Do I have to update the BIOS

[joshjj25]

So I currently have a MSI Z170A SLI motherboard and a i7 6700k. I recently got a evga rtx 2080 and wanted to upgrade my cpu to a i7 8700k but wanted to know if i will have to update the BIOS if i kept my current motherboard? If so, what motherboard would y'all recommend so I dont have to update the BIOS?

 

[Barty1884]

The Z170 board will not support an i7-8700K, regardless of a BIOS update.

You'd need a BIOS update to support the KabyLake chips (7xxx), but the 8xxx series moved to 300 series boards.
You'd need either Z370 or Z390 to support an i7-8700K.


If you want to go for an 8700K, almost any Z370 board would suffice, assuming you're not looking to push crazy overclocks or anything.
https://pcpartpicker.com/products/compare/fjPzK8,V9WfrH,tmF48d/

 

[joshjj25]

Would i have to update any of the BIOS if i get a Z370 or Z390?

 

[Barty1884]

The Z370 supports an 8700K out of the box.
Unless a BIOS update specifically addresses an issue you're facing (compatibility, stability etc) then no, you do not need to update the BIOS.

 

[joshjj25]

Cool, thanks for the help man. I can make a PC but I suck with the software side of things.

 

[Barty1884]

A BIOS update, if needed is not difficult.
While appearing daunting, its generally as simply as downloading the file, unzipping & dropping it onto a USB.
Reboot, into BIOS and use the BIOS update tool. Tell it where the file is, confirm the update & wait (while NOT cutting power).

That's really all there is to it.