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Best Motherboards for i5 10600K

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Rustam Iqbal
Best Motherboards for i5 10600K

Building a PC specifically for gaming is a complex task. Several high-performance components like CPUGPU, and motherboard need to work seamlessly to deliver the best possible output they can manage. Even If one of the components is not matched correctly in compatibility and performance, the rig will underperform, resulting in a very unhappy gamer. The motherboard selection is equally important as the CPU and the GPU selection. If you are going for an Intel CPU, few obvious things are the socket and the chipset. For a 10th gen processor, a motherboard with LGA 1200 is a must with a Comet Lake Z490 chipset for optimum performance and compatibility.

 We are here to find out the best motherboard for i5 10600K. Being a mid-range CPU in the Intels showcase, it features six cores & twelve threads with a maximum frequency of up to 4.8 GHz. Intel Core i5-10600K is the best CPU in terms of value and delivers high-end performance without paying a hefty price like i7 and i9 CPUs. It even features integrated graphics (Intel UHD 630) which is often missing in K series flagship CPUs, making it even more lucrative for people who want to use it without an external GPU. When coupled with a suitable Z490 motherboard fully compatible with 10600K, you can achieve impressive performance and decent gameplay.

Here are some shopping tips to assist you in selecting the best motherboard for your PC.

Quick Shopping Tips:

SIZE: Size or form factor is usually dependent on the motive of the build. Most Gamers usually go with Mid-tower builds, which correspond to ATX size motherboards. Mid-Tower offers a balance between performance, feature set, and economy. On the other hand, enthusiasts and top performance seekers go with Full tower design (E-ATX motherboards) for ultimate customization and performance. Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX are more suited to entertainment and casual gaming PCs.

CPU SOCKET: Intel CPUs belonging to the 10th gen is compatible with LGA 1200 socket. Moreover, Z490 is the most compatible motherboard chipset for 10th gen CPUs. Z490 chipset is designed explicitly for Comet Lake CPUs to allow these CPUs to achieve their fullest potential. Its notable features are multiple PCIe 3.0 slots, v3.0 M.2 slots, DDR4 support up to 128 GBs, and USB 3.2 G2 and G1 slots.   

M.2 Slots: Games are getting extremely resource-intensive nowadays. The top AAA titles can take a lot of time while loading, causing a nuisance for the gamers. M.2 slots are significantly faster than SATA drives. The M.2 drives have sped up to 4 GB/s while SATA drives only have up to 600 Mbps. So M.2 drives result in faster loading during games and an overall boost in system performance.

Multi GPU Support: The installation of multiple graphics cards is a new norm for enthusiasts and flagship builds. Multi-GPU support comes in handy for top-end 4K gaming and cryptocurrency mining purposes. But not all motherboards support both SLI and AMD crossfire technologies. Be sure to select your GPU before choosing the motherboard to find the most suitable selection with the required compatibility.

Best Motherboards for i5 10600K at a glance:

  1. GIGABYTE Z490 AORUS Xtreme
  2. ASUS ROG Maximus XII Apex
  3. MSI MEG Z490 GODLIKE
  4. MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi
  5. Gigabyte Z490 AORUS ELITE AC
  6. ASUS Z490-E ROG STRIX GAMING
  7. ASUS ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming WiFi
  8. MSI MEG Z490I Unify

The Best Motherboards for i5 10600K You Can Buy Today

GIGABYTE Z490 AORUS Xtreme

GIGABYTE Z490 AORUS Xtreme

Best Premium Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: E-ATX | Voltage Regulator: 16+1 | PCIe x16: 2 | Memory: 128GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 15 | Warranty: 3 Year

REASONS TO BUY

 Intel Thunderbolt 3 Onboard

 Armored slots for PCIe and RAM

 Easier BIOS flashing via Q-flash

REASONS TO AVOID

 Heavy

 No USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port

Aorus is the most famous, gaming-centric, and highest performing motherboard by Gigabyte that features premium motherboards with eye-catching design and superior performance. GIGABYTE Z490 AORUS Xtreme is the top-of-the-line motherboard within the Aorus lineup. It supports the latest 10th gen Intel CPUs and is the Best Premium Motherboard for i5-10600K due to its excellent performance and mouth-watering feature set.

