The motherboard is an essential component of any PC build, and sometimes it can get hard to pick the right one. That’s why we have listed several motherboards on this list, but one can be the best z170 motherboard.
Because there is a huge variety of motherboards available on the market. It can really get exhausting and annoying trying to choose the best motherboard for your PC. Moreover, you also need to be smart while buying, and you should never overpay it.
So, you can’t actually go wrong with any of these. But we’ll try to help you to choose the best option for yourself. We included the best options for any budget or build. So, stay with us, and you won’t have problems with picking the best motherboard.
However, if you’re in a hurry, then we recommend you – MSI Z170 GAMING PRO Carbon; this board support 6th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron Processors. Moreover, it comes with 4 DIMM slots with a maximum capacity of 64GB.
This MSI motherboard features Audio Boost 3 Pro with Nahimic Sound technology. That means this model delivers the highest sound quality through the use of premium quality audio components. This model also features 15KV anti-surge protection to shield your network from lightning strikes and static electricity.
Also, read our latest guide about Best Motherboard For NAS
15 Best Z170 Motherboard in 2021
1 – Best Z170 Performance Motherboard | GIGABYTE LGA 1151 Z170MX
2 – Best Z170 Budget Motherboard | MSI Enthusiast Gaming Intel Z170
3 – Best Z170 Gaming Motherboard | ASUS Z170-A
4 – Asus z170 motherboard | ASUS ROG MAXIMUS VIII Hero
5 – Best z170 motherboard | GIGABYTE Z170-HD3
6 – Best MSI z170 motherboard | MSI Z170A Gaming PRO Carbon
7 – Best Z270 motherboard | ASRock Z270 Killer
8 – Best Asus z170 motherboard | ASUS ROG Maximum IX Code
9 – Best z170 motherboard in usa | ASUS RGB LGA1151 DDR4 Motherboard
10 – Best overall | ASRock Z270 EXTREME4
11 – BestGIGABYTE Z170 Gaming motherboard |GIGABYTE Z170 Gaming K3
12 – Best Z490 Motherboard | NZXT N7 Z490 Motherboard
13 – Best z170 motherboard under 500$ | ASUS Optimized Z170 Motherboard
14 – Best z170 motherboard under 1000$ | ASRock Z170 EXTREME6
15 – Best z170 motherboard review | ASRock FATAL 1TY
So, if you’re looking for the best z170 motherboard, then you’re on the right website. Because in this article, we have reviewed the best motherboards, including their features & specifications. We also provide helpful buying to help you make better decisions.
Image | Name | Features | Check Price |
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GIGABYTE LGA 1151 Z170MX Motherboard |
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MSI Enthusiast Gaming Intel Z170 Motherboard |
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ASUS Z170-A |
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ASUS ROG MAXIMUS VIII Hero |
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GIGABYTE Z170-HD3 |
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MSI Z170A Gaming PRO Carbon |
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ASRock Z270 Killer |
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ASUS ROG Maximum IX Code |
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ASUS RGB LGA1151 DDR4 Motherboard |
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ASRock Z270 EXTREME4 |
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GIGABYTE Z170 Gaming K3 |
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NZXT N7 Z490 Motherboard |
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ASUS Optimized Z170 Motherboard |
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ASRock Z170 EXTREME6 |
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ASRock FATAL 1TY |
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GIGABYTE LGA 1151 Z170MX Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: Gigabyte.
- Processor: Support 6th & 7th Gen
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: Micro ATX.
- USB 2.0 Ports: 2.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- High build quality.
- Easy to install.
- Affordable price.
- 3-way graphics support.
- Value for money.
As we all know, Gigabyte is a trendy brand that offers one of the best motherboards for gaming and non-gaming purposes. And this Gigabyte Z170MX is one of them. This board support both 6th & 7th Gen Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance.
Moreover, it supports dual channel DDR4 memory and comes with 4 DIMM slots. For next-generation connectivity, it comes with an HDMI port and a Displays port for video output. Additionally, this motherboard features Intel USB 3.1 with USB type-C for added connectivity.
When it comes to build quality, this model is made up of premium quality materials for maximum durability. Plus, this Gigabyte motherboard features an innovative cooling system that keeps the system cool while enhancing the overall performance of the system.
