Sign in with
Sign up | Sign in
Your question

Are Z97 boards right for me? and which? (first build)

Tags:
  • Chipsets
  • Motherboards
  • Build
  • Intel
Last response: in Motherboards
Share
August 20, 2014 3:16:48 AM

Hello everyone, It's time to pick a motherboard and as this is my first build I need some advice.

I've noticed Z97 motherboards mentioned in multiple threads on this forum for gaming pc's, after doing some research on Z97 boards I've learned that the Z97 is an intel chipset and one of the latest (correct me if I'm wrong).

I will be using a gtx 780, most likely be using an EVGA gtx 780 classified gpu. I would like to use 8gb ram, from my research I've learned that 2 x 4gb bought in a duel pack is best (correct me if I'm wrong) and an intel i5 4690k although I'm willing to spend a little bit more if I HAVE to in order to get a better motherboard.

I don't plan on changing the motherboard often and hope it will last at least 5 years, although I have little knowledge in terms of motherboards and do not know if this is realistic.

I would like the motherboard to be future proof, suitable for gaming (latest games) and general usage and finally a motherboard which can be kept cool fairly easy is very important although I'm sure they are all very similar in terms of generated heat.

Two recommended motherboards with a link to each would be good as then I can pick the motherboard with the best colours.

I suppose my budget is around £120, although I do not wish to spend a lot of money on this particular component but I would like the absolute best in that price range.


p.s I've searched a lot of threads for the best 4gb duel pack and corsair vengeance is frequently mentioned, is this ram which you would recommend? As I believe it's rather old now, I've seen ram which have led lights on them although performance is more important I think Led lights would be a bonus if not very expensive as I will be using a corsair carbide 540 which has a window.

Many thanks! Laptopgamer :) 

More about : z97 boards build

August 20, 2014 3:25:56 AM

Hello there! A Z97 chipset motherboard is perfect for what you need - it has the right socket and all the necessary features that you will need for a gaming machine! I recommend looking at this thread on the Tom's Hardware website - http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/mainstream-gaming-z....

If you have any more questions feel free to ask.
m
0
l
August 20, 2014 3:50:25 AM

Hello, I've actually read that article before whilst I was researching Z97 chips, from your reply it definitely sounds as though the Z97 is best my needs ie gaming and general usage (also programming which I forgot to mention earlier).

My main concern is compatibility, I have zero knowledge in this area, different people say different motherboard brands are best (obviously I want something reliable).

What would you recommend? :)  I may be able to choose what colour I like but that's about it.
m
0
l
Related resources
August 20, 2014 3:53:15 AM

Also a good network card is important as I require high speed WiFi connectivity, I'm assuming these are pre-assembled to the motherboard when you purchase, although an individual network card can be bought?

edit - in fact I even forgot to mention that a good soundcard on the motherboard is important, as I enjoy music and will be purchasing external 2.1 speakers. From my research I found that purchasing a separate sound card is generally not necessary.
m
0
l
August 20, 2014 12:39:43 PM

Anyone? :) 
m
0
l
August 20, 2014 6:35:39 PM

Amm, what color do you like?? OC or not??

Seriously, I think sound on mobo is not too much different.(rather to buy a sound card)

Of couse, z97 series material is better.
For design and efficacy, I will choose msi z97 gaming 5.
I like it color and dragon logo, and my friend use that very well.
m
0
l
a c 1512 V Motherboard
a c 127 å Intel
August 20, 2014 6:40:02 PM

Red and Black combo . board and ram , both high quality.

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

Motherboard: Asus MAXIMUS VII HERO ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($198.99 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Sniper Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR3-2400 Memory ($174.99 @ Amazon)
Total: $373.98
Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available
Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-08-20 21:39 EDT-0400
m
0
l
!