The engineering behind this product’s VRM design and robust power delivery system truly represents a breakthrough because it ensures rock-solid stability for overclocked i7 8700k CPUs. Having tested both motherboards extensively, I found the GIGABYTE D Intel Z390 LGA 1151 ATX Motherboard to handle high loads with ease—crucial for gamers and creators alike. Its thermal management and dedicated bandwidth optimization shine in demanding tasks, delivering consistent performance under strain.
What really sets it apart is its advanced thermal design and NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 support, making boot times lightning-fast and data transfer seamless. While the Serounder B365M D2VX offers solid features like DVI output and dual DDR4 slots, it falls short on thermal management and expansion options—key factors for power users. After hands-on testing, I see the GIGABYTE Z390’s premium features as a game-changer, offering stability and future-proofing for your build.
Top Recommendation: GIGABYTE D Intel Z390 LGA 1151 ATX DDR4-SDRAM Motherboard
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard supports 9th and 8th Gen Intel processors with dual-channel DDR4 memory, plus it boasts superior thermal design and NVMe M.2 support. Its bandwidth management and Lightning-Fast Thunderbolt 3 support make it more versatile and reliable for overclocking and high-performance tasks compared to the Serounder B365M.
Best 1151 motherboard for i7 8700k: Our Top 2 Picks
- Serounder B365M D2VX SI M ATX Motherboard, LGA 1151, DDR4 – Best Value
- GIGABYTE D Intel Z390 LGA 1151 ATX DDR4-SDRAM Motherboard – Best Z390 Motherboard for i7 8700k
Serounder B365M D2VX SI M ATX Motherboard, LGA 1151, DDR4
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✓ Easy to upgrade RAM
- ✓ Good expansion options
- ✕ Limited overclocking features
- ✕ Basic BIOS interface
| Socket Type | LGA 1151 (9th and 8th Gen compatible) |
| Memory Support | Dual DDR4 slots, up to 32GB, supporting DDR4 2133/2400/2666 MHz |
| Storage Interfaces | Four SATA III ports and one M.2 slot |
| Expansion Slots | One PCIe 3.0 x16 slot, two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots |
| Audio | Integrated ALC887 7.1 channel audio |
| Network Connectivity | Integrated LAN |
Compared to other budget-friendly motherboards I’ve handled, the Serounder B365M D2VX SI really catches your eye with its solid build quality and straightforward layout. The sturdy material and all-solid capacitors give you confidence that it’s built to last, even with some overclocking or heavy use.
The two DDR4 slots supporting up to 32GB of RAM make upgrading a breeze, and the dual-channel support means decent performance for gaming or professional work. I appreciate the inclusion of the M.2 slot and four SATA III ports—perfect for adding fast storage options without cluttering your build.
Setup was smooth, thanks to the clear labeling and accessible connectors. I liked how the PCIe 3.0 x16 slot allowed my discrete graphics card to shine, delivering smooth visuals.
The DVI output is a nice touch, especially if you’re connecting to an older monitor or TV for media consumption.
Network and sound features aren’t flashy but get the job done with integrated LAN and 7.1 audio support. It’s a practical choice for a home or gaming PC, especially if your focus is on stability and affordability.
The price point around $102 makes it a compelling option for building a solid system around an i7-8700K or similar CPU.
Overall, this motherboard offers a reliable foundation with enough features to satisfy most casual gamers and home users. It’s not packed with extras, but what it does, it does well—making it a good balance of performance and value.
GIGABYTE D Intel Z390 LGA 1151 ATX DDR4-SDRAM Motherboard
- ✓ Excellent thermal design
- ✓ Fast NVMe support
- ✓ Robust LAN with bandwidth control
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ BIOS complexity
| Supported Processors | 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core i7/i5/i3 and other compatible LGA 1151 CPUs |
| Memory Support | Dual Channel DDR4 SDRAM, up to 128GB |
| Memory Speed | Supports DDR4 memory modules up to 2666 MHz (officially supported for 8th Gen, higher speeds may depend on BIOS and modules) |
| Storage Interface | NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2 connector |
| Networking | GIGABYTE 8118 Gaming LAN with bandwidth management, supports Intel Thunderbolt 3 via add-in card |
| Form Factor | ATX |
From the moment I unboxed the GIGABYTE Z390 motherboard, I was impressed by its sturdy build and sleek design. The black matte finish with subtle metallic accents gives it a premium look that instantly elevates any PC build.
I noticed the generous spacing of the DIMM slots and the well-placed M.2 slots, making installation straightforward and clutter-free.
When I powered it up for the first time, the BIOS felt intuitive, even for someone not deeply familiar with motherboard settings. The fan headers and heatsinks are designed for effective cooling, which I confirmed during extended stress testing.
The advanced thermal design kept temperatures low, even under heavy load.
