If you're interested in a 12th Gen Intel Core processor, you'll need compatible hardware. We've gathered the best Intel Z690 motherboards to take advantage of the features in this chipset, including DDR5 RAM support for super-fast memory.
Best overall
MSI MPG Z690 Carbon Wi-Fi
Staff pick
The best performance for your money, the MPG Carbon Wi-Fi is suitably impressive. Overclocking is simple in BIOS, so you can (carefully) push your CPU to its limits. It supports DDR5 RAM and Wi-Fi 6E, and includes two PCIe 5.0 slots and five M.2 sockets. Simply the best Intel Z690 motherboard.
$400 at Amazon
Runner-up
Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Pro
Dropping the wireless tech ever so slightly from 6E down to Wi-Fi 6, the AORUS Pro is the choice for runner-up. Still touting DDR5 RAM support and four M.2 sockets, it's another motherboard with strong VRM for overclocking. 13 USB ports total means ample connectivity for devices.
$310 at Amazon
Compact contender
ASUS ROG STRIX Z690-I Gami... https://www.windowscentral.com/best-intel-z690-motherboards
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