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Best Motherboard For i5-13600K (Z690, Z790, B650)

For making your processor limitless, the best motherboards for i5-13600K has got our attention and we are ready to guide you through. In order to make this work, your feature list from the chosen board means a lot. Starting it off with the compatibility of 7000 series chipset, our recommended one is the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-A plus Wi-Fi. To select this chipset, you are opening gates to more expansion slots and more overclocking abilities.

From the house of ATX form factor, you are getting better dimensions, more lanes in PCIe 5.0 gaming connectivity. Since we are not ignoring the LGA 1700 socket, you can easily connect your 12th and 13th generation processors with this feature. No matter what chipset you choose, you have to go with one memory type. It can be either DDR5 as it is in MSI pro Z690-A or DDR4 as seen in Gigabyte Z690 gaming X with 128Gb capacity.

The USB ports have more ports in Z790 motherboard as they can support USB 3.2 Gen 2 X2 type C for 20Gbps speed, thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.0 and display port 1.4. Some of the headers can be for RGB for the gamers that like the LED aesthetic. Your connectivity will also have some audio ports as well. On the other hand, Wi-Fi 6 with 2.5G LAN is making networking wholesome and speedy as ASUS TUF contains.

Furthermore, the cooling technology can e of various sorts like premium, comprehensive or AI that will include various components. They can be VRM heatsinks, PCH fanless heatsink, M.2, hybrid fan headers etc to keep the rising temperatures at optimal level. Now you do not have to worry about a thing and you can just start with your work or play top tier games without waiting.

Our Recommended list of the Best Motherboard For i5-13600K

  1. MSI PRO B660M-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard
  2. MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 Gaming Motherboard
  3. ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 Gaming Motherboard
  4. MSI PRO Z690-A ProSeries Motherboard
  5. GIGABYTE Z690 Gaming X DDR4 Gaming Motherboard
  6. ASUS Prime Z690-A ATX Motherboard

i5-13600K Motherboard Requirements:

  1. LGA 1700 socket
  2. Wi-Fi 6 or 2.5G LAN
  3. PCIe 5.0 for gaming connectivity
  4. For overclocking: Z690 or Z790 chipset
  5. For non overclocking: B550 chipset
  6. USB 3.2 Gen 2 type A and 6 up to 8 ports recommended
  7. ATX form factor is suggested
  8. RGB LEDs: up to the user’s interest and taste
  9. Enlarged heatsinks and other cooling features to keep the extra heat away
  10. DDR5 memory with 128Gb capacity is best
  11. Bios should be enabled and comfortable to use

i5-13600K vs i5-12600K

  • Cores: 14 cores vs 10 cores
  • Release: comparatively newer vs somewhat older
  • Cache: 24Mb vs 20Mb
  • Price: $319 vs $218
  • TDP: 125W vs 150W
  • Clock speed: 3.5GHz vs 3.7 GHz
  • Turbo speed: 5.2GHz vs 4.9GHz
  • Socket: LGA1700 vs LGA 1700

1- MSI PRO B660M-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard

MSI PRO B660M-A WiFi ProSeries Motherboard

It is good news for many users that have decided to upgrade their 12th generation processors. This product is programmed to be one of the powerful bases for your PC towards the 13th generation. Being a B660 motherboard, the user has the choice to remain in their budget and still build a worthy PC. It supports LGA 1700 sockets to get on board with most of the latest processors.

With the DDR5 memory support is the backup you get for the DDR4 performs great without using too much power. Its capacity is 128Gb, which will be more than enough for keeping your record high in the competition. Even though the B660 chipset is not really planned out for overclocking, you can still achieve the maxed out performance. Thanks to the core boost that has your back through the premium layout.

The digital power design and layout is planned to give you the cores for most boosters in terms of performance and reliability. Your signal strength comes to an extent of memory boost because it is loaded with advanced technology. Up to 6200 MHz speed is possible once you get to the point of getting the highest memory speed. It should not be a question in line about the stability of this motherboard because it is well equipped with certain features.