What’s more, this board provides 3-way graphic support with exclusive ultra-durable metal shielding over the PCle slots. In terms of performance, this motherboard is equipped with PCle Gen3 x4 M.2 connector with up to 32Gb/s data transfer rate.
Furthermore, it also equipped with 3 SATA Express Connectors for up to 16Gb/s data transfer. So, if you’re looking for a high-end, powerful and yet affordable Z170 motherboard from a trusty brand, then this Gigabyte Z170MX would be an option to consider.
MSI Enthusiast Gaming Intel Z170 Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: MSI.
- Processor: Support 6th Gen .
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCle x16: 3.
- USB Ports: 14.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Good-looking.
- Easy to install.
- Robust performance.
- Affordable price.
- Ideal for demanding tasks.
- Worth money.
MSI is also a well-known manufacturer which provides one of the best gaming motherboards to its loyal customers. And this MSI Enthusiast Gaming Z170 is one of them. This board support 6th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors.
Moreover, this motherboard has a maximum memory capacity of 64GB. In terms of design, this board features a sleek, ergonomic, and eye-catching design which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers.
For next-generation connectivity, this model comes with 1 USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A port, 1 USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C ports, 6 USB 3.1 Gen1 ports, and 6 USB 2.0 ports. When it comes to performance, this motherboard features a DDR4 boost and Audio boost 3 with Nahimmic Audio enhancer for a high-quality listening experience.
Additionally, this MSI motherboard comes with 3 PCI-E x16 and 4 PCI-E x1 slots. Overall, this would be an excellent option for gaming enthusiasts, professionals, and content creators.
ASUS Z170-A
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support 6th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- USB 2.0 Ports: 6.
- Graphics Card Interface: Integrated.
Features
- Durable & stable.
- Easy to install.
- Affordable price.
- Innovative cooling.
- Sound quality..
Here is another high-end Z170 motherboard from a trendy brand ASUS. This board has a maximum memory capacity of 64GB and comes with 4 memory slots. Moreover, this motherboard supports the latest 6th Gen Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance.
Additionally, this model features 5-way optimization. That means it can perform a variety of system tuning procedures through a single click. Plus, this board also features the Fan Xpert 3 feature, which is an advanced combination of hardware & software that can automatically calibrate PWN or DC fans in the system for the right combination of cooling.
What’s more, this ASUS motherboard comes with ASUS Pro Clock Technology which is a dedicated base-clock generator designed for 6th Gen Intel Core Processors that allows overclocked base frequencies up to or beyond 4000MHz. While also enabling additional flexibility in overclocking methods.
Furthermore, this motherboard comes with Integrated USB 3.1 with one Type-A and one Type-C port. With both Type-A and Type-C port, this board is capable of handling current USB 3.1 devices as well as coming up devices.
Lastly, this model comes with 5X Protection II for long-lasting durability. While the overall motherboard features ASUS Q-Design for a safer, enjoyable building experience.
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS VIII Hero
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support 6th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- USB Ports: 6.
- PCI-E x16: 3.
Features
- Eye-catching design.
- Easy to install.
- Innovative cooling.
- RGB lighting.
- Excellent sound quality.
Here is another excellent Z170 motherboard from the house of ASUS. We really love ASUS ROG Series because they know how to make good-looking motherboards with amazing performance & speed.
This MAXIMUS VIII Hero support 6th Gen Intel Core processors has a maximum memory capacity of 64GB. When it comes to design, this ASUS motherboard is one of the best-looking motherboards out there.
Just look at the colour combinations with little details all around the board. Additionally, red one of the main symbols of the ASUS ROG Series. Plus, this Hero VIII is made up of premium quality materials, and there will be zero flexings while building a system.
What’s more, the CPU slot of this model is quiet and big, and there is a lot of space for any kind of custom cooling. One of the best thing is that this is an RGB motherboard, so you can change the colours of some parts.
This board comes with an extremely fast M.2 connector and 3 PCl-E x16 slots, so you can pair up 3 GPUs and build the most exciting gaming PC ever. Furthermore, the sound quality of this model is just amazing, thanks to the completely new SuperemeFX system. For extensive connectivity, it comes with 6 USB ports and 1 USB 3.1 port.
Lastly, it features 5-way optimization, which performs various tuning procedures through a single click, including; Turbo Processing Unit (TPU), Energy Processing Unit (EPU), Fan Xpert 3 with dedicated 4-pin PWM header, Extreme Engine DIGI+, and Turbo App for maximum performance.
