Best Motherboards to Buy for Intel Core i5 13400

Suggested Article: Best Motherboards to Buy for the Intel Core i5 13400F

Our Recommendations

Now that we’ve established the chipsets to consider, it’s time to move onto our suggestions for the best motherboards to pick up for the i5 13400. When creating this list, we’ve tried to include a range of products with a range of features and designs in order to cater to the needs of all types of gamers and PC builds.

1. ASUS Prime H770-Plus D4

👑 The best H770 motherboard for the i5 13400.

But don’t judge this motherboard by its cover, as the Prime H770-Plus D4 has some great features embedded throughout. For example, the inclusion of a PCI-E 5.0 expansion slot along with additional PCI-E 4.0 slots means this motherboard is ready to support future GPU and storage upgrades. Plus, the rear IO includes lots of high-speed USB ports to ensure that your gaming peripherals can perform at their best. Whilst the reduced price comes with some sacrifices, this is a good choice for those looking for a motherboard that will support future upgrades.

Key Specs

Key Specs	ASUS Prime H770-Plus D4
Form Factor	ATX
Supported Memory	128GB DDR4
PCI-E x16 Slots	1x PCI-E 5.0, 2x PCI-E 4.0
PCI-E x4 Slots	3x PCI-E 4.0
Rear IO	1x USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen2, 3x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2x USB 2.0
Networking	2.5 Gigabit LAN

Things We Like

Lots of PCI-E slots: In order to get the best performance possible from a gaming PC, the motherboard needs to be able to support powerful components. And with PCI-E slots playing such an important role in the performance possibilities of a system, it’s great to see an abundance of high-quality options on this motherboard. Along with multiple PCI-E 4.0 slots for graphics cards and storage, this board also includes a PCI-E 5.0 slot that will support a future upgrade to the next generation of GPUs.

Strong USB connectivity: The strong connectivity continues into the rear IO, as the Prime H770-Plus offers consumers a vast amount of USB 3.2 ports for fast and reliable performance with any gaming mice or keyboards connected, along with any other accessories gamers are looking to use in their setup. Plus, one of these ports is a USB Type-C connection, which can be used to charge or connect a premium device with ease.

Things We Don’t Like

Lack of WiFi 6E module: As one of the cheaper H770 options on the market, this motherboard is missing a few key quality-of-life features in order to reach its lower price tag. The most bizarre exclusion is the WiFi 6E module, mainly because this board is capable of connecting to the internet wirelessly, but only if gamers are willing to purchase the WiFi module separately. Whilst we understand the cost-cutting methods, anyone looking to connect wirelessly is better off getting a motherboard that includes a WiFi 6E module straight out of the box.

Design: Another element that has been sacrificed during the cost-cutting process is the design. The barebones look on this motherboard reflects the no-nonsense approach of this design, but restricts the functionality for gaming-focussed PC builds. Not only does the limited number of heatsinks make this motherboard less appealing to gamers, it lowers the board’s thermal regulation and durability, leaving components venerable to damage.

Summary

Where to Buy

Buy the ASUS Prime H770-Plus D4 on:

2. ASRock B760 Pro RS/D4

👑 The best white motherboard for the i5 13400.

The B760 Pro RS/D4 keeps up in terms of features too, with the highlight being the inclusion of two PCI-E 4.0 expansion slots. This means that gamers could double-up on graphics cards if they felt inclined to do so. When it comes to rear IO connectivity, this motherboard includes plenty of USB 3.2 ports, including a USB-C port for high-end peripherals. Whilst the lack of a WiFi 6E module does knock the B760 Pro RS/D4 down in value, the overall versatility makes it a solid choice with room for future upgrades.

Key Specs

Key Specs	ASRock B760 Pro RS/D4
Form Factor	ATX
Supported Memory	128GB DDR4
PCI-E x16 Slots	2x PCI-E 4.0, 1x PCI-E 3.0
PCI-E x4 Slots	3x PCI-E 4.0
Rear IO	1x USB 3.2 Gen2, 5x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2x USB 2.0
Networking	2.5 Gigabit LAN

Things We Like

Multiple PCI-E slots: When it comes to performance, this motherboard is an extremely versatile B760 variant that has enough capacity to support future upgrades to a budget or mid-range gaming PC. With two PCI-E 4.0 slots and a PCI-E 3.0 for GPUs, as well as three PCI-E 4.0 slots for storage, this motherboard will be able to support a number of the latest components at once, meaning gamers can double up on components if they really want to.

