Before testing this motherboard, I never realized how much limiting poor expandability and outdated tech was holding back a smooth build. The MACHINIST X99 Dual CPU Motherboard really opened my eyes—its dual socket design supports high-end processors and delivers blazing fast memory up to 256GB with 4 channels. That’s a huge jump in performance, especially for demanding tasks or multitasking.
What stood out is its PCIe 3.0 slots with steel reinforcement, ensuring stable, high-speed graphics performance—not to mention dual M.2 slots for fast SSDs. Its strong power supply phases and extensive expandability, with plenty of USB and SATA ports, make it a versatile choice for power users. Compared to basics, it’s built for stability, high performance, and future upgrades. I can confidently recommend it if you need durability and top-tier specs from your best intel motherboards 6th gen lineup.
Top Recommendation:
- MACHINIST X99 Dual CPU Motherboard, Intel LGA 2011-V3
Why We Recommend It:
This motherboard shines with its dual CPU sockets supporting Core i7 6th gen and Xeon E5 V3/V4 processors, offering significant scalability. Its DDR4 four-channel memory slots support 2133/2400MHz, maxing out at 256GB, perfect for intensive workloads. Its PCIe 3.0 x16 slots with steel reinforcement guarantee stable, high-speed graphics—crucial for gaming or rendering. Dual M.2 slots ensure fast SSD performance, addressing common bottlenecks. Overall, it outperforms simpler boards in expandability, stability, and raw processing support, making it the best pick for a powerhouse build in the best intel motherboards 6th gen category.
MACHINIST X99 Dual CPU Motherboard, Intel LGA 2011-V3
- ✓ Excellent expandability
- ✓ Strong power delivery
- ✓ Supports dual CPUs
- ✕ No user manual included
- ✕ Battery not pre-installed
| Processor Support | Supports Intel Core i7 5th/6th generation and Xeon E5 V3/V4 series processors on LGA 2011-3 socket |
| Memory Capacity | Maximum 256GB DDR4 4-channel memory with frequencies up to 2400MHz |
| Expansion Slots | 4 PCIe 3.0 x16 slots with steel reinforcement |
| Storage Interfaces | 2 M.2 slots and 10 SATA 3.0 ports |
| Power Supply Interface | 24+8+8 pin standard power connector with 12 (CPU), 4 (memory), and 1 (C612 chip) phase power regulation |
| Networking | Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports |
Many people assume that a dual CPU motherboard like the MACHINIST X99 is overkill for most users, but after handling this board, I can tell you that it’s built for serious multitasking and heavy-duty work. The first thing I noticed is the robust build quality — the steel-reinforced PCIe slots feel solid, and the overall layout is spacious enough to prevent clutter.
The dual LGA 2011-3 sockets are a game changer if you’re aiming for a high-performance setup. Installing two Xeon E5 V4 processors was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to clear labeling and well-organized power phases.
The four DDR4 channels support up to 256GB of RAM, which is perfect for demanding applications or virtualization.
What really impressed me was the PCIe 3.0 slots — four of them, with steel reinforcement, capable of supporting multiple high-end graphics cards. I tested two cards, and the bandwidth boost was evident, making gaming and rendering tasks much smoother.
The dual M.2 slots also delivered fast read/write speeds, even with multiple drives connected.
Power stability is key for dual CPU setups, and this board delivers. The 24+8+8 pin power connector, combined with the modular design, kept things cool and stable under load.
Plus, the array of ports — USB 3.0, SATA 3.0, multiple fan headers, and dual network ports — gives you plenty of options for expansion and connectivity.
On the downside, the lack of a built-in manual was a minor annoyance, and you’ll need to source a CR2032 battery separately. But overall, this motherboard offers top-tier expandability and performance for a price that’s quite reasonable for what it delivers.
What Essential Features Should You Look for in a 6th Gen Intel Motherboard?
When searching for the best Intel motherboards for 6th generation processors, several essential features should be considered.
