROG Maximus XIII Apex is its unmatched overclocking potential, allowing you to attain impressive benchmark results.

The motherboard’s AI-driven tools, cutting-edge power management, and thermals work harmoniously to optimize performance while keeping temperatures under control.

With four M.2 slots, including PCIe 4.0 support, users can enjoy lightning-fast storage speeds. The premium onboard audio and advanced networking options, such as Intel Wi-Fi 6E, add to the overall high-quality experience.

What Could Be Improved

Although the ROG Maximus XIII Apex offers exceptional capabilities, its primary emphasis on extreme overclocking and top-tier performance might not align with the preferences of the typical user or those seeking more budget-friendly options.

Verdict

The ASUS ROG Maximus XIII Apex delivers on every front. Its VRM design, premium aesthetics, and abundance of features speak volumes. So, if you’re serious about pushing your system to the limit, this is the motherboard for you.

2. Best Low Budget: MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: ATX
CPU Socket: Intel LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z490
Maximum Supported Memory: 128 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 4
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 – 4800MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 2
SATA Connectors: 6
M.2 Slots: 2
Network Jacks: 2.5 GbE
USB: 9 (2x USB 3.2 Type-C, 7x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Video Ports: 2 (HDMI & DisplayPort)
Audio Chipset: 8-Channel(7.1) HD Audio with Audio Boost 4

Why We Picked It

If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry; MSI’s got your back. We chose the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge because it offers excellent value. While it may not have as many options as the Gaming Pro Carbon or other Z490 choices from MSI, its well-designed features appeal to a wide range of users.

With this motherboard, we’ve got a sleek design with black heat sinks complemented by gray accents on the PCB. The chipset heatsink also includes Addressable RGB LEDs, adding to its visual appeal.

Regarding expansion, the motherboard offers 2 slots supporting full-length PCIe 3.0 x16 cards, 2 slots for M.2 devices, and 6 ports for SATA connections.

We’d be happier for an additional M.2 slot, but MSI made this compromise to keep the cost down. The top M.2 slot includes an aluminum heatsink, a nice touch.

The VRM design features 12+1+1 power stages, with 12 phases dedicated to the CPU. This feature provided us with excellent memory performance, as the motherboard can handle a maximum of 128 GB of RAM operating at speeds of 5000 MHz or even higher.

As for the rear I/O, we’ve got an array of ports, such as USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports.

The Realtek ALC 1220 Codec powers the auxiliary outputs, while the 2.5 GB Ethernet uses a Realtek audio controller. The motherboard also features Intel’s AX201 interface for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity.

Overall, the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge has almost everything an average gamer would need. The robust DRMs allowed us to achieve high overclocks while keeping the price affordable.

Who It’s For

The MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi is perfect for gamers and PC enthusiasts who prioritize performance and want a reliable motherboard for their Intel-based systems.

What We Liked Most

The features of the Z490 Gaming Edge that stood out to us the most are its memory overclocking capability and built-in Wi-Fi. We achieved excellent performance levels with support for memory overclocking up to 5000MHz.

Also, due to the addition of the built-in Wi-Fi ensuring convenient wireless connectivity, we didn’t need an additional adapter.

The enlarged heatsinks on the board provided us with improved thermal performance, contributing to the system’s overall stability.

What Could Be Improved

One drawback of the MPG Z490 Gaming Edge is the limited number of M.2 slots, with only 2 available. It may restrict expansion options for users who require multiple high-speed storage devices.

Verdict

The MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi offers a solid choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts seeking a reliable and capable motherboard for their Intel-based systems. Its feature set, memory overclocking capability, and built-in Wi-Fi make it a compelling choice.

3. Best Design at a Low Price: ASRock Z490 Taichi

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: ATX
CPU Socket: Intel LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z490
Maximum Supported Memory: 128 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 4
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 – 4666 MHz
PCIe x16 Slots: 3
SATA Connectors: 8
M.2 Slots: 3
Network Jacks: 2 (1 GbE & 2.5 GbE)
USB: 8 (1x USB 3.2 Type-C, 7x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Video Ports: 2 (HDMI & DisplayPort)
Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC1220 & ESS Sabre9218

Why We Picked It

The ASRock Z490 Taichi stood out to us for its unique and outlandish design for the price. Those who appreciate this design will be eager to showcase this motherboard. However, its appeal goes beyond aesthetics; it offers exceptional value.

