John Chad, Bachelor Degree in Computer Science & Computer Engineering.
Russel Collins
Picking the right motherboard is crucial to get as much performance as possible from your GPU, CPU & RAM, however, with so many options available it truly becomes hard to figure out which motherboard is just right for you.
Here’s the kicker:
That’s what we’re here to do!
We’ll provide you with as much information and a few solid choices from the ones we’ve tried to give you a hand at the choosing process, we can guarantee you that all the options provided are top-notch and you will always be satisfied regardless of which one you choose.
Why should you trust our reviews/opinions?
Here at TechReviewTeam, we test every single motherboard before writing a detailed review on them. Unlike other websites, we don’t simply write reviews on products we’ve never tested, while others write reviews based on “theoretical performance” that the product SELLER ADVERTISES, we actually take our time to test the product we talk about & share the knowledge with you.
Best Motherboard For I5 11400 & I5 11400F:
- ROG Maximus XIII Hero Z590
- ROG Strix Z590-A Gaming
- ASUS ROG Maximus XII Hero Z490
- MSI MPG Z490 GAMING EDGE
- GIGABYTE B560 AORUS PRO AX
- Asrock B560 Steel Legend
Before we proceed, some information on the I5 11400F:
The I5 11400 and the I5 11400F are the new Intel 11th generation CPU released in 2021, it features a base frequency of 2.6Ghz which is relatively low, however, to make up for its low base frequency, the Turbo Frequency goes all the way up to 4.4Ghz. It also has 6 cores and 12 threads which is a massive improvement compared to older I5’s which feature only 4 cores and 8 threads.
Another key feature is the fact that it supports up to 3200Mhz RAM while the I5 10400 only supported up to 2666Mhz.
To get all the performance you can get from the I5 11400 you need to pair it with a good motherboard and that’s what this article is all about, giving you the top 6 motherboards that you should pick for your I5 11400 & for the I5 11400F. However, before we begin, you should know that the 11th gen CPU’s such as the I5 11400 can work with the Z490’s, however, the Z590’s or the B560’s will always be the best fit for the new CPUs, regardless, we will share with you some good options to choose from both Z590, B560’s and Z490’s.
Best Z590 Motherboards For The I5 11400:
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Designed to unleash the maximum performance of 11th Gen Intel Core processors
- AI Motherboard : AI overclocking, AI cooling, AI networking and AI noise cancelation
- Robust Power Solution: 14 plus 2 teamed power stages rated for 90 Amps, ProCool II power connectors, MicroFine alloy chokes and 10K Japanese-made black metallic capacitors
- Optimized Thermal Design: Enlarged VRM heatsinks plus integrated aluminum I/O cover, high-conductivity thermal pad, quad M.2 heatsinks with embedded backplates and ROG Water-Cooling Zone
- High-Performance Networking: Onboard WiFi 6E (802.11ax), dual Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet and ASUS LANGaurd
Pros
- Best-Seller, thus guaranteed satisfaction.
- Offers the best results for stable overclocking.
- Top of the line, you will never have the need to get any other motherboard as there simply isn’t a better one anyways.
- Good Brand
Cons
- Expensive
The ROG Maximus XIII Hero is the best-selling Z590 motherboard for the Intel Core I5 11400. The ROG Maximus XIII Hero Z590 is a high-performance gaming motherboard that fully supports the latest Intel Rocket Lake 11th Gen Core processors, and features AI overclocking and AI cooling to extract the full potential from its powerful components. It also offers advanced connectivity, including next-generation Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), speedy 10Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports, and other enhanced networking features to ensure smoother online gaming experiences.
This motherboard’s 14+2 power stages ensure no-frills efficiency and provide the optimal cooling to be really pushed hard. Meanwhile, ProCool II sockets are built to tight specifications to ensure flush contact with the PSU power lines and have metal armor for improved heat dissipation. The thermal balance of the VRM is further improved by Maximus XIII Hero’s MicroFine alloy chokes and 10K solid-state capacitors.
Maximus XIII Hero features comprehensive cooling controls that are configurable via Fan Xpert 4 or the UEFI BIOS. The enlarged VRM heatsinks augment the VRM thermal pad and active-chamber aluminum I/O cover to tame the latest processors, while onboard temperature sensors and Water Cooling Zone headers let you monitor and track operative temperatures for optimal cooling performance.
