Do VRMs Matter for My New i7 Build?

VRMs are especially a concern for Intel due to its higher power draw compared to AMD. In fact, a high-quality Z790 motherboard designed for heavy loads will be beneficial if you want to run your CPU at peak performance. Don't go for budget options here—aim for something that can handle around 300-320W continuously.

VRMs definitely play a role in performance, especially with Intel CPUs. If your motherboard's power delivery is insufficient, you might face issues like power throttling, which can hurt performance. Just keep in mind that the phase count isn’t the whole story; manufacturers sometimes exaggerate that aspect. The quality of the implementation matters a lot too!

To put it simply, for basic gaming you can likely use a low-tier motherboard without much trouble. However, if you're using the i7 for rendering or intensive applications, definitely opt for a Z790 board with solid power delivery. A board like the MAG Z790 Tomahawk could be a smart pick.

If you’re planning heavy workloads or multitasking, it’s wise not to skimp on the motherboard. For gaming, an 8-2-1 setup should be fine, but for more demanding tasks, go for something mid-range or better. I went with an MSI B760 Gaming Plus that has 12 phases, and I think it’ll manage the i7 quite well.