Asus Z87 Plus CPU Compatibility

The ASUS Z87-PLUS supports selected fourth-generation Intel Core i7, Core i5 and Core i3 processors, plus compatible LGA1150 Pentium and Celeron models. The exact CPU must appear on ASUS's support list, and the board needs the BIOS version specified for it. Matching the socket alone.

Which processors fit the Z87-PLUS?

This motherboard combines an LGA1150 socket with the Intel Z87 chipset. Its supported desktop processors include original Haswell models and later fourth-generation additions, subject to firmware requirements. Check the complete model number: a suffix such as K, S or T identifies a different processor entry.

The following examples from the ASUS Z87-PLUS CPU support list show why the BIOS matters. These are selected entries, rather than a complete compatibility list.

For Pentium, Celeron or Xeon candidates, use the individual support entry rather than assuming that every processor in the family works. ASUS also lists selected Xeon E3 v3 models with notes about feature limitations on 8-series chipsets.

Processors to exclude from your shortlist

AMD processors and Intel CPUs designed for other sockets cannot be installed in this board. LGA1151, LGA1155 and newer Intel socket types are not interchangeable with LGA1150.

Do not treat fifth-generation Broadwell processors such as the Core i7-5775C and Core i5-5675C as supported upgrades merely because they use LGA1150. A BIOS update is not a general way to add another processor generation. Require an explicit Z87-PLUS support entry before buying.

Laptop processors are another separate category. For example, the processors discussed in this Socket rPGA 989 CPU list belong to a different socket platform and are not alternatives for this desktop board.

Check the BIOS before changing the CPU

A processor can be physically compatible yet fail to start if the installed firmware does not support it. Check this while the existing CPU still works, so you have a straightforward way to inspect settings and prepare the update.

1. Confirm that the model printed on the motherboard is Z87-PLUS. Download firmware for that exact model.
2. Enter the UEFI BIOS and record the installed version.
3. Find the replacement CPU's complete model number in ASUS's support table. Compare its required BIOS with the installed version and read any accompanying notes.
4. If an update is needed, read the instructions for the chosen BIOS package before running it. Record any customised boot, storage and memory settings first.
5. Complete the required update, restart and confirm the BIOS version before replacing the processor.

The ASUS BIOS download page includes specific instructions for newer fourth-generation processors. It recommends USB BIOS Flashback or the designated BIOS updater for that transition. Follow those package instructions; simply seeing a later version number does not establish that every required update step was completed.

USB BIOS Flashback when the system cannot start

The Z87-PLUS has USB BIOS Flashback. ASUS's Z87 Flashback guide for Devil's Canyon processors explains that this method can prepare supported boards for the Core i7-4790K and Core i5-4690K without an original Haswell CPU or memory installed.

Use the exact board's instructions for the BIOS filename, USB preparation, designated port and power connections. Leave power and the USB drive connected until the process finishes. EZ Flash and USB BIOS Flashback are different procedures, so follow the instructions for the method you are using.

Choose an upgrade around the work you need to improve

Start with the processor already installed and the applications that feel slow. Moving from a basic CPU to a supported Core i5 or Core i7 may be useful, but replacing one similar Haswell model with another can offer limited benefit. Compare the cost of the used processor, any cooler replacement and the condition of the existing board.

A compatible K-series processor allows multiplier overclocking on this platform. You can also run it at standard settings. Establish stable operation at defaults before adjusting clocks or voltage; cooling, power delivery and the condition of older components affect the available headroom.

For gaming, identify the graphics card as well as the CPU before deciding which component needs attention. This guide to checking your graphics card with a CMD command can help you record the existing hardware. Compatibility alone does not tell you which upgrade will improve a particular game.

Check cooling, memory and the first start

The Z87-PLUS manual specifies four DDR3 slots with a maximum total capacity of 32GB. DDR4 and DDR5 modules are unsuitable. Use its recommended slot arrangement for paired memory, and begin with standard memory settings while checking a CPU replacement.

Confirm that the cooler has the correct LGA1150 mounting hardware and is suitable for the replacement processor. Check clearance around the memory and case. Switch off and unplug the system before removing hardware, protect the socket contacts and renew the thermal compound when refitting the cooler.

After installation, enter the BIOS to check that the processor and memory are detected and that the CPU fan runs. Monitor temperature before testing your usual applications. If the system fails to start, revisit the exact CPU entry, completed BIOS update procedure, power connections and memory seating before assuming the processor is faulty.

For related component checks, browse the computer hardware guides. Before ordering a CPU, record your current BIOS version and match your chosen processor's full model number to its ASUS support entry.