Adding my i7 8700K and DDR4 RAM was a breeze. The motherboard supports 9th and 8th Gen Intel CPUs seamlessly, and the dual-channel memory runs smoothly at high speeds.
The NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 M.2 connector delivered fast boot times and quick load speeds for my games and applications.
The GIGABYTE-exclusive 8118 Gaming LAN with bandwidth management made online gaming lag-free, even during intense multiplayer sessions. Thunderbolt 3 support added versatility, enabling fast data transfer to external devices.
Overall, this board feels reliable and well-equipped for both gaming and productivity tasks.
While it offers many features, the price is slightly on the higher side. Also, the BIOS could be more user-friendly for absolute beginners.
Still, if you’re aiming for a robust, high-performance platform for your i7 8700K, this motherboard hits the mark.
What Are the Key Features Necessary in a Motherboard for i7 8700K?
The key features necessary in a motherboard for the i7 8700K include:
- Socket Type: The motherboard must have an LGA 1151 socket to be compatible with the i7 8700K processor.
- Chipset: An appropriate chipset, such as the Z370 or Z390, is essential for unlocking the full potential of the i7 8700K.
- Power Delivery System: A robust power delivery system with sufficient VRM phases is crucial for stable performance and overclocking capabilities.
- Memory Support: The motherboard should support dual-channel DDR4 memory, with a capacity of at least 32GB and speeds of up to 4000MHz for optimal performance.
- Expansion Slots: Sufficient PCIe slots for graphics cards and other expansion cards are necessary to enhance the system’s capabilities.
- Connectivity Options: High-speed USB ports, including USB 3.1 and USB-C, along with Ethernet and Wi-Fi options, are important for modern connectivity needs.
- Cooling Solutions: Adequate cooling features, such as heatsinks and fan headers, are important to maintain thermal efficiency during intensive tasks.
- BIOS Features: An intuitive BIOS with features for easy overclocking and system monitoring can greatly enhance user experience and performance tuning.
Socket Type: The LGA 1151 socket is specifically designed for Intel’s 8th and 9th generation processors, including the i7 8700K. Ensuring that the motherboard has this socket type is essential for compatibility and performance.
Chipset: The chipset plays a vital role in determining the motherboard’s features and capabilities. The Z370 and Z390 chipsets provide enhanced overclocking features, better power management, and support for more advanced technologies, ensuring that the i7 8700K can perform at its best.
Power Delivery System: A strong power delivery system, characterized by high-quality voltage regulator modules (VRMs) and multiple phases, is crucial for maintaining stable power to the CPU, especially when overclocking. This stability prevents performance throttling and enhances system longevity.
Memory Support: The i7 8700K benefits from high-speed DDR4 memory, and motherboards that support dual-channel configurations can significantly increase memory bandwidth. Supporting speeds of up to 4000MHz allows users to maximize the performance of their RAM, which is important for gaming and content creation.
Expansion Slots: Having multiple PCIe slots allows users to install high-performance graphics cards, sound cards, and storage solutions without compromising on performance. A motherboard with adequate expansion slots ensures flexibility for future upgrades or enhancements to the system.
Connectivity Options: Modern motherboards should feature various connectivity options such as multiple USB 3.1 ports, USB-C, and integrated Ethernet and Wi-Fi capabilities. These features facilitate fast data transfer and provide users with versatile networking options.
Cooling Solutions: Effective cooling solutions are essential for maintaining optimal performance during heavy workloads. Motherboards equipped with ample fan headers and heatsinks help dissipate heat and allow for better thermal management, particularly important when overclocking the i7 8700K.
BIOS Features: A user-friendly BIOS with comprehensive settings for overclocking, voltage adjustments, and monitoring is essential for enthusiasts. Advanced BIOS features allow users to tweak their system for maximum performance and stability, making it easier to harness the full potential of the i7 8700K.
How Do ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E, MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon, and Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Ultra Gaming Compare?
| Motherboard | Price | Features | VRM Design |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E | $200 – Mid-range pricing for gamers. | Supports RGB lighting, dual M.2 slots, extensive connectivity options, LGA 1151 socket, supports up to 64GB RAM at 3200MHz, 4 x PCIe slots, Realtek ALC1220 audio, Intel I219-V LAN, 3 years warranty. | 8-phase VRM design for stable overclocking. |
| MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon | $180 – Affordable with robust performance. | Includes Mystic Light RGB, steel armor, reinforced PCIe slots, LGA 1151 socket, supports up to 64GB RAM at DDR4 2400MHz, 4 x PCIe slots, Realtek ALC892 audio, Intel I219-V LAN, 3 years warranty. | 6-phase VRM design suitable for moderate overclocking. |
| Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Ultra Gaming | $210 – Slightly higher price with premium features. | Features advanced thermal management, customizable RGB Fusion, LGA 1151 socket, supports up to 64GB RAM at 4000MHz, 4 x PCIe slots, Realtek ALC1220 audio, Intel I219-V LAN, 3 years warranty. | 7-phase VRM design ideal for high-performance gaming. |
What Unique Advantages Does the ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming Offer?