On top of that, lightning fast PCIe 4.0 connection in gen 4 x4 M.2 slots plus M.2 shield Frozr. Now you can manage the workflows professionally and troubleshooting will come to the minimum. Besides the PCIe interface for the GPU you will be putting in this beast, keep in mind the optical SPDIF connector type.This board is also compatible with Radeon RX 6950 XT board.

Comparison:

MSI pro has some roots in the MAG B660M MORTAR motherboard as it also comes in the same price tag as this board. With the performance test results, even though MSI Pro has better leverage over the mortar version there are some differences to note. You get to see more connectors in audio, USB and even display ports etc.

Pros:

  • 1700 socket
  • DDR5 memory
  • PCIe 4.0 M.2
  • All black premium look
  • Realtek Codec
  • ATX form factor

Cons:

  • Absence of RGB
  • Only 6 USB ports

2- MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 Gaming Motherboard

MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi DDR4 Gaming Motherboard

From the MSI’s MAG entry level to mid range, TOMAHAWK Z790 is only in the starting stairs. This is an LGA 1700 motherboard that has its focus more on the essential features rather than making it a feature product. It does have dual variants in the memory while this one is more about the DDR4 version that has no less performance than any other memory. MSI ensures that this one is loaded with features despite being from the entry level series.

Starting from the 16+1+1 VRM, we also get to see PCIe gen 5 slots for the GPU integration. The brand has put together 4 M.2 Gen 4 sockets and 7 SATA connectors. When the gaming action is coming into life, Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5G LAN will be able to help you network and transfer those signals faster than before. Having integrated graphics will depend on the type of processor you pair it with.

Speaking of CPU, if it is also a budget friendly i5-13600K, you have HDMI 2.1 and Display port 1.4 as well. With the capacity of 128Gb in the memory, it reaches up to 5333+ MHz of speed in dual channel mode. The expansion slots also offer PCIe 5.0 x16 slots which is a depiction of stepping into the future of speed. When it comes to rear ports, we have rich connectivity such as 4x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 2 and single USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports parallel to each other.

Coming out in ATX form factor, it measures 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm to fit in the PC case according to the perfect size as it is. Its other incredible features that will light up your gaming PC include USB 20G lighting fast, memory boost, Froze AI cooling, Audio boost 5 and premium PCB. 

Comparison:

When you can choose between the DDR4 and DDR5 options, this is the decent choice all users have in this age. MSI DDR4 version has its competition with MAG Z690 Tomahawk gaming motherboard. The difference lies in memory speed, thermal solution and Wi-Fi solution because the z790 version beats it.

Pros:

  • Premium black look
  • Up to 4 M.2 sockets
  • Reasonable price for the chipset
  • Z790 chipset
  • Latest socket support

Cons:

  • No RGB included
  • Lesser USB ports than others
  • Wi-Fi might use too much voltage

3- ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 Gaming Motherboard

ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi D4 Gaming Motherboard

Being a z790 motherboard, ASUS TUF gaming is a relatively cheaper option for a minimalistic board construction. The front design of this one definitely gets a good recommendation because it will look great with the terms of design build. This is not an expensive or aesthetically pleasing board but occasionally RGB makes it interesting. You can customize the RGB on the bottom right and top side of the chassis according to your mood.

There is an extensive list of features on the product starting from the 16+1 power stages of VRM. The user gets to connect LGA 1700 sockets for all the 12th and 13th generation processors. Besides this, procool sockets, military grade components ensure the durability of the motherboard. Being Windows 11 ready right out of the box helps you to get the upgrades already on the system rather than waiting and feeling left out.

When it comes to cooling the extra heat off, an enlarged heatsink is present to retain the power delivery consistently. Once you get this problem under control, no one can beat you at what you are best at. You still have the option to upgrade your GPU with the standard PCIe 5.0 connections for better bandwidth. Having the addition of Gen 4 M.2 slots enables you to install several SSDs.