Since we’re so fond of this design, let’s cover that first. ASRock frequently refreshes its Taichi motherboards. This model offers a premium finish with a sleek black & copper theme, enhanced by clockwork-styled heatsinks.

The customizable RGB zones and clockwork stencils on the rear cover panel add to its aesthetic appeal.

Beyond its design, the Z490 Taichi is a feature-packed motherboard. It has three full-length PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, three PCIe 3.0 M.2 slots, and a robust 12+2 phase VRM design, ideal for overclocking freaks like us and capable of handling CPUs like the 10th Gen Intel Core i9-10900K.

Additionally, it supports fast memory with a maximum capacity of 128 GB of RAM and speeds of up to 4 MHz. Notably, we also were able to use it in multi-GPU setups for both Nvidia SLI and AMD Crossfire.

Furthermore, the port selection is well-rounded, offering Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth support.

We’ve got excellent overclocking performance due to the motherboard’s efficient heat dissipation with its large heatsinks and shrouds. Given its extensive range of features, the Z490 Taichi offers a compelling price-to-performance ratio.

Who It’s For

The ASRock Z490 Taichi is perfect for those who want powerful computing for gaming, content creation, or demanding tasks. It has a robust power delivery system for stable overclocking and excellent performance.

What We Liked Most

What sets the ASRock Z490 Taichi apart is its impressive combination of features, capabilities, and aesthetics.

The 12-phase/50A VRM for Vcore ensures stable power delivery, allowing for efficient overclocking and optimal performance. The USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C connection ensures rapid data transfers, and numerous M.2 and SATA ports allow for ample storage adaptability.

Moreover, the motherboard’s premium components, such as Realtek ALC1220 audio with DACs and Realtek 2.5 GbE, contribute to an exceptional audiovisual experience.

With the Z490 Taichi, ASRock has managed to strike a balance between performance, features, and an appealing design.

What Could Be Improved

Although the ASRock Z490 Taichi is impressive, there are a few areas for improvement. The higher price compared to the Z390 predecessor might deter budget-conscious consumers, but it’s in line with other Z490 models. Also, using star screws on the chipset shroud can be annoying for those who prefer a cleaner aesthetic.

Verdict

The ASRock Z490 Taichi stands as a top-tier motherboard, offering an excellent blend of features & aesthetics. It is a well-rounded package for power users and gamers.

4. Best Mid-Range: ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: ATX
CPU Socket: LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z490
Maximum Supported Memory: 128 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 4
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 4600 MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 2
SATA Connectors: 6
M.2 Slots: 2
Network Jacks: 1 x 2.5Gigabit Ethernet
USB: 6 (1x USB 3.2 Type-C, 5x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Video Ports: 1 HDMI & 1 DisplayPort
Audio Chipset: SupremeFX S1220A (8-Channel)

Why We Picked It

We chose the ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming motherboard for its exceptional blend of features and capabilities that high-end builds need.

Positioned between the value-oriented TUF series and the no-expense-spared MAXIMUS series, this motherboard hits the sweet spot for users who prioritize both budget and aesthetics without compromising on functionality.

One standout feature of the Z490-E Gaming is its robust VRM cooling system, accompanied by an optional active cooling fan.

With a total of 16 power stages from Vishay, this motherboard delivered rock-solid power to our CPU. Whether we were executing demanding tasks or pushing the limits of overclocking, this motherboard got our back.

Another reason we’ve picked the Z490-E Gaming is because of the BIOS flashback, a handy feature that allows us easy and hassle-free BIOS updates. ASUS’s excellent UEFI BIOS is specifically designed to provide an optimal and stress-free overclocking experience.

Connectivity is a strong suit of this motherboard as well. With a wide array of USB options on both the rear I/O and internally, we never had to worry about connecting all our peripherals and devices.

Our online gaming sessions were seamless and multimedia streaming was smooth thanks to the motherboard’s WiFi 6 and a 2.5 Gb/s LAN port, providing fast and reliable network connectivity.