It has the most features overall when compared to all other motherboards, the best sound, allows overclocking with safety, and if you ever wish to upgrade your CPU to something even more powerful in the future, as long as it’s 11th gen CPUs this motherboard will easily support it and draw out its full potential.
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Designed to unleash the maximum performance of 11th Gen Intel Core processors
- AI Motherboard : AI Overclocking, AI cooling, AI networking and AI noise cancelation
- Robust Power Solution: 14+2 Dr. MOS power stages with ProCool II power connector, high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors to provide reliable power when pushing CPU performance to the limit
- Optimized Thermal Design: VRM heatsink, PCH fanless heatsink, M.2 heatsink, hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 4 utility
- High-performance Gaming Networking: Intel WiFi 6 AX201 (802.11 ax), Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet with ASUS LANGuard
Pros
- One of the Cheaper Z590s
- Great overclocking results & stability.
- Fits most people’s budget since it’s much cheaper than the XIII Hero.
- Good Brand
Cons
- Not as many features as the ROG Maximus Hero VIII
ROG Strix Z590-A Gaming features AI enhancements and intuitive dashboards to help you overclock and tweak various parameters easily.
Performance is at the heart of ROG Strix with 14+2 DrMOS power stages, ProCool sockets, alloy chokes, and durable capacitors to provide reliable power even when pushing the CPU performance to the limit.
Use a wide range of tuning options via Fan Xpert 4 or the UEFI BIOS to tune the system fan airflow exactly how you want. Three M.2 heatsinks put your SSDs in their optimal thermal environment and with support for up to three M.2 drives, you can build a RAID array for enhanced data read/write speeds.
ROG Strix Z590-A Gaming also includes the award-winning ROG software – supporting you on your journey to becoming a better gamer.
Best Z490 Motherboards For The I5 11400:
- Intel LGA 1200 socket: Designed to unleash the maximum performance of 10th Gen Intel Core processors
- Robust Power Solution: 14+2 power stages with ProCool II power connector, high-quality alloy chokes and durable capacitors to provide reliable power even when push the CPU performance to the limit
- Optimized Thermal Design: Except comprehensive heatsink, heatpipe and fan headers, features low-noise AI cooling to balance thermals and acoustics by reducing fan speeds and maintaining a 5 Celsius delta
- Fastest Gaming Connectivity: Dual Ethernet with 5Gb and gigabit Ethernet , LANGaurd, dual M. 2, USB 3. 2 Gen 2, and Intel WiFi 6 AX201 (802. 11 ax)
- Industry-leading Gaming Audio: High fidelity audio with the SupremeFX S1220A codec, DTS Sound Unbound and Sonic Studio III draws you deeper into the game action
Pros
- Best-Seller of its generation.
- Decent overclocking results even with the latest generation CPUs.
- If you already had it then you can reuse it for the 11th Generation CPUs as well.
Cons
- Expensive
- Not quite as good as the Z590’s since it wasn’t specifically tailored for the new generation CPUs.
Just like the Z590’s, the ROG Maximus yet again dominates the #1 spot as the best motherboard, this time of the Z490’s, it outperforms any other motherboard, however, it’s also quite expensive.
Built to maximize the speed of the 10th Gen Intel Core processors, the Rog Maximus XII Hero strikes the perfect balance between power and aesthetics-to allow you to rule your own destiny.
Allowing a base clock of up to 4.8 GHz and 16 MB of cache, the advanced heatsink ensures that it runs smoothly under heavy loads. The multiple GPU support allows for adding lots of extra graphics projects with an AI Cooling feature that controls fan speeds based on CPU temperatures.
It meets your gaming networking needs with dual Ethernet and 2.5 Gbps LAN, WiFi 6 (802.11ax), as well as dual M.2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connectors.
Add to that a comprehensive cooling solution, plus advanced chassis ventilation using a network of multiple headers and fan connections, plus ASUS SafeSlot armor that protects PCIe slots from damage or breakage and delivers outstanding endurance, assurance, and reliability when you need it the most!
- Supports 10th Generation Intel Core / Pentium Gold / Celeron Processors for LGA 1200 socket.Audio ports (Rear): 5 plus Optical S/PDIF (Realtek ALC1200 Codec)
- Supports dual channel DDR4 memory up to 128GB (4800MHz)
- Lightning USB 20G is powered by the ASmedia 3241 USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 controller, offering never before seen USB speeds up to 20Gb/s from the Rear USB Type-C port
- Twin Turbo M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr delivers transfer speeds of up to 32 GB/s for ultra-fast SSDs
- On-board 2.5G LAN plus Gigabit LAN with with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax).Pre-installed I/O Shielding for convenience and protection from electrostatic discharge
Pros
- Cheaper than the previous Z490.