GIGABYTE Z170-HD3
Specification
- Brand: Gigabyte.
- Processor: Support 6th & 7th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCI-E x16 slot: 1.
- USB Ports: 6.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI, PCI-E.
Features
- Simple design.
- Easy to install.
- Affordable price.
- Best for everyday tasks.
After many excellent motherboards, we need to include something more acceptable for those with less budget. This would be an excellent motherboard for everyone who wants to build a medium-end PC for normal gaming sessions.
This board has all the necessary features that a decent motherboard needs to have, and we are sure that you will also like it. In terms of design, this Gigabyte motherboard looks pretty standard; nothing special in design but still nice.
It has an all-black design with grey details. Additionally, there are also a couple of gold accents, one on the block and another one on the bottom. Plus, this model supports the latest 6th & 7th Gen Intel Core Processors, which is great because there are a lot of people that don’t need anything special on motherboards.
It is a well-made motherboard, and every component is made with premium quality materials for maximum durability. What’s more, this board comes with 4 dual-channel DDR4 slots with a maximum capacity of 64GB.
So, if you’re building a new system that will be usable for a couple of years, then there is a lot of space for upgradability. Not just this, it comes with 6 SATA 6Gb/s connectors for everyone that needs more than one hard drive.
Furthermore, it has 1 PCI-E x16 connector, which will be enough for normal gamers. Lastly, there are 6 USB ports on the backside, but none of them is 3.1. And there isn’t USB Type-C too. But it still delivers excellent performance when it comes to normal gaming and non-gaming tasks.
MSI Z170A Gaming PRO Carbon
Specification
- Brand: MSI.
- Processor: 6th Gen .
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slot: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCI-E 3.0 x16: 3.
- USB Ports: 6.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Eye-catching design.
- Easy to install.
- Robust performance.
- RGB lighting.
- High-quality sound.
- Value for money.
If you’re ready to invest in a high-end motherboard without worrying about the price point, then this MSI Z170A Gaming PRO Carbon would be perfect for you. This board support 6th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron Processors.
Moreover, it comes with 4 DIMM slots with a maximum capacity of 64GB. In terms of design, this board features a stylish carbon skin design. This material is extensively used for the world of racing cars, where every second count.
Despite its strength and futuristic look, carbon fibre is also very light for ultimate performance to pursue track records. What’s more, MSI introduces DDR4 Boost technology with optimized traces and fully isolated memory circuitry.
This design ensures that the memory signals stay pure for optimal performance & stability. While the steel armor technology offers better EMI-shielding and better signal strength for optimal memory performance.
Not just this, this model also features 15KV anti-surge protection to shield your network from lightning strikes and static electricity. Furthermore, the reliable LAN Protect is a LAN connector designed to provide you with the best networking experience.
Lastly, this MSI motherboard features Audio Boost 3 Pro with Nahimic Sound technology. That means this model delivers the highest sound quality through the use of premium quality audio components. So, you can enjoy crystal clear sound & music through 8-channel HD Audio.
ASRock Z270 Killer
Specification
- Brand: ASRock.
- Processor: 6th & 7th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 2.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCle x16: 2.
- USB Ports: 8.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Appealing to eyes design.
- Easy to install.
- Affordable price.
- Next-generation connectivity.
- Lock feature.
- Value for money.
This company makes its name in the motherboard industry by providing high-quality, good-looking, and well-priced motherboards to its loyal customers. This board support 7th Gen & 6th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, Celeron Processors for maximum speed and connectivity.
Moreover, it comes with two of the world’s fastest PCle Gen3 x4 Ultra M.2 slots that deliver up to 32Gb/s data transfer speed. Additionally, this ASRock motherboard also supports SATA3 6Gb/s M.2 modules for added performance.
What’s more, this board support dual-channel DDR4 memory with a maximum capacity of 64GB and comes with 4 DIMM slots. The PCI-E slots are packed with solid cover that prevents any signal interference with graphics cards and ensures heavy graphics cards to be properly installed in the PCI-E slot.
Not just this, this motherboard support DVI-D and HDMI ports by independent display controllers. Furthermore, the Intel LAN provides the best performance, lower CPU utilization, and enhanced stability.
