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Intel’s Core i5-14600K is a midrange champ that strikes an appealing balance between power and performance.
I otherwise updated all retailer links to ensure you’re looking at the best prices.
The ROG Strix Maximus Z790 Hero is an awesome motherboard for enthusiast-level builds.
Find it usually forabout $348.
Budget choice
This affordable microATX board usuallycosts about $120, but it punches way above its price.
Best value
GIGABYTE’s Z790 Eagle AX is immensely popular among builders who need lots of connectivity.
It even has Wi-Fi 6E built right in.
It’s usually available forabout $200.
Premium choice
Where money is no obstacle, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero should be a top choice.
You’ll usuallyspend around $550, reserving it for enthusiasts.
Which one you choose ultimately depends on your budget and what features you need from your board.
There are differences in I/O which you might want more of if you’re a content creator.
And if you’re looking at a compact build, an mATX board is best.
My top pick overall with all these points considered is the MSI PRO Z790-A Max WiFi.
It’s usually found forabout $348.
What’s the difference between Core i5-14600K and 14600KF?
However, the extra “F” means the chip lacks onboard integrated graphics.
Integrated graphics aren’t necessary in desktop builds with a separate discrete GPU.
You plug your monitor straight into the GPU, and motherboard video outputs usually go unused.
If you’re specifically building a gaming PC the need for integrated graphics drops.
You never know when they’ll come in handy.
The ROG Strix Maximus Z790 Hero is an awesome motherboard for enthusiast-level builds.
Is this the latest generation of Intel’s desktop CPUs?
