Description

Exploring the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 Motherboard

Diving into the world of PC building can be both exciting and daunting. I recently decided to upgrade my setup with the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4, and I must say, this motherboard has some impressive features alongside a few quirks that every potential buyer should consider. After putting it through its paces, I found both its strengths and weaknesses worth discussing.

Design and Build Quality

The overall aesthetic of this motherboard is sleek, with a black and silver design that fits well in any gaming rig. The ATX form factor provides ample room for installation, and the 13 x 10 x 2 inches dimensions allow it to fit snugly in most mid-tower cases. Upon unboxing, I noticed the build quality felt solid, with a robust PCB that inspires confidence. Notably, the Quad CrossFireX support offers flexibility for future graphics upgrades, which is appealing to gamers and content creators alike.

Performance and Features

Equipped with an Intel Z390 chipset, this motherboard supports 9th and 8th generation Intel Core processors, offering a great range for performance enthusiasts. I paired it with a Core i5 processor, and the results were impressive. The 64 GB DDR4 RAM capacity, along with 2400 MHz memory speed, facilitates smooth multitasking and gaming experiences. The four DIMM slots allow for dual-channel memory, enhancing performance even further.

Connectivity Options

The connectivity offered by the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 is commendable. With 2 USB 2.0 ports and multiple SATA3 and USB3.1 ports, I had no trouble connecting all my peripherals. Additionally, the onboard 802.11ac wireless capability meant I could easily connect to Wi-Fi without hassle. The dual PCIe slots (2 x PCI-Express 3.0 x16) are a plus for those looking to utilize multiple graphics cards for added power.

User Experience and Compatibility

Setting up the motherboard was a breeze. The BIOS interface was user-friendly, allowing for easy adjustments and tuning. I appreciated the detailed manual that came included, which guided me through various settings. My experience with the motherboard has been mostly positive, but some users reported compatibility issues with certain RAM brands. I found it best to stick with well-known brands to avoid any inconvenience.

Software and User Interface

ASRock provides a robust software suite that complements the motherboard’s performance. The Polychrome SYNC feature allows for RGB lighting customization, which adds a fun element to my setup. Additionally, the App Shop offers various utilities that can enhance performance and increase system stability. Though some users mentioned a learning curve with the software, I found it quite intuitive.

Pros

Supports the latest Intel processors for excellent performance
Ample connectivity options for modern peripherals
Good build quality with a sleek design
User-friendly BIOS for easy adjustments

Key Benefits

Quad CrossFireX support for multi-graphics setups
Dual-channel DDR4 memory support for improved performance
802.11ac wireless capability for seamless internet connectivity

Weaknesses

Despite its advantages, there are some drawbacks worth mentioning. The ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 has received mixed reviews, particularly regarding its customer support and occasional BIOS updates. Some users reported issues with stability, especially when pushing the hardware to its limits. Additionally, the 3.2-star rating on various platforms reflects that not everyone has had a trouble-free experience.

Limitations

Occasional stability issues under heavy load
Mixed reviews on customer support responsiveness
Some users experienced compatibility problems with RAM

Competitors in the Market

Comparing the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 to its competitors, it stands out in several areas, particularly in price-to-quality ratio. While brands like ASUS and MSI offer similar motherboards with extensive features, they often come with a higher price tag. The ASRock option provides solid performance without breaking the bank, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious gamers.

Value for Money

In the realm of PC components, the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 represents a solid investment. With its extensive features, robust performance, and reasonable price point, it offers great value for money. For anyone looking to build or upgrade their gaming rig, this motherboard promises a reliable experience without overspending.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 motherboard delivers a compelling mix of performance, aesthetics, and features. While it has its share of weaknesses, the strengths make it a worthy contender in the market. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, this motherboard is certainly worth considering for your next build.

Additional information

Processor	core_i5
RAM	64 GB DDR4
Memory Speed	2400 MHz
Wireless Type	801.11ac
Number of USB 20 Ports	2
Brand	ASRock
Series	PHANTOM GAMING 4
Item model number	Z390 PHANTOM GAMING 4
Operating System	– Microsoft
Item Weight	2.2 pounds
Product Dimensions	13 x 10 x 2 inches
Item Dimensions LxWxH	13 x 10 x 2 inches
Computer Memory Type	DDR4 SDRAM
Batteries	1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
Manufacturer	ASRock Rack
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No