The Intel Core i7-12700K is a couple of generations old, but it's still a capable CPU without being as power-hungry as its replacements in the Core i7-13700K and the recently reviewed Core i7-14700K. The great thing about the Z690 platform is that this chipset will allow you to upgrade to a 13th or 14th Gen CPU if you desire in the future. Below are a number of DDR4 and DDR5 motherboards that are still fantastic options for 2024.
In addition, we've added a Z790 motherboard due to the backward compatibility with Intel's 12th Gen whilst also providing extra hardware benefits such as extra I/O ports. A Z790 will offer more PCI-E lanes depending on the model and the possibility of higher memory clocks. We have more Z790 motherboards here if that's what you would prefer for you system.
Best all-rounder Z690
Dropping the wireless tech ever so slightly from 6E down to Wi-Fi 6, the AORUS Pro is otherwise our choice for the best overall. Still touting DDR5 RAM support and four M.2 sockets, it's another motherboard with strong VRM for overclocking. 13 USB ports total means ample connectivity for devices.
Best performance Z690
The ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 Hero is complete overkill for the Core i7 processor, but if you feel as though you will upgrade the chip down the line and want to keep to this generation, it's a worthwhile investment. The VRM setup and power delivery design are exceptional, allowing you to safely overclock even a Core i9 without power issues. There are plenty of M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 support, DDR5 RAM support, and a gorgeous design.
Runner-up Z690
If you're not a fan of ASUS motherboards or want something a little different, we recommend checking out the MSI MPG Z690 CARBON WIFI. You've got a similar power setup with full support for DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.0. The 2.5Gb LAN port and other highlight features like high-quality components are worthy additions to an already excellent package.
Best DDR4 Z690
The ASRock Z690 Steel Legend isn't the most affordable motherboard for 12th Gen processors, but it does offer support for DDR4 RAM, which may be handy for anyone moving from older platforms. It has a 13 phase power delivery design with 2.5Gb LAN, Wi-Fi, enough M.2 slots for your OS, software, and games, as well as PCIe 5.0 support.
Best ITX Z690
The Core i7 would be ideal for smaller and more compact PC cases since it doesn't require heavy-duty cooling. The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-I Gaming Wi-Fi supports PCIe 5.0, DDR5 RAM, has a 10+1 power delivery design with high-quality components, and can even handle a little overclocking. The 2.5Gb LAN and Wi-Fi are excellent for a smaller PC that can double up as a media center, and you've got two M.2 slots for speedy storage.
Budget Z790 DDR4
ASUS Prime motherboards come in at a lower price point whilst still offering some great features and ample heatsinks for higher core CPUs. The Z790-P DDR4 has 14+1 phase power solution with AI Cooling II software to regulate those thermals. Plenty of I/O is on offer here alongside it's three PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots, which have heatsinks dedicated to each of them. It also has a Thunderbolt 4 (USB4) header. Perfect for anyone on more of a budget.
Choosing the best motherboard for the Intel Core i7-12700K
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All of these motherboards will have no problem running the Intel Core i7-12700K, and you can easily get away with using the cheaper options. However, if you are looking to upgrade to the 13th or 14th Gen CPUs, such as the Core i7-14700K for instance, then spending a little more on the motherboard and going for a Z790 option would be the better move.
If you already have DDR4 modules to use, that will help to keep the costs down, but it may still be worth investing in DDR5 for when you upgrade again in the future. Beyond 14th Gen, we'd be expecting Intel to be all-in on DDR5.
It's also worth noting that Intel's 15th Generation will not be supported by these motherboards. It will be moving to an entirely new chipset, so keep that in mind if you're looking for something more future-proofed.
