Z790 vs B760 Motherboards – Key Differences

Being a computer geek, you don’t need an introduction to the importance of motherboards in your PC. Whether you are a gaming enthusiast or you are into creating quality videos, a high-performing motherboard is everything you can dream of. Perhaps, Intel had always heard the thoughts of their users before them and developed some of the high-potential motherboards for creators and gamers.

As the market has already been introduced with Intel 13th Generation CPU, it is the right time to talk about the chipset and find out the specs and features that users can get from them. It has been a while since Intel 12th Gen worked as the staple for high-end gaming and creating activities. Maintaining the similar CPU socket of LGA 1700 and some other fundamental aspects, Intel has thrown other valued 13th Gen CPUs.

With the offering of a new chipset, it would need a new motherboard for pairing up and making it a bit troubling. It is sure that some features you like might be present in another chipset, which again can make it hard to decide. However, enough research is always a must to demystify your doubts. So, here we will talk and compare the latest Z790 vs. B760 Motherboards. As we all know, the B760 is their budget-friendly offering, so we will compare it with the latest Z790.

What is a Z790 Motherboard?

Z790 motherboard is the latest offering by Intel. There is no doubt that a motherboard is one of the most notable components, which holds several other tiny components. It might include connectivities, cooling, PCIe lanes, RAM, etc. Chipset is one of the most crucial components that determine the performance of a PC.

The Z790 chipset motherboard has been developed for people with the only need for performance. These top-notch options for 13th Gen offer improved IO connectivity options. It has more space for SSDs and GPUs and will let you overclock both RAM and CPU. It is Intel’s flagship offering and the very first with 13th Gen.

The best thing about Z790 motherboards is that the all-new 13th Gen CPU can be connected. Even better, it also supports 12th gen CPUs. So, if you have decided to build a PC with the latest 13th Gen on a cheaper CPU, it can be a great choice. However, you must know that it does not support the 10th and 11th gen as it needs a totally different CPU socket.

What is a B760 Motherboard?

B760 chipset motherboards are not new in the market, as these have been sold for a long time. It is more of a choice for people looking for a budget-friendly motherboard from Intel. These particular motherboards offer some of the latest features available in the 12th and 13th generations.

So, it again means that users still get the opportunity to enjoy some of the valuable options like PCIe 5.0. Additionally, it also supports Thunderbolt 4 and DDR5 Memory. However, users might not be able to enjoy other features and specs. It does not necessarily imply that the B760 motherboards are not worth it. Still, it is developed for budget-conscious people who want to use the latest platforms from Intel without investing huge amounts of money.

Differences and Features Between Z790 and B760 Motherboards?

There is always a need to understand the major differences between both Z790 vs B760 Motherboards before coming to a conclusion. We will take a look at every single specification and feature of both motherboards to help you understand the kind of performance both motherboards can deliver to your needs.

1. CPU Socket (LGA 1700)

Every motherboard in a computer has an imprinted socket which is essential to find if you are planning to upgrade the central processor of the device. It is often listed in the manufacturer’s detail or the manual to help users make the correct decision. So, when you plan to upgrade from the 12th to the latest 13th gen, you probably would first pay attention to the CPU socket.

Fortunately, both the 12th gen and 13th gen make use of a similar LGA 1700 socket. Therefore, if you want to upgrade to the 13th generation, you don’t have to repurchase any new board. So, you can remain assured that both the B760 and the latest Z790 are compatible with the LGA 1700 CPU socket.

Remember that Intel generally maintains similar sockets for two different generations. However, you must keep a fair expectation that this CPU socket will not support the 14th-generation motherboards, which might be released in early 2024.

2. PCIe

PCIe slots are again an essential aspect of any high-end motherboard. As you might already know, when the motherboard follows the latest PCIe standards, it will be able to use the latest SSDs and GPUs to their full potential. PCIe 4.0 typically doubles the 3.0 bandwidth, while 5.0 doubles the 4.0 bandwidth.

AMD Ryzen is the top competitor of Intel, and Intel has always managed to remain in the competition. The latest Z790 chipset can support almost 28 lanes but with Gen 4 and 3. It has a great combination of 13th gen processors, and PCIe 5.0 lanes can support up to 20 lanes. This again makes it clear that the latest motherboards with PCIe 5.0 will support M.2 SSDs and GPUs.

One of the primary things to note is all the new motherboards will initially be compatible with PCIe Gen 4. It is just a bit different on 12th gen boards as here, the PCIe 5.0 has been reserved for the expensive boards. So, if you have already bought a Gen 4 SSD, you can get numerous Gen 4 on both B760 and Z790 boards.

The Z790 chipset comes with a large number of Gen4 slots similar to higher boards. However, the B760 boards might not have one or two compatible slots as there are a reduced number of PCIe lanes. However, users who are more budget conscious are less likely to need more expansion slots.