Let’s not forget about the striking aesthetics of the Z490-E Gaming. Covered in a neutral and attractive design, this motherboard could easily blend with our other components while adding an extra touch of style to our build.

With an excellent RGB implementation and customizable options, you can personalize your system’s lighting to suit your preferences, bringing a vibrant and eye-catching look to your rig.

Who It’s For

The ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming is recommended for users who want to build powerful systems, including Intel 10th Gen or later processors, and require features like WiFi 6, fast LAN connectivity, and flexible storage options.

What We Liked Most

What sets the ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming apart is its excellent RGB implementation and eye-catching design. The board’s neutral aesthetics make it easy to match with various components, while the abundant RGB options allow users to add a touch of flair to their builds.

Beyond looks, the motherboard delivers impressive performance out of the box.

Z490-E Gaming handles memory overclocking well and can achieve stable CPU overclocks thanks to its robust VRM design. The thermals are well-managed, even during demanding tasks, ensuring consistent performance.

What Could Be Improved

One drawback is that the ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming may not be the most budget-friendly option in its category. Another area for improvement could be the availability of more M.2 slots, as two may be limiting for users with multiple high-speed storage devices.

Verdict

The ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming motherboard is known for its impressive feature set, full power delivery, user-friendly BIOS, excellent connectivity options, and appealing aesthetics. It balances budget considerations and premium features, making it a top choice for high-end builds where performance and style are paramount.

5. Best for Overclocking: EVGA Z490 Dark K|NGP|N Edition

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: ATX
CPU Socket: LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z490
Maximum Supported Memory: 64 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 2
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 5000 MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 3
SATA Connectors: 8
M.2 Slots: 2
Network Jacks: 1x 2. 5 Gb Ethernet
USB: 7 (2x USB 3.2 Type-C, 5x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC1220 & SV3H615

Why We Picked It

The EVGA Z490 K|NGP|N motherboard stands head and shoulders above the competition when it comes to pushing the limits of performance and achieving unprecedented overclocking performances.

This limited edition motherboard results from a collaboration between EVGA’s hardware team and the legendary Vince ‘K|NGP|N’ Lucido. Together, they have crafted a masterpiece that fulfills every need of overclocking enthusiasts who crave raw power and unwavering stability.

What sets the Z490 K|NGP|N apart is its ability to deliver exceptional overclocking performance. The 18-phase power delivery system is a force to be reckoned with, ensuring that even the most demanding CPUs remain stable under intense loads.

So, we could confidently push our system to its absolute limits without fear of instability or overheating. Whether you’re an overclocking expert or a newcomer, this motherboard provides the perfect to show your overclocking creativity.

The Z490 Dark K|NGP|N Edition focuses on the finest details to enhance your overclocking experience. The unconventional desktop design, with two memory slots mounted horizontally above the LGA1200 socket, offers improved airflow and optimized memory performance for latency-sensitive workloads.

It’s a unique approach that not only sets the motherboard apart aesthetically but also delivers substantial benefits in terms of system performance.

In addition to its overclocking capabilities, the Z490 K|NGP|N offers comprehensive features. We had ample storage and expansion possibilities with two PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slots, eight SATA ports (including RAID support), and various connectivity options.

We didn’t face any network issues during our tests thanks to the Intel-based Ethernet controllers and Wi-Fi 6. Also, the enhanced audio codec delivered immersive sound.

Who It’s For

The EVGA Z490 K|NGP|N motherboard is perfect for serious overclocking enthusiasts who seek unparalleled performance and are willing to push their hardware to its limits.

What We Liked Most

We’ve picked the EVGA Z490 Dark K|NGP|N due to its unwavering dedication to extreme overclocking performance. The 18-phase power delivery ensures rock-solid stability even under heavy loads, allowing us to push their CPUs to new heights.

The unique memory configuration with two horizontally-mounted slots improves airflow and benefits the memory-latency-driven workloads.

The collaboration with Vince ‘K|NGP|N’ Lucido, coupled with the use of top-notch components, reinforces the motherboard’s reputation for delivering exceptional overclocking consistency.