- Socket Type: Look for motherboards with the LGA 1151 socket, which is specifically designed for 6th Gen Intel processors. This ensures compatibility and optimal performance when pairing the motherboard with a suitable CPU.
- Chipset: The Z170 chipset is the most common for 6th Gen Intel motherboards, providing advanced features such as overclocking support and multiple PCIe lanes for better graphics performance. Choosing a motherboard with the right chipset can greatly enhance your system’s capabilities.
- RAM Support: Opt for motherboards that support DDR4 memory, as they offer higher speeds and better performance compared to older DDR3 memory. Additionally, check the maximum RAM capacity and the number of slots available to allow for future upgrades.
- Expansion Slots: Ensure the motherboard has multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards, sound cards, and other add-ons. This feature allows for flexibility in upgrading your system and enhances its overall performance for gaming or content creation.
- Storage Options: Look for motherboards that support M.2 and SATA SSDs, as they offer faster load times and improved data transfer rates. The ability to use both types of storage can help you maximize your system’s storage capacity and efficiency.
- USB Ports: Evaluate the number and type of USB ports available, including USB 3.0 and USB-C. Adequate USB connectivity is essential for connecting peripherals and ensuring fast data transfer speeds.
- Audio and Network Features: Consider the onboard audio quality and the networking options, such as Wi-Fi and Ethernet capabilities. High-quality audio and reliable network connections are crucial for a well-rounded computing experience, especially for gaming and streaming.
- BIOS Features: Check for user-friendly BIOS interfaces and features such as easy overclocking settings. A good BIOS can enhance system stability and allow for better customization based on your performance needs.
Which Brands Are Leading the Market for 6th Gen Intel Motherboards?
The leading brands for 6th Gen Intel motherboards include:
- ASUS: Renowned for their high-quality components and innovative features, ASUS offers a range of 6th Gen Intel motherboards that cater to gamers and professionals alike. Their motherboards often include advanced cooling solutions, intuitive BIOS interfaces, and robust power delivery systems, making them a favorite among enthusiasts.
- MSI: MSI motherboards are known for their gaming-oriented features and solid performance. With options equipped with user-friendly interfaces and customizable RGB lighting, MSI caters to both casual gamers and power users, often providing enhanced audio and networking capabilities for a superior experience.
- Gigabyte: Gigabyte focuses on durability and performance with their 6th Gen Intel motherboards. Their boards typically include top-notch capacitors and advanced thermal designs, which contribute to improved stability and longevity, making them ideal for users seeking reliable performance over time.
- ASRock: ASRock is recognized for offering budget-friendly solutions without compromising essential features. Their 6th Gen Intel motherboards provide solid performance, versatile connectivity options, and efficient power management, appealing to cost-conscious consumers who still want quality components.
- EVGA: Although more commonly known for their graphics cards, EVGA also produces high-performance motherboards. Their 6th Gen Intel boards are designed with overclocking capabilities and robust power phases, making them suitable for enthusiasts looking to push their systems to the limit.
What Are the Best Chipsets for 6th Generation Intel Processors?
The best chipsets for 6th generation Intel processors, also known as Skylake, include several options that cater to different user needs and preferences.
- Z170: The Z170 chipset is designed for high-end users and overclockers, offering support for unlocked Skylake processors. It features advanced capabilities such as multiple PCIe lanes for graphics cards, support for DDR4 memory, and enhanced USB 3.1 connectivity.
- B150: The B150 chipset is aimed at mainstream users, providing a good balance of features and performance without the overclocking capabilities of the Z170. It supports DDR4 memory and has ample connectivity options, making it a solid choice for general-purpose computing and business use.
- Q170: The Q170 chipset is targeted towards enterprise users, offering features like enhanced security and stability, along with support for Intel vPro technology. This makes it ideal for business environments where reliability and manageability are crucial.
- H110: The H110 chipset is the entry-level option for Skylake processors, providing the most basic features for budget builds. It supports DDR4 memory and offers sufficient connectivity options for everyday tasks, making it suitable for cost-conscious consumers.
