GIGABYTE Z590 motherboard review does it deliver top-notch performance for builders

Description

A Feature-Packed Motherboard for Performance Enthusiasts

Testing the GIGABYTE Z590 UD AC (LGA 1200/ Intel Z590/ ATX) was like stepping into a world of unparalleled customization and power. As someone who regularly builds custom computers, I was immediately drawn to its support for 11th and 10th Gen Intel Core processors, which opens up a wide range of possibilities for CPU selection. Whether you’re into gaming, content creation, or just want your PC to handle everything you throw at it, this motherboard seems to offer just the right tools.

The triple M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0/3.0 support caught my attention right away. I loaded up three NVMe SSDs, and the performance was nothing short of remarkable. Storage speed is critical for tasks like video editing and large file transfers, and having the thermal guards on each M.2 slot kept everything cool under pressure. Even after hours of testing, the drives stayed within safe temperature ranges, thanks to these thoughtful additions.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed while unboxing this motherboard was its robust build quality. The enlarged VRM heatsink, which features air-flow grooving, isn’t just a marketing gimmick—it genuinely improves heat dissipation. This is especially important for overclocking enthusiasts like myself who push their systems to the limit.

I also appreciated the pre-installed IO shield, which made the installation much smoother than fumbling with a separate shield. This small detail shows GIGABYTE’s attention to user convenience. The RGB FUSION 2.0 lighting system gives the motherboard a sleek, customizable aesthetic. Pairing it with addressable LED and RGB LED strips took my build’s aesthetics to the next level.

Highlights

• Triple M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 support for ultra-fast storage.
• Direct 12+1 phases digital VRM solution, ensuring stable power delivery during high loads.
• Enlarged VRM heatsink for effective cooling, even under stress.
• Integrated Intel 802.11ac wireless support, which performed admirably in my speed tests.
• Smart Fan 6 technology allowed me to customize fan curves for efficient cooling.

Performance Capabilities

This motherboard didn’t just meet expectations—it exceeded them. While testing, I paired it with an Intel Core i7 processor and DDR4 memory running at 4400 MHz. The shielded memory routing impressed me by allowing for smooth overclocking without stability issues. Whether I was running benchmarks or multitasking with demanding applications, the system felt incredibly responsive.

The 2.5GbE LAN port delivered stable network speeds during online gaming and streaming. I was equally impressed with the onboard Intel wireless-AC connectivity, which provided consistent speeds even in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals.

Favorable Aspects

• Excellent overclocking support: Shielded memory routing and robust VRM design make this motherboard ideal for enthusiasts.
• Advanced connectivity options, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 and front USB Type-C ports.
• Customizable RGB lighting for a visually stunning build.

Areas of Concern

While the motherboard shines in many areas, there are a few less favorable aspects worth noting:

• The onboard Wi-Fi module is limited to 802.11ac. While it’s sufficient for most users, those looking for Wi-Fi 6 might feel underwhelmed.
• The lack of built-in HDMI 2.1 support could be a downside for users planning to utilize the integrated GPU on some Intel processors.
• Some users might find the BIOS interface a bit clunky compared to competitors.

Competing Products

Comparing the GIGABYTE Z590 UD AC to ASUS TUF Gaming Z590-Plus WiFi, I noticed both boards offer similar support for 11th Gen processors and PCIe 4.0. However, the ASUS motherboard includes Wi-Fi 6, which gives it an edge for those prioritizing next-gen wireless connectivity. On the flip side, GIGABYTE’s motherboard stands out with its thermal guard on all M.2 slots, a feature that ASUS lacks.

MSI’s Z590-A PRO is another strong contender, offering similar VRM setups and connectivity features. However, GIGABYTE’s attention to overclocking stability and aesthetic customization options makes it the more attractive choice for enthusiasts.

Price Worthiness

Considering the feature set and performance capabilities, this motherboard offers excellent value for its price point. The triple M.2 slots, robust cooling solutions, and overclocking support justify the investment for gamers and creators alike. While some features like Wi-Fi 6 are missing, the overall build quality and performance make it worth every penny.

This motherboard caters to a wide audience—from gamers looking for performance to DIY enthusiasts creating aesthetically pleasing builds. It strikes a balance between functionality and flair, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a solid foundation for their PC.

Additional information