Even though there is no DDR5 memory boost, overclockability allows you to push the DDR4 memory speed up to 5333MHz. A variety of applications will get the boost required for them to match the type of performance you are expecting from the chipset. Although there are no USB ports on the rear I/O panel, your thunderbolt 4 case will fit right into the ASUS’s header at the bottom of this motherboard. Now you can fast charge devices or transfer files at 40Gb/s speed. 

Comparison:

When the ASUS TUF board in Z790 chipset is compared with the Z690 option, we get to see the identical feature on the USB ports. We do not get to see thunderbolt 4 ports because the price can be raised with this feature alone as it is done in expensive ones. You can customize your board with a magnetic panel from the heatsink at the bottom.

Pros:

  • Overclocking supported
  • PCIe 5.0 slots
  • Rich USB connections
  • Reasonable price
  • Al black PCB design
  • Z790 chipset
  • RGB inclusive

Cons:

  • Odd logo placement
  • No Gen 2 M.2 slots
  • NO DDR5 support

4- MSI PRO Z690-A ProSeries Motherboard

MSI PRO Z690-A ProSeries Motherboard

You got to see the wonders of a z690 motherboard that can do some serious business while integrated in your rig. Featuring the LGA 1700 socket and coming with a chipset that has great value for its price tag, you can conquer almost anything. Either it is in the gaming community or being productive for hours, get most of the work done with Intel core, pentium Gold and celeron CPUs.

MSI Pro Zz690-A pro series have come with a powerful solution that has an extended PWM with 7W/mK thermal padding. This feature is enabled to provide an evenly distributed processor speed and power to all the components. A featured M.2 Shield Frozr is integrated with heatsink to keep the M.2 drive from throttling. As much as the BIOS is comfortable, it is fully controllable via software.

The user can utilize 6 layers of PCB alongside the thick copper to ensure higher bandwidth reaches and he gets to enjoy faster speeds. When it comes to connectivity, RJ45 and 2.4G ethernet port can allow faster internet connectivity. This board is optimized for lower latency and has its focus on latency sensitive applications. Your gaming connectivity can reach higher ends with PCIe 5.0 support.this board is also suported by i9-12900K , i5-12600KF

Not to forget about the intel optane memory support, DDR5 on the other hand is programmed to give you 2133Mhz speed boost. Having 128Gb of capacity is well into the wild for keeping multitasking easy at hand. Once you get yourself familiar with 14+1+1 power design, this VRM will ensure the core boost technology gets into action whenever needed. Last but not the least, USB 3.2 gen 2×2 type C, is present on the front  and rear I/O panel as well.

Comparison:

MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi version is something to look at if you are keen about getting the maximum clout for networking purposes. This product does not come with Wi-Fi antenna, bluetooth 5.2 or Wi-Fi 6E integrated while the other has it. This is the basic difference in these 2 competitors of the same brand as other features are almost identical. The price will also differ a little due to the addition of some features as the Wi-Fi version can cost you around $215.

Pros:

  • DDR5 support
  • Value for price
  • Open for overclocking
  • Comfortable BIOS
  • Radiators with heating elements

Cons:

  • No Wi-Fi

5- GIGABYTE Z690 Gaming X DDR4 Gaming Motherboard

GIGABYTE Z690 Gaming X DDR4 Gaming Motherboard

For saving some spare cash, you can rely on a budget option for your PC building in this Gigabyte Z690 gaming X. It serves you the option to get on board with the specific memory type of DDR4. With great value for money, the features list is loaded with many useful and worthy specs. Besides the fact that you need to have a USB dongle or PCIe card for using wired connection because Wi-Fi is missing in this one.