3. CPU Generation

Using Intel’s latest generation is probably one of the first requirements of tech geeks. With the whole range of incredible features and functionalities that users get in the latest generation, they tend to become more inclined. Even when the 12th generation was available and has become of prime need for people, after the launch of the 13th gen, it is time for people to again check out the specs for a successful switch.

Thankfully, both the B760 and Z790 support the 12th and 13th generation of Intel processors. Even when B760 is a reasonable version compared to the latest member Z790, it supports both Intel processor generations.

4. DMI 4.0 Lanes

DMI is an Intel interface that maintains communication between the chipset and CPU. It helps to connect everything with the CPU except the graphics card and RAM. The function of DMI lanes is similar to the PCIe lanes. The DMI 4.0 has similar bandwidth to the PCIe 4.0. When you find DMI x8, it technically means that it ensures twice the faster connectivity as the x4.

The budget-friendly B760 chipset on the motherboard has PCIe 4.0 x4 DMI link. It connects to the Raptor Lake processor. The interface is similar to the B660 chipset. However, when compared to the latest Z790 chipset, there has been a serious upgrade. It has won the argument with the x8 interface.

5. Integrated Graphic Card

Checking the Integrated graphics card into the motherboard is strongly recommended to understand the video and graphics quality. Integrated graphics hardware does not require any separate memory bank for video or graphics. It generally makes use of the system’s memory. As it is inbuilt with the processor, it is able to create less heat, use reduced power and improve life. Integrated graphics are great for general 4K video watching and other casual gaming.

There are no integrated graphics in the chipsets. However, you get plenty of slots to include numerous Gen4 M.2 slots, and the Gen5 x16 slot in B760 makes it ready for installing the latest graphics cards. It is similar to the Z790 chipset as it offers even more ports for graphics integration. It has 2 x PCIe 5.0 x 16 slots and 1 x PCIe 4.0 x 16 slots.

So, you can get ample expansion slots in both cards to help you improve the graphical aspect of your computer.

6. CPU Overclocking and Memory Overclocking Support (MHz)

Overclocking is generally a process opted for by users who are looking forward to enjoying the optimum performance from the processor and also the other components. It is most commonly chosen by video editors and gamers. Overclocking can be helpful if you have a computer that is not delivering the performance you need or lagging behind.

If you want a beast that is always ready for overclocking, the Z790 motherboard can be a great choice. These are the high-end motherboards that allow you to enjoy the performance with the overclockable CPU. However, when compared to the previous version B760 mothers, these boards are not ready to overclock.

You need to use better components when playing high-end games or working with better applications. With speedy RAM, you will experience faster operation and improve the overall PC performance. Most of the Z970 boards are ready to handle memory overclocking. It can be overclocked to a maximum of 6000+ MHz.

7. RAID Support and Modes

Most of the Intel motherboards come with RAID O and Raid 1 support. RAID, which is the abbreviation of Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is also the technology that offers storage reliability by the combination of several hard disk drives into one unit. This is where the data remains stored in different copes in different hard drives.

Both B760 and Z790 mothers support RAID. The latest Z790 supports PCIe/SATA 0, 15, and 10, and B760 supports SATA 0, 15, and 10. Both the motherboards are almost similar in RAID support.

8. Max No of SATA 6.0 Gb/s (number)

SATA, or the Serial Advanced Technology Attachment, is again something to watch out for. The Term SATA 6.0 means the version of SATA that supports a maximum of 6GB per second of data transfer speed. It is the 3rd generation interface. The interface can be beneficial as it becomes helpful for transferring data from the host to other storage drives.

So, most users obviously look for SATA 6 to ensure faster transfer and better performance. The Z790 motherboard has 8 SATA 6, while B760 has 6 of them. It has become inevitable that the latest Z series chipset is better than its competitor.

9. No. of USB Ports

Before you decide on the motherboard, it is imperative to check the number of ports included in it. Even when there might not be a massive difference, getting more is always better for users. While the latest Z790 motherboard comes with 14 USB ports, the B760 is not much behind with 12 USB ports.

The USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports that provide a max of 20 GBPS are absolutely necessary. The Z790 has 5 such ports, whereas the B760 has 2 ports. The USB 3.2 Gen 2×1 that offers a maximum of 10GBPS is present in 10 numbers on the latest Z790 and 4 on B760. The USB 3.2 Gen1x1 is also present in both motherboards. The Z790 has 10, whereas the B760 has 6 ports. Lastly, USB 3.0 ports are also available. Z790 has 12 ports, and the other has 12 ports.

10. Memory

It is always a must for users to check the memory of the motherboards. Despite talking about the two different motherboards, both these motherboards are DDR4 and DDR5, compatible boards. Even when DDR5 is great, the latency experience is way higher than expected. However, as the LGA 17000 supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, it is suggested to choose DDR4 for B760 motherboards.

a. Generation

The prime advantage of choosing the LGA 1700 CPU socket is that it supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. So, whether you are selecting the B760 motherboard or the latest Z790, choosing the RAM type you want is up to you.

