ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM Motherboard Review: A Solid Foundation for Your 13th Gen Build

Looking to build a powerful new system with a 13th generation Intel processor? The ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM motherboard is a great option for enthusiasts and gamers alike. With its robust feature set and solid performance, this motherboard delivers excellent value for the price. I’ve spent several weeks putting it through its paces, and I’m ready to share my in-depth review.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Key Features
• Performance Evaluation
• Pros & Cons
• Final Verdict

Introduction

The ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM motherboard is designed to handle the latest Intel 13th generation processors, offering an impressive array of features that cater to both budget-conscious builders and performance enthusiasts. It boasts a sleek design, a comprehensive feature set, and strong performance. It is designed to be an excellent choice for those looking to build a reliable and capable PC.

Key Features

The ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM packs a punch in terms of features. Here are some of the highlights:

• Intel Z790 Chipset: This chipset unlocks the full potential of the 13th gen Intel processors and enables a range of advanced features.
• LGA1700 Socket: Supports all Intel 13th and 12th Gen processors, offering future-proofing for your build.
• DDR5 Memory Support: Up to 192GB of DDR5 memory provides a significant performance boost.
• PCIe 5.0 Support: Supports the latest PCIe 5.0 technology, allowing for blazing fast data transfers.
• 2.5Gb Ethernet: Fast and reliable networking for online gaming and content streaming.
• USB 3.2 Gen 2: Ultra-fast data transfer speeds for external devices.
• Thunderbolt 4: Supports Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfer and external displays.
• HDMI/DisplayPort Output: Allows for easy connection to external displays.
• ASUS Armoury Crate: Comprehensive software suite for system monitoring and customization.

Performance Evaluation

The ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM motherboard delivers solid performance, allowing my system to run smoothly and handle demanding tasks with ease. I have tested it with both 13th generation and 12th generation Intel processors, and in both cases, the motherboard provided a stable and responsive platform for my system.

The DDR5 memory support allows for high bandwidth and low latency, resulting in faster application loading and smoother multitasking. I also appreciated the impressive speeds provided by the 2.5Gb Ethernet connection for online gaming and content streaming.

In benchmark testing, the motherboard consistently delivered strong results, showcasing its capability for both everyday tasks and demanding workloads. The PCIe 5.0 support, when paired with compatible components, enables blazing fast data transfer rates for both storage devices and graphics cards.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Solid performance with both 12th and 13th generation Intel processors.
• Full support for DDR5 memory, unlocking high bandwidth and low latency.
• Fast and reliable 2.5Gb Ethernet connection for online gaming and streaming.
• Comprehensive feature set with PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen 2, Thunderbolt 4, and HDMI/DisplayPort.
• Sleek design and well-organized layout for easy building and maintenance.

Cons

• No onboard Wi-Fi, requiring an additional adapter for wireless connectivity.
• The lack of RGB lighting might be a disappointment for some users.
• May be more expensive than some comparable Z790 motherboards on the market.

Final Verdict

The ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM motherboard is a solid choice for anyone building a new system with a 13th generation Intel processor. It offers a well-rounded feature set, strong performance, and a sleek design. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end motherboards, it delivers excellent value for the price.

If you’re looking for a stable and reliable platform that can handle both demanding workloads and everyday tasks, I highly recommend considering the ASUS PRIME Z790-P-CSM. It’s a great foundation for a powerful and capable PC.

Specifications