Lastly, the RGB LEDs and header allows users to connect LED strip and create their unique PC style with ease.
ASUS ROG Maximum IX Code
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support 7th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z270.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCle x16: 3.
- USB Ports: 3.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Good-looking design.
- Easy to install.
- Best motherboard for gaming.
- 5-way optimization.
- Innovative cooling.
- RGB lighting.
Here is another best pick for the best Z170 motherboard. We have this ASUS ROG maximum IX Code. So, if you’re a professional gamer and looking for a powerful motherboard for gaming, then this ASUS ROG Maximum IX Code is perfect for you.
This board is designed for the 7th Gen Intel Core Processors. Moreover, to maximize connectivity & speed – it comes with dual M.2, USB 3.1, and Intel Optane Memory compatibility and an onboard 802.11ac Wi-Fi.
Additionally, this board features 5-way optimization with auto-tuning and Fan Xpert 4 that automatically tailors overclocking profiles to your unique PC build for maximum overclocking performance and dynamic system cooling.
What’s more, this model has multi GPU SLI CFX support, 2 PCle 3.0 x16 SafeSlots, 1 PCle 3.0 x16 slot, and 3x PCle 3.0 x1 slots. Not just this, ROG’s innovative water cooling zone lets you monitor your cooling system like never before.
Furthermore, the AURA Sync RGB lighting features a nearly endless spectrum of colours with the ability to synchronize effects across an ever-expanding ecosystem of AURA Sync enabled motherboards.
Lastly, this model has two patent-pending Safe Slots feature an injection molding process that integrates metal framing for a stronger and firmly anchored PCle slot built for heavy GPUs.
ASUS RGB LGA1151 DDR4 Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support 6th & 7th Gen .
- Memory: 64GB.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- USB Ports: 8.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- High build quality.
- Easy to install.
- Ideal for demanding tasks.
- Innovative cooling.
- Worth money.
Every gamer always looks for a motherboard that can give a powerpack performance to the user. That’s why we have to include this ASUS RGB LGA1151 motherboard into our list. This board support 6th & 7th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors.
Moreover, this ASUS motherboard is the world’s first 3D printing-friendly motherboard with a patent-pending mounting design that enables easy mounting of your own 3D-printed parts. So, create colour-match custom nameplates and illuminate your passion for AURA Sync.
Additionally, this model features ASUS’s exclusive SuperemeFX technology, which delivers high-fidelity and near-lossless audio so no matter how frantic your game becomes. Not just this, this model also features one-click overclocking and 5-way optimization for an amazing performance.
Plus, for next-generation networking, it comes with Intel Gigabit Ethernet and LAN Guard. What’s more, for maximum speed – it comes with USB 3.1 Type-A & C ports and M.2 connectors.
However, the only downside of this model is that it is on the pricier side, making it less suitable for budget users. Overall, this would be an excellent option for the enthusiast, gamers, and other professional workers.
ASRock Z270 EXTREME4
Specification
- Brand: ASRock.
- Processor: Support 6th & 7th Gen =Processors.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z270.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCle x16: 3.
- USB 2.0 Ports: 3.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E Express x4, PCI-E Express x16.
Features
- High build quality.
- Easy to install.
- Support triple monitors.
- RGB lighting.
- Ideal for gaming & non-gaming purposes.
If you’re ready to invest in a high-end motherboard from a trusty brand without worrying about the price point, then we highly recommend this ASRock Z270 Extreme4. Because this motherboard is specially designed to perform demanding such as long-lasting gaming sessions or photo & video editing.
Moreover, this board support 6th & 7th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors. Additionally, it has a maximum capacity of 64GB and comes with 4 memory slots. One of the great thing about this board is that it supports triple monitors, which is just amazing! Isn’t it?
When it comes to build quality, this model is made up of premium quality materials for maximum durability and performance. Plus, for extensive connectivity, this motherboard comes with 3 USB 2.0 ports.
What’s more, this ASRock Z270 Extreme4 is a Kaby lake ready motherboard with proper looks, and an AURA RGB LED system that can be controlled from the EUFI BIOS. Not just this, this board comes with two M.2 slots.
Furthermore, it also comes with an improved Realtek 1220 Audio Codec for high-quality audio. Lastly, this Extreme 4 offers 3 PCle x16 slots; 1x PCle 3.0 x16, and three 3.0 x1. The only downside of this motherboard is that it is highly expensive, around $450.
