MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is an exceptional mid-range ATX motherboard designed to extract maximum performance from the Intel Core i7-13700. It features a robust 16+1+1 phase power delivery system, PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for future-proof graphics, and integrated Wi-Fi 7 for ultra-fast wireless connectivity. The board also includes four M.2 slots with dedicated heatsinks, making it perfect for expanding your gaming library.
- Wi-Fi 7 support
- Strong 16-phase VRM
- Four M.2 slots
- Slightly premium price
- No PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot
Platform Match
The Intel Core i7-13700 uses the LGA1700 socket, compatible with Intel 600 and 700-series chipsets. For gaming, B760 and Z790 motherboards offer the best balance of features, PCIe lanes, and memory support.
VRM Guidance
Although rated at 65W, the i7-13700 can draw over 200W under load. A motherboard with at least a 12+1 phase VRM is recommended to prevent thermal throttling during gaming.
Upgrade Path
Opt for DDR5 boards to ensure future memory compatibility. Look for PCIe 5.0 support and multiple M.2 slots for storage expansion.
Quick Compare Matrix
| Rank | Motherboard | Chipset | Size | Memory | Value | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi Best Balanced |
Intel Z790 LGA1700 | ATX | DDR5 up to 7800+ MHz (OC) | ★★★★☆ | Buy Now |
| #2 | Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX Best Value |
Intel Z790 LGA1700 | ATX | DDR5 up to 7600 MHz (OC) | ★★★★★ | Buy Now |
| #3 | ASRock B760 Pro RS Budget Pick |
Intel B760 LGA1700 | ATX | DDR5 up to 7200 MHz (OC) | ★★★★★ | Buy Now |
| #4 | ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II Premium Creator |
Intel Z790 LGA1700 | ATX | DDR5 up to 8000+ MHz (OC) | ★★★☆☆ | Buy Now |
| #5 | MSI PRO B760-A WiFi DDR4 DDR4 Value Pick |
Intel B760 LGA1700 | ATX | DDR4 up to 5333 MHz (OC) | ★★★★★ | Buy Now |
Recommended Motherboards
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi
ATX
DDR5 up to 7800+ MHz (OC)
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is an exceptional mid-range ATX motherboard designed to extract maximum performance from the Intel Core i7-13700. It features a robust 16+1+1 phase power delivery system, PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for future-proof graphics, and integrated Wi-Fi 7 for ultra-fast wireless connectivity. The board also includes four M.2 slots with dedicated heatsinks, making it perfect for expanding your gaming library.
- Wi-Fi 7 support
- Strong 16-phase VRM
- Four M.2 slots
- Slightly premium price
- No PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot
Key Features: Wi-Fi 7, 2.5GbE, PCIe 5.0 x16, 4x M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX
ATX
DDR5 up to 7600 MHz (OC)
The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX offers premium features at a highly competitive price point. It boasts a twin 16+1+2 digital VRM design that easily handles the power demands of the i7-13700. With PCIe 5.0 support, Wi-Fi 6E, and a robust thermal design, this ATX board ensures stable gaming performance. It is an excellent choice for users wanting Z790 features without paying flagship prices.
- Excellent VRM cooling
- PCIe 5.0 x16 slot
- Easy-to-use BIOS
- No Wi-Fi 7
- Lacks PCIe 5.0 M.2 support
Key Features: Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5GbE, PCIe 5.0, 4x M.2 slots, Q-Flash Plus
ASRock B760 Pro RS
ATX
DDR5 up to 7200 MHz (OC)
For budget-conscious gamers, the ASRock B760 Pro RS delivers essential features without unnecessary markup. It features a reliable 10+1+1 phase power design that safely powers the non-K i7-13700 at stock settings. While it lacks CPU overclocking, it supports high-speed DDR5 memory and offers three M.2 slots for storage. It is a clean, silver-themed ATX board that fits perfectly into budget gaming builds.
- Affordable DDR5 entry
- Clean silver aesthetics
- Three M.2 slots
- No CPU overclocking
- VRM is basic for heavy loads
Key Features: DDR5 support, 2.5GbE, 3x M.2 slots, Nahimic Audio
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II
ATX
DDR5 up to 8000+ MHz (OC)
The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II is a premium ATX motherboard tailored for enthusiasts and content creators. It features an advanced 16+1+2 power stage VRM, onboard Wi-Fi 7, and a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for ultra-fast SSDs. The board offers extensive DIY-friendly features, including a PCIe slot Q-Release and M.2 Q-Latch. It provides maximum connectivity and headroom for high-end gaming and streaming setups.
- Onboard Wi-Fi 7
- PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot
- Premium audio codec
- Expensive
- Overkill for non-K CPU
Key Features: Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0 M.2, 5x M.2 slots, Q-Release, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
MSI PRO B760-A WiFi DDR4
ATX
DDR4 up to 5333 MHz (OC)
The MSI PRO B760-A WiFi DDR4 is the ideal choice for gamers looking to reuse existing DDR4 memory. It features a 12+1+1 Duet Rail Power System that easily sustains the i7-13700 under gaming workloads. This ATX board includes dual M.2 slots, Wi-Fi 6E, and 2.5GbE LAN for fast networking. It offers a cost-effective path to the LGA1700 platform without sacrificing essential connectivity.
- Reuses cheaper DDR4
- Wi-Fi 6E built-in
- Decent 12-phase VRM
- Limited to DDR4
- Only two M.2 slots
Key Features: DDR4 support, Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5GbE, Dual M.2 slots, Lightning Gen 4
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Z790 motherboard for the non-K Intel Core i7-13700?
No, a B760 board is sufficient since the i7-13700 cannot be overclocked. However, Z790 boards offer better VRMs, more PCIe lanes, and superior connectivity options.
Should I choose a DDR4 or DDR5 motherboard for this CPU?
DDR5 is recommended for better gaming performance and future-proofing. Choose DDR4 only if you are on a tight budget and reusing existing RAM.
Will the i7-13700 throttle on a cheap B760 motherboard?
Yes, if the board has weak VRMs. The i7-13700 draws up to 219W under load, so ensure the motherboard has decent power delivery and heatsinks.