Hey Readers!!!
Today I’m here to tell you that the motherboard is at the core of your system, and it can be hard to understand what exactly makes for the best motherboard, or why.
But we’ve done all the hard work, and found the best Intel 12th gen motherboard to house your brand-new Alder Lake CPU.
The next generation of computing power has arrived. The Intel 12th generation of CPUs, codenamed ‘Alder Lake’ has brought Intel back into the game, and now has a viable competitor to AMD’s razor-sharp Ryzens.
If you’re not sure which motherboard chipset to look for when choosing the best gaming motherboard or if you have any inquiries not covered here, Keep Reading
Things To Consider When Buying Intel 12th Gen Motherboard [Buying Guide]
There are not that many great options right now; the Z690 is now the only chipset that has been launched. The B660 and H670 boards ought to quickly join the suit. The main target market for the Z690 chipset is PC hobbyists.
1. Z690 Vs Z590
The connection format between its Z590 and Z690 has undergone the most visible shift, going from the older LGA 1200 to the more recent LGA 1700, which is also the state of the art for this current socket type. But is still unclear whether this socket will last past Intel’s 12th iteration of chips.
A current breed of PCIe, known as Gen 5, is introduced with Z690 motherboards. with twice as much PCIe bandwidth for 16X slots. PCIe gen 4.0 could service product capabilities of up to 16GT/s (Gigabits per second).
2. Socket
A current group of connections frequently follows a younger breed of chipset as well as CPU. Put LGA 1700 in. The LGA 1200 socket from earlier generations has been replaced by this one. Z690 motherboards with an estimated 500 contact points have LGA 1700. Due to this, the socket diameter has risen from the conventional 37.5 x 37.5 mm (LGA 1200) balanced square to 45 x 37.5 mm (LGA 1700).
3. Corsair Conquest DDR5 RAM 3, RAM
Not only Intel has now been modernizing its hardware; but RAM has also made strides in the market by showcasing its product, blisteringly quick DDR5 DIMMs. There are many Z690 circuits that continue to promote the more inexpensive and vintage DDR4 memory.
4. Form Factor
Depending on the motherboards you select, one of the most vital considerations is its smartwatch (irony intended) then you might lose some essential functions or whistles and gimmicks if you downsize.
Motherboards are available in a wide range of sizes and designs, from E-ATX to the very compact Mini-ITX. The modular design that you select frequently matches whatever case you select.
13 Best Intel 12th Gen Motherboard
So here we go with the best intel motherboards:-
1. ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero WiFi ATX Gaming Motherboard
the design of the Asus ROG Maximus Z690 hero is significantly different from that of the earlier hero processors. the polymeric lamp i/o cover and related fully configurable RGB lighting offer great customization.
the z690 hero comes equipped with 20+1 resource staging and automation, asus’ ai overclocking function that has been demonstrated to be essentially unequaled in the market right now.
PROS:
- Dual Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- PCIe Slot Q-Release
- 20+1 power stages (90A)
CONS:
- No 10Gb Ethernet
- Fewer power stages than more premium models
2. GIGABYTE Z690 AORUS Master
and effectiveness. The 15.6-inch Master is unquestionably among the top choices for even the most ardent PC gamers while being incredibly pricey.
A sleek and fashionable I/O cover and complementary cooler distinguish this version of Aorus Master from the previous one in terms of style. The power supply is considerably safer and more effective thanks to the remarkable 20+1+2 Computer Integrated VRM layout of the 15.6-inch Master.
When it comes to fashion integrating the brand-new DDR5 RAM, Gigabyte’s Aorus board is unquestionably extremely powerful, and the Chipset Master is nothing like that. This mobo offers great performance, beauty, and utility by supporting up to 6600MHz.
PROS:
- 20+1+2 Direct Digital VRM Design
- 10 GB BASE-T LAN
- Thunderbolt 4
CONS:
- Extremely pricey
3. Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra Plus
The Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra Plus has proved itself in our testing to be a well-performing, good-looking, and cost-effective option in the Z690 ITX space. Priced well at $329.99, it’s cheaper than most of the competition, and it includes two M.2 sockets, a modern premium audio codec, and high-quality 105A MOSFETs to feed any CPU. Plus it’s an RGB-inclusive design.