So, if you’re feeling comfortable with this price tag and looking for a decent Z170 motherboard, then congratulations, you have found it!
GIGABYTE Z170 Gaming K3
Specification
- Brand: Gigabyte.
- Processor: Support 6th & 7th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCI-E Express 3.0 Slots: 2.
- USB Ports: 12.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-E.
Features
- Good-looking design.
- Low price.
- Ideal for overclocking.
- Excellent performance.
- Innovative cooling.
- Value for money.
If you’re a budget user and looking for a decent Z170 motherboard from a popular brand, then this Gigabyte Z170 is the perfect option to consider. This board support dual-channel, Non-ECC, and unbuffered memory with a maximum capacity of 64GB. Moreover, it comes with 4 DIMM slots.
When it comes to design, this motherboard is made up of the finest quality materials for maximum durability of the product. Additionally, Gigabyte used three colours to design this motherboard red, black and white.
The combination of these colours gives this motherboard a gorgeous look. For next-generation connectivity, this model comes with 2x USB 3.1 Type-A ports, 6x USB 3.0/2.0 ports, 4x USB 2.0/1.1 ports, 1x keyboard/mouse combo port, 1x DVI-I port, and 1x HDMI port.
In terms of performance, this motherboard has 2x PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots and 4x PCI-Express 3.0 x1 slots. Plus, this model comes with 6 SATA3 ports and one M.2 connector for maximum data transfer rate.
Furthermore, this Gigabyte motherboard features an innovative cooling system that keeps your system cool while enhancing the overall performance of the system. Lastly, it also has high-end audio capacitors and a Realtek ALC1150.7 controller for high-quality sound.
NZXT N7 Z490 Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: NZXT.
- Processor: Support Intel Core Processors.
- Memory: 128GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- Bluetooth: Yes.
- Wi-Fi: Yes.
Features
- Eye-catching design.
- Affordable price.
- Available in different colours.
- RGB lighting.
- Best for building PCs.
If you like to show off your rig to your friends and looking for a good-looking motherboard, then this NZXT N7 would be an excellent choice. This motherboard provides everything that builders need to get the job done.
With an integrated rear I/O and a streamlined board layout, this board simplifies the building process. Moreover, with its built-in RGB and fan controls, users can create fan curves or control RGB lighting from any manufacturer easily.
Lighting accessories from all manufacturers are supported. When it comes to design, this metal cover is available in two colours, black & white. These colours give it a seamless look that blends into the background of any NZXT H Series case for a clean aesthetic.
What’s more, this model includes Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and utilizes all PCI-E Express lanes available from the CPU & chipset. Not just this, this Z170 motherboard features advanced lighting with numerous presets and custom modes.
Furthermore, this model also features an innovative cooling system that keeps your computer cool while enhancing overall performance. So, if you are one looking for a good-looking and yet powerful motherboard, then your search ends here!
ASUS Optimized Z170 Motherboard
Specification
- Brand: ASUS.
- Processor: Support 6th Gen.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- RAM Memory Technology: DIMM.
Features
- High build quality.
- Easy to install.
- Ideal for gaming.
- Sound quality.
- Ultra-speedy transfer for fast gaming.
Here is another excellent Z170 motherboard from the house of ASUS. This an ATX gaming motherboard packed with various exclusive features like SupremeFX Audio with Sonic Radar II, Intel Gigabit Ethernet for intensive gaming, networking, and speed, along with LANGuard.
Moreover, this motherboard support 6th Gen Intel Core processors. It has a maximum capacity of 64GB and comes with 4 memory slots. As we mentioned earlier, this board features SupremeFX Audio technology that achieves near-lossless audio quality and has multiple light effects to illuminate the exclusive red-line shielding.
While Sonic Radar II technology is there to locate battlefield enemies before they spot you. It also displays a stealthy overlay that shows what your opponents & teammates are up to on the battlefield. This can all be managed through a single control panel.
What’s more, this model features AI Suite 3 – which is an exclusive ASUS dashboard-style control panel that lets you fine-tune almost every aspect of your Z170 motherboard for the perfect balance between performance, stability, efficiency, and aesthetics.
