Best Z690 Motherboard Reviews in 2023 [DDR5 & DDR4]

Do you want to build your new PC with the latest Intel 12th gen processor?

If yes, then you need good compatible motherboards.

And Z690 motherboards are compatible with the latest Intel CPUs such as Core I9, Core I7, and Core I5. So, If you are looking for the best Z690 motherboard, read this guide before buying any motherboard.

This depth guide will help you to pick the perfect motherboard for any Intel 12th gen processor.

Before starting, let’s talk a little bit about the 12th gen processor.

Intel launched the 12th generation Core processor in November 2021. The new Intel 12th gen core CPUs codename is Alder Lake, fabricated using Intel’s Intel 7 process.

Their 12th gen segment has excellent CPUs, such as flagship Intel Core i9 12900K and Intel Core i7 12700K. In the mid-range segment, you can pick Intel core i5 12600K. If you want without GPU, then intel Core i5 12600KF will be a great option. Also, I have reviewed the best motherboard for the i9 12900K processor and the best motherboard for 12700K.

There are many changes and improvements have done in new 12th generation CPUs. The significant difference in the new 12th gen CPUs segment is the LGA1700 socket, PCIe 5.0 connectivity, DDR5 RAM support, and WiFi 6E. In addition, Intel’s latest 12th-generation processors will support DDR4 RAM as well.

All Z690 chipsets-based motherboards are specially designed for gaming and High performance. You can also read our best gaming motherboard guide. There are many options available, and choosing the best Z690 motherboards for your new CPU is not easy.

If you plan to buy a 12th gen processor, you need to buy an Intel 600 series chipset-based motherboard. Intel Z690 chipset is one of them. Also, if you want to build your PC with the latest 13th gen processor, then you must check the guide of the best z790 motherboard.

List of Best Z690 Motherboard

Top 10 Best Z690 Motherboard Reviews

In this guide, I have rounded up 10 Z690 motherboards. I have picked the three best DDR4 Z690 motherboards and 7 DDR5 Z690 motherboards.

1. Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Master

• DDR5 Support
• ATX Motherboard
• AQUANTIA 10GbE
• Q-FLASH PLUS Button

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If you are looking for a High-end Z690 motherboard, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Master will be the best option. There are many reasons why I love this board. Let’s move on…

It’s an ATX form factor mobo and is only compatible with DDR5 RAM. So if you plan to buy GSKILL RAM, you need to update BIOS.

Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Master is great for overclocking because of the superb power delivery capability having VRM 19+1+2. In addition, the performance of this motherboard is excellent.

It has M.2 Thermal Guard III for your M.2 Storage. In addition, it supports DisplayPort 1.2 version and HDCP 2.3.

Besides, it has one x16 PCIe 5.0 standard slot running at x16 and two x16 PCIe slots running at x4. The PCIe 5.0 slot has SMD Armor for strength.

Also, it has Realtek ALC1220-VB CODEC for audio which is better than the previous Z590 version.

It has a dedicated Q-flash plus button that will help you update BIOS without installing the CPU.

Overall, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Master comes with many unique features and excellent build quality. It will be great for i9 12900K and i7 12700K. So, If you don’t have any budget issues, you can go for this. It’s a good value for money motherboard compared to other high-end Z690 motherboards.

2. Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX DDR4

• ATX Motherboard
• Only DDR4 Support
• WiFi 6
• Q-FLASH Plus Onboard Button

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The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX is an excellent DDR4 Z690 motherboard from the brand Gigabyte. If you don’t want DDR5 support, then this will be the perfect pick in this price range.

This motherboard is suitable for overclocking and gaming. It has 16 VCORE twin phases with 60A DrMOS, 1 VCCGT phase with 50A DrMOS, and 2 VCCAUX phases with 70A DRMOS to get maximum performance. Also, this motherboard has Hybrid core optimization technology.

For the cooling part, Gigabyte has done a great job. The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX has M.2 thermal guard along with a 5W/mK thermal pad. To improve performance and better cooling, they have chosen a multi-cut design that helps to flow the air seamlessly.

It has a sound system of Amp-Up Audio having  ALC1220-VB and WIMA Audiophile Capacitors. This will provide great sound quality, which will be helpful during gaming.