When comparing products, we have the MSI MEG Z690I Unify ($399.99), the ASRock Z690 Phantom Gaming-ITX/TB4 ($299.99), and the Asus ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi 6E ($409.99). The difference between these two ITX boards, which are more than adequate, depends on your demands and the pricing.
These boards all come equipped with Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5 GbE, two M.2 connectors, and at least two SATA connections. The MSI board is the only one having three M.2 sockets; the other boards all have extra SATA ports. If you compare audio codecs, the ASRock falls behind, although few people would notice a difference.
The Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra Plus appeals to us. The new board provided us with a generally well-rounded and unquestionably reasonably priced SKU while resolving issues with the PCIe slot of the prior iteration.
Additionally, it is the first Z690-based ITX board with RGB LEDs built-in, making it aesthetically distinctive in your case. The Ultra Plus is the greatest Z690 Mini-ITX choice available for the price, but those who want to use more than two SATA discs will need to search elsewhere.
PROS:
- Low cost compared to ITX Z690 rivals
- RGB LEDs are part of the premium look.
- Strong 105A SPS MOSFETs
CONS:
Only two SATA ports
No SATA M.2 support
4. Asus ROG Strix B660-I Gaming WIFI
The Asus ROG Strix B660-I Gaming WIFI has emerged as a deserving compact motherboard in the B660 area after our benchmark testing and a detailed examination of its extensive feature set.
The compact board has two M.2 ports, integrated Wi-Fi 6, a last-generation premium audio solution, a PCIe 5.0 slot, and these features. The heated VRM temps are the only actual hardware issue, however, keep in mind that this occurred during a stress test and isn’t a usual loading condition.
Apart from that, the performance in all of our tests was strong and could compete with comparable DDR5-based boards. It is fairly priced, packed with features, and has a strong performance at $219.99. From this kind of board, you really can’t ask for much more.
If you want to save some money and don’t intend to overclock your Alder Lake processor, the ITX board to choose is the Asus ROG Strix B660-I Gaming WIFI. There are Z690 choices if you do (we’ve already examined two, the ASRock Z690 PG ITX-TB4 and MSI MEG Z690I Unify), but most of them cost far in excess of $300.
PROS:
- Two M.2 sockets
- Premium audio
- PCIe 5.0 slot
CONS:
- Only six USB Type-A ports on the Rear IO
- Hot VRMs during stress testing
5. ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus WiFi
The ASUS TUF Professional circuit board is still a fan favorite because of its almost unbeatable price spec-wise and the amazing value it provides for people on a limited.
Over the past generation of boards, the TUF Gaming Z690 features revamped and improved power solutions. With 14+2 DrMOS power stage and Digi+ VRM, which provide incredible performance and longevity.
The motherboard has a PCH fanless coolant, a VRM CPU cooler, an M.2 cooling fan, and hybrid fan connectors, with Asus’ Fan Xpert technology, so the cooling is obviously much more adequate.
PROS:
- 14+2 power stages
- Thunderbolt 4
- 4x M.2/NVMe SSD
CONS:
- DDR4
6. ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming WiFi mini-ITX gaming motherboard
One of the greatest Mini-ITX processors available for this platform is without a doubt the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I. It is really well made, loaded with features, and really reliable.
That Strix Z690 has two full-functioning Thunderbolt 4 USB-C connections in addition to supporting DDR5 RAM and PCIe gen 5. Another 10+1 current mode chipset is what we see, albeit this one is an ITX motherboard so it can be better.
Despite this, the mobo is still exceptionally feature-rich. An integrating I/O cover and robust VRM time is the time taken with thermal expansion plates that have been added to the heat dissipation.
This chip also features company audio and HDMI 2.1 capabilities. These little boards have a lot of power.