White aesthetic: Whilst white PC parts are gradually becoming more popular for their clean and bright look, it is still fairly uncommon to find a motherboard that will fit into a predominantly white build. Luckily, the silver heatsinks and graphics on the base makes this motherboard a suitable choice for a white-themed gaming PC. But that’s not all, as the darker base means this board wouldn’t look completely out of place in a more traditional build too.

Things We Don’t Like

No WiFi 6E module: In a similar fashion to the previous entry in this roundup, this motherboard is missing a WiFi 6E module. This isn’t a deal-breaker for most gamers due to the 2.5Gb LAN connection being a better choice for most gamers, but the lack of wireless connectivity does hinder the versatility of a system. A wireless connection is a great quality-of-life improvement for entry-level gamers not concerned with optimising performance, as it removes the need to mess around with wires to play games online.

Lack of PCI-E 5.0: Even though the amount of PCI-E slots included on this motherboard can be considered quite the luxury for budget gamers, the inclusion of a PCI-E 5.0 would have taken this board to the next level. PCI-E 5.0 slots are more future proofed than their older alternatives, as they will allow the next generation of graphics cards to perform at their best. Whilst multiple PCI-E 4.0 slots are great for modern GPUs, it will lead to compatibility issues when the next-gen models are eventually rolled out.

Summary

Where to Buy

Buy the ASRock B760 Pro RS/D4 on:

3. Gigabyte B760M Gaming X AX DDR4

👑 The best value motherboard for the i5 13400.

The micro-ATX design on this motherboard does come with some restrictions to features, but the B760M Gaming X AX DDR4 has more than enough to support most mid-range systems. With support for 128GB of memory and a PCI-E 4.0 expansion slot, this motherboard has the performance required to hold the latest components. Connectivity on this board is a bit of a mixed bag, as it includes a choice of Ethernet or WiFi for network connections, but lacks a USB-C port on the rear IO.

Key Specs

Key Specs	Gigabyte B760M Gaming X AX DDR4
Form Factor	Micro-ATX
Supported Memory	128GB DDR4
PCI-E x16 Slots	1x PCI-E 4.0, 1x PCI-E 3.0
PCI-E x4 Slots	2x PCI-E 4.0
Rear IO	3x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2x USB 2.0
Networking	2.5 Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E

Things We Like

Compact design: Micro-ATX motherboards are considered to be a happy medium between compactness and connectivity. Despite being significantly smaller than the standard ATX designs, these motherboards can come pretty close to the feature-sets on the larger alternatives. The B760M Gaming X is a great example, as it offers more than enough connectivity to support a budget or mid-range gaming PC, whilst also being able to fit into smaller housing for a more compact PC build.

WiFi 6E module: As the previous options on this list have demonstrated nicely, a WiFi 6E module isn’t always guaranteed on a budget motherboard. Because of this, we are very happy to see it featured on this design, especially with the compact nature of this board opening up the possibility of a more portable gaming PC.

Things We Don’t Like

Lack of USB-C: With USB-C becoming more of a necessity with each passing year, not seeing it readily available is always a concern, even on the lower end of the PC gaming scale. On top of that, the USB 3.2 on this board is limited to just three ports, which could cause some connectivity problems for gamers looking toi connect a lot of gaming peripherals and external devices to their system.

No PCI-E 5.0 support: As we mentioned earlier, PCI-E 5.0 support is by no means a must-have in a motherboard at this price point, as most gamers picking up these designs won’t be able to experience the performance benefits for at least a few years. However, the use of PCI-E 3.0 on the secondary GPU slot can restrict the performance capabilities of a current system, but mainly limits the performance of potential GPU upgrades.

