Table of Contents
Introduction
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO is a high-end ATX motherboard designed for demanding gamers and enthusiasts looking to build a top-tier Intel 13th Gen system. I’ve had the opportunity to put this motherboard through its paces, and in this review, I’ll delve into its features, performance, and overall value.
Features
The ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO packs an impressive array of features, including:
- Intel Z790 Chipset
- LGA1700 Socket for 12th & 13th Gen Intel Core Processors
- 4x DDR5 DIMM slots with support for up to 192GB of RAM
- Intel WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- PCIe 5.0 x16 Slot for Next-Gen Graphics Cards
- Thunderbolt 4
- Extensive I/O Panel
- ROG’s signature aesthetics and lighting
Performance
The ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO delivers exceptional performance. I tested it with an Intel Core i9-13900K processor and a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 graphics card. The motherboard provided a stable platform for overclocking, with minimal effort. The DDR5 memory support allows for high bandwidth, which significantly improves gaming and content creation performance.
The Intel WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 connections were fast and reliable. The 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet provides a significant boost for online gaming and large file transfers. The PCIe 5.0 slot provides ample bandwidth for the latest and greatest graphics cards.
Pros & Cons
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO:
Pros:
- Excellent performance, especially with overclocking.
- Extensive features, including DDR5 support, Intel WiFi 7, and Thunderbolt 4.
- High-quality components and build.
- ROG’s signature aesthetics and lighting.
Cons:
- High price point compared to other Z790 motherboards.
- May not be necessary for users who aren’t overclocking or using high-end components.
Final Verdict
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO is a premium motherboard that delivers exceptional performance and features. It’s an excellent choice for gamers and enthusiasts who want the best possible experience with their Intel 13th Gen system. However, its high price tag may be a barrier for some users. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line motherboard, and budget is not a major concern, the ROG MAXIMUS Z790 DARK HERO is definitely worth considering.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Socket | LGA1700 |
| Memory | 4x DDR5 DIMM, 192GB Max |
| Networking | Intel WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2.5Gb Ethernet |
| PCIe | PCIe 5.0 x16 |
| I/O | HDMI, Thunderbolt 4, USB-C |
| Audio | SupremeFX |