PROS:
- 10+1 power stages
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C
CONS:
- Less power and features than ATX models similarly priced
7. ASUS Prime Z690 P Best Budget Gaming Motherboard
The ASUS Prime Z690-P is the list’s cheap pick. With a maximum payload speed of 6000Mhz, it is as much as we would advise for a DDR5 suitable motherboard. The Z690-P is a significantly improved model of the more dependable boards available, nonetheless.
This laptop won’t let anyone down at some point with compatibility for DDR5, PCIe 5.0, plus Bluetooth 4. Those would be the components of an excellent circuit that nonetheless has a lot of useful functionality.
This consist of Wifi 6, 14+1 power levels, and 2.5Gb Ethernet. Without the high price tag of most of the other motherboards we’ve listed, the ASUS Prime Z690-P marketing or promotional and a feature-rich experience.
PROS:
- 10+1 power stages
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C
CONS:
- Less power and features than ATX models similarly priced
8. MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi DDR4 ProSeries Motherboard
For something like a cheap motherboard, the MSI PRO Z690-A WiFi provides excellent dependability as well as a long lifespan.
Through some kind of computerized PWM, it makes sure that most of the electrical components on your workstation motherboard operate in a protected manner. Additionally, it acts as a protective barrier for your graphics card using steel armor.
These shields make absolutely sure your computer system does not really budge and remains securely in place. Additionally, the electromagnetic spectrum is protected from reaching your graphics card by diamond protection (EMI.)
The motherboard also includes a top-notch interface but also battery capacity technologies because you need to fully utilize your 12th generation Intel Core CPU.
PROS:
- Its heavy copper circuits offer long-lasting service
- Heavy plated heatsinks protect chipset, SSD storage, and transistors from overheating
- DDR4 slots enable you to re-use old RAM chips
CONS:
- Doesn’t come with integrated graphics
9. MSI Z690 Force WiFi Best Overall 12th Gen Motherboard
To ensure that my system is always stable, MSI performs exhaustive reminiscence certification using most well memory manufacturers in harsh environments.
In order to optimize memory cards, setups, and even overclocked, our memory providers include companies like Samsung, Essential, Kingston, G.Skill, and plenty more.
In order to please gamers, MSI motherboards are created with something like a range of connectors. Each gameplay becomes immersive with the help of improved audio, sophisticated LAN software/system, USB, and Mystic Light.
PROS:
- Enjoy multiplayer gaming with a 2.5G LAN
- Dedicated audio processor for gaming
- Protects removable parts with steel armor
- Intel Wi-Fi 6E offers up to 2,400Mbps internet bandwidth
CONS:
- Doesn’t offer integrated graphics
10. MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi Gaming Motherboard
An excellent ATX motherboard for those new 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs is the MSI MPG Z690 Carbon WiFi.
The slightly elevated design elements of this piece of machinery, such as the heat sink system, strengthened memory cards, temperature pads for semiconductors, and effective power delivery, make it desirable.
High-speed buses are necessary for even the most recent 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs to transport data across various motherboard components without any latency. Because of this, the manufacturers included twice as much copper circuitry. The complete desktop computer’s electrical properties is also improved with copper.
PROS:
- Extra-large heat sinks keep the total system temperature always low
- Reinforced slot bases ensure the stability of removable parts
- 2.5Gbps LAN for zero-lag experience in multiplayer gaming mode
CONS:
- Doesn’t offer integrated graphics
11. Asrock Z690 Taichi RGB Gaming Motherboard
Asrock’s Taichi Z690 motherboard is the relatively recent addition to the Taichi line, which has a lengthy history and is centered around mechs.
The back I/O panel seems to be an oddball, crammed assortment. Asrock also chose to position the microphone connections in the center of its rear I/O panel, just like it did with its Z590 Makes a vital contribution, despite the fact that it includes two Thunderbolt Type-C connectors (Opens in a new window).
Asrock appears to be forgoing a slightly elevated listening experience with some of this endeavor as the board only comes with the Realtek ALC1220 audio codec, which would be a subpar codec in comparison to its many counterparts.