The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX is a good mid-range Z690 DDR4 motherboard having essential features and minimal design. It is a good option if you do not require inbuilt Wi-Fi 6E and DDR5 support. This motherboard will be perfect for Intel Core i5 or Intel Core i7. I will not recommend this motherboard for the i9 processor.

3. MSI MEG Z690 Unify

• ATX Motherboard
• DDR5 Support
• Dual 2.5G LAN
• WiFi 6E

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If you are finding the best MSI Z690 motherboard, the MSI MEG Z690 Unify will be the perfect pick. This motherboard will be a good pick for Intel Core I9.

The double-sided design of the Shield Frozr M.2 SSDs makes them run faster at the same time, making them safe and preventing throttling.

Further, it has an amazing Cooling Solution provided with aluminum covering, 7W/mK thermal pads, a Double-sided M.2 Shield Frozr, a VRM Heat-pipe as well as a Backplate of aluminum which ensures that users can enjoy extreme performances at low temperatures.

The box comes with a variety of wires, that you can use for your setup. In addition, it comes with a pretty solid antenna for WiFi. The board runs quite smoothly and maintains an optimum temperature.

The MSI MEG Z690 Unify gaming motherboard gives a stable and efficient performance. Although a little bit expensive. But it is worth paying the price for this high-end motherboard from MSI.

4. MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi

• ATX Motherboard
• DDR5 Support
• WiFi 6E
• 18+1+1 Phases power design

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The second motherboard from the brand MSI I have picked is MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi.

The MSI Z690 Carbon WiFi comes with almost everything you need in a motherboard. It comes with five M.2 slots. Unfortunately, it’s only compatible with DDR5 RAM having 4 DIMM slots. Nevertheless, the design and build quality are excellent.

This motherboard will be perfect if you want to play a high-end game and overclock. It has 18+1+1 VRM along with digital PWM for a smooth gaming experience.

MSI has done an excellent job in the cooling part. They have given MOS heatsink, Heatipipe, 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads. So you can seamlessly overclock with the MSI XMP 3.0 profile.

Also, It has steel armor for the PCI-E slot to protect your GPU from bending. They have used premium server-grade PCB material.

The MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi has three x16 PCIe slots and 4 USB 2.0 front ports and 4 USB 2.0 rear ports. Also, it has 3 USB 3.2 ports in front and 6 USB 3.2 ports in rear panel. So, total you will get 17 USB ports.

MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi is a mid-range motherboard with enough USB ports, extra features, and good build quality. So, If you are looking for the best budget Z690 motherboard from MSI, you can go for this without any hesitation.

5. MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi

• ATX Form Factor
• DDR5 Support
• 3 PCI-E x16
• 4 M.2 Slot
• Wi-Fi 6E

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The MSI PRO Z690-A supports 12th generation Intel Core, Celeron, and Pentium processors and delivers a fast network connection that is sandl as secure. It supports DDR4 storage, up to 5600(OC) megahertz.

Further, it comes with a premium solution for heat, which includes a heatsink with an extended design, and M.2 Shield Frozr built to enable a  great performance system with non-stop working.

It uses a 2.5G LAN Solution which is an upgraded network solution to allow for multimedia and professional use. Coming with the lightning of M.2, which runs at PCIe Gen4 x4, the MSI PRO Z690-A will maximize the performance of NVMe-based SSDs.

It has an advanced MSI system for cooling, which enables intense performance. The MSI PRO Z690-A comes with four M.2 slots. It has two CPU 8 Pins to help with providing cleaner power.

I am surprised that It does not come with a full manual, it only has a quick guide to help with starting.

The MSI PRO Z690-A is a great entry-level motherboard for 12th-generation CPUs at a low price.

6. ASUS Prime Z690-A

• ATX Form Factor
• DDR5 Support
• Thunderbolt Header
• 6+1 DrMOS power stages

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If you are looking for the best budget Z690 motherboard, you can pick ASUS Prime Z690-A.

The ASUS Prime Z69-A supports these processors of the Intel LGA 1700 socket: the twelfth generation Intel Core, Windows eleven, the PCIe 5.0, and DDR5. In addition, the AI Motherboard also provides for AI-based overclocking, Two-way AI noise cancellation, and AI-based cooling.