Through the addition of a chipset, you must know that this one is programmed for overclocking as well. On top of that, LGA 1700 socket will make sure you get this connected with the latest processors. With sturdy design that will give the power to other components in the list. Thanks to the 16+1+2 phases that also give way to digital VRM design for a more stable supply of fuel.

On top of htat, thermal comprehensive design is covering the MOSFET heatsinks alongside thermal guards. It is responsible for taking away any heat that might disrupt the perfect balance of your performing beast. You need next generation USB connectivity to keep the fun and games going which is why Gigabyte is mastering this art. The brand has added PCIe 5.0, 4.0×4 USB 3.2 gen 2 x2 type C.

For aesthetics, RGB fusion 2.0 is great for setting the mood to work everyday according to your taste. This feature also helps the PC look interesting and visually appealing from the tempered glass of the PC case.

Comparison:

If we look at the same brand, Gigabyte’s super invention is Z690 Aorus Pro in the same DDR4 version. This board has some similarities yet other differences in the features and a big raise in the price tag. Aorus pro version has more fan headers, bluetooth, 1 more USB 3.2 Gen port, Wifi 6 and previous versions support. But all this comes with a price and might not be a great option for budget conscious users.

Pros:

  • Many ports on the chassis
  • Reasonable price tag
  • LGA 1700 support
  • PCIe 5.0
  • RGB addition

Cons:

  • No Wi-Fi present
  • Mediocre audio 

6- ASUS Prime Z690-A ATX Motherboard

ASUS Prime Z690-A ATX Motherboard

Whenever users are in need of a viable option for their budget PC, ASUS never fails to amaze and assist them. Prime Z690-A is another great product especially for the i5 13600k motherboard to keep all the features under one flagship without going bankrupt! This comes with Intel’s LGA 1700 socket support that is used in most of the 12th and 13th generation processors. Further, Windows 11 support right out of the box also gives you the opportunity to get started with this beast and not wait for upgrades.

One of the coolest things about this board is that it is designed to work in the most modern way through artificial intelligence. This involves AI cooling, 2 way noise canceling, overclocking and more. For the power draw that is the crucial part of your PC components, the enhanced power solution has come to the rescue. It is endorsed with 16+1 DrMOS, ProCool sockets and sturdy capacitors to keep the stability in the power.

Cooling is another important part of this performer which is equipped with a large VRM heatsink for keeping the temperatures actively low. Other than this, an M.2 heatsink, M.2 backplate hybrid fan headers and fan Xpert 4 is also included in this feature. Now you do not have to worry about the rising temperatures slowing you down as long as the cooling solution is at your service.

As for the memory, DDR5 support with 128Gb capacity does not need any kind of recognition. We all know that this is the fastest of all and it will deliver rapid fast speed to the user whenever it is needed. Something even faster is the gaming connectivity PCIe 5.0 and Intel 2.5G ethernet are waiting for you to conquer the digital world. Most importantly, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 type C on both front panels with thunderbolt 4 header is enough to dazzle you with amazing bandwidth for rapid transfer speed.

Comparison:

Both based on Z690 chipset, ASUS prime Z690-P has some similarities with Z690-A and differences. We can already see a price increase in Z590-A because it comes with 4 M.2 slots in total and better security with 2x 4pin pump header for liquid cooling.

Pros:

  • Storage is free from lane sharing
  • Dual USB C ports
  • 4x M.2 sockets
  • LGA 1700 socket support
  • Z690 chipset for overclocking
  • Thunderbolt 4
  • Aura Sync RGB

Cons:

  • Wi-Fi is missing
  • Only 4 SATA ports

Best Motherboard For i5-13600K Buying Guide

Most of the buyers, especially beginners, can make simple mistakes while getting their motherboard for building a fantastic rig. From the list above, our best suggested product is the ASUS TUF gaming Z790-plus as it has all the bells and whistles. From upgraded Windows, ATX form factor, and whatnot, you can rely on this bad boy especially if you are tight on the budget.