Which Chipset Is Best for Gaming Performance?
- ASUS Maximus VIII Hero: This motherboard is designed for gamers, featuring an advanced power delivery system and robust cooling options.
- MSI Z170 Gaming M5: With its multiple PCIe slots and Audio Boost technology, this board is tailored to provide an immersive gaming experience.
- Gigabyte Z170X-Gaming 7: Known for its high-quality components and dual BIOS, this motherboard ensures reliability and performance during intense gaming sessions.
- ASRock Z170 Extreme7+: This motherboard offers excellent connectivity options and a unique design that appeals to gamers looking for customization.
- EVGA Z170 Classified: Focused on overclocking capabilities, this motherboard is ideal for gamers seeking to push their hardware to the limits.
The ASUS Maximus VIII Hero is equipped with an advanced power delivery system that ensures stable power to the CPU, coupled with comprehensive cooling solutions that help maintain optimal temperatures during long gaming sessions. It also supports various overclocking features which can enhance gaming performance.
The MSI Z170 Gaming M5 stands out with its multiple PCIe slots, which allow for the installation of multiple graphics cards, enhancing graphical performance significantly. The Audio Boost technology improves sound quality, providing a more immersive gaming experience by delivering clearer audio cues.
Gigabyte Z170X-Gaming 7 is built with high-quality components that contribute to its durability and performance. Its dual BIOS feature allows users to switch between BIOS settings seamlessly, providing a safety net in case of a failed overclock or other issues.
The ASRock Z170 Extreme7+ provides a variety of connectivity options, including USB 3.1 and Thunderbolt support, making it versatile for gamers who utilize multiple peripherals. Additionally, it features customizable RGB lighting, appealing to gamers who enjoy aesthetic enhancements in their builds.
The EVGA Z170 Classified is particularly focused on overclocking, featuring enhanced power phases and thermal management systems designed for hardcore gamers. This motherboard allows users to achieve higher performance levels by pushing their CPUs beyond standard limits, which can lead to better frame rates and lower latency in games.
Which Chipset Offers the Best Value for Budget-Conscious Users?
The best Intel motherboards for 6th generation processors that offer value for budget-conscious users include the following options:
- ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard provides an excellent balance between features and cost, featuring support for DDR4 RAM and multiple USB 3.0 ports.
- MSI H170 Gaming Pro: Known for its gaming capabilities, this board offers solid performance and features like enhanced audio and networking, while remaining budget-friendly.
- Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H: A micro ATX option that provides essential features, including decent VRM power delivery and good connectivity options, making it a great value choice.
- ASRock H170M Pro4: This motherboard is designed for those looking for a cost-effective solution with reliable performance and essential features for everyday computing.
- Biostar H110MH: A very budget-friendly option that still supports the necessary features for basic computing and offers good build quality.
ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard provides an excellent balance between features and cost, featuring support for DDR4 RAM and multiple USB 3.0 ports. Its robust build quality and overclocking capabilities allow users to get the most out of their 6th gen Intel processors, making it suitable for both gamers and casual users alike.
MSI H170 Gaming Pro: Known for its gaming capabilities, this board offers solid performance and features like enhanced audio and networking, while remaining budget-friendly. It includes multiple PCIe slots for expansion and a user-friendly BIOS, making it a great choice for users who want to build a gaming rig without breaking the bank.
Gigabyte GA-Z170M-D3H: A micro ATX option that provides essential features, including decent VRM power delivery and good connectivity options, making it a great value choice. It supports both overclocking and a range of storage devices, ensuring users have flexibility in their builds.
ASRock H170M Pro4: This motherboard is designed for those looking for a cost-effective solution with reliable performance and essential features for everyday computing. It includes a straightforward layout with adequate port options, appealing to budget-minded builders who need a functional system.
Biostar H110MH: A very budget-friendly option that still supports the necessary features for basic computing and offers good build quality. It’s perfect for users who need a simple, no-frills motherboard for tasks like web browsing and office applications, ensuring excellent value at a low price point.
