There are newer and more powerful CPUs available for all sorts of customers in Intel’s 11th generation Rocket Lake CPUs. Most individuals and power users can’t go wrong with the Intel Core i5-11600K ( Amazon ) because of its powerful performance and affordable price.
As a result of more Instructions per cycle (IPC) than in prior generations, it performs substantially better in CPU-intensive games than in previous generations. This CPU is a strong performer when overclocked, delivering better fps in most high-end chips than any previous generation.
To take full use of an i5 11600K, you’ll need a lot of extra high-end components, including a motherboard that can keep up. Poor performance or frequent system crashes are likely outcomes if the wrong motherboard isn’t chosen.
A powerful CPU like i5 11600K demands a robust set of hardware and, most importantly, a motherboard that matches its performance. If a suitable motherboard is not selected, it will result in poor performance or frequent system crashes, or both. So you need to be considerate about the motherboard’s selection just like you are with the selection of your CPU and GPU. So if you want the best out of your build and want it to perform at the most optimal level, read our quick shopping guide that will help you understand a few basic concepts to select the best motherboard for i5 11600k.
The motherboard selection process is no different from choosing a CPU or GPU. You can grasp a few fundamental ideas to buy the best motherboard for an i5 11600k processor.
The quick shopping tips are as follows:
Quick Shopping Tips:
CPU SOCKET: The socket size is determined by the kind of processor you choose. Each AMD and Intel are prominent players in the CPU market, and both have distinct designs and architectures. Because Intel and AMD sockets are incompatible with one other, selecting one of their sockets restricts the use of the other manufacturer. So, to prevent any trouble, choose your CPU pick only after careful consideration.
FORM FACTOR: Four general categories describe the motherboard’s form factor or size. Your rig’s purpose is a significant factor in determining which option is best for you. Full or mid-tower towers are ideal for creating a robust system since they provide plenty of room for high-end components and ventilation. Micro-ATX or Mini ITX is better suited for general use and home entertainment.
RAM SLOTS & STORAGE: High-end gaming and content development systems use large RAM. It’s essential to have extra RAM slots on the motherboard you’re considering so you may expand your RAM capacity in the future. Such systems need M.2 slots that are fast and have enough SATA storage slots for greater capacity.
EXPANSION SLOTS & GPU support: PCIe 4.0 motherboards are essential for 11600K CPUs since they allow for twice as much bandwidth and even quicker M.2 slots to be accessed.
Best Motherboards for i5-11600K at a glance:
- ASUS ROG STRIX Z590-E
- Gigabyte Z590 AORUS ELITE AX
- MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon WiFi
- GIGABYTE B560 AORUS PRO AX
- ASUS ROG Maximus XII Hero
- ASRock B560 Steel Legend
- ASUS ROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING
- MSI MPG Z490 GAMING CARBON WIFI
The Best Motherboards for i5-11600K You Can Buy Today
ASUS ROG STRIX Z590-E
Best Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel Z590 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 14+2 | PCIe x16: 3 | USB Ports: 14 | Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ BT 5.2 and WIFI 6E
✓ Pro Cool II connector
✓ 14+2 PWM for stable overclocking
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Slightly expensive
✗ No AMD CrossfireX support
In gaming, ASUS ROG is known for its high-end motherboards with a focus on performance and customization. Just behind the Maximus series is the ROG line’s top echelons.
This motherboard is the best for i5-11600k processors because of its high-end gaming performance, A-aid, RGB, and fantastic features for gamers.
The Z590 chipset has two PCIe 4.0 dual slots, which theoretically give double the bandwidth of PCIe 3.0, allowing for supposedly more excellent performance with compatible GPUs and M.2 storage devices.
The Strix Z590-E’s lack of AMD CrossFireX support is a minor annoyance for AMD fans. The 14+2 VRMs give a consistent overclocking experience and are adequately cooled by a huge heatsink, so overclocking should not be a problem.
Four heatsink M.2 slots are also provided for quicker loading times and improved overall performance. Dual-band ethernet and WiFi 6E, two of the most advanced wireless networking standards, are both included on this board. It’s a well-rounded i5 11600k motherboard that delivers excellent performance, consistent overclocking, and aesthetically beautiful design elements.
