ASUS ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming WiFi 6E Motherboard Review Best for Compact PC Builds

Description

Compact Yet Powerful Build

Testing the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming WiFi 6E was an interesting experience, primarily because of its mini-ITX form factor. Despite its small size, it packs an incredible punch. As someone who appreciates compact PC builds, I was immediately drawn to its design. The dimensions, measuring 11.1 x 8.9 x 4.3 inches, make it ideal for tight spaces without compromising on performance. I paired it with a 13th Gen Intel Core processor, and the results were nothing short of impressive. The Intel LGA 1700 socket compatibility ensures that it works seamlessly with Intel’s latest processors, providing a solid backbone for high-performance setups.

The black finish and sleek aesthetics add a touch of sophistication, blending perfectly with RGB setups. Installing it into a small chassis was straightforward, and the 10+1 power stage solution provided consistent and efficient power delivery. This is a motherboard that clearly prioritizes both power and efficiency.

The Robust Performance

Performance-wise, this motherboard doesn’t disappoint. The DDR5 support with speeds up to 7000 MHz is a game-changer. I noticed a significant boost in multitasking and gaming performance when compared to my older DDR4 setup. The PCIe 5.0 slot is another major highlight, offering incredible speeds for high-end GPUs and storage devices. I installed an NVMe SSD in the PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot, and the load times for games and applications were blazing fast. It’s worth noting that the multi-layer M.2 stack is cleverly designed, with heatsinks ensuring that thermal throttling is minimized.

The 10+1 power stage design, rated for 105A per stage, ensures stability, even under heavy loads. I tested it during prolonged gaming sessions, and the optimized VRM thermals with thick heatsinks kept temperatures in check. The inclusion of high-conductivity thermal pads and an L-shaped heatpipe is a thoughtful touch, making this motherboard a reliable choice for demanding tasks.

Connectivity Galore

One of the standout features is the extensive connectivity options. The WiFi 6E support provides ultra-fast wireless speeds, and I experienced zero latency while streaming or downloading large files. For wired connections, the 2.5Gb LAN port ensures a stable and high-speed connection, which is essential for competitive gaming or streaming. I also appreciated the Thunderbolt 4 support, which makes it future-proof and versatile for connecting external devices.

The ROG Strix Hive is another feature that impressed me. This external control hub moves overclocking controls and connectivity options to the desktop, making adjustments seamless. It even houses a larger audio solution, which I found improved sound quality during gaming and video editing.

Positives

The key benefits of this motherboard cannot be overstated. Here are some of the highlights:

• Compact size with mini-ITX form factor, perfect for small builds.
• DDR5 support for exceptional memory performance.
• PCIe 5.0 compatibility, ensuring future-proofing for GPUs and storage.
• WiFi 6E and Thunderbolt 4 for cutting-edge connectivity.
• Thoughtful thermal solutions like VRM heatsinks and L-shaped heatpipes.

Weaknesses

That said, there are a few areas for improvement with this product:

• The price point might not appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
• Limited PCIe slots due to the mini-ITX size, which might restrict expandability.
• Installation can be tricky for those unfamiliar with compact builds.
• Some users may find the ROG Strix Hive hub unnecessary, depending on their setup preferences.

Market Rivals

Comparing this motherboard to others in its category, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS XTREME and MSI MEG Z790I UNIFY are worth mentioning. While the Gigabyte model offers similar DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support, its price tag is significantly higher, making the ASUS option a better choice for those looking for value for money. On the other hand, the MSI motherboard provides excellent thermal solutions but lacks the innovative features like the ROG Strix Hive or the multi-layer M.2 stack.

The ASUS model stands out with its WiFi 6E and Thunderbolt 4 support, features that are either absent or less robust in competing options. If compact size and cutting-edge connectivity are your priorities, this motherboard clearly has the edge.

Worth Every Penny

Considering the features and performance, this motherboard is definitely worth every penny for gamers and enthusiasts. While the price might feel steep, the combination of power delivery, innovative thermal solutions, and high-speed connectivity justifies the investment. If you’re building a compact yet high-performance PC, you won’t regret choosing this motherboard. It delivers where it matters most, making it an excellent choice for modern setups.

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