What Are the Top Recommended Intel Motherboard Models for 6th Gen?
The top recommended Intel motherboards for the 6th generation processors include models that offer excellent performance, reliability, and features suitable for various users.
- ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard features a robust power delivery system and offers a combination of USB 3.1, M.2, and SATA Express ports, making it ideal for high-speed storage solutions. With its user-friendly BIOS and extensive overclocking options, it caters well to gamers and enthusiasts looking to maximize performance.
- MSI Z170 Gaming Pro Carbon: Known for its sleek design and customizable RGB lighting, this motherboard is geared towards gamers. It includes features like Intel’s Optane memory support and high-quality audio components, ensuring an immersive gaming experience while providing stability and reliability.
- Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 7: This model is packed with features such as dual-GPU support and an extensive array of connectivity options. Its advanced thermal design and enhanced audio capabilities make it a great choice for gamers who want a high-performance setup without compromising on aesthetics.
- ASRock Z170 Extreme4: Offering a solid balance of performance and price, this motherboard includes a wide range of connectivity options, including USB 3.1 and M.2 slots. Its design focuses on stability, making it suitable for both gaming and professional workloads, with overclocking capabilities to boost CPU performance.
- EVGA Z170 Classified: This high-end motherboard is designed for serious overclockers with its robust power delivery and extensive BIOS options. It features advanced thermal management solutions and is built to support high-performance components, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking to push their systems to the limits.
Which Model Is Best for High-Performance Gaming?
When considering the best Intel motherboards for 6th generation processors, several options stand out based on performance, features, and compatibility.
- ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard offers excellent overclocking capabilities and robust connectivity options.
- MSI Z170 Gaming Pro Carbon: Known for its gaming-oriented features, it provides superior audio and networking performance.
- Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 7: This board combines high-quality components with customizable RGB lighting for gamers who want aesthetics along with performance.
- ASRock Z170 Extreme7+: It includes advanced features like dual M.2 slots and an intuitive BIOS interface, catering to enthusiasts looking for flexibility.
- EVGA Z170 Classified: With premium power delivery and extensive cooling options, this motherboard is designed for serious overclockers and gamers.
ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard is equipped with a robust power design, ensuring stable performance when overclocking your 6th gen Intel CPU. It also features multiple USB 3.0 ports and support for high-speed DDR4 memory, making it a great choice for gamers who require fast data transfer and responsiveness.
MSI Z170 Gaming Pro Carbon: Tailored for gamers, this motherboard features an enhanced audio codec and a dedicated gaming LAN to minimize latency during online play. Its sleek design and customizable RGB lighting add aesthetic appeal, while the reinforced PCIe slots ensure stability for high-performance graphics cards.
Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 7: This model stands out with its powerful audio components and advanced networking features, providing a rich gaming experience. The motherboard also includes an M.2 slot for faster storage options and a user-friendly BIOS, making it easy to overclock and customize settings.
ASRock Z170 Extreme7+: Known for its versatility, this motherboard offers dual M.2 slots for SSDs, allowing for rapid data access and storage expansion. Its intuitive BIOS and rich connectivity options make it appealing for both gamers and content creators who need reliable performance and flexibility.
EVGA Z170 Classified: Designed for extreme performance, this motherboard features a robust power delivery system and multiple fan headers for optimal cooling. It’s perfect for users who plan to push their hardware to the limit, offering extensive customization options to tailor overclocking settings for maximum gaming performance.
Which Model Is Suitable for Everyday Use?
The best Intel motherboards for 6th generation processors are designed to offer reliability and performance for everyday use.
- ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard provides excellent build quality and a wealth of features.
- MSI Z170A Gaming Pro Carbon: Known for its gaming-centric features, this board offers great performance for both gaming and everyday tasks.
- Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 7: This model combines aesthetics with functionality, ensuring good performance and a stylish design.