PROS:
- Newest member
- Has two thunderbolt
CONS:
- Little expensive
12. Asrock Z690 Phantom Gaming 4 ATX Intel Motherboard
The Z690 Phantom Gaming 4 is currently the best value Asrock Z690 motherboard, as well as the absolute cheapest Z690 board of any manufacturer.
It should go without saying that it is also one of the simplest basics. They communicate information about some more of the lightest VRM heat spreaders on any Z690 motherboard with a nine-phase energy architecture.
Additionally, it lacks an over-module M.2 cooling system, a shroud or grille, and over-back I/O port blocks, and has a relatively modest chipset heatsink.
The Phantom Gaming 4, however, surprises me because its rear I/O interface is superior to the Asrock Z690 Pro RS’s. Compared to the Pro RS’s six USB ports, it features eight, one of which is a USB Type-C port.
PROS:
- Lowest price
- Easy to afford
- Nine-phase power design
CONS:
- None
13. Colorful iGame Z690 Ultra D5
Although Colorful recently revealed its new model, the motherboard isn’t yet on the market like Biostar’s is. The iGame Z690 Ultra D5 uses 90-amp semiconductors in an 18+1 power phase configuration. Additionally, this board comes with either an Intel i225V Gigabit NIC that supports Wi-Fi 6.
The board’s architecture is undoubtedly among the most intriguing that we have come across thus far. It’s challenging to put into words, but the PCB’s wavy, whirling design distinguishes out through the inaugural Z690 throng, as do all of the heatsinks.
PROS:
- Latest motherboard
CONS:
- Little expensive
Conclusion
That is indeed all there is to say at around this time; we are glad you liked reading about the 13 best intel 12 gen motherboards. With so many alternatives available on the motherboard market, choosing components might be challenging. In order to assist you, we have created the interoperability chart above, showing displays of the components that are available in your next gaming PC setup. Remember to put a comment and describe your perspective.
FAQs For 12th Gen Motherboard
1) Which motherboard is best for i9 12th Gen?
The Core i9-12900K works perfectly with the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero. Anyone can comfortably overload this CPU because of the outstanding VRM configuration and dc power design. A gorgeous design, a lot of M. 2 slots, PCIe 5.0 support, and DDR5 RAM support
2) Is a new motherboard required for Intel 12th Gen?
You require a motherboard with or without an LGA 1700 socket in order to use 12th generation Intel Core processors. To overclock 12th Gen CPUs, a motherboard containing overclock capabilities is required. Normally, motherboards featuring the Z690 chipset permit CPU overclocking. The Core i9-12900K works perfectly with the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero. You can safely overclock this CPU because of the outstanding VRM configuration and electricity mechanism.
3) is Z490 compatible with 12th Gen?
In 2021, a replacement socket might be introduced by Intel Alder Lake 12th-gen CPUs, leaving Z490 motherboards in cold. Intel’s Comet Lake 10th-generation desktop processor, which uses a redesigned Z490 motherboard and transitions to the LGA 1200 socket, was only just made public.
4) Is DDR4 compatible with DDR5?
The concept is basic. Take a piece of DDR4 memory, put it on the adapter card, you put it in the DDR5 computer motherboard.
5) Is DDR5 better for gaming?
By comparison, that seems to be equivalent to DDR4-3200 with only a 16 CAS frequency. At this time, gaming begins to gain from quicker overall harmonics. Despite the fact that this can only result within several times per second, it makes DDR5 a more desirable technology for gamers.
6) Intel i9 12th Gen good for gaming?
With the exception of an insanely impressive performance in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla by the Intel Core i5-12400F (I’ve tried this several times and yes, it’s real), the Core i9-12900KS either outperforms or is on par with its competitors in every game. It’s undoubtedly the world’s fastest gaming CPU that Intel has ever produced.
Thank you for sticking with me until the top of this journey. Stay Tuned at Gimmickyard For more Stuff We upload for Clearing your Doubts.