Choosing the Perfect Motherboard for GTX 1080 and i7-8700K

When building a high-performance PC, selecting the right motherboard is crucial. If you are looking to pair an NVIDIA GTX 1080 with an Intel i7-8700K processor, you will need a motherboard with a specific set of features. In this guide, we will explore the best options available, key considerations, and recommend several top choices.

Recommended Motherboards for GTX 1080 and i7-8700K

The motherboard should have an LGA 1151 socket and support for Intel's 8th generation processors. Here are some motherboard options that meet these requirements:

ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming

Chipset: Z370 Features: Great overclocking capabilities, multiple M.2 slots, good VRM cooling, and RGB lighting.

MSI MPG Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon

Chipset: Z370 Features: Solid build quality, good aesthetic design, multiple USB ports, and excellent audio components.

Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 5

Chipset: Z370 Features: Good for gaming with an impressive VRM setup, customizable RGB lighting, and multiple expansion slots.

ASRock Z370 Taichi

Chipset: Z370 Features: Great for overclocking, robust power delivery, and a good selection of ports.

ASUS Prime Z390-A

Chipset: Z390 also compatible with i7-8700K Features: Enhanced power delivery, good cooling design, and support for faster RAM.

Key Considerations

Form Factor

Ensure the motherboard fits your case, which can be ATX, Micro-ATX, or mini-ITX. For full-size towers, ATX is common, while mini-ATX can be a better fit for smaller cases.

RAM Compatibility

Look for motherboards that support the RAM speed you plan to use. For optimal performance, aim for DDR4 2400 MHz or higher.

Expansion Slots

Make sure there are enough PCIe slots for your GPU and any additional cards you might want to add. The above boards provide ample PCIe slots, which is a plus.

Cooling Solutions

Consider motherboards with good VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) cooling if you plan to overclock. Robust heat management is crucial for both stability and performance.

Popular Boards Including the i7-8700K

The Asus ROG H-Gaming or E-Gaming series are popular choices. They look great, perform well, and are user-friendly. Most users recommend Asus boards for their reliability and plug-and-play ease. MSI is also highly regarded, and the Carbon Pro series often tops the charts for enthusiasts.

When budget is a concern, you can find Z370 motherboards starting at around $100, such as the MSI Z370-A Pro. For those interested in more advanced features, such as overclocking support and more PCIe lanes, you can opt for Z390 boards like the ASUS Prime Z390-A. Boards below the Z370 might lack some features, including less robust power delivery and fewer PCIe lanes, which can be significant for future upgrades.