Aorus Xtreme is the best motherboard for i5 10600K as it supports memory overclocking up to 5000MHz on a four DIMM board, which is an impressive feat. The I/O panel is fully protected with an I/O shield and offers expansion for additional hi-speed I/O. The network adapters are top-of-the-line Aquantia 10G and Intel 2.5G. At the same time, WiFI-6 uses an Intel AX201 module to ensure reliable, the fastest data transmission over the network, and lag-free online sessions of your favorite games.

The price of premium features and top-notch performance is undoubtedly going to cost extra, but you can’t go wrong with this motherboard. The RAM and PCI slots are both armored for more excellent reliability. The VRM is a highly stable 16 stage power delivery with a massive 90A per stage output that is sufficient to overclock any existent CPU to its max without even needing extra cooling. Undoubtedly, Aorus Xtreme is a gem that is most suitable for top-gaming and overclocking rigs.

ASUS ROG Maximus XII Apex

ASUS ROG Maximus XII Apex

Best Flagship Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 16 | PCIe x16: 2 | Memory: 64GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 18 | Warranty: 3 Years

REASONS TO BUY

 Built-in I/O shield

 Blazing-fast WIFI-6

 Superior VRM cooling

REASONS TO AVOID

 No U.2 ports

 Fiddly SATA panel

Intense high FPS gaming is trending for quite some time among the gaming community. It requires a build with flagship performance and the highest overclocking capacity. ASUS ROG Maximus XII Apex is the Best Flagship Motherboard for i5-10600K due to its top-of-the-line performance and extreme overclocking ability. Although it’s slightly expensive, you don’t look at the price when you go for the best. 

Extreme overclocking is no easy feat. It is achieved by using LN2 (liquid nitrogen cooling) mode to push the VRM to its limits and get the most stable output for the CPU. Overclocking is not the only thing where Apex is good. Its premium features like superior audio module, plenty of high-speed and SATA storage options, and comprehensive cooling strategy make it the best motherboard for i5-10600K for gaming and productivity. 

Apex is a good-looking motherboard with subtle aesthetics. Lowkey RGBs are installed below the I/O shield, illuminated ROG symbol on the chipset heatsink, giving it a pleasant feel and satisfying vibe. Apex features only 02 RAM slots supporting up to 64 GBs, and you don’t need any more RAM than that in a gaming setup. Overall it’s the best buy for hardcore gamers and extreme overclockers.

MSI MEG Z490 GODLIKE

MSI MEG Z490 GODLIKE

Best Overall Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: E-ATX | Voltage Regulator: 16 | PCIe x16: 3 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 19 | Warranty: 3 Years

REASONS TO BUY

 Super-fast 10G Ethernet

 M.2 expander out-of-the-box

 8-layer PCB for better thermals

REASONS TO AVOID

 No Legacy Interfaces

 Bigger PC Case required

With the launch of 10th gen Intel processors providing higher clock speeds and better-overclocking margins, providing the best environment for overclocking is a must. Most Z490 motherboards focus on delivering a stable noise-free output via VRM to the Comet Lake CPUs, while some offer the most premium features for tweaking and productivity. If you want an i5 10600K motherboard that delivers the best of both worlds, MSI MEG Z490 GODLIKE must be your choice.

Godlike is the Best Overall Motherboard for i5-10600K by MSI focused on top-end performance in productivity and gaming alike. Its 16 stage VRM is the best in the market providing 90A per stage super clean and consistent output to the CPU to achieve the maximum clock speed it can bear. The VRM is cooled effectively and efficiently by an active cooled finned Heatsink.

Connectivity is blazing fast and secure with 10G /2.5G dual Ethernet and WIFI 6 modules. The motherboard does not lack premium features as well. Its I/O panel is fully packed with multiple USB ports, including super-fast Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.2 ports. The more excellent storage is fully covered with three heatsinked M.2 slots and 6 SATA ports. It is beyond doubt the most suitable motherboard for Enthusiasts and performance builds.

MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi

MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi

Best Enthusiast Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 12+1+1 | PCIe x16: 2 | Memory: 128GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 20 | Warranty: 3 Year

REASONS TO BUY

 Twin Turbo M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr

 Dedicated high definition audio processor

 Provides high-bandwidth & low latency network

REASONS TO AVOID

 No SLI support

 VRM runs hotter on MAX load

MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi is the Best Enthusiast Motherboard for i5-10600K, which is suitable for gaming and famous due to its good benchmarks and customizable fully-featured RGBs it the center of attention. The motherboard offers a complete thermal solution with high-conductivity 7W/mK thermal pad heatsinks, an entire coverage chipset heatsink, and integrated liquid cooling pump control. 

MSI even packed some premium features in the GAMING Edge motherboard but is limited to essentials to keep costs low. These features include dual PCIe 3.0 slots supporting multi-GPU configuration, dual M.2 slots for faster load times, and 06 SATA ports for extensive storage. Connectivity is standard with a single 2.5G ethernet and WIFI-6, which is not flagship but acceptable. It is the best motherboard for i5 10600K for gamers who don’t like paying extra for nonessential premium features.

The rear panel contains all the vital USB ports, including but not limited to USB 3.2 G2 (20Gbps), USB 3.2 (10Gbps), and USB 3.2 G1 ports for faster data transfers across peripherals and external drives. The latest Bluetooth 5.1 support is added for connectivity with the latest BT devices, while a PS/2 port is also available for older keyboard and mouse people. Overall it’s a mid-range gaming motherboard with attractive RGBs and above-average performance.

Gigabyte Z490 AORUS ELITE AC

Gigabyte Z490 AORUS ELITE AC

Best Budget Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 12+1 | PCIe x16: 1 | Memory: 64 GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 16 | Warranty: 3 Year

REASONS TO BUY

 Ultra-fast 2.5Gbps Ethernet

 Multiple Temperature Sensors

 Onboard USB 3.2 G1 and G2 port

REASONS TO AVOID

 No WIFI-6

 No SLI support

Gigabyte Z490 AORUS ELITE AC is an entry-level gaming motherboard that is part of the Aorus lineup. It is the Best Budget Motherboard for i5-10600K, famous for its suitably featured motherboard with decent performance at a reasonably low price. It contains all the standard features you would expect for a decent motherboard at this price range, like 2.5G ethernet, 802.11ac WIFI, and three M.2 slots. Although WIFI 6 isn’t present, you won’t miss it anyway.

The VRM is a fully featured 12 stage power delivery with 600A of total output for the CPU that is enough for decent overclocking, making it the best motherboard for i5-10600K at a tight budget. Although not exceptional, Thermal performance is adequate with 5W/mK thermal pads, larger chipset heatsinks, and M.2 thermal shields.

Aorus Elite brings the same durability and strength as the Aorus lineup trademark by introducing armored expansion and memory slots, and more robust power supply connectors. RAM overclocking is taken to its extreme with up to 5000 MHz OC capability and XMP support. Superior aesthetics is achieved by full customization of RGB LEDs via RGB fusion. It’s an overall well-balanced motherboard in the budget segment.

ASUS Z490-E ROG STRIX GAMING

ASUS Z490-E ROG STRIX GAMING

Best ATX Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 14+2 | PCIe x16: 2 | Memory: 128 GB DDR4 | USB Ports: | Warranty: 3 Years

REASONS TO BUY

 DDR4 4600 MHz (OC)

 MOS Heatsink with U-shaped Heatpipe

 AI Overclocking, AI Cooling, and AI Networking.

REASONS TO AVOID

 XMP in EZ BIOS only

 No M.2 installation with Heat shroud removal

If we divide motherboards into categories based on performance and features, ASUS Z490-E ROG STRIX GAMING comes just above the middle. Its performance matches some high-end motherboards but only packing essential elements. ROG Strix is the Best ATX Motherboard for i5-10600K for the average gamer with a reasonable price. 

ROG Strix performed well in the CPU-intensive tasks (like compression, rendering, encoding, etc.), but it achieved an average score in productivity applications. Just as expected, ROG Strix is a gaming-centric motherboard with 14+2 stage power delivery. We pushed the CPU to its peak frequency, which was only limited by CPU thermals, not by the VRM. ROG Strix proved to be a suitable i5 10600K motherboard for gaming and overclocking. 

