Should I go Z97 or H97 with an Intel i5-4690s?

akin_t

Reputable
May 9, 2014
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4,510
Yeah I know the i5-4690k is unlocked and has a higher base clock (3.5 GHz vs 3.2 GHz), but in all honesty I'm looking for a power efficient (and quiet) system. Additionally, both processors share the same turbo clock at 3.9 GHz.

Anyway, regardless of chipset, I'm looking for a clean looking motherboard (I love the look of the Hero VII and Sabertooth z97 Mk 1) ... However, can I use the Sabertooth if I don't intend to install any of Asus' software?

In all honesty, I just want a good looking board that is stable and provides an Intel NIC, I'd also like some mid-board USB headers.

Asus is really the only manufacturer that I've looked into. I'm hoping you guys can point me in the right direction. I'd like to save some money by going H97 if possible.