Best CPU for Z590 Motherboard in 2024 – our top picks
Looking for a new CPU for your Z590 motherboard? Look no further

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Looking for the best CPU for the Z590 motherboard in 2024? Then you are in luck. Z590 motherboards were the higher-end choice for the 10th and 11th generation of Intel processors – but they ares still more than enough for gaming and work in 2024. For those looking to build a new system and want the best CPU for their Z590 motherboard, there are a couple of choices. So, what’s the best CPU for Z590 motherboards?
The Z590 chipset is a powerful platform that supports both 10th and 11th Gen Intel processors. It offers a range of features including Wi-Fi 6E support, Thunderbolt 4, and support for PCIe 4.0. We have to pick processors that take advantage of all of these features. So, here are our top picks for the best CPU for Z590 motherboards. Remember, the Intel 14th Gen CPUs will not be compatible with this motherboard.
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Best CPU for Z590 Motherboard
Intel Core i9 11900K
Intel Core i9 11900K Rocket Lake CPU
Clock speed (boost)
5.2GHz.
Cores / Threads
8 / 16
Socket
LGA 1200
- Will be cheaper now the 14th Gen is out
- Stunning performance from former flaghship
- Could be overkill if you’re not multitasking
- Cheaper options available
- Older technology
Specs:
- Boost Clock: 5.3GHz
- Total Cores/Threads: 8/16
- Socket: LGA1200
- TDP: 125W
The Core i9 11900K is a high-performance processor that offers excellent single and multi-threaded performance. With eight cores and 16 threads, it is more than capable of handling demanding workloads such as video editing, 3D rendering, and even gaming.
One of the standout features of the 11900K is its impressive 5.3 GHz base clock speed. It also has a turbo boost speed of up to 5.9 GHz, making it one of the fastest CPUs on the market. However, it’s worth noting that the 11900K is quite power-hungry and has a TDP of 125W. This means you’ll need a good CPU cooler and a robust power supply to ensure it runs smoothly. Of course, it has been succeeded by processors like the 12900K and 13900K. Both of those are better processors than the 11900K. However, if you’re sure you want to stick with the Z590 platform for whatever reason, then this is the CPU want. Of course, that’s considering money is no object.
Best Budget CPU for Z590 Motherboard
Intel Core i5 11600K
Intel Core i5 11600K Rocket Lake CPU
Clock speed (boost)
4.9GHz
Cores / Threads
6 / 12
Socket
LGA 1200
- Fantastic value
- Easy to cool and great performance
- Older tech – could be worth new mobo
- Newer i5 processors are better
Specs:
- Boost Clock: 4.9GHz
- Total Cores/Threads: 6/12
- Socket: LGA1200
- TDP: 125W
When it comes to budget 10th/11th Gen processors, the Core i5 11400F is the better choice. However, if you just bought a Z590 board, then you likely want to play around with overclocking. In that case, the Core i5 13600K is the better choice for Z590 motherboards. You’re getting six cores, twelve threads, and excellent gaming performance. While the later i5 processors were even better, you can still get a lot of performance out of this one with overclocking.
Final Word
The conclusion is quite simple here. If you want the best performance possible out of your Z590 build, then get the 11900K. However, if you want to save money and still want to overclock, then the 13600K is the more practical choice. If you’ve got your eyes on something else, make sure to check out the best CPUs for gaming.