The cooling philosophy of ROG Strix is thorough and effective, implemented by using an oversized heat sink covering the chipset and the VRM and connecting with M.2 heat spreader to greater efficiency. The VRM supports an additional cooling fan for extreme overclockers. All the vital features like 2.5G Ethernet, WIFI-6, and immersive audio solutions keep the gamer engaged in their lag-free gaming sessions.

ASUS ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming WiFi

ASUS ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming WiFi

Best mATX Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: Micro-ATX | Voltage Regulator: 12+2 | PCIe x16: 2 | Memory: 128GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 16 | Warranty: 3 Year

REASONS TO BUY

 Premium feature set

 5 Gold-plated audio jacks

 Dual Channel Memory Architecture

REASONS TO AVOID

 No onboard power/reset button

 PCIe and RAM slots are too close

ASUS ROG Strix Z490-G Gaming WiFi is a smaller-sized mid-range ASUS motherboard for the Comet Lake processors. It is the Best mATX Motherboard for i5-10600K with enhanced power delivery, improved cooling design, and comprehensive ROG software to achieve the best all-rounded performance. Its shiny heatsinks, pitch-black shade, and addressable colorful RGBs ensure it always remains the center of attention. 

ASUS ROG has put a lot of effort into the certifications of their motherboard to achieve the maximum level of compatibility for a broader range of equipment. The official website also includes a certified vendor list for devices to ensure a trouble-free PC building experience. The cooling philosophy ensures the motherboard chipset and VRM remain cooler at maximum load with the help of an optimized heat sink design and customizable fan control. 

Z490-G Gaming is the best motherboard for i5 10600K packing a solid punch. Don’t be deceived by its small size. It packs some impressive features like dual M.2 slots, 2.5Gbps ethernet, and WIFI 6 for better connectivity and even Bluetooth 5.1. Furthermore, ASUS has designed 5-way comprehensive optimization software for optimum cooling and overclocking performance to sweeten the deal further.

MSI MEG Z490I Unify
MSI MEG Z490I Unify (Image credit: Amazon)

MSI MEG Z490I Unify

Best mITX Motherboard for i5-10600K

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel Z490 | Form Factor: Mini-ITX | Voltage Regulator: 8 | PCIe x16: 1 | Memory: 64 GB DDR4 | USB Ports: 17 | Warranty: 3 years

REASONS TO BUY

 Thunderbolt-3 port

 Fully aluminum IO cover

 Excellent overclocking ability

REASONS TO AVOID

 No PCIe x1 slot

 Only one PCIe x16 slot

MSI MEG Z490I Unify is the compacted version of the top-end and feature-packed Z490 motherboards like ACE and GODLIKE series at a bargain price. It is somewhat new to the MSI lineup and the Best mITX Motherboard for i5-10600K for budget gamers requiring only top performance and not the needless premium features.

MEG Unify is the best motherboard for i5-10600K, packing a solid 90A eight-stage power delivery to your 10th Gen CPU for stable and decent overclocking. The RAM slot is armored and overclockable up to a whopping 5000 MHz to further add to the performance and strength. Since it’s the smallest form factor motherboard, we only see one armored PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, but the dual M.2 slots are routed via PCH, so the x16 lane is not subdivided on M.2 installation.

Connectivity is optimal and fast with 2.5G LAN and WIFI-6, so you get the lowest latency in your online games.  Moreover, USB connections are precise and well packed with a thunderbolt 3 (40GBPS) port, USB 3.2 G2, G1 ports, and USB 2.0 ports. MEG Unify is a solid-built, optimum cooled, excellent performing motherboard suitable for enthusiasts who prefer performance over features.

Conclusion

We hope you are now in favor of motherboard selection principles and decided on the most suitable motherboard that matches your requirements. The motherboards recommended above are selected after comprehensive research and to help you save precious time on research. The best flagship performance motherboard with the best set of features is the GIGABYTE Z490 AORUS Xtreme. It boasts all the newest and cutting-edge features you dream of your motherboard. Although it comes at a premium price, you shouldn’t worry about the price if you want the ultimate performance and features set.

For most people buying the most premium flagship motherboard is not the most appropriate choice. The motherboard that provides the best value for money is Gigabyte Z490 AORUS ELITE AC which delivers excellent overall performance and vital features and has one of the highest performance-price ratios. It packs a superb build quality and adequate thermal performance for extreme loads. It is suitable for average gamers and most people who value performance over features.

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