Gigabyte Z590 AORUS ELITE AX
Best Z590 Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel Z590 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 12+1 | PCIe x16: 2 | USB Ports: 10 | Warranty: 3 Year
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Latest USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port
✓ USB Bios flashing port for easier flashing
✓ RGB Fusion 2.0 for complete RGBs customization
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Only one Ethernet port
✗ Only one PCIe 4.0 x16 port
Gigabyte Z590 AORUS ELITE AX is a mid-tier gaming motherboard in the Gigabytes AORUS lineup. It has two variants AORUS Elite and AORUS Elite AX, with the only difference of WIFI 6 chip present in the latter. The motherboard fancies a silver and black color scheme with built-in RGB in the logo, which looks very appealing and easy. It packs a 12+1 stage VRM with two full-length PCIe slots, though only one of them is v4.0.
With the 12+1 stage VRM (Digital PWM and 60A Dr. Moss) and a full coverage heatsink, the overlocking performance of the motherboard is smooth and precise. It supports the latest 11th gen Intel CPUs which can go up to higher clock speeds than the previous gen. The motherboard can support 128GB of DDR4 RAM, which you can overclock up to 5000MHz. It is the best Z590 i5-11600k motherboard in the mid-range category.
The gaming experience is more immersive due to the ALC1220 Realtek high-def codec, which provides higher resolution 7.1 audio and the best sound quality. The build quality of the board is robust and durable to provide years of trouble-free operation. Connectivity during online gaming will be fast and lag-free with dual-band 2.5G ethernet and WIFI 6 (only in Elite AX model). Overall it’s a well-packaged motherboard with a bit of everything you can think of and is the best motherboard for i5-11600k.
MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon WiFi
Best Flagship Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel Z590 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 16+1+1 | PCIe x16: 3 | USB Ports: 17 | Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ 7 W/mK high-efficiency MOSFET thermal pads
✓ Thickened PCB for better thermal performance
✓ M.2 shield FORZR for cooler and faster M.2 drives
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ No SLI support
✗ M.2 installation requires heat spreader removal
MSI MPG series are high-end MSI motherboards landing just below the top-end MEG series. MSI MPG motherboards are famous for their cutting-edge performance, stable VRM, and a reasonable price that doesn’t require selling your kidney. MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon WiFi is the latest iteration with 11th gen CPU support, PCIe 4.0 slots, WIFI 6E, and thunderbolt support.
MPG Z590 packs a solid 16 stage VRM with 02 additional stages, delivering an overclocking performance that is second to none. Thanks to its exceptional thermal design and high-efficiency heatsink, it supports even the most high-end CPUs overclocked to their peak speed without breaking a sweat. Similarly, the RAM is supported up to a whopping 5333MHz in the overlocked mode for extreme performance.
MSI hasn’t left any stone unturned in the build quality and thermal performance. The board contains a six-layer PCB design with 2oz thicker copper for better thermal conductivity and superior heat dissipation. Considering the performance gains, solid build, and premium features, it’s unquestionably the best motherboard for i5 11600k in the flagship category without breaking your bank.
GIGABYTE B560 AORUS PRO AX
Best Overall Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Socket: LGA 1200 | Chipset: Intel B560 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 12+1 | PCIe x16: 2 | USB Ports: 07| Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Stable overclocking
✓ Pocket-friendly price
✓ Suitable for compact general-purpose builds
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Single PCIe 4.0 slot
✗ Unspecified audio codec
GIGABYTE B560 AORUS PRO AX is a mid-range high-performance micro-ATX motherboard in the AUROS series with upgraded PCIe 4.0 support, faster M.2 slots and USB ports, and high-speed WIFI 6. A non-AX variant doesn’t feature the WIFI 6, but the rest is the same. There is only one PCI-E 4.0 slot, but that is expected in such a small motherboard.
The 12+1 VRM delivers a stable 50A to each stage, sufficient to overlock mid to high-end CPUs without a problem. It offers three M.2 slots, out of which the only one supports PCIe 4.0 speeds. The VRMs are fully covered with heatsinks and are connected via a heat pipe to dual M.2 heat spreaders. The heatsinks ensure excellent performance and enable faster clock speeds while keeping the CPU temperature within limits.
Although small, the motherboard isn’t light on features. It packs all the essential features like 2.5G Intel Ethernet, super speed WIFI 6, and super-fast USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports. B560 AORUS PRO AX is the most suitable choice for general use and casual gaming and is the most reasonable budget i5-11600k motherboard.
ASUS ROG Maximus XII Hero
Best Z490 Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel Z490 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 14+2 | PCIe x16: 1 | Warranty: 3 year
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Sleek design
✓ Future-proof features
✓ Both SLI and CrossFireX support
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ Very expensive
✗ No PICe 4.0 support
ROG Maximus is the top-tier series offered by ASUS for true enthusiasts and performance seekers. ASUS ROG Maximus XII Hero is last year’s top-end model by ASUS ROG that offers the best performing VRMs, the ultimate gaming experience with superior SupremeFXAudio, and superior aesthetics when coupled with a unique looking PC case. If you are not concerned about its premium price, it is the best motherboard for i5 11600k.