Additionally, the two PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 slots, eight SATA ports, and a range of connectivity options make it a versatile and future-proof choice.

What Could Be Improved

Although beneficial for specific use cases, the EVGA Z490 Dark K|NGP|N’s unconventional memory slot configuration limits the overall memory capacity to two slots, potentially restricting expansion options for those requiring larger memory configurations.

Verdict

The EVGA Z490 Dark K|NGP|N is a powerhouse built for extreme overclocking aficionados seeking unmatched performance and reliability. With its collaboration with Vince ‘K|NGP|N’, exceptional power delivery, and top-tier overclocking features, this limited edition motherboard is the pinnacle of innovation in the overclocking scene.

6. Best Mini-ITX: MSI MEG Z490I Unify

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: Mini-ITX
CPU Socket: LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z490
Maximum Supported Memory: 64 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 2
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 5000 MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 1
SATA Connectors: 4
M.2 Slots: 2
Network Jacks: 1 x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
USB: 5 (2x USB 3.2 Type-C, 3x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Video Ports: 1 HDMI & 1 DisplayPort
Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC1220 (7.1-Channel)

Why We Picked It

We have handpicked the MSI MEG Z490I Unify motherboard for aficionados and overclockers who crave nothing but the best. This mini-ITX powerhouse has a sleek black aesthetic that exudes style and takes things up a notch with its exceptional VRM thermal design and power delivery.

One of the standout features of the Z490I Unify line is its active cooling mechanism. Unlike other motherboards that rely passively on heatsinks alone, the Z490I Unify actively pulls fresh air through the rear I/O panel to keep those VRM temperatures in check.

No more worrying about excessive heat when pushing your system to its limits!

This motherboard is ready to tackle the most power-hungry CPUs from Intel’s 10th generation and beyond. With top-of-the-line 90 A power stages, it has delivered a solid punch of electricity to fuel our overclocking adventures.

The Z490I Unify also flaunts PCIe 4.0, ensuring you’re future-proofed for tomorrow’s blazing-fast data transfer speeds. It also has two M.2 slots to accommodate your lightning-fast SSDs.

What truly sets the MSI MEG Z490I Unify apart is its dedication to memory overclocking. We were able to clock in at up to a mind-boggling 5000 MHz. This board is a dream come true for those seeking every last drop of performance from their RAM.

Who It’s For

The MEG Z490I Unify is perfect for overclockers and individuals seeking a compact motherboard with exceptional performance. Furthermore, its features and diverse connectivity choices make it ideal for content creators and gamers seeking a top-tier mini-ITX motherboard.

What We Liked Most

The Z490I Unify has impressed us with its attention to detail and top-tier components. What sets it apart is the inclusion of 90 A power stages, which ensures stable power delivery even for power-hungry Intel CPUs.

The absence of built-in RGB LEDs is a refreshing departure from the norm, appealing to users who prefer a sleek and minimalist aesthetic.

The VRM thermal performance is exceptional, thanks to the well-designed heatsink and optional active cooling, enabling sustained performance under demanding conditions.

What Could Be Improved

One area for improvement is the limited number of SATA ports. It might limit users with multiple storage devices. Additionally, the absence of built-in RGB lighting may disappoint users who prefer a more flashy and customizable aesthetic.

Verdict 

The MSI MEG Z490I Unify is a top-notch mini-ITX motherboard that excels in performance, power delivery, and thermal management. Its focus on overclocking capabilities, efficient VRM design, and PCIe 4.0 suits users seeking uncompromising performance.

7. High-Performance: MSI MEG Z590 Godlike

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: E-ATX
CPU Socket: Intel LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z590
Maximum Supported Memory: 128 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 4
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 – 3200 MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 3
SATA Connectors: 6
M.2 Slots: 4
Network Jacks: 2 (1 GbE & 2.5 GbE)
USB: 13 (3x USB 3.2 Type-C, 10x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Video Ports: 2 DisplayPort
Audio Chipset: Realtek ALC4082 & ESS SABRE9018Q2C

Why We Picked It

After thoroughly testing the MSI Z590 Godlike motherboard, it’s clear that this premium offering from the MEG lineup prioritizes performance and features over affordability. The name Godlike sets high expectations, and this motherboard certainly lives up to them.

