Intel's 4th generation recently hit the market, leaving many enthusiasts contemplating the ideal motherboard to complement their anticipated upgrades. As we delve into this exploration, we find ourselves examining the latest and most advanced motherboard specification available for this CPU, the Z790-A. Specifically, we have the ROG Strix Z790-A on our hands, aiming to determine whether it stands out as the optimal choice for a premium high-end build.
In comparing the Z690 and Z790-A, Intel has streamlined the decision-making process, revealing minimal distinctions between the two. While the Z690 boasts 12 PCIe4 chipset lanes, the Z790-A takes a step further with 20. Additionally, the Z790-A offers an extra USB port, accommodating five 20 GB ports compared to the Z690's four. Although the Z790-A theoretically supports slightly faster memory, the real-world difference might be negligible, considering that most users tend to set their RAM well beyond specified limits.
The ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi stands out as a DDR5 motherboard, and despite past challenges with DDR5 stability, this particular motherboard has demonstrated commendable solidity in our testing. With a mind-boggling 8,000 MHz RAM rating, it showcases the robust capabilities that align with the demands of modern users.
Examining the power delivery system, the motherboard features 16+1+2 VRM stages, characteristic of an upper-tier board. This configuration ensures that each component receives the necessary power at the right timing, even under stress tests with a 4900K, one of the hottest CPUs currently available.
Notably, the motherboard is equipped with Wi-Fi 7, the latest standard offering a theoretical maximum speed of 46 Gbps. Beyond backward compatibility with previous Wi-Fi versions, it introduces a PCI Express 5 slot, a noteworthy addition for connecting graphics cards. Asus's usual refinements, including the Q release system, simplify tasks such as releasing graphics cards and securing M.2 drives, enhancing the overall user experience.
Despite the impressive features and stability, it's essential to acknowledge that the z790 chipset marks the culmination of the socket 1700 era for Intel. While it covers 12th, 13th, and 14th generation CPUs, the subsequent 15th generation and beyond will not be compatible with the Z790-A. However, for users considering a new build centered around a 13th or 14th gen CPU with DDR5 RAM and no immediate plans for CPU upgrades, the ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi 2 holds significant value.
In practical terms, the motherboard delivers rock-solid stability, particularly evident during testing with bleeding-edge technology such as the 14900K and DDR5 memory. With practical features like five M.2 slots, corresponding heat sinks, and Wi-Fi 7, it caters to the demands of high-end rigs. As we approach the year-end recognition season, the ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi is one of the best Motherboard acknowledging its exceptional performance within the confines of the socket 1700 era.
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