ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II Review
Table of Contents
Introduction
The ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II is a high-end ATX motherboard designed for gamers and enthusiasts looking to build powerful systems with Intel’s latest 13th and 14th Gen processors. Packed with features like Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0, and robust power delivery, this motherboard aims to deliver top-notch performance and a plethora of customization options. In this review, we’ll dive into the key features, performance, and overall user experience of the ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II.
Features
The ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II boasts a comprehensive set of features, catering to the demanding needs of modern PC builders. Let’s break down some of the key highlights:
- Intel Z790 Chipset: Provides the foundation for supporting Intel’s latest 13th and 14th Gen processors, along with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory.
- Wi-Fi 7 & Bluetooth 5.4: The latest generation of Wi-Fi technology offers blistering speeds and low latency, perfect for online gaming and content streaming.
- 2.5Gb Ethernet: Provides a faster wired connection for users who prefer a cable connection for maximum stability.
- 5x M.2 Slots: Offers ample storage options, including support for PCIe 4.0 x4 SSDs for lightning-fast data transfer.
- Robust Power Delivery: The motherboard features a comprehensive power delivery system designed to handle the demands of high-end processors and overclocking.
- Advanced Cooling Solutions: The ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II includes multiple heatsinks and fan headers to ensure efficient thermal management for critical components.
- ASUS Q-Design: Features like Q-Latch for easy release of M.2 SSDs and SafeSlot for enhanced PCIe slot durability simplify assembly and enhance reliability.
Performance
The ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II delivered exceptional performance in our tests. We paired it with a high-end Intel Core i9 processor and DDR5 memory to push it to its limits. Here are some key takeaways:
- CPU Performance: The motherboard’s robust power delivery and cooling solution allowed for consistent and reliable performance, achieving impressive benchmark scores.
- Memory Performance: DDR5 memory ran flawlessly at high frequencies, delivering significant performance gains compared to previous generations.
- Storage Performance: The PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots showcased incredible speed and efficiency, making loading times a thing of the past.
- Networking: Wi-Fi 7 provided stable and fast connections for online gaming, while the 2.5Gb Ethernet offered a reliable wired option for users who prefer a cabled connection.
Pros & Cons
Like any product, the ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II has its strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a breakdown of its pros and cons:
Pros:
- Powerful performance with robust power delivery and advanced cooling.
- Impressive feature set, including Wi-Fi 7, PCIe 5.0, and multiple M.2 slots.
- Excellent user experience with ASUS’s intuitive software suite and Q-Design features.
- Durable construction and high-quality components for long-term reliability.
Cons:
- High price point compared to other Z790 motherboards.
- Some users may find the motherboard’s layout somewhat crowded.
Final Verdict
The ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II is a powerful and feature-packed motherboard that delivers exceptional performance for gamers and enthusiasts. Its Wi-Fi 7 support, PCIe 5.0 connectivity, and comprehensive feature set make it a top contender in the high-end Z790 market. However, its high price tag may be a barrier for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for a premium Z790 motherboard that can handle the demands of the latest Intel processors, the ROG STRIX Z790-A GAMING WIFI II is a strong recommendation.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| CPU Compatibility | Intel® Socket LGA1700 for Intel® Core™ 14th & 13th Gen, Intel® Core™ 12th Gen, Pentium® Gold, and Celeron® |
| Chipset | Intel® Z790 Chipset |
| Memory | Max. 192GB DDR5, 4 x DIMM slots, Dual channel, XMP, OptiMem II, AEMP II, DIMM Flex, On-Die ECC function |
| Graphics | 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI™ port, Graphics specifications vary by CPU type |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16 (x4 mode), 1 x PCIe 3.0 x1 |
| Storage | Supports 5 x M.2 slots (PCIe 4.0 x4) and 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports |
| Ethernet | 1 x Intel® 2.5Gb Ethernet, ASUS LANGuard |
| Wireless & Bluetooth | Intel® Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth® v5.4 |
| USB Ports | Rear: 1 x USB 20Gbps, 3 x USB 10Gbps, 4 x USB 5Gbps, 4 x USB 2.0; Front: 1 x USB 20Gbps, 1 x USB 5Gbps |
| Audio | ROG SupremeFX 5.1 Surround Sound, ALC4080, SupremeFX Shielding Technology, Savitech SV3H712 AMP |
| Back Panel I/O Ports | Various USB ports, DisplayPort, HDMI™ port, Wi-Fi module, Ethernet, Audio jacks, Optical S/PDIF out port |
| Internal I/O Connectors | Various headers for fans, power, storage, USB, Thunderbolt™, audio, etc. |
| Special Features | Extreme Engine Digi+, ASUS Q-Design, ASUS Thermal Solution, ASUS EZ DIY, Aura Sync, Front Panel USB Support |
| Software Features | Various ASUS and ROG exclusive software, AI Suite 3, MyASUS, USB Wattage Watcher, Intel® Unison™, and more |
| UEFI BIOS | 256 Mb Flash ROM, UEFI AMI BIOS, AI Overclocking Guide, ASUS EZ DIY tools |
| Manageability | WOL by PME, PXE |
| Accessories | Cables, cooling kit, ASUS Wi-Fi Q-Antenna, miscellaneous items, documentation |
| Operating System | Windows® 11, Windows® 10 64-bit |
| Form Factor | ATX Form Factor, 12″ x 9.6″ (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm) |