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Best CPU for Z690 Motherboard

We've picked out the best CPUs for a Z690 motherboard

Updated: Oct 18, 2023 11:49 am
Best CPU for Z690 Motherboard

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The Z690 chipset is one of the latest and greatest in motherboard technology, supporting the 12th and 13th generation of Intel processors. With this new chipset comes a host of new features and improvements, making it an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their system. But what’s the best CPU for Z690 motherboards?

One thing to note is that the Z690 is also compatible with 13th gen processors. However, you will need to update your motherboard BIOS before you install a 13th Gen Raptor Lake CPU.

With that out of the way, here is the best CPU for Z690 motherboards.

Best CPU for Z690 Motherboard – Intel Core i9 13900K

Intel Core i9-13900K

19 118 412 V01

Cores

24

Threads

32

Base speed

P-cores 3 GHz / E-cores 2.2 GHz

Boost speed

P-cores 5.8 GHz / E-cores 4.3 GHz

Cache

36MB

TDP

125 W / 253 W boost.

Specs:

  • Speed: 5.8GHz
  • Cores/Threads: 24/32
  • Socket: LGA1700
  • TDP: 125W

Since Z690 supports 13th Gen processors, the best possible CPU for that chipset happens to be the Core i9 13900K. The 13900K works with most Z690 motherboards flawlessly, but you will have to update to the latest motherboard BIOS to get it up and running.

Apart from that, you’ll get the same level of performance as you would out of a Z790 motherboard. The 13900K is a beast of a processor, with its 24 cores and 32 threads providing excellent multi-threaded performance. This makes it perfect for rendering 3D models and animation, and other CPU-intensive tasks.

However, keep in mind that it can consume up to 250W of power at full load. This means you’ll need a robust power supply and a good CPU cooler to keep it running smoothly. While it is an expensive option, it’s the best CPU for Z690 motherboards if money is not an issue.

Best Budget CPU for Z690 Motherboard – Intel Core i5 13600K

Outstanding

Intel Core i5-13600K

19 118 416 V01

Cores

14

Threads

20

Base speed

P-cores 3.5 GHz / E-cores 2.6 GHz

Boost speed

P-cores 5.1 GHz / E-cores 3.9 GHz

Cache

20MB

TDP

125 W / 181 W boost.

Specs:

  • Speed: 5.1GHz (Boost Clock)
  • Cores/Threads: 14/20
  • Socket: LGA1700
  • TDP: 125W

The Core i5 13600K is a more budget-friendly alternative, but it still offers excellent performance. Its 14 cores and 20 threads provide great multi-threaded performance, making it a solid choice for productivity workloads. A boost clock of 5.1GHz also means it has good single-threaded performance, making it a good choice for gaming as well.

If you care about value, then this is the best mid-range processor you can buy for gaming right now. It punches well above its weight, supports overclocking, and even beats last generation’s Core i9 and Core i7 in some tests.

Final Word

To sum it up, if you’re looking for the absolute best processor for Z590 motherboards, then get the Core i9 13900K. However, if you only care about gaming performance and still want excellent value/performance, then get the Core i5 13600K.


As a Junior Staff Writer, Jack is involved in writing and maintaining a bunch of hardware guides & reviews. With an interest in PC gaming, he now focuses on writing about monitors, headsets, and more.

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