As expected from a top-end motherboard, Maximus XII Hero’s performance is top-notch. Its 14+2 stage VRMs deliver stable 60A each to the CPU for extreme overclocking. When tested with core Comet Lake i9, it reached the TVB (Thermal Velocity Boost) speed of 5.3 GHz without hitting any thermal limits. The DDR4 is supported up to 128GB and 4800MHz in O.C mode. The lack of PCIe 4.0 support may be annoying for some, but until GPUs fully utilize the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0, it doesn’t offer any significant performance gains.
Other features that set Maximus XII apart are fast connectivity, Marvell’s 5G Ethernet, and WIFI 6, so you can enjoy a lower lag-free online gaming experience. Three heatsinked M.2 slots are provided to promote faster loading during your gameplay, and six SATA3 slots to store your ultimate gaming or entertainment collection. Overall it beats most premium motherboards in performance and attribute and is the Best Z490 Motherboard for i5-11600k.
ASRock B560 Steel Legend
Best Budget Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel B560 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 10 | PCIe x16: 2 | USB Ports: 10 | Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Reinforced PCIe 4.0 slot
✓ RAM overclocking enabled
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ only single ethernet port
✗ Limited CPU Overclocking
ASRock B560 Steel Legend is a mid-tier budget gaming motherboard that is tough as steel. Lower price doesn’t always mean lower performance and quality, just as in ASROCK steel legend. Its solid build quality provides utmost reliability and consistent long-term performance at a bargain price, making it a compelling best budget i5-11600k motherboard.
B560 Steel Legend has some shortcomings as well, which are associated with B560 chipset like 12lane PCIe as compared to 24 lanes PCIe in high-end Z590 motherboards. Steel legend makes up for it with the latest PCIe 4.0 support and faster connectivity with 2.5G Ethernet and WIFI 6. Since the B560 chipset limits support for CPU overclocking but it compensates for it by supporting memory overclocking up to 3200 MHz to boost overall performance.
Steel legend offers further performance enhancements like 10 stage Dr. Moss power delivery for enhancing CPU performance and Glass fabric PCB for protection against short circuits and humidity. Your extensive storage requirements are covered by 6 SATA3 ports and three M.2 slots, one of which is PCIe 4.0 enabled. Considering its meager price tag and solid performance coupled with extended reliability and robustness make it the best motherboard for i5 11600k in our budget category.
ASUS ROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING
Best Gaming Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel Z590 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 14+2 | PCIe x16: 3 | USB Ports: 17
REASONS TO BUY
✓ Three M.2 slots
✓ Competent 14+2 stage power delivery
✓ AMD 3-way CrossfireX and 2-way SLI support
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ No PCIe 4.0 slot
✗ No Thunderbolt 4 port
ASUS ROG STRIX Z490-E GAMING is an upper middle gaming motherboard with balanced features and excellent performance that will allow you to enjoy smooth action in fast-paced games without a stutter. Since the launch of newer Z590 motherboards, its price has significantly reduced, making it an absolute bargain and the Best Motherboard for i5-11600k for gaming.
Z490-E GAMING performed well in almost all of our tests, including compression, rendering, and encoding. It was successfully able to overclock the last-gen Intel Flagship 10900K processor to 5.2 GHz without any hitch. The test concluded that its performance is well above average in whatever task you throw at it with its capable 14+2 stage VRMs that keep the CPU temp within limits even at higher clock speeds, making it an attractive choice for an i5-11600k motherboard.
The look of Z490-E GAMING is also satisfying due to the simple black theme enhanced by RGBs on the heatsink and rear I/O panel. It packs most of the premium features you would find only in flagship motherboards like 2.5G ethernet and Intel WIFI 6 chips for blazing-fast connectivity and smoother online gaming. Moreover, SupremeFX audio is provided for immersive sound and a super-fast USB Gen2 Type C port for fast data transfers.