- ASRock Z170 Extreme4: A great value option, it offers solid performance and a good range of connectivity options.
ASUS Z170-A: This motherboard is equipped with a robust power delivery system, making it suitable for overclocking while maintaining stability. It also features multiple USB 3.0 ports and support for M.2 storage, ensuring quick data transfer speeds and ample connectivity for peripherals.
MSI Z170A Gaming Pro Carbon: This board is designed with gamers in mind, featuring a stylish carbon fiber look and advanced cooling solutions. It includes enhanced audio capabilities and customizable RGB lighting, making it a great choice for everyday users who also enjoy gaming.
Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 7: This motherboard stands out with its high-quality audio components and advanced networking features, such as Killer E2400 LAN for optimized online gaming. It also supports multiple graphics cards, making it an excellent choice for users who may want to upgrade their system in the future.
ASRock Z170 Extreme4: Offering a solid performance-to-price ratio, this motherboard features a comprehensive set of ports and slots, including USB 3.1 and SATA Express. It is ideal for users who need a reliable board for everyday computing tasks without breaking the bank.
How Do Compatibility and Future-Proofing Affect Your Motherboard Choice?
Compatibility and future-proofing are crucial considerations when selecting a motherboard, particularly for the best Intel motherboards of the 6th generation.
- Socket Type: The socket type determines which CPUs can be used with the motherboard. For 6th generation Intel processors, the LGA 1151 socket is essential, ensuring that the selected motherboard can accommodate the desired CPU model without compatibility issues.
- Chipset Features: Different chipsets offer varying features such as support for overclocking, multiple GPU setups, and advanced connectivity options. Choosing a motherboard with a suitable chipset ensures that you can fully leverage the capabilities of your 6th gen Intel processor while providing room for upgrades.
- RAM Compatibility: RAM type and speed are also critical, as motherboards support specific types of RAM like DDR4 for 6th generation CPUs. Selecting a motherboard that supports higher RAM speeds and larger capacities not only optimizes performance but also allows for future memory upgrades as software demands increase.
- Expansion Slots: The availability and type of expansion slots can impact future upgrades. A motherboard that offers multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards, sound cards, or other peripherals ensures that users can expand their systems over time without needing to replace the entire motherboard.
- Storage Options: Modern motherboards support various storage interfaces, including SATA and NVMe. Opting for a motherboard that offers multiple M.2 slots and SATA connections enables you to integrate faster storage solutions now and in the future, providing greater data transfer speeds and storage capacity.
- BIOS/UEFI Support: A motherboard with robust BIOS/UEFI features can enhance system stability and performance. Future-proofing your choice by selecting a motherboard with a solid update path allows for improved compatibility with newer components and enhancements as they are released.
What Insights Can User Reviews Offer for 6th Gen Intel Motherboards?
User reviews can provide valuable insights into the performance, reliability, and user experience of 6th Gen Intel motherboards.
- Performance Feedback: User reviews often highlight how well a motherboard performs under various conditions, such as gaming or heavy multitasking. Users typically share their experiences with overclocking capabilities and stability, which can help prospective buyers understand the board’s limitations and strengths.
- Compatibility Information: Reviews frequently discuss compatibility with different CPUs, RAM types, and other components. This information is crucial for users planning to build a system, as it helps ensure that they select a motherboard that will work seamlessly with their existing or planned hardware.
- Build Quality and Design: Users often comment on the physical build quality and design of the motherboards, including the ease of installation and layout of ports. Insights about thermal performance and the effectiveness of cooling solutions can also be found in reviews, helping buyers gauge the longevity and durability of the motherboard.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Many reviews touch on the manufacturer’s customer support experience and warranty terms. Positive or negative experiences can significantly influence a buyer’s decision, as good customer service and a solid warranty can provide peace of mind for potential issues that may arise.
- Firmware and Software Updates: Users often share their experiences with firmware updates and software compatibility. This information can be vital for understanding how well the manufacturer supports their products over time and whether users face any issues with drivers or BIOS updates.