One of the first things we’ve noticed about the Z590 Godlike is its imposing size, thanks to the extended ATX form factor. This more prominent form factor is well-suited for overclocking and accommodating additional high-end features.

Upon unboxing, we were greeted by impressive shrouds and heatsinks, which enhanced the aesthetics and aided in heat dissipation.

The rear panel cover showcases an exquisite mirror-like design, accentuating the iconic MSI dragon logo. The color scheme of gray, black, and metallic shades, with a hint of blue, creates a visually appealing contrast throughout the board.

While the VRM heatsinks may not be the largest, they are augmented by two small fins concealed beneath the shrouds.

We’ve got excellent overclocked performance thanks to the robust 20-phase power design. Also, we had access to many overclocking features through the BIOS and Windows software, allowing us to easily fine-tune our system for optimal performance.

The motherboard also impressed us with its connectivity options. It provides four M.2 slots, allowing for ample storage expansion, and supports Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5 Gb Ethernet, so we always had fast and reliable network connectivity during our tests.

The standout feature of the Z590 Godlike is undoubtedly the OLED display located to the right of the DIMM slots. MSI refers to this as the Dynamic Dashboard 2.

This vibrant screen can display crucial information such as CPU speed, temperature, BIOS flash messages, and error messages. Not only this helped us with troubleshooting, but it also added a visually stunning element to the motherboard.

Who It’s For

The Z590 Godlike motherboard is ideal for performance-focused PC users and overclockers. With strong overclocking capabilities, a robust design, and ample connectivity options, it’s perfect for those seeking top-tier performance.

What We Liked Most

One aspect that truly stands out about the MSI MEG Z590 Godlike is its attention to detail and premium design. From the imposing size and visually appealing color scheme to the well-designed shrouds and heatsinks, the motherboard exudes elegance and quality.

The OLED display takes center stage, providing both functional and aesthetic appeal with its ability to showcase critical system information.

The powerful VRM configuration and overclocking features further solidify its position as one of our high-performance motherboards.

What Could Be Improved

The VRM heatsinks, even though adequate, could benefit from slightly larger fins or enhanced cooling solutions to ensure even better heat dissipation. However, this drawback does not impact the performance much.

Verdict

The MSI MEG Z590 Godlike motherboard is a top-tier choice for PC enthusiasts and overclockers. Its powerful features, including robust power design, overclocking capabilities, comprehensive connectivity options, and a visually stunning Dynamic Dashboard 2 OLED display, stand out in the Z590 market.

8. Ultra Premium: ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme Z490

SPECIFICATIONS
Form Factor: E-ATX
CPU Socket: LGA 1200
Chipset: Intel Z490
Maximum Supported Memory: 128 GB
No. of DIMM Slots: 4
Memory Type & Speed: DDR4 – 4800 MHz
PCIe x16 slots: 2
SATA Connectors: 8
M.2 Slots: 4
Network Jacks: 1x 2.5 Gb Ethernet
USB: 10 (2x USB 3.2 Type-C, 8x USB 3.2 Type-A)
Audio Chipset: SupremeFX S1220 & ESS ES9023P

Why We Picked It

The ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme Z490 motherboard has secured its position as one of our top picks for several compelling reasons. It represents the peak of motherboard excellence for demanding enthusiasts, overclockers, and those who seek unparalleled performance.

One of the standout features of this motherboard is its robust VRM cooling system. Equipped with an optional active cooling fan, it ensured optimal thermal management, even during our intense overclocking sessions.

The sixteen 90 A power stages from Infineon provided clean and continuous power delivery, enabling stable performance and reliable operation.

Regarding connectivity options, we enjoyed the high-speed networking capabilities with WiFi 6 and 2.5 Gb/s LAN support. The Marvell AQtion AQC107 10Gb Ethernet controller further enhanced the motherboard’s networking ability.

Whether we were online gaming, doing content creation, or executing data-intensive tasks, we never had any connection issues with this motherboard.

Furthermore, the Maximus XII Extreme’s BIOS is a testament to ASUS’s commitment to providing an optimal overclocking experience.