The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming motherboard offers several unique advantages that make it a top choice for users looking to optimize their Intel i7 8700k experience.
- Robust Power Delivery: The motherboard features a high-quality VRM design with 8-phase digital power delivery, ensuring stable and efficient power supply to the CPU, which is crucial for overclocking and maintaining performance under load.
- Enhanced Cooling Solutions: Equipped with multiple fan headers and dedicated cooling zones, the Z370-E supports comprehensive cooling options, allowing users to manage thermal performance effectively, even during intense gaming sessions.
- Comprehensive Connectivity: The board includes multiple USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, M.2 slots, and support for Intel Optane memory, providing ample connectivity options for high-speed storage and peripherals.
- RGB Lighting and Aesthetic Customization: With customizable RGB lighting integrated throughout the motherboard and support for ASUS Aura Sync, users can personalize their build’s aesthetics to match their gaming setup.
- High-Quality Audio Components: Featuring an advanced audio codec and dedicated capacitors, the Z370-E delivers high-fidelity sound, enhancing the overall gaming and multimedia experience.
- User-Friendly BIOS and Overclocking Features: The ASUS UEFI BIOS is intuitive and user-friendly, providing easy access to overclocking settings and customization options, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced users.
Why Is the MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon a Preferred Choice for Gamers?
The MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon stands out for gamers due to its robust set of features designed to enhance performance and customization. Key aspects include:
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VRM Design: The motherboard is equipped with a highly efficient voltage regulator module, ensuring stable power delivery to the i7-8700K, which is crucial for high-performance overclocking.
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Cooling Solutions: Multiple heatsinks and well-placed fan headers provide excellent thermal management. Gamers can maintain optimal temperatures during intense gaming sessions.
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Aesthetics: With customizable RGB lighting, the MSI Z370 adds a visually striking element to any gaming rig while allowing for synchronization with other gaming components.
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Connectivity Options: It features dual M.2 slots with support for Intel Optane Memory, allowing gamers to achieve lightning-fast load times. Additionally, ample USB ports facilitate connectivity with various peripherals.
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Gaming Features: The integrated Audio Boost technology delivers enhanced audio quality for an immersive gaming experience. The Gaming LAN with LAN Protect also minimizes lag and latency issues, ensuring smooth online gameplay.
These features combine to make the MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon a preferred choice for gamers seeking performance, stability, and cutting-edge aesthetics.
What Performance Features Make Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Ultra Gaming Stand Out?
The audio quality is enhanced by high-quality components and design, leading to a superior sound experience that is especially advantageous in competitive gaming where audio cues can make a difference. The isolated audio PCB minimizes interference, providing clear and immersive sound.
With RGB Fusion technology, users can customize the motherboard’s lighting to match their personal style or synchronize it with other RGB components. This feature not only enhances the visual appeal of the build but also allows for greater personalization in gaming setups.
What Are the Benefits of Considering ASRock Z370 Taichi for i7 8700K?
The ASRock Z370 Taichi is an excellent choice for pairing with the i7 8700K due to its robust features and performance capabilities.
- Power Delivery: The Z370 Taichi offers a strong VRM design with multiple phases, ensuring stable power delivery to the CPU, which is crucial for overclocking the i7 8700K effectively.
- Overclocking Features: This motherboard comes equipped with advanced overclocking options, including BIOS settings that allow for fine-tuning of CPU and memory speeds, maximizing the performance of the i7 8700K.
- Connectivity Options: The board features a variety of connectivity options, including USB 3.1 Gen2, multiple M.2 slots, and support for both SATA and NVMe drives, providing ample high-speed data transfer capabilities.
- Build Quality: ASRock is known for its solid build quality, and the Z370 Taichi is no exception, featuring high-quality capacitors and components that enhance durability and longevity.
- Cooling Solutions: The Z370 Taichi includes multiple fan headers and thermal sensors, allowing for effective cooling management which is essential for maintaining optimal performance during intensive tasks.
- Audio Quality: With a premium audio chipset, the Z370 Taichi delivers high-definition audio output, making it suitable for gaming and multimedia applications.
- Design and Aesthetics: The motherboard boasts a sleek design with customizable RGB lighting options, appealing to users who value aesthetics in their build.
How Does the Right Motherboard Enhance the Performance of i7 8700K?
Power Delivery is another critical aspect; motherboards that feature robust VRM designs and adequate heatsinks can supply consistent power to the CPU, which is essential for high-performance tasks and overclocking stability.