MSI MPG Z490 GAMING CARBON WIFI
Best Enthusiast Motherboard for i5-11600k
SPECIFICATIONS
Chipset: Intel Z490 | Socket: LGA 1200 | Form Factor: ATX | Voltage Regulator: 12+1+1 | PCIe x16: 3 | USB Ports: 14 | Warranty: 3 Years
REASONS TO BUY
✓ RGB shutoff switch
✓ Multi-GPU support
✓ Armored PCIe slots for durability
REASONS TO AVOID
✗ PCI 4.0 unsupported
✗ No Thunderbolt 4 port
MSI MPG Z490 GAMING CARBON WIFI is the previous generation offering of the MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon WIFI motherboard, launched to tame the 10th gen Intel CPUs to get the best performance out of them. The motherboard’s price suggests that it’s a mid-range gaming CPU, but it’s so much more than that and offers excellent performance, numerous features, and robust build quality making it the best motherboard for i5-11600k.
Z490 Carbon has an appealing design with four RGB headers for complete customization of lighting. The RGBs can easily be switched off entirely with a button if you are not into them. The 12+2 stage power delivery is robust and highly stable for excellent overclocking. Though a PCIe 4.0 port is not available, which does not ensure future-proofing, this motherboard performance is sufficient to handle the latest 11th gen CPUs and high-end GPUs.
Its dual reinforced PCIe 3.0 ports support dual GPU configuration (SLI and AMD crossfire X) and RAM overclocked up to a whopping 5000 MHz for extreme gaming enthusiasts. A 2.5 G ethernet and WIFI 6 present for faster and reliable connectivity, enhanced Hi-Def audio codec, and beautiful mystic lights result in smoother gameplay and a fully immersive experience
Conclusion
Intel 11th gen CPUs are more powerful than ever. They deliver higher clock speed and better single-core performance, resulting in improved gameplay in CPU-intensive games like Shadow of tomb raider or Far Cry 5. The best gameplay and FPS are dependent on the capable CPU, GPU as well as motherboard. The motherboard we have selected for you provides the best results and performance gains when coupled with i5 10600K. The best motherboard for i5 11600k on all accounts is ASUS ROG STRIX Z590-E. It delivers superior gaming performance, appealing looks with A-RGB’s, and great features for hardcore gamers.
The best overall balanced i5-11600k motherboard is GIGABYTE B560 AORUS PRO AX which delivers an outstanding balance between performance and price. It is a high-performance micro-ATX motherboard in the AUROS family with the newest PCIe 4.0 support, super-fast M.2 slots and USB ports, and super-speed WIFI 6 stutter-free online or offline gaming. The best motherboard for i5-11600k in the budget segment is ASRock B560 Steel Legend which is suitable for online and casual gaming and features an excellent build quality for trouble-free performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What motherboard do I need for i5-11600K?
The most obvious choice would be a Z590 motherboard with a PCIe 4.0 port, and if you are into hardcore gaming, it should support overclocking. The best i5-11600k motherboard would be Gigabyte Z590 AORUS ELITE AX that packs all the above features, and then some are a respectable and well-known performer among gaming fraternities.
Which is the best motherboard for i5 processor?
The best motherboard for i5-11600k is ASUS ROG Maximus XII Hero. It is the most premium motherboard on our list and the top performer among all mentioned. It has all the premium features like superior overclocking VRMs, three super-fast M.2 slots, the most immersive sound with superior SupremeFXAudio, and an elegant design that stands out.
Is i5-11600K good for gaming?
Intel Core i5 11600K is a six-core 12 thread CPU with exceptional gaming performance due to higher clock speed and improved single-core performance. It can easily outperform the previous-gen top performers when overclocked with a suitable high-end motherboard like MSI MPG Z590 Gaming Carbon WiFi with robust VRMs that can let it reach its peak speed without hitting any thermal limits.
What chipset is i5-11600K?
Intel i5 11600K belongs to an unlocked LGA 1200 chipset supported by Intel 500 and some 400 series chipset motherboards. It features 20 PCIe lanes (PCIe 4.0) that have a massive Gbps bandwidth. Gigabyte Z590 AORUS ELITE AX is the best motherboard for i5 11600k that supports PCIe 4.0 to fully utilize the raw power of this CPU and futureproofing your build.
Will B560 support 11600K?
The B560 motherboard is recommended because it can support a Core i5-11600K configuration and will let you play even the most demanding AAA games with a graphics card upgrade. It is also recommended since it is relatively inexpensive in comparison to other motherboards.
Does B560 support overclocking?
The B560 chipset has a number of new capabilities, one of which is the ability to overclock the memory. According to on whatever CPU is being utilised, the RAM frequency on B460 computers is restricted to either DDR4-2933 or DDD4-2666 speeds. You may now overclock the RAM on B560 computers in order to increase your gaming performance.