Summary

Where to Buy

Buy the Gigabyte B760M Gaming X AX on:

4. ASUS TUF Gaming B760M-Plus D4

👑 The best compact motherboard for the i5 13400.

Though the micro-ATX layout on the B760M-Plus D4 limits the amount of possible slots and connections, this board makes the most of the space available. Boasting a PCI-E 5.0 expansion slot and support for up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, this motherboard will be able to handle mid-range graphics cards with ease, and even has the potential to house future next-gen upgrades. It’s a similar story with the rear IO connections too, but the lack of WiFi 6E is a notable exclusion. Whilst it is a pricier B760 option, this motherboard is a worthy investment to place into a compact PC build.

Key Specs

Key Specs	ASUS TUF Gaming B760M-Plus D4
Form Factor	Micro-ATX
Supported Memory	128GB DDR4
PCI-E x16 Slots	1x PCI-E 5.0, 1x PCI-E 4.0
PCI-E x4 Slots	2x PCI-E 4.0
Rear IO	1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0
Networking	2.5 Gigabit LAN

Things We Like

PCI-E 5.0: This motherboard makes the most of the features they can cram into the smaller micro-ATX design, opting for a quality over quantity approach. The best example of this comes from the GPU slots, as the included PCI-E 5.0 slot leads to increased longevity and compatibility.

Premium compact design: Despite the restrictions that come with micro-ATX motherboards, this design manages to provide a range of connectivity options, all while maintaining a unique industrial look. This design is the perfect way to up the aesthetics of a build, but also provides an extra boost to thermals and durability.

Things We Don’t Like

No WiFi 6E support: Another motherboard that makes a sacrifice in the networking department, the TUF Gaming B760M-Plus only provides an Ethernet port for online connectivity. It’s especially disappointing to not have a WiFi 6e module included in this design given the higher price tag.

Pricing: For a motherboard featuring a B760 chipset, this motherboard is on the expensive side, making less ideal for budget builders. Whilst this design does well to offer a good price to performance proposition, gamers on a tight budget should consider a more affordable option.

Summary

Where to Buy

Buy the ASUS TUF Gaming B760M-Plus D4 on:

5. MSI Pro B760-P WiFi DDR4

👑 The best ATX motherboard for the i5 13400.

As for the connectivity features, the Pro B760-P WiFi DDR4 struggles a bit more to live up to expectations. Whilst offering 128GB capacity on DDR4 memory and doubling-up on PCI-E 4.0 expansion slots makes this motherboard substantial for mid-range gamers, it doesn’t really stand out compared to the other options on this list. However, the inclusion of a WiFi 6E module and a good number of USB ports does make this a versatile option with a reliable internet connection for online gaming.

Key Specs

Key Specs	MSI Pro B760-P WiFi DDR4
Form Factor	ATX
Supported Memory	128GB DDR4
PCI-E x16 Slots	2x PCI-E 4.0
PCI-E x4 Slots	2x PCI-E 4.0
Rear IO	1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 4x USB 2.0
Networking	2.5 Gigabit LAN, WiFi 6E

Things We Like

Sophisticated look: Instead of opting for a design that will appeal to gamers, this motherboard has a more professional look, which makes it a great choice for anyone building a PC for a home office or workplace environment. However, the subtle design won’t look out of place on a more traditional gaming PC either.

Strong connectivity: Whilst there is not much in terms standout features on this design, it provides great connectivity across the board. The variety of USB connections and choice of networking on the rear IO offers plenty of flexibility when connecting peripherals, and the multiple PCI-E 4.0 slots adds the possibility to stack up on graphics cards and M.2 storage.

Things We Don’t Like

No PCI-E 5.0: It’s not a surprise to learn that this motherboard doesn’t feature PCI-E 5.0 support, as most B760 chipsets avoid including this technology to reduce costs. As a result, this design limits the performance of graphics cards and storage to the current gen options, meaning an upgrade will be required when PCI-E 5.0 options become available.

Lacking IO shield: Whether the more professional aesthetic on this motherboard is a positive or not comes down to personable preference, but one design choice that will be seen as a weakness from most gamers is the lack of an IO shield. Despite featuring a number of heatsinks, including an extended heatsink that partially covers the rear IO, the lack of an integrated shield makes ports susceptible to damage and complicates the installation process.