Not just this, this ASUS motherboard also comes with ASUS PRO Clock technology which is a dedicated base-clock generator specially designed for 6th Gen Intel Core processors that allow overclocked base-clock frequencies up to 400MHz.
Overall, this ASUS motherboard would be an excellent choice for overclockers, gamers, enthusiasts, and many more professional users.
ASRock Z170 EXTREME6
Specification
- Brand: ASRock.
- Processor: Support Intel Skylake Platform.
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCle x16: 2.
- USB 2.0 Ports: 2.
- Graphics Card Interface: PCI-Express x4, PCI-Express x16.
Features
- High build quality.
- Rugged design.
- Easy to install.
- High-quality sound.
- Best for enthusiasts.
Here is another ASRock motherboard from their Extreme Series. This motherboard support Intel Skylake platform for maximum performance. Moreover, ASRock goes above & beyond the base chipset specification by adding some amazing features that make it a top-notch choice for enthusiasts.
When it comes to design, this board look gorgeous in black and gold livery. Additionally, it is engineered using premium quality materials, ensuring maximum durability. Plus, a 12 power phase supply offers up to 60A on the chokes and is consistent with other high-end motherboards.
What’s more, this model support Nichicon-powered audio, offering up to 115dB signal to noise ratio. Not just this, it also features a debug LED, six (4-pin) fan headers, well-spaced expansion slots, and a fast M.2.
Furthermore, ASRock includes a dedicated clock generator that allows the users to fine-tune the base clock in 0.0625MHz increments. The main reason for doing this is to allow enthusiasts the maximum possible configurability when overclocking.
Lastly, this board has two PCle x16 slots, 6 SATA3, 1 M.2, and SATA Express connector. ASRock further adds two SATA3 by way of an ASMedia controller.
ASRock FATAL 1TY
Specification
- Brand: ASRock.
- Processor: Support 6th Gen .
- Memory: 64GB.
- Memory Slots: 4.
- Chipset Type: Intel Z170.
- Form Factor: ATX.
- PCI-E x16 Slots: 2.
- USB Ports: 14.
Features
- Durable & stable.
- Easy to install.
- Never overheat.
- Robust performance.
- Highly recommended.
Lastly, we have another ASRock Z170 motherboard. This motherboard support 6th Gen Intel Core processors. Moreover, it also supports dual-channel DDR4 Non-ECC unbuffered memory with a maximum capacity of 64GB. The board comes with four memory slots.
When it comes to design, this model features a sleek, ergonomic, and lightweight design which makes it a top-notch choice for many customers. Additionally, this board comes with 4x PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots, 1x PCI-Express 3.0 x1 slot, 1x PCI-Express 2.0 x1 slot, 1x half-size mini PCI-Express slot for maximum performance.
What’s more, this motherboard support AMD Quad CrossfireX, 3-way CrossfireX, CrossfireX and NVIDIA SLI. Not just this, the model features an innovative cooling system for added speed and performance.
For next-generation connectivity, this ASRock Z170 motherboard comes with 2x USB 3.1 ports (1 Type-A, 1 Type-C), 8x USB 3.0 ports (4 rear, 4 via headers), 8x USB 2.0 ports (1 rear, 1 fatal1ty mouse, 6 via headers), 1x mouse/keyboard port, and Audio I/O jacks. Overall, this is a decent motherboard for everyone out there.
Ultimate Buying Guide For The Best Z170 Motherboard
As we promised earlier, here is the ultimate buying guide for the best z170 motherboard. This guide contains all the necessary information about the Z170 chipset. So let’s get started!
How To Choose The Best Z170 Motherboard
If you own an Intel Processor, then pairing it with a decent motherboard will complement and bring out the best in your computer setup.
So, if you’re in the market on or online for the best motherboard, then there are some things that you should need to consider before clicking the “add to cart†button.
Size of Motherboard:
This is the first and most factor that you should consider when buying the best motherboard for your computer. When it comes to size, the motherboards come in three standard sizes and each of them has a different number of slots to insert cards, including tuner cards, graphics cards, and display adapters.
ATX is a desktop computer size motherboard. While the micro ATX is smaller than the ATX by two inches and also offers fewer PCI slots than ATX motherboards. However, micro ATX motherboards still provide an opening to install two graphics cards. Moreover, some micro ATX motherboards have the same features as ATX motherboards.