To deliver power, it comes with enhanced solutions which include durable capacitors, 16+1 DrMOS, alloy chokes, and ProCool sockets. It has a VRM heatsink large enough to provide for comprehensive cooling,  M.2 heatsink, Q-latch M.2 backplate, Fan Xpert 4, and fan headers.

Further, it comes with Next-generation connectivity with its DDR5 storage, PCIe 5.0, Type-C USB 3.2 Gen2x2, Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet, front panel Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 2, and Thunderbolt 4 header support.

It comes with AI-based overclocking to enhance performance. The two-way noise cancellation feature is quite helpful in reducing noise. The aluminum design of the motherboard is quite appalling

The ASUS Prime Z690-A motherboard is a great pick for you if you are okay with the limited RAM support.

7. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F

• ATX Form Factor
• DDR5 Support
• WiFi 6E
• 16+1 power stages

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The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F supports the twelfth Generation Intel Core processors, PCIe 5.0, DDR5 RAM, as well as Windows eleven processors on the Intel LGA 1700 socket.

The AI-based Motherboard is provided with AI-based overclocking, AI-based networking, AI-based cooling, as well as AI-based noise cancellation. Further, its extreme power solutions include 16+1 different power stages with the power connector ProCool II, alloy chokes of good quality as well as durable capacitors which are helpful in supporting processors having multiple cores. It comes with a Thermal Design to deal with heating problems.

A VRM heatsink, M.2 sink for heat with two sides, PCH heatsink without a fan, fan headers which are hybrid as well as Fan Xpert 4 utility are all included in this motherboard. Besides, it guarantees gaming Networking having high performance with its Onboard WiFi 6E along with Intel Ethernet of 2.5 Gb having ASUS LANGuard.

The AI noise cancellation is extremely useful and cancels noises from the microphone.

The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F is an incredible motherboard with great features at the price.

I would recommend you to go with the DDR4 version. If you are a normal user, then you don’t need to pay extra amounts to get DDR5 support.

8. ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Formula

• ATX Motherboard
• DDR5 Support
• 5 M.2 Slots & Dual Thunderbolt 4
• 20+1 power stages

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If you are finding the best z690 motherboard for overclocking from the brand ASUS then Asus ROG Maximus Z690 Formula is great option.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Formula supports the twelfth Generation Intel Core processors, PCIe 5.0, DDR5, and out-of-box Windows eleven processors on the Intel LGA 1700 socket.

Like other motherboards of ASUS, this one also exercises intelligent control by using tools such as AI-based Overclocking, AI-based Cooling, AI-based Networking along with a double way AI Noise-Cancelation along with an easy setup.

Its Robust Solution for power issues includes  20+1 rated for 105 A teamed power stages, power connectors of ProCool II, alloy chokes, along with capacitors that are metallic. Its enhanced thermal design to deal with heat issues includes VRM heatsinks with the solution EK CrossChill III, thermal pads of high conductivity, triple M.2 heatsinks with dual embedded backplates along with others. To ensure that users can network using high performance it is provided with Onboard Wi-Fi 6E, ASUS LANGuard, and  Marvell AQtion Ethernet of 10Gb.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 formula is a great motherboard but expensive; you should definitely go for it if you are looking for varieties in white.

9. ASUS Prime Z690M-Plus – mATX

• ATX Motherboard
• DDR4 Support
• 3 M.2 Slots
• 10+1 DrMOS

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The ASUS  Prime Z690M-Plus supports the twelfth Generation Intel Core processors, PCIe 5.0, DDR4, and out-of-box Windows eleven processors on the Intel LGA 1700 socket. To provide a solution for power, this motherboard includes alloy chokes, 10+1 DrMOS, sockets for ProCool, and capacitors that are durable.

For the purpose of Cooling, the motherboard VRM heatsink is quite large, PCH heatsink, M.2 heatsink with flexibility, fan headers, and Fan Xpert 4. To allow for enhanced storage performance, it is included with ASUS OptiMem II proprietary trace layout that has memory kits that can operate at lower voltages and higher frequencies which can maximize the performance of the system.

It comes with a LED core which is quite helpful while troubleshooting. The ASUS Prime Z690M-Plus motherboard contains slots instead of holes, which can be problematic while mounting the AIO

The ASUS Prime Z690M-Plus motherboard is a great pick for people who want to upgrade to  DDR4 memory, at a budget till the DDR5 prices drop.