Let us go through some of the important features that you must not ignore while shopping for your motherboard. Especially for an entry level processor like i5-13600K from Intel’s 13th generation, these factors will help you choose the right one!

Socket:

One of the most important parts of your motherboard will be the socket it supports besides the form factor. We all know that the form is all about dimensions and expansion slots etc, but the socket is how you are going to connect it with the rest of the system. So an LGA 1700 socket or AMD AM5 socket are the latest. They will connect all the 12th and even 13th generation processors with your motherboard.

Chipset:

There are 3 common types of chipsets present in the market namely Z690, Z790, B550 that are mostly used by customers. The difference between them is that the first 2 are programmed to give you overclocking benefits and have the 13th generation CPU capabilities by the manufacturer. If you do not plan to use overclocking, a B550 chipset will be a great option for you. This only means that your system will push its limit whenever needed in certain modern games or work.

Memory:

When it comes to memory, you will be able to use whatever type of memory you prefer as long as your motherboard supports it. It does not have to do anything with the chipset type so that is a relief. The latest is the DDR5 with up to 128Gb capacity but keep in mind that both these memory types are not backward compatible with each other. So you have to decide which one you want to go with.

Where DDR5 helps you with high-capacity DIMMs, DDR4 is designed to serve double stock data rates. Your memory speed can go as high as 6200 MHz as seen in MSI Pro B660M-A WiFi pro series. 

Networking:

It is a great choice to look for Wi-Fi 6 or 6E for networking with your fandom and throughout the world. This feature will give you faster bandwidth and more coverage to reach the far ends along with 2.5G ethernet.

Ports:

Another factor includes the connectivity you will be getting that also relates to the form factor of your motherboard. Most of the Z690 and 790 boards support the USB 3.2 gen 2 x2 type C that gives you 20Gbps of speed. Some products like ASUS Prime Z690-A also offer thunderbolt 4 for up to 40 Gbps of transfer rate. Besides HDMI 2.0, display ports, the audio ports also hold great importance.

PCIe Expansion:

These expansion slots for top tier gaming connectivity are also related to the chipset you might be choosing. The Z690 and 790 have more flexibility when it comes to PCIe dual x8 structure while other H and B chipsets can be limited to only a single x16 slot.

Cooling:

Last but not the least, cooling can be of various types in various motherboards so make sure you have premium components attached in it. They can be enlarged or VRM heatsinks, hybrid fan headers and more. If you prefer AI cooling, that also saves you the trouble to control it as the system will detect and work on its own whenever the temperature is getting too hot.

FAQs

Which Chipset Is Best For i5 13600K?

For an entry level processor like 15-13600K in the latest generation, it is best to stick with Z690 or Z790 rather than B550 or H670. The former ones offer more flexibility and storage options as well as expansion slots than the latter.

What Does The “K” In i5 13600K Means?

The “K” in the processor’s name only means that it is programmed to be overclockable.

How Much Wattage Is Required In A PSU For Core i5-13600K?

From 500 to 800W of PSU will work great for your core i5-13600K as the basic need of power.

Also See:

Best CPU Cooler for i5-13600K

Author

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  • Areesha

    Areesha is a tech enthusiast and a freelance writer who loves to share her insights on the latest gadgets and innovations. She has been reviewing tech products for over five years, covering everything from smartphones, laptops, cameras, smartwatches, headphones, and more. She enjoys testing out new features, comparing different models, and giving honest feedback to her readers. Areesha’s reviews are always informative, engaging, and easy to understand. Whether you are looking for a new device, a gift idea, or just curious about the tech world, Areesha’s reviews will help you make the best decision. You can find her work on various websites and blogs, such as [TechCrunch], [CNET], [The Verge], and [Gizmodo]. You can also follow her on [Twitter] and [Instagram] to get the latest updates on her reviews and projects. Areesha is always open to suggestions and feedback from her audience, so feel free to contact her anytime. She is looking forward to hearing from you!

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