- Still allows you to overclock with decent results.
- Just like the previous one, if you already own it you can reuse it with the 11th gen CPUs.
Cons
- Older Motherboard.
- Not quite as good as the new motherboards.
- Don’t expect your overclocks to be limit testing since it wasn’t tailored for the new generation CPUs.
The MSI MPG Z490M GAMING EDGE WIFI is built with a focus on performance and durability. Outsmart and outperform your opponents in-game using an array of unique MSI GAMING tools.
Clever hardware & software tools, are created to keep you one step ahead of the competition and boost your skills. This MSI product supports all the latest storage standards. This allows you to connect any ultra-fast storage device, giving you noticeable benefits. Start programs faster, load data faster, and increase productivity.
MSI MPG Z490 GAMING EDGE is built for gamers who want to focus on the game. This MPG GAMING motherboard offers a rich list of features such as Lightning USB 20G, Mystic Light Infinity, Triple Turbo M.2 with Shield Frozr, Audio Boost HD, Game Boost, and Dual Front USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connectors. Packed with features to fuel your gaming rig’s memory with more speed and higher overclock!
Transfer all of your files and data at lightning speeds up to 32 GB/s using Gen4 PCI-E technology. The Twin Turbo M.2 with M.2 Shield Frozr delivers transfer speeds of up to 32 GB/s for ultra-fast SSDs making it perfect for gamers, content creators, and professionals alike.
With an extended heatsink design, 2.5G LAN plus Gigabit LAN with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), and M.2 Shield Frozr for the heavy loads that are generated by its powerful processors, this motherboard offers professional performance to last a lifetime. Its Mystic Light Infinity II delivers outstanding color accents, while pre-installed I/O Shielding fortifies protection from electrostatic discharge.
Best B560 Motherboards For The I5 11400:
- Supports 11th and 10th Gen Intel Core Series Processors
- Dual Channel Non-ECC Unbuffered DDR4, 4 DIMMs
- Direct 12+1 Phases Digital VRM Solution with 50A DrMOS
- Shielded Memory Routing for Better Memory Overclocking
- Fully Covered Thermal Design with High Coverage MOSFET Heatsinks
Pros
- B560 Best-Seller, likely this is all you need if you have no desire to overclock.
- Has the most features when compared to other B560 motherboards.
- Cheaper than Z590s
Cons
- Can’t overclock
- Most expensive B560 when compared to other options.
If you were going to pick the best B560 motherboard then this should be the one, otherwise, you should just go with the Z590s as the price is getting close to them. The motherboard itself is still relatively fine in terms of features & overall performance.
The GIGABYTE B560 motherboard series is designed from the ground up with a high performance and durable components that are designed to last over time. A durable junction that can withstand moisture and dust intrusion, exposed PCB connectors, power supply design for durability, resistance against corrosion and helps prevent short circuits are just some of the features that make Gigabyte motherboards ready for a long and eventful PC-building career.
The GIGABYTE B560 AORUS PRO AX motherboard uses a 12+2 phase PWM + Lower RDS(on) MOSFETs Design to support the latest 11th generation Intel processors by offering incredible precision in delivering power to the motherboard’s most power-hungry and energy-sensitive components as well as delivering enhanced system performance and ultimate hardware scalability.
It also features a high coverage MOSFET Heatsink, Shielded Memory Routing for better memory overclocking, and Smart Fan 5 functionality which helps you to keep your system cool and quiet.
With the 2540 MHz Memory Clock (until DDR4-5000), this board is perfect for overclocking your RAM or using higher frequencies that your system can handle. In addition, it has Dual M.2 Connectors with PCIe Gen4x4 & SATA support!
- CPU:INTEL SOCKET1200 FOR INTEL 10TH/11TH GEN CORE
- CHIPSET:INTEL B560
- MEMORY:4*DIMM MAX 128GB DDR4
- SLOTS:1*PCIE4.0X16;1*PCIE3.0X16;2*PCIE3.0X1
- STORAGE:2*M.2 SLOTS;6*SATA 6GB/S PORTS
Pros
- Cheapest B560
- Still has decent features & quality despite being this cheap.