10. MSI MEG Z690I Unify – Mini-ITX

• Mini-ITX Form Factor
• DDR4 Support
• PCIe 5.0 and WiFi 6
• Intel 2.5 GbE LAN

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If you are finding the best Mini-ITX Z690 motherboard, the MSI MEG Z690I Unify is for you.

This motherboard has all the features that you need in this price range. The PCB of this motherboard has 10 layers with 2oz Thickened Copper for better stability and performance. This will be a good pick for overclocking because of the great cooling solution.

The DDR4 memory is compatible with the double Channel, non-buffered, Non-ECC d DDR4.

It has a Commanding Power model included with 10+2+1 Phases Direct VRM Design with Power Stage of 105A.

This motherboard features a Thermal Design that is cutting edge and contains Advanced heat Solutions, including Fins Array II and heat Guards III.

The Next-generation Connectivity is achieved using PCIe 5.0, double NVMe PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2, and Type-C USB 3.2 Gen 2×2.

There is another Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra with a DDR5 support version available. So, if you need DDR5 support, you have to spend extra bucks to get the DDR5 version.

Intel Z690 Chipset Motherboard Buying Guide

Above I have mentioned the top 10 best z690 motherboards. All motherboards are compatible with the latest Intel 12th gen CPUs. But still, if you want to know more about Intel Z690 chipset-based motherboard features, then read this buying guide.

Let me present to you the revolution in the segment of the motherboard with an all-new chipset. The Intel Z690 can beat any other motherboard of previous versions with heavy processing power.

This chipset motherboard can make you believe that there is no limit on graphics and clock speed.

Being a gamer, you will be mad by experiencing the Z690 chipset. A next-generation chipset offers next-generation features like the latest components to fulfil all your needs. What are to want more? In this article we’ve notted down the detailes of intel Z690 chipset and motherboard buying guide.

What is Intel Z690 Chipset Motherboard

The Z690 motherboards are the latest motherboards that can support intel 12th gen CPUs. Also, there is a huge change in the socket. Intel’s previous-generation processor supports the LGA1200 socket.

But now, Intel 12th gen CPUs are compatible with the LGA1700 sockets. Moreover, these motherboards also offer many new features which are truly unique in the market, such as DDR5 RAM, PCIe 5.0, etc.

Intel Z690 is the chipset-based motherboard that is the best in performance. It also has BIOS overclocking speed to push the CPU works limit.

Making wireless connectivity for fast data transfer is another good side of this motherboard. A lot of advanced advantages are waiting for you.

Intel Z690 allows you to make yourself more smart, powerful, and innovative in terms of technology. It also offers you integrated LAN.

Now let us talk about some advanced technologies which intel Z690 provide you –

Hold up to obtain memory.

• Intel Z690 is not eligible for Optane Memory.
• It has ME Firmware Version 16.
• Motherboardswith Z690 include super HD Audio Technology.
• A New huge Storage feature is also added to this chipset.
• But it doen’t have the SIPP ( Stable IT platform program) which may not be a big deal.
• Intel Z690 chipset presenting you the brand new Rapid start technology.
• It also offers Rapid storage technology for PCI storage.
• For security purpose, Intel Z690 has reliable Trusted Execution technology and Boot Guard technology.

Intel Z690 Chipset and Motherboard Specifications

Now let’s know about some amazing specifications of Intel Z690 that would make you understand and clear your every quarry. It will also help to make proper research that would make your work much easy.

1. LGA 1700 Socket:

Intel Z690 is designed with the latest LGA 1700 socket. This socket is specially designed for the 12th gen Alder Lake desktop CPU. It may be one of the demanded things that one wishes for to enjoy the amazing service.

2. DDR4 & Latest DDR5 Support:

Memory is one of the demanded things about any device. So why not this time.  Intel Z690 supports not only DDR4 but also the latest DDR5. Using DDR5 memory will provide upgraded performance to the user. DDR5 provide 32GB in its per stick, whereas DDR4 provides only 12GB in its per stick. For a gamer or heavy user that will be superb. So this latest memory support of intel Z690 is going to be a blessing for users with its technology of shielded routing.

3. PCIe 5.0:

Intel Z690 is designed with amazing PCIe 5.0 technology. This technology will help you to get amazing performance with unpredictable speed from your previous system. PCIe 5.0 is a future proof technology, so you must be very clear about the motherboard you are buying must have this technology. It also provides balance bandwidth requirements for things like 40 GigE and SSDs.