DDR4 tends to become an appropriate choice as it saves a good amount of money compared to the other. As DDR5 is expensive and does not provide any significant difference, you can choose DDR4. However, for the technical geek, DDR5 is something to satisfy their desires.

b. Channels

Memory channels are again an essential aspect of the motherboard. To be simple, it is the link between the CPU and RAM from which the data generally moves. RAM is considered short-term memory, while the CPU is its main processor, which holds all sorts of information.

The DDR5 Z790 motherboard features 4 DIMM slots which have the ability to support 128 GB. On the other hand, the DDR4 B760 also has 4 DIMM slots which have the ability to support 128 GB as well.

c. Slots

When it is about increasing the memory and performance of your computer, you need to check out the memory slots available in it. With more RAM slots in the motherboards, you will be able to integrate more RAM and improve memory performance.

In the latest Z790 motherboard, you have 4 DDR5 RAM Slots which can be expanded to 128 GB. With fast rendering time, you can enjoy better visual fidelity. Similarly, in the B760 mother, you get 4 memory slots to install RAM.

11. No. of Supported Displays

To ensure the number of displays supported by your motherboard, you must check out the availability of DisplayPort and HDMI ports. These can be helpful as the presence of ports means to achieve colour depth, high refresh rates and resolution.

The Z790 motherboard has 1 HDMI and 1 DisplayPort port that supports a max of 4096 x 2160 display quality. Similarly, the budget-friendly B760 also has 1 HDMI and 1 DisplayPort.

12. No. of DIMMs Per Channel

The Dual in-line memory module is another vital thing to consider in the motherboard. You will find the slots available, which are typically designed for system RAM. You always need to be sure about the number of DIMMs per channel. When it has two DIMMs per channel, it means to support dual-channel RAM.

Both the Z790 and B760 motherboard supports dual-channel DDR5 and DDR4 RAM.

13. Thermal Design Power (watt)

TDP or Thermal Power Design is generally showcased in watts. It refers to power consumption when the motherboards are at their maximum load. This is the maximum power that users need to keep in mind while designing the system. When a motherboard has more TDP, it refers to better performance, but it also means it needs more power consumption and higher temperature.

The Z790 and B760 chipset has a maximum TDP of 6W.

14. Overclocking

Overclocking mostly refers to increasing the power of the components. While overclocking is mostly mandatory for people with more power requirements, like gaming, it must be done with knowledge. While both these motherboards have an exceptional range of features, when it comes to locking, it is a bit different.

The B760 motherboard does not support overclocking, so it might not be capable of satiating the needs of people looking for performance. But the latest Z790 series is definitely capable of overclocking and can satisfy the demands of gamers and creators.

15. Networking

Checking networking is an essential aspect of the motherboard as it shows the ability to enjoy gaming or creating. With faster and better networking options, you will be able to enjoy blazing speed and complete your tasks or enjoy the latest gaming. These motherboards are designed with both wireless and wired connectivities to make it easier for users to perform their respective activities.

16. Ethernet

Ethernet connectivity is included in both motherboards to help users enjoy fast gaming or creating without any lagging issues. You will get 1 2.5Gb ethernet connectivity in both the B760 and Z790 motherboards. It can be very helpful for creators and gamers as it will ensure a lag or stuttering issue on your PC.

17. Wi-Fi

General users mostly prefer WIFi connectivity and hence it is a must for you to have a look at Wi-Fi technology. The latest Wi-Fi 6E technology has been integrated into the motherboards. You can remain assured that it will help you to enjoy maximum speed and no lag while working.

A Brief Overview of Z790 and B760 Motherboards

Z790 and B760 Motherboards, Which is Best?

With all the technical details that you have checked about the B760 and Z790 chipsets, hopefully it will become easier for you to decide on the one. Most of the technological differences have been noted and given a breakdown to help you make the right decision.

The most important thing that you can find is that the latest Z790 chipset has an increased number of ports and advanced features. The Z series of motherboards support more options. However, when compared to the B670 chip, it still offers some of the excellent offerings without asking for much of a price. However, you will not be able to experience some of the latest standards that are available in the Z series boards. But if you are looking for an Intel motherboard within your budget, it is definitely a great choice.

Conclusion

To conclude, if you are looking forward to buying a high-performing motherboard, it is a necessity for you to check all the important aspects. While different motherboards target a different group of audience, it always comes down to how much you are willing to pay and what kind of performances you are looking forward to.

The Z790 is the latest Intel motherboard that features. Some of the high-end specifications can be a great choice for people who are looking forward to exceptional performance and a perfect motherboard. As it supports overclocking, it can definitely meet your needs while gaming. However, the B760 is another Intel motherboard that has been specifically created for the budget-restricted people. It has quite a lot of features that can be helpful for general computer gaming and surfing.