The last one is the mini ITX motherboard which drops small in size than the micro ATX. Additionally, this type of motherboard has only one PCI-E slot which means they can only accommodate one PCI-E SSD, graphics card, or any other type of expansion card.
Memory:
Nowadays, DDR4 is the standard memory technology that an all-new motherboard comes with. Because a motherboard with DDR4 technology has higher MT/s, a higher capacity of 16GB per stick, and more energy-efficient than DDR3.
However, manufacturers are getting good progress in tightening the timings of this memory.
Moreover, some motherboards also support DDR3 memory, if DDR4 is out of your budget. The DDR3 memory is much cheaper, slower, and consumes more power. Nevertheless, you can’t run both types of memory at a time.
Slots & Connectors:
There are many slots & connectors on the motherboard, and these are worth paying close attention to if you intend to get the best motherboard for your needs.
The PCI slots are the slots that dominate the middle of the motherboard, accommodate networking cards, sound cards, SSDs, and graphics cards. The PCI slots are of several types which include PCI, PCI-Express x1, PCI-Express x4, PCI-Express x8, and PCI-Express x16.
The PCI-Express x16 slots offer the highest bandwidth and are the longest PCI slot in the market right now. The high bandwidth makes it highly suitable for high-end graphics cards. While the PCI-Express x4 is common in RAID cards & SSDs. And PCI-Express x1 slots are commonly used for wireless NICs and expansion cards.
The high-end z170 motherboards that we reviewed above have three or four PCI-Express x16 slots are several other PCI slots.
Storage Connectors:
A motherboard will have any of the following three storage connectors: Standard SATA connector, SATA express, or M.2 connector.
The standard SATA connector provides a large bandwidth to satiate SSDs & hard disks. While the SATA express offers faster speeds than Standard SATA through PCI lanes.
Lastly, the M.2 connector which takes a resemblance to a stick of RAM and fits flat on a motherboard is the most general format for SSDs. The M.2 connector provides better speed as compared to SATA because it also uses PCI lanes. Good motherboards normally have one or two M.2 connectors.
Conclusion:
We think that GIGABYTE Z170MX is the best Z170 motherboard in the market. This board support both 6th & 7th Gen Intel Core processors for maximum speed and performance. Moreover, it supports dual channel DDR4 memory and comes with 4 DIMM slots.
For next-generation connectivity, it comes with an HDMI port and a Displays port for video output. Additionally, this motherboard features Intel USB 3.1 with USB type-C for added connectivity.
Second, we have got MSI Z170 GAMING PRO Carbon; this board support 6th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron Processors. Moreover, it comes with 4 DIMM slots with a maximum capacity of 64GB.
This MSI motherboard features Audio Boost 3 Pro with Nahimic Sound technology. That means this model delivers the highest sound quality through the use of premium quality audio components. This model also features 15KV anti-surge protection to shield your network from lightning strikes and static electricity.
Last but not least, we have ASRock Z270 EXTREME4; this board support 6th & 7th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron processors. Additionally, it has a maximum capacity of 64GB and comes with 4 memory slots. One of the great thing about this board is that it supports triple monitors.
Furthermore, it also comes with an improved Realtek 1220 Audio Codec for high-quality audio. Lastly, this Extreme 4 offers 3 PCle x16 slots; 1x PCle 3.0 x16, and three  PCle 3.0 x1.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Z170 Motherboard
What does Z170 mean?
The z170 is a chipset type in the motherboard. It refers to the socket that supports 6th and 7th Gen Intel Core, Pentium, and Celeron Processors.
What’s the difference between Z170 & Z270?
One of the major differences between the z170 & z270 is the maximum number of PCI-Express lanes, the motherboard can support. The Z170 platform support up to 20 PCI-Express lanes while the Z270 platform support 24 PCI-Express lanes.
Is ASUS Z170-A good?
The ASUS Z170-A is one of the finest motherboards out there with excellent UEFI BIOS. It can automatically overclock the i5-6600k chip from 3.5GHz to 4.6GHz. Moreover, aside from an annoying factor, it has an easy BIOS to use.
Is Z170 good for gaming?
In layman’s terms, the Z170 motherboards are similar to Republic of Gamers motherboards a few generations ago. But they may not provide all the bravado-laden extras and expensive wizardry of ROG models.
However, it still makes a strong foundation for a gaming system.
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