This speed and performance of 128GB bandwidth are one of the most important things for gamers or heavy power workers. One must also know that Intel Z690 offers not only PCIe 5.0 technology but also PCIe 4.0. So that means it has the dual capability of working.

4. Wi-Fi 6E:

Intel Z690 also comes wiith super connectivity over Wi-Fi 6E. E-Gamming experts mostly demand a motherboard which offers super connectivity and gives amazing performance. From that point of view, Intel Z690 is one of the best motherboards. With this one will going to rock on in their work field.

5. Form Factor

Intel Z690 is available in different ATX configurations. However, the Micro ATX motherboard is more budget-friendly than others. The main difference between the three different ATX is in size. Undoubtedly Micro ATX is good for gaming or heavy work. But one can easily customize the ATX format depending on work load.

• ATX – is measured in the size of 12inches X 9.6inches.
• Micro-ATX –  is measured in the size of 9.6 X 9.6inches
• Mini-ITX – is measured in the size of 6.7inches X 6.7inches.

What makes the intel 12th gen processor best?

Premium quality with a perfect design makes the processor look cool and attractive. And also this processor is specially designed for Windows 11. This means if you want the full and fair output of this processor you need to use windows 11 OS. Also, the combination of the Alder Lake processor with other cores gives insane power and god-level performance. 

If you want the high-end performance of the intel 12th gen processors, you have to use the Z690 motherboard with this. Unless you are using this motherboard you can’t get the highest over-clocking speed.

• Gaming performance- As we all know AMD has the golden place to make the best gaming CPUs.  But now intel has changed the tradition by making the superior overclocking potential through intel 12th gen processor.  Also, the components and Z690 motherboard has enhanced the graphics, and rendering performance. So as a gamer, it is your time to choose a future proof gaming rig for yourself. Intel never let their customer being disappointed.

• Workstation performance– Few great power can make out great responsibilities. A compact box of support, DDR5 RAM, PCIe 5.0, WI-FI 6E and many more creative components OMG! what a package! Not only that, a lot of connectivity, lightning-speed data transfer with intel 12th gen CPUs with Z690 motherboard make you more comfortable with it.

Why should You consider upgrading to Z690 Chipset-based motherboard?

If a user is upgrading their PC setup then why not make it future proof. One will also get some advantages about the performance after upgrading it and using it worry-free for many years. Those are;

• Intel will give you a superb experience of using a CPU. It will provide you with excellent performance with speed.

• DDR5 RAM will provide you with 4K/8K media streaming, High FPS gaming triple-band Wi-Fi up to 6.0 GHz frequency. It will also support four-time data transfer in each cycle.

• Gives you superior connectivity with other deceive or over wifi. Specially E-gammers will be strongly benefited by that features.

• Intel Z690 is upgraded with future-ready features like PCIe 5.0 that will provide buffer-free work or gaming experience.

• This upgraded motherboard will also maintain the heat problem while using and controlling it.

• It will also come with an attractive design, that would look amazing also.

From this, one can surely say Intel Z690 is one of the best chipsets, and motherboards that will not only satisfy the user with its performance but also with its look.

Quick Tips

You might be confused about which of these motherboards are the best and worth your money. Here are some general tips to help you:

• While buying a motherboard, it is essential to check its compatibility with the processor, RAM, and GPU.
• Make sure you check the form factor of the motherboard and its expansion slots.
• Also, make sure that you are aware of the different motherboard connections. If you feel that you are not very savvy with the links, try buying a motherboard that is DIY friendly and is available with an in-depth manual to guide you through the process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

In conclusion, Selecting a good motherboard is considered the most important part of the PC building. If you pick a good processor, but your motherboard is not good, you will not get the performance you expect. That’s why you should consider a few things such as budget, features, build quality and purpose of building your PC.

However, these are the best Z690 motherboards that you can pick for the latest Intel 12th gen processors.

Lastly, If you build a PC with AMD Ryzen 5000 series CPUs, you can check out this review of the best x570 motherboards.

Lastly, I hope I was able to help you choose the best Z690 motherboard for your new gaming rig. If you have any queries about the Z690 motherboard, just let me know.

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