Top-rated motherboard compatible with Intel Core i5-14600K in the year 2025
In the world of PC building, choosing the right motherboard is crucial for optimal performance. With the launch of Intel's Core Ultra 200S desktop AI CPUs and the continued popularity of the Intel Core i5-14600K, we've rounded up some of the best motherboard options available to suit various budgets and needs.
Budget-Friendly Options
For those on a tight budget, the ASRock B760M PG Riptide WiFi stands out as the top pick. Priced at a tidy $120, this microATX board offers a respectable power design, Wi-Fi 6E support, two M.2 PCIe 4.0 storage slots, and DDR5 RAM coverage up to 7,200MHz.
Another budget-friendly option is the GIGABYTE's Z790 Eagle AX, available for about $160. This board is popular among builders who need lots of connectivity, boasting multiple PCIe and M.2 slots.
Mid-Range Choices
The MSI PRO Z790-A Max WiFi is the top pick overall for the best motherboard for the Intel Core i5-14600K, typically available for around $216. This board offers a solid power design, Wi-Fi 6E support, and DDR5 RAM coverage up to 7,200MHz.
The MSI MAG B760M Mortar, priced at about $242, is the best microATX board, ideal for those seeking a smaller form factor without compromising on performance.
Premium Picks
For a more premium experience, the MSI MPG Z790 Carbon MAX WiFi II, typically found for about $470, offers higher-end VRM (voltage regulation modules) for stable power delivery, more extensive connectivity options, RGB lighting, and is tailored for gaming and overclocking.
The MSI MPG Z790 Carbon MAX WiFi II is a higher-end motherboard, while the MSI PRO Z790-A Max WiFi is a more basic, professional-grade board with possibly fewer features and a simpler design.
GIGABYTE's Z790 Aorus Pro X, typically available for about $300, is a high-end choice for an all-white build with high-end specs. Meanwhile, the GIGABYTE Z790 Aorus Pro X offers more PCIe and M.2 slots, making it a longtime favourite among builders.
Intel's Core Ultra 200S Desktop AI CPUs
Intel has launched its Core Ultra 200S desktop AI CPUs, which are not the latest generation from Team Blue. These CPUs come with a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for dedicated AI acceleration, a feature that is not present in the 14th Gen desktop CPUs, such as the Intel Core i5-14600K. However, it's worth noting that these CPUs have changed over to a new LGA1851 socket.
Cale Hunt, a PC builder and hardware expert with two decades of experience, highlights the Intel Core i5-14600K as a mid-range champion in 2025. Despite not having a built-in NPU, this CPU remains a popular choice due to its affordable price and solid performance.
Recent discounts have made the Intel Core i5-14600K more appealing than ever, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between cost and performance. The older 14th Gen Intel desktop CPUs are still top options for PC building, offering a wide range of choices for various budgets and needs.