The user-friendly BIOS and features like dual BIOS with BIOS flashback allow easy customization and recovery. It enabled us to fine-tune our PC settings, achieve higher performance and push the hardware to its limits without unnecessary complications.

Aesthetically, the ROG Maximus XII Extreme delivered our system a sleek and modern look. With customizable RGB lighting and a design that strikes a perfect balance between elegance and eye-catching appeal, this motherboard blends seamlessly into any high-end build.

Who It’s For

The ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme is ideal for extreme overclockers and those prioritizing high-end performance. Its advanced VRM cooling configuration, decisive power stages, and excellent BIOS interface make it perfect for pushing Intel’s 10th Gen and later processors to their limits.

What We Liked Most

The Maximus XII Extreme leaves no stone unturned when delivering a top-tier experience. From its robust VRM cooling solution with an optional active cooling fan to its sixteen 90 A power stages, this motherboard delivers unmatched power for demanding CPUs.

Furthermore, the extensive connectivity options, including WiFi 6, 2.5 Gb/s LAN, and 10 Gb/s Ethernet, provide exceptional networking capabilities.

What Could Be Improved

The Maximus XII Extreme excels in many areas, but one drawback is its premium price tag. Additionally, the sheer heat produced by Intel’s dense Core i9-10900K can be a limitation when aiming for extreme overclocking scenarios.

Verdict

Overall, the ASUS ROG Maximus XII Extreme Z490 motherboard embodies performance and innovation. Its VRM cooling, power delivery, extensive connectivity, user-friendly BIOS, and stunning aesthetics make it the ultimate choice for those who demand nothing short of excellence from their motherboard.

How We Chose the Best Motherboards for Core i9-10900K

Since i9-10900K is a fairly old processor now, it’s easy to get confused about buying the best motherboard for it.

It is okay not to be clear about the buying approach that you should adopt.

Don’t worry, though. In this article, you’ll find the best circuit boards which are perfectly compatible with the CPU, and below I’ve explained how we’ve come up with the list.

Here are the factors we’ve considered to create the top motherboards list for the i9-10900K:

CPU Socket

First things first, we’ve considered the CPU socket with which the mobo is compatible.

We are talking about Intel core i9-10900K processors, for its motherboards with LGA1200 socket would be the right option.

In Z490 & Z590 chipsets, these sockets are available. And here you’ll find the best boards money can buy with those chipsets.

Type of Ports

To know about the I/O area is essential as it enables your motherboard to have external connections.

That is why, while compiling this list of best circuit boards, we’ve selected the ones with the most and fastest ports.

Thunderbolt 3 is mostly used though there are few budget-based options where it’s absent.

USB Type-C, USB 3.1/3.1(Gen 2), HDMI, and audio ports are also a few other ones that we have considered.

Number of RAM slots

Motherboards come up with different RAM slot numbers. It depends on their sizes.

Some can accommodate 2, some have 4, and others have 8. We chose the best one that suits your needs.

Budget

When compiling a list like this, it is crucial to consider various budget levels. We’ve reviewed the motherboards in various price ranges to satisfy a broad audience, including affordable choices and high-end offerings.

By doing so, we ensured that the list incorporated options that would be suitable for individuals with different budgets.

For being a more than 3 years old CPU, the i9-10900K is starting to show its age as it gets hotter when you try to run modern apps on it. So, nowadays, if you want to use the processor, you must get a high-quality cooler to compensate for the temperature. That’s why here’s a list of the best CPU Coolers suited for the i9-10900K.

FAQs

Which chipset for i9-10900K?

The Intel Core i9-10900K is integrated with Intel UHD Graphics 630 chipset. It has a dynamic frequency of 1.2 GHz and a graphics base frequency of 350 MHz. For more performance, you can overclock the processor.

Is it worth upgrading from 10900K to 11900K?

The performance jump from 10900K to 11900K is minimal, only 2% in real-world use cases. So, if you already use the 10th gen processor, I wouldn’t recommend buying an 11th gen CPU.

What is the highest overclock for i9-10900K?

The Core i9-10900K comes with a Processor Base Frequency of 3.7 GHz, which can be overclocked to a maximum of 5.3 GHz.