Intel Motherboards

Types of Intel Motherboards

Intel manufactures a range of different motherboards, with each optimised to meet a different type of user and performance specification. Below is a breakdown of key Intel motherboard types to help you choose the right platform for your build. It's important to check the model type carefully and make sure it has all of the connectivity and compatibility options you need.

Z790 Intel Motherboards

Z790 Intel motherboards are designed for enthusiasts, gamers, and power users aiming to maximise performance with Intel's 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Core processors on the LGA 1700 socket. Key features include:

• CPU overclocking support for unlocked "K" series processors
• DDR4 and DDR5 memory compatibility, depending on the model
• PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen GPUs and ultra-fast NVMe SSDs
• Multiple M.2 slots with Gen4/Gen5 support for high-speed storage
• Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 support on select models
• Advanced thermal design and premium VRM setups for stability
• Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb/10Gb Ethernet for high-performance networking

Z790 motherboards are ideal for top-tier gaming rigs, content creation workstations, or any enthusiast-grade build that demands peak performance, connectivity, and upgrade potential.

B760 Intel Motherboards

B760 Intel motherboards offer solid mid-range performance and value for mainstream users. Designed for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors on the LGA 1700 socket, B760 boards are ideal for gamers, content creators, and professionals who don't require CPU overclocking. Key features include:

• Compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, depending on the model
• Support for PCIe 4.0 GPUs and NVMe SSDs
• Multiple high-speed M.2 slots and USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
• Integrated Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E on select models
• No CPU overclocking support, but robust power delivery for stable performance

B760 boards are perfect for users seeking reliable performance and up-to-date features without the premium price tag of Z-series chipsets.

B860 Intel Motherboards

B860 Intel motherboards represent the latest mid-range chipset released in early 2025, supporting the same socket and CPU generations as B760 and Z790. They offer a balance of modern connectivity and performance improvements, ideal for mainstream builds. Key features include:

• Support for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors on LGA 1700
• DDR4 and DDR5 memory compatibility, depending on the motherboard model
• PCIe 4.0 support for GPUs and NVMe SSDs
• Multiple M.2 slots for high-speed storage
• Integrated Wi-Fi 6E on many models
• No CPU overclocking support, designed for stable everyday performance

B860 boards provide users with up-to-date features and enhanced platform longevity, making them a strong alternative to B760.

H610 Intel Motherboards

H610 Intel motherboards are built for basic computing needs and entry-level system builds. Supporting 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors on the LGA 1700 socket, H610 boards provide essential functionality at an affordable price point. Key features include:

• Supports DDR4 memory only (no DDR5 support)
• Typically one M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs (varies by model)
• PCIe 4.0 support for GPUs (with 12th Gen and newer CPUs)
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 and SATA ports for standard connectivity
• No CPU overclocking or advanced networking options

H610 motherboards are best suited to users who need a reliable, no-frills platform for everyday tasks such as web browsing, office work, and light media consumption.

Z890 Intel Motherboards

Z890 Intel motherboards are designed for enthusiasts and professionals seeking the latest in performance and connectivity. Supporting Intel's 15th Gen Core Ultra processors (Arrow Lake-S) on the new LGA 1851 socket, Z890 boards offer cutting-edge features for high-end computing:

• CPU overclocking support for unlocked "K" series processors
• DDR5 memory compatibility
• PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen GPUs and ultra-fast NVMe SSDs
• Multiple M.2 slots with Gen5 support for high-speed storage
• Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 support on select models
• Advanced thermal design and premium VRM setups for stability
• Wi-Fi 6E and 10Gb Ethernet for high-performance networking

Z890 motherboards are ideal for top-tier gaming rigs, content creation workstations, or any enthusiast-grade build that demands peak performance, connectivity, and upgrade potential.

Intel Core Processor Compatibility

Intel motherboards are purpose-built to support Intel Core processors and are not compatible with AMD CPUs. Depending on the chipset and socket type, Intel motherboards support a wide range of processors , from entry-level Intel Core i3 CPUs to high-end i9 and HX-series chips designed for demanding workloads.

Most current Intel motherboards use one of two sockets:

• LGA 1700 socket (on H610, B760, B860, Z790 boards) supporting 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors.
• LGA 1851 socket (on newer Z890 and select B860 boards) supporting 15th Gen Intel Core Ultra processors (Arrow Lake-S).

Key features across these processor generations include:

• Hybrid architecture combining Performance (P) and Efficiency (E) cores (starting 12th Gen)
• DDR4 or DDR5 memory support, with DDR5 being the current standard on most new boards
• PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 support for high-speed GPUs and NVMe SSDs
• Increased core counts and multi-threading capabilities for enhanced multitasking and productivity

Always check your motherboard's CPU compatibility list (QVL) to ensure your chosen processor is fully supported.

High-Speed Storage and Connectivity

Modern Intel motherboards provide a broad array of high-speed storage and connectivity options to support today's demanding workloads, peripherals, and components:

• Multiple M.2 slots supporting ultra-fast NVMe SSDs, enabling rapid boot times and data transfers
• PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 lanes available on Z790, Z890, and select B760/B860 motherboards
• Multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 ports
• Thunderbolt 4 support on premium models
• SATA 6Gbps ports for legacy SSDs and HDDs
• Support for high-speed 2.5Gbps and 10Gbps Ethernet, plus Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, and Wi-Fi 7

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Options

Many modern Intel motherboards include integrated wireless connectivity such as:

• Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 6E, and increasingly Wi-Fi 7
• Bluetooth 5.2 or 5.3 for reliable wireless peripheral connections

Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are especially beneficial for gaming setups, home offices, and professional environments where cable-free flexibility reduces clutter without sacrificing performance.

Which brand of Intel motherboard is best?

There are several leading manufacturers producing Intel motherboards, each known for quality, reliability, and cutting-edge technology. At ebuyer, we stock only reputable brands trusted by enthusiasts and professionals alike. Here's an overview of some of the best brands available for Intel motherboards in 2025:

ASUS Intel motherboards

ASUS offers a broad lineup of Intel motherboards supporting the latest Core processors. The ASUS Prime series delivers an excellent balance of affordability and solid performance. The ROG (Republic of Gamers) lineup leads with premium features for high-performance gaming, overclocking, and content creation. Features include Wi-Fi 6E/7, PCIe 5.0 support, and advanced thermal designs.

Gigabyte Intel motherboards

Gigabyte motherboards are renowned for durability, thermal performance, and user-friendly BIOS. The AORUS series is a favourite among gamers and creators, featuring strong VRMs, advanced cooling, RGB lighting, and support for Intel 14th and 15th Gen CPUs. Many models offer PCIe 5.0, Wi-Fi 6E, and Wi-Fi 7.

MSI Intel motherboards

MSI is a top choice for enthusiasts and competitive gamers. The MAG and MPG series offer great value for mid-range and high-end builds. The MEG series is built for extreme overclocking and pro-level performance, with features like advanced VRMs, Wi-Fi 6E/7, and PCIe 5.0 support.

Intel Motherboard FAQs

How do I know if my Intel motherboard supports PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0?

PCIe 4.0 support is standard from Z590 onwards, and also available on B660 and B760 boards, depending on CPU support. PCIe 5.0 starts with Z690 and newer chipsets like Z790, Z890, and select B860/B760 boards. Always check the manufacturer's spec sheet or use system info tools to confirm.

Can I upgrade my Intel motherboard to support newer processors?

Upgrades depend on your board's chipset, socket, and BIOS. Z490 supports up to 11th Gen CPUs only. Boards with LGA 1700 (e.g., Z690, Z790, B760, B860) typically support 12th-14th Gen CPUs. LGA 1851 (e.g., Z890) supports 15th Gen. BIOS updates may be needed for new CPUs. Always check the QVL list first. 

What should I consider when selecting an Intel motherboard for gaming?

Look for boards with:

• Z-series chipsets (Z790, Z890) for CPU overclocking
• Reinforced PCIe slots and support for PCIe 5.0 GPUs
• DDR5 memory support for faster speeds
• Premium VRMs for power stability
• 2.5Gb+ Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E/7 for low-latency gaming
• Features like RGB lighting and enhanced cooling options

Why Buy from ebuyer?

Buying your new Intel motherboard from ebuyer is a safe and reliable choice. With a huge range of Intel motherboards including ASUS motherboards to choose from, we offer fast and secure delivery options, and flexible payment options - supporting thousands of happy customers with their new tech.

• Fast delivery
• Secure and safe delivery of computer parts
• Excellent customer reviews
• Flexible payment options

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