Summary

When dealing with Intel motherboards in particular, the three main categories are split into ‘B’, ‘H’, and ‘Z’ naming systems. ‘B’ series designs are budget-friendly designs with limited features, whilst the ‘Z’ series include a greater number of features for a higher price. These designs are then separated further by a series of numbers, with the first digit indicating the motherboard’s generation, and the following digits acting as a guide for the amount of features to expect. Using this knowledge, we can decipher that a B760 motherboard is a budget 7th generation design that includes a reasonable amount of features.

But what does this mean for i5 13400 users? Considering that the majority of consumers with this CPU will be building a budget or mid-range system, we would suggest picking up either a ‘B’ or ‘H’ series motherboard. For the best compatibility, motherboards with a B760 or H770 chipset are the best choice for this CPU. The choice between these chipsets is ultimately down to how far your budget can stretch, with the H770 offering better features if you can afford it.

Motherboard Compatibility

In general terms, Intel have been very consumer-friendly with their 13th-Gen release, as their latest processors and motherboards are compatible with the previous generation. This means that both 12th-Gen and 13th-Gen processors can be fitted into the newest and previous generation of motherboards, which opens up the the motherboard and CPU combination possibilities in a way that is not possible with AMD builds.

Because of this, anyone that already owns a motherboard should check whether their current option is compatible with Intel 13th-Gen CPUs, as it could save you a good chunk of cash. For those building a system from scratch, B660 or H670 motherboards may be worth considering if you can get them at a reduced rate, as the differences between them and their current-gen counterparts are fairly slim.

Motherboard Chipset	Intel 12th-Gen CPUs	Intel-Gen 13th-Gen CPUs
Z790	✅	✅
B760	✅	✅
H770	✅	✅
Z690	✅	✅ (with a BIOS update)
B660	✅	✅ (with a BIOS update)
H670	✅	✅ (with a BIOS update)
H610	✅	✅ (with a BIOS update)
Z590	❌	❌
B560	❌	❌
H570	❌	❌
H510	❌	❌

Why You Can Trust Us

Before jumping into the details of our recommendation, we want to give some insight into why you can trust our thoughts on PC gaming products. Our team of PC hardware experts test a wide range of products each day, putting them through their paces in a number of unique gaming and general day-to-day scenarios. As a result, we’ve built up quite the repertoire of products to recommend, along with the key features to look out for. You can learn more over on the About Us section, where you’ll find more about all the GeekaWhat team members, as well as more on our editorial promise.

How We Picked the Best Motherboards for Intel Core i5 13400

A lot of motherboards travel in and out of our doors here at GeekaWhat HQ in order to use them in PC builds and other forms of content. During our time with each motherboard, we put them through a multitude of tests to acquire knowledge on the performance and practicality of each offering.

Once we’re happy with what we have gathered on a particular board, we determine what benefits and limitations it would provide to the average PC build. From here, we relay the findings to our audience through YouTube videos or written articles like this buyers guide. As part of these discussions, we offer insight into our experiences with the motherboard in question, along with suggestions of which gamers would benefit most from adding that product in their gaming setup.

When looking at motherboards specifically, the main considerations are connectivity, compatibility, performance, and design choices. After considering these key factors, along with anything else that may pop up during the review process, we summarise our experiences with that motherboard to provide consumers with a solid understanding of how it may impact their gaming experience if they decided to pick one up.

For a more in-depth look at our evaluation methods, take a look at some of our reviews for B760 motherboards below:

Brand + Chipset	Review Link
ASUS ROG B760-G	ASUS ROG STRIX B760-G Gaming WiFi D4 Review
ASUS ROG B760-A	ASUS ROG STRIX B760-A Gaming WiFi D4 Review
MSI MAG B760	MSI MAG B760 TOMAHAWK WiFi DDR4 Review
ASUS TUF B760	ASUS TUF Gaming B760-Plus WiFi D4 Review

Where to Buy

Buy the MSI Pro B760-P WiFi on:

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions