By Robin Owens 10 days ago, Thunderbolt
I’m a professional model photographer and videographer, and as the number and quality of my projects continued to grow, I felt the need to upgrade my PC and laptop to make them more suitable for handling demanding tasks.
My goal is to maximize the efficiency of different editing software while also being capable of superfast data transferring, which is essential when dealing with big RAW images and videos stored on external devices.
That’s why I decided to find the best motherboard with Thunderbolt connectivity, as it is a super cool technology that allows you to connect multiple devices through just one port. It's like having a universal connector for all your Thunderbolt devices, which means a smaller cable mess on your desk.
Thunderbolt allows you to connect external high-resolution displays and monitors to your motherboard, making it a big deal for all you graphic designers, video editors, and multimedia producers out there. You can create and edit your masterpieces with utmost precision and clarity using a Thunderbolt-supplied motherboard.
After studying Reddit and a bunch of other forums, I chose the motherboards with Thunderbolt 3 and 4 ports. Here you’ll find options for Intel and AMD.
Since I have two devices with different processors, I was able to test all of them.
Optimal choice for gaming and improving productivity
Socket: AM4 | RAM: DDR4 | Processors: AMD 3rd Gen Ryzen | Chipset: AMD B550 | Memory Clock Speed: 4400 MHz | CPU Model: AMD Ryzen 7
Equipped with an AMD B550 chipset, this motherboard supports the newest AMD Ryzen CPUs, providing stable and fast processing when running demanding software like Photoshop, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro. I also liked the wide range of PCIe slots that let me connect even more peripherals and GPUs to future-proof my PC.
Thanks to the provided Thunderbolt ports, I can easily transfer big RAW and 8K video files from my SD card to other storage drives with superfast speeds. They also allow me to pair my PC with two high-resolution monitors, external SSDs, and audio peripherals all at the same time. I was especially appreciative of the daisy-chain capability since it helped me reduce the number of cables at my workplace.
Since I put quite a heavy load on my PC, having sufficient cooling was extremely important for me. This motherboard for game development comes with several fan headers and heatsinks, making sure my PC stays cool regardless of how demanding my editing tasks are.
Perfect for content creators
Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 | Processors: 14th, 13th, 12th Gen | Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory Clock Speed: 1700 MHz
This might be the best motherboard with Thunderbolt 4 ports, as it provides fantastic data transfer speeds (up to 40Gbps), allowing me to copy big RAW photos and 4K/8K footage to external devices in a matter of seconds, even when I’m on my Thunderbolt tablet. The provided connectivity options also let me daisy-chain different hardware to ensure stable and fast data transfers and performance.
The Z790 chipset is compatible with the newest Intel CPUs, allowing me to run my image and video editing software without any bugs. Meanwhile, the provided DDR5 RAM support secured fast rendering. I was also happy to see the inclusion of several USB 3.2 ports, as well as HDMI and DisplayPort inputs, which let me connect my devices without adapters or hubs.
Moreover, thanks to the available PCIe slots, I can upgrade my setup at any time, as my needs continue to grow. This motherboard also has several fan headers and heatsinks, which are essential for providing sufficient cooling during long editing sessions. Additionally, its smart cooling functionality helped me fine-tune cooling performance according to my needs.
Terrific option for casual and enthusiast-level gamers
Socket: LGA 1200 | RAM: DDR4 | Processors: 10th and 11th Gen Intel Core | Chipset: Intel Z590 | Memory Clock Speed: 5333 MHz
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z590 motherboard is a budget-friendly option, which was a perfect fit for one of my PCs with an Intel 11th Gen processor, as it ensured I got to enjoy top-notch performance. It can handle high memory capacity and has multiple PCIe 2.0 connections, giving me plenty of room for further expansion.
Obviously, I was mainly interested in the provided Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, which offers lightning-fast data transfer speeds even when handling RAW image files and 4K/8K videos and compatibility with a wide range of devices, which I use for work. The Z590 chipset, which is the heart of the motherboard, can handle up to 2666 MHz in dual-channel mode.
It can also support multi-GPU setups, which is very useful for me when I want to play a game like Cyberpunk 2077 after an entire day of video editing, as it gives me a significant performance increase. This budget motherboard uses two fans that blow air downward, helping keep the temperature of my setup in check.
Fantastic compact mATX Z790 motherboard
Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 | Processors: Intel | Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory Clock Speed: 2400 MHz
After taking this model out of its package, I was impressed by its robust build and minimalist design. This motherboard under 200 dollars excels at running premium 13th and 14th Gen Intel processors, securing smooth performance even when enduring an intense editing workload.
This motherboard is compatible with DDR5 RAM that can reach up to 7200+ MHz while also providing overclocking support, which allows me to run several image editing applications simultaneously without any performance drops. It also allows me to leverage the built-in Thunderbolt 4 header to enjoy superfast connectivity, which is needed for transferring big files.
You can set the configuration for the provided fan headers and temperature sensors using the Fan Xpert 4 firmware or BIOS to make sure your PC stays cool. The Z970M-Plus also lets you connect plenty of storage devices thanks to the three M.2 slots that support the PCIe 4.0 standard, which is why it’s possibly the best motherboard with Thunderbolt 3 ports for transferring large files.
Great choice for premium hardware owners and dedicated overclockers
Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 | Processors: 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core | Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory Clock Speed: up to 8000 MHz
The Z790 motherboards featured in this overview offer some of the most advanced specifications on the market and this specific model is also pleasantly affordable for a premium product. Yes, it’s missing a couple of M.2 sockets that are included in alternative motherboards, but the fact that it’s between $200 and $350 cheaper more than makes up for it.
This motherboard sports 10Gb Ethernet, 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 inputs, pro-grade audio, PCIe 5.0 graphics card and M.2 support, unparalleled power delivery, and a beautiful design that you’d want to see from a high-end motherboard for sound quality.
The Z790 Aorus Extreme provided terrific performance when I was playing the latest AAA games and handled overclocking tests extremely well too. Just keep in mind that it has an E-ATX form factor, meaning you’ll need a tower with more free space than standard ATX options. However, the difference in price between case sizes is minuscule compared to how much money you save.
Aimed at casual users and enthusiasts
Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 | Processors: 12, 13, 14 Gen Intel | Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory Clock Speed: 7600 MHz
Motherboards became significantly more expensive over the years, so I was happy to see ASRock sell something cheaper than their premium-grade models while still packing it with impressive specifications.
Sold for $350, the ASRock Z790 Taichi Lite is probably the best motherboard with Thunderbolt support if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. It provides efficient power delivery, dual Thunderbolt 4 inputs, plenty of storage expansion ports, along with a PCIe 5.0 M.2 socket and 8 SATA ports, a high-quality Thunderbolt audio interface, etc.
There are a lot of decent motherboards in the below-$400 price range, but none of them match the functionality provided by the ASRock Z790 Taichi Lite. Since I value the functionality and reasonable pricing more than the visual design of the motherboard, this model is right up my alley.
Designed for power users and content creators
Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 | Processors: Intel Core 14th/ 13th/ 12th Gen, Intel Pentium Gold and Celeron | Chipset: Intel Z790 | Memory Clock Speed: 7800 MHz
After unpacking this motherboard, I instantly liked its high build quality and refined design. This model provides fantastic performance, sporting 19+1+1 phase design that secures dependable and effective power distribution, which helped me feel confident when handling demanding video editing projects.
I was also highly impressed by MEG Z790 ACE's cooling setup. It comes with several fan headers, water cooler support, and powerful heatsinks, which ensure my PC stays cool even after hours of intensive editing.
The range of connectivity options encompasses two Thunderbolt 4 outputs, several USB 3.2 inputs, HDMI, and DisplayPort. Thunderbolt ports provide superfast data transfer and daisy-chaining support. 5 M.2 slots are compatible with the PCIe 4.0, allowing me to enjoy high-speed storage for my 4K and 8K videos. Additionally, it’s a solid motherboard for 3D printers thanks to its seamless connectivity and performance.
Thunderbolt version. Thunderbolt 4 provides enhanced performance, normalized requirements, and improved security functionality compared to the previous version. Prioritize motherboards compatible with the latest standard.
Compatibility. Make sure the chosen model supports your processor (Intel or AMD) and is compatible with its socket type (like LGA 1200 or AM4).
Additionally, various chipsets provide different functionalities and performance results. Premium chipsets (like Intel Z790, AMD X570) usually offer a wider range of features and superior performance.
Form factor. Motherboards are produced in different sizes (ATX, microATX, and miniITX). Pick a form factor that matches your case and satisfies your building requirements. This factor is particularly important if you’re searching for a Thunderbolt laptop.
Moreover, make sure the form factor has a sufficient number of expansion slots, PCIe slots for graphics cards, network cards, and so on.
Performance. Prioritize intricate power delivery units, like a high-phase VRM design, which can handle premium processors and overclocking.
Additionally, make sure the motherboard is compatible with the newest memory technology (DDR5) to ensure your system runs smoothly.
Moreover, the best motherboards offer cooling options that include heatsinks and fan headers that help maintain optimal hardware temperatures.
Connectivity and ports. Check the number of available Thunderbolt inputs and their placement (rear I/O vs headers that need an add-in card). Larger number of ports make your PC setup more versatile.
Try to find motherboards with a multitude of USB ports (USB 3.2, USB-C) for connecting your PC to Thunderbolt monitors, Thunderbolt external hard drives, and other peripherals. Built-in WiFi 6/6E and 2.5G/10G Ethernet can significantly improve the quality of your internet connection. Premium-grate onboard audio is also useful for handling complex multimedia tasks.
Storage options. Several M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 compatibility allow you to connect high-speed SSDs for storing your files. It’s also a good idea to get a motherboard with multiple SATA ports to satisfy all your storage requirements.
It's a technology that combines data transfer and video display on the same cable. It also supports audio and can even carry the power needed to power a high-resolution display. It's designed to replace multiple cables and connectors, reducing clutter on your desk or in your bag. Plus, it's faster than traditional USB ports, making it great for working with large files like photos and videos.
Thunderbolt 4 comes with multiple benefits compared to the previous version, like 40Gbps support for all ports, optimized minimum performance requirements, improved security functionality, dual 4K monitor support, and enhanced performance stability.
USB-C connectivity has proven to be extremely popular, and it was actually adopted as physical hardware by Thunderbolt. Thus, you can use any Thunderbolt cable as a USB-C cable, and plug a USB-C cable into any Thunderbolt port.
Most modern laptops feature both regular USB-C and Thunderbolt ports. To identify a Thunderbolt-enabled port, look for the logo of a lightning bolt with a downward-facing arrow next to it. You can also check your device's specifications to be sure. If your laptop doesn't have Thunderbolt ports, don't worry. You can buy a Thunderbolt dock, an expansion card, or even a Thunderbolt 3 cable adapter to add them.
No, some Thunderbolt motherboards aren’t compatible with new CPUs. Make sure to verify the compatibility of specific motherboard models with your processor. For example, Intel Z790 motherboards work with Intel 13th and 14th Gen CPUs, while AMD models like the X570 are compatible with Ryzen CPUs.
The optimal number should be determined by your specific needs. For the average person, one or two ports are enough. That said, some professional tasks might demand multiple peripherals to be connected via Thunderbolt or at least be daisy-chained like a mini PC with Thunderbolt.
Yes, you can do that with the help of a Thunderbolt add-in card. That said, this solution is only relevant if the motherboard in question comes with a Thunderbolt header.
Thunderbolt is relevant for gamers because it supports superfast data transferring, compatibility with external graphics cards, and allows pairing a PC with several high-resolution screens, which can do wonders for improving performance and enhancing the user experience.
