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Here are the 5 best motherboards for your Intel Core i9 14900KS that will be able to sustain unlimited PL2 stage and 6 GHz all-core.
The 14900KS represents the fastest CPU from Intel’s 14th Generation Raptor Lake Refresh CPU architecture, capable of hitting 6 GHz out of the box. This CPU requires a hefty motherboard VRM solution to keep it cool. Below are a few motherboard picks that are perfect for the 14900KS, which will ensure a rock-solid and stable system.
Note: The 14900KS can consume more than 300W+ when you override Intel’s stock settings and unlock full performance. Ensure proper airflow is present within your chassis. Otherwise, even a high-quality motherboard will experience VRM temperature issues, potentially leading to board and CPU failures.
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1. ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore
The Maximus is for extreme overclockers, system tuners with a ranking in the 3D Mark hall of fame, and enthusiastic gamers who won’t compromise on motherboard cost and features. The Z790 Apex Encore features 5 NVMe slots, 2 PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (full x16 or shared x8, x8), and supports up to 96GB of memory at 8400 MT/s (with overclock). The board, along with its VRM configuration and the power-hungry 14900KS, should be smooth sailing.
| Specifications | Details |
| VRM | 24 power stages |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket type | LGA 1700 |
| Memory | 2 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 96GB, DDR5 up to 8400+ MT/s (OC) |
| NVMe Storage | 5 x M.2 slots |
| GPU support | 2 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (supports x16 or x8/x8 modes) |
2, MSI MEG Z790 Godlike MAX
The Godlike Max is designed for system tuners, system integrators, professional gamers, and enthusiasts who require a 4-DIMM motherboard with ample connectivity and a robust VRM. The Godlike comes with 7x M.2 slots, 2x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (full x16 or shared x8, x8), and a 24+2+1 VRM configuration with 105A power stages. All of which easily checkmarks the 14900KS power-hungry nature.
| Specifications | Details |
| VRM | 24+2+1 power stages |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket type | LGA 1700 |
| Memory | 4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 192GB, DDR5 up to 7800+ MT/s (OC) |
| NVMe Storage | 7 x M.2 slots |
| GPU support | 2 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (supports x16 or x8/x8 modes) |
3. ASRock Z790 Taichi Carrara
The Taichi Carrara is designed for tech enthusiasts who prefer a sleek, white build. The board is backed by a 24+2+1 SPS VRM configuration, ensuring zero stability interference. The Taichi Carrara is an excellent motherboard if gaming and custom memory tuning are your thing. Storage-wise, you have 1 NVMe Gen 5.0 slot and 4 x Gen 4 slots, and as for GPU, a single PCIe 5.0 x16 slot. It’s not overkill, but it doesn’t undercut either.
| Specifications | Details |
| VRM | 24+2+1 power stages |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket type | LGA 1700 |
| Memory | 4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 192GB, DDR5 up to 7800+ MT/s (OC) |
| NVMe Storage | 7 x M.2 slots |
| GPU support | 2 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (supports x16 or x8/x8 modes),1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slot (supports x4 mode) |
4. Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Master X
The Aorus Master X is for gamers and enthusiasts seeking a plug-and-play, no-frills solution. The Z790 Aorus Master X is Gigabyte’s 4-DIMM flagship motherboard. For those looking for 2-DIMM memory tuning boards, consider the Aorus Tachyon.
As for VRM, a 20+1+2 VRM configuration backs the Aorus Master X. It also supports 4 x DDR5 DIMM slots and 5x M.2 slots (Gen 4 and 5 combined). GPU slots include a single PCIe 5.0 x16 slot.
| Specifications | Details |
| VRM | 20+1+2 power stages |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket type | LGA 1700 |
| Memory | 4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 192GB, DDR5 up to 8000+ MT/s (OC) |
| NVMe Storage | 7 x M.2 slots |
| GPU support | 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot |
5. ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II
The Z790-E is for those who don’t want to overpay for the Apex Encore. Instead, opt for a reliable board with a capable VRM, and it is pocket-friendly. The ROG Strix Z790E packs in 18+1+2 power stages. Enough to smoothly drive the 14900KS with an unlimited PL2 stage and not overheat the VRM in the process. A 6 GHz all-core overclock should also be no problem with this VRM configuration.
| Specifications | Details |
| VRM | 18+1+2 power stages |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket type | LGA 1700 |
| Memory | 4 x DDR5 DIMM slots, supports up to 192GB, DDR5 up to 8000+ MT/s (OC) |
| NVMe Storage | 5 x M.2 slots |
| GPU support | 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (supports x16 or x8/x8 modes) 2 x PCIe 4.0 x16 slots (x4 mode) |
Verdict
All of the boards mentioned here can support an unlimited PL2 stage and hold a stable 6 GHz all-core overclock. But if you’re chasing a Hall of Fame-ranked list, the Z790 Apex Encore or the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Tachyon is the one to opt for, due to their high-risk, high-reward memory tuning potential. For enthusiastic gamers and content creators, picking a 4-dimm board would suffice.
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