- Fits most people’s budget
Cons
- Not as good as the other options.
- Lacks some features
- Can’t overclock
- Likely the worst B560 motherboard on the market when compared to other options.
The ASRock B560 Pro 4 uses high-performance power delivery and Dr. MOS components to ensure quality while the Fins-Array heatsink ensures reliable cooling and a stylish appearance.
For storage, it has two M.2 slots, six SATA 6Gb/s ports, and eight USB 3.2 Gen1 ports. The Intel B560 chipset can also deliver up to 40 PCIe Gen4 lanes for maximum performance in games or creative workflows.
Motherboard Buyer’s Guide – Things To Keep In Mind
Choosing the right computer components is not an easy task. There’s no simple guide telling you exactly what you need or how much RAM you should use, yet people still find themselves confused over these basic issues. It certainly doesn’t help that manufacturers have become increasingly vague with their product descriptions.
If you’re just starting out building your own computer, it becomes even more confusing as there are so many options available on today’s market. Fortunately, we’ve compiled some of the most commonly overlooked specs into this handy list. The aim here is to provide you with some guidelines to consider before making your purchase decision.
CPU Socket
The CPU socket determines where the processor sits within the case. You’ll notice they usually feature a large heatsink placed directly above them. This allows heat generated by the CPU to dissipate efficiently.
Generally, with every new CPU generation, there will be a new socket associated with it.
Form Factor
Motherboards come in multiple form factors ranging from MicroATX to Full-Size ATX depending on internal dimensions. Some common sizes include Mini ITX, Micro ATX, Nano ATX, DTX, MITX, MOLEX, and Half-height Micro ATX. While smaller footprints offer increased portability, larger forms factor allow users to install bigger cooling solutions.
MicroATX remains very compact compared to full ATX towers but offers greater flexibility. Smaller cases don’t necessarily mean lower power consumption since airflow requirements vary greatly across different setups.
PCIe and Expansion Slots
Expansion cards are essentially plug-and-play peripherals that give owners access to extra functionality. Examples include sound cards, SSD drives, networking adapters, wireless radio cards, and more.
They are intended to replace bulky external accessories that previously occupied valuable space inside laptops. Nowadays, however, most PCs have been internally upgraded to accommodate these additions through specialized expansion slots. Here’s a quick rundown of the most widely supported formats.
PCI Express
In 2008, PCI Express adopted the name “Peripheral Component Interconnect” following complaints about being too technical sounding. Since its debut, it quickly gained popularity as the primary method of connecting GPUs to machines. Currently, it supports speeds up to 32GTbps.
AGP Slot
Advanced Graphics Port was originally launched back in 1998 and became obsolete once AGPS came onto the scene. Today, it’s mostly limited to gaming rigs and other specialized products. It operates at 33.125MBps and uses a single 8x link.
VMEbus / Quad Channel
It’s named after VMEbus, another technology developed by IBM. Originally released way back in 1991, it consists of 4 independent address spaces allowing for quadruple simultaneous transfer rates of 256 MB per second.
Currently, VMEbus is mainly used for testing purposes and is rarely seen on consumer-grade equipment. Its successor, HyperTransport, hit shelves in 2003 and serves as the de facto replacement for VMEbus. Although technically inferior, it does increase bandwidth efficiency by 30 percent and reduces latency by 50%.
Other notable technologies include Front Side Bus, Peripheral Component Interconnect Extended, and QuickPath Interconnect. All of them operate similarly to PCI Express except FSB utilizes a fixed frequency whereas QPI employs variable timing dependent upon temperature.
Power Connector
Another crucial aspect to consider is power supply voltages. With the latest processors producing more heat and graphical power, more wattage is needed to cool & power them effectively. Furthermore, if you intend to upgrade to SLI later on, having sufficient power output is essential.
RAM Socket
Lastly, ensure the motherboard supports whatever kind of RAM you purchased. Motherboards come with preinstalled BIOS settings that determine RAM maximum frequency ranges. To figure out this range, refer to the manual accompanying your particular motherboard.
Once you select RAM, it’s time to decide what kind suits your needs best. Popular choices include Double Data Rate (DDR) versions, Registered Dual inline Memory Module (RDIMMs) and Unbuffered Dimm (UDIMMs).