ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II Motherboard review with features and performance insights

Description

A Powerhouse of Performance and Features

I recently got my hands on the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II, and wow, this motherboard is a beast. Built for Intel’s 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen processors, it’s clear that ASUS designed this product with gamers and PC enthusiasts in mind. From its futuristic aesthetics to its cutting-edge technology, it feels like a premium piece of hardware the moment you unbox it.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this motherboard is nothing short of stunning. The monochrome finish, paired with the iridescent ROG logo and Aura lighting, gives it an ultra-modern vibe that can complement any gaming setup. The large heatsinks aren’t just for show—they’re essential for keeping the system cool, especially with the 16+1+2 power stages that deliver up to 90A per stage. Even the small details, like the ProCool II connectors and high-quality alloy chokes, scream durability and sophistication.

What I particularly liked was how well-thought-out the layout is. The 5 M.2 slots are easy to access and accommodate PCIe 4.0 drives, while the PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlot ensures your high-end GPUs are securely in place. The integrated I/O cover adds a sleek touch and eliminates the hassle of installing a separate shield.

Key Benefits

• Supports Intel’s latest processors with the LGA 1700 socket, making it future-proof.
• DDR5 memory support ensures blazing-fast performance for multitasking and gaming.
• WiFi 7 provides an ultra-reliable wireless connection, perfect for competitive gaming.
• Front-panel USB PD 3.0 support delivers up to 30W charging, a rare feature in motherboards.

Performance and Features

Performance-wise, this motherboard is an absolute monster. I tested it with an Intel Core i7 processor and DDR5 RAM, and the speeds were insane. Boot times were almost instantaneous, heavy applications ran smoothly, and gaming was flawless. The optimized VRM thermals play a huge role here. Thanks to the high-conductivity thermal pads and L-shaped heatpipe, the board stays cool even under heavy loads.

The USB connectivity options on this thing are incredible. You get multiple USB 20Gbps, 10Gbps, and 5Gbps ports, plus an HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 for versatile display setups. I also appreciated the 2.5Gb LAN port, which ensures a stable wired connection for low-latency gaming.

What really stood out to me was the abundant M.2 support. With five M.2 slots, including one with a heatsink and backplate, you can expand your storage without worrying about throttling. It’s ideal for gamers or content creators who need fast and reliable storage solutions.

Drawbacks

• The price point might be a bit steep for casual users, but it’s justified by the features.
• WiFi 7 is great, but not everyone has access to routers that support it yet.
• Lacks built-in RGB customization software, which might disappoint hardcore RGB enthusiasts.

Good Aspects

This motherboard excels where it counts. The powerful performance, robust cooling, and excellent connectivity make it one of the best options for high-end builds.

• 5 M.2 slots provide unmatched storage expansion.
• PCIe 5.0 support ensures compatibility with the latest GPUs.
• Aura lighting adds a customizable touch to your rig.

Negative Attributes

While it’s a top-tier motherboard, there are areas where it could improve:

• Limited USB-C ports might be a drawback for those with multiple modern peripherals.
• The BIOS interface, although feature-rich, can feel overwhelming for beginners.
• Heatsinks are effective but add bulk to the design, which could be an issue in compact cases.

Competitive Options

When compared to similar products like the MSI MEG Z790 ACE or Gigabyte AORUS Master, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II holds its ground firmly. The MSI MEG Z790 ACE offers dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, which is a nice touch for professionals, but it lacks the WiFi 7 capability that ASUS provides. The Gigabyte AORUS Master, on the other hand, boasts better power delivery for extreme overclocking but doesn’t have the same level of USB connectivity.

What sets this motherboard apart is its balance of features and aesthetics. While competitors may excel in specific areas, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F offers a well-rounded package that caters to both gamers and creators.

Bang for the Buck

For those who want premium features without compromise, this motherboard is worth every penny. Yes, it’s a significant investment, but the performance and future-proofing make it a smart choice. The inclusion of WiFi 7, PCIe 5.0, and DDR5 support ensures that your system will stay relevant for years.

If you’re building a high-performance PC, this is one of the best options available. It’s not just a motherboard; it’s the foundation for a next-level gaming or productivity setup. Whether you’re an avid gamer, a content creator, or someone who just wants the best, this product won’t disappoint.

Additional information