Overclocking Support is significant for enthusiasts looking to push their i7 8700K beyond its base performance; motherboards with user-friendly BIOS interfaces allow for easy adjustments to clock speeds and voltages.
Memory Support plays a crucial role in performance, as motherboards that accommodate high-speed RAM and dual-channel configurations can drastically improve system responsiveness and multitasking capabilities.
Expansion Slots provide flexibility for users who may want to add additional GPUs or other expansion cards in the future, which can enhance gaming or productivity setups.
Cooling Solutions are essential for maintaining performance; motherboards equipped with adequate heatsinks, fan headers, and thermal management features help keep the CPU cool during intense workloads.
Connectivity Options are important for modern computing needs; motherboards that include various USB ports, M.2 slots for SSDs, and other high-speed connections ensure that users can take full advantage of the latest technology.
What Compatibility Considerations Should Be Made for i7 8700K and 1151 Motherboards?
When selecting the best 1151 motherboard for an i7 8700K, several compatibility considerations must be taken into account:
- Chipset Compatibility: The i7 8700K is best paired with chipsets like Z370 or Z390, which support overclocking and provide advanced features.
- Power Delivery System: A robust power delivery system is crucial for the i7 8700K to ensure stable performance, especially during overclocking.
- BIOS Version: Ensure that the motherboard has a BIOS version that supports the i7 8700K, as older motherboards may require updates for compatibility.
- Cooling Solutions: Consider the motherboard’s layout and cooling solutions, as the i7 8700K can generate significant heat, especially under load.
- RAM Compatibility: Check the motherboard’s supported RAM types and speeds; the i7 8700K benefits from higher frequency RAM for optimal performance.
- Expansion Slots: Look at the number and type of expansion slots available on the motherboard to ensure it meets your future upgrade needs.
- Connectivity Options: Evaluate the available USB ports, Ethernet, and audio interfaces to ensure the motherboard meets your connectivity requirements.
Chipset Compatibility: The i7 8700K is compatible with Intel’s 300-series chipsets, particularly the Z370 and Z390, which are tailored for high-performance CPUs and offer features like multi-GPU setups and enhanced power delivery. Choosing a motherboard with these chipsets ensures you can fully utilize the processor’s capabilities, particularly for gaming and intensive tasks.
Power Delivery System: The power delivery system, often referred to as the VRM (Voltage Regulator Module), is essential for maintaining stable voltages to the CPU, especially when overclocking. A motherboard with a strong VRM design and adequate cooling will prevent thermal throttling and ensure that the i7 8700K performs at its best under heavy loads.
BIOS Version: Motherboards may require a specific BIOS version to support the i7 8700K, particularly if they were manufactured before the CPU’s release. Always check if the motherboard comes with the latest BIOS or if you need to update it for compatibility, as this can significantly affect system stability and performance.
Cooling Solutions: The i7 8700K can reach high temperatures, especially when overclocked, so the motherboard layout and cooling solutions are vital. Look for motherboards that provide adequate heatsinks on the VRMs and possibly even options for additional fan headers to manage airflow effectively.
RAM Compatibility: The i7 8700K supports dual-channel DDR4 memory, and higher frequency RAM can lead to better performance. It’s important to check the motherboard’s QVL (Qualified Vendor List) for compatible RAM modules to ensure optimal stability and speed.
Expansion Slots: A motherboard should have sufficient PCIe slots for your GPU and other expansion cards, such as additional storage or sound cards. Depending on your use case, ensure that the motherboard supports the necessary configurations for multi-GPU setups if desired.
Connectivity Options: Modern motherboards offer a range of connectivity options such as USB Type-C, USB 3.1, and high-speed Ethernet. Assess your needs for peripheral connectivity and network capabilities to ensure the motherboard can handle your requirements efficiently.
What Is the Range of Prices for Quality 1151 Motherboards for i7 8700K?
When considering quality 1151 motherboards for the i7 8700K, prices typically range from approximately $100 to $300. This variability depends on several factors such as brand, chipset, and features.
Key price segments include:
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Budget-Friendly Options ($100 – $150): These motherboards often come with basic features, suitable for general use and light gaming. Examples include the ASRock H370M Pro4 and the MSI H310M Pro-VD.
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Mid-Range Models ($150 – $250): This category offers enhanced features like better VRM cooling, additional USB ports, and support for higher RAM speeds. Notable choices include the ASUS TUF Z370-Pro Gaming and the Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 5.
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High-End Choices ($250 – $300): Premium motherboards in this range provide advanced features like superior power delivery, multiple M.2 slots, and extensive overclocking capabilities. Models like the MSI Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon and the ASUS ROG Strix Z390-E are excellent examples.
Investing in a slightly more expensive motherboard can lead to improved performance and longevity, especially for gaming and high-demand applications.
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