ASRock Z790M-ITX WiFi Motherboard Review Unveils Performance and Features

Description

ASRock Z790M-ITX WiFi Motherboard: A Comprehensive Review

Testing the ASRock Z790M-ITX WiFi Motherboard has been quite the experience. As someone who frequently builds PCs and tests various components, I was excited to see how this motherboard would hold up against my expectations. This model supports both the 13th and 12th Gen Intel® Core™ Processors, which is a significant plus. With features that cater to both performance enthusiasts and casual users, it’s time to dive into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Z790M-ITX is compact, measuring just 6.69 x 0.67 x 1.18 inches, making it ideal for mini-ITX builds. The 7+1+1 Phase Power Design ensures stable performance, even when pushing the CPU to its limits. During my installation, I appreciated the clean layout, which made it easy to connect various components without feeling cramped. The overall build quality feels solid, and the heatsinks used for the VRMs are well-engineered, allowing for efficient heat dissipation.

Performance Overview

In terms of performance, this motherboard truly shines. I was particularly impressed by the Dr.MOS technology that optimizes power delivery to the CPU. Testing it with a high-end Intel processor revealed excellent stability during demanding tasks. The ability to support 2 x DDR5 DIMMs, with speeds up to 6800+(OC), provides ample room for memory upgrades. Whether I was gaming or running intensive software, the motherboard handled everything smoothly without any hiccups.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity options are abundant with this motherboard. It features a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, which is a game-changer for future-proofing your build. The array of ports includes 1 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort, and eDP, which cater to various display needs. Additionally, the inclusion of multiple USB ports—four USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, two USB 2.0, and two USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C ports—is impressive. There’s also built-in Intel® 2.5G LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity.

Audio Quality

Audio quality is often overlooked in motherboards, but the Z790M-ITX does not disappoint. Featuring 7.1 CH HD Audio with a Realtek ALC897 Audio Codec, sound quality during gaming and media playback was crisp and clear. I noticed the audio clarity was enhanced with the Nahimic Audio software, providing an immersive experience when playing games with rich soundscapes.

User Experience and Practicality

Using the ASRock Z790M-ITX for various tasks was a pleasant experience. The BIOS interface is user-friendly, allowing me to tweak settings easily without getting lost in complicated menus. Whether I was overclocking memory or adjusting fan speeds, the options were straightforward and effective. My family members were equally impressed when they used the system; everything from streaming to casual gaming felt responsive.

Key Benefits

• Supports 13th Gen & 12th Gen Intel Core Processors.
• Dr.MOS technology for enhanced power delivery.
• Compact mini-ITX design for space-saving builds.
• Multiple high-speed USB ports and Wi-Fi 6E for seamless connectivity.
• High-quality 7.1 CH HD Audio for an immersive experience.

Drawbacks to Consider

Despite its strengths, the ASRock Z790M-ITX has areas that could use improvement. Some users might find the price point a bit high for a mini-ITX motherboard. Additionally, while it supports overclocking, the power phase design may not be sufficient for extreme overclockers looking to push their hardware to the max. There have also been reports of limited expansion options, which could be a concern for those looking to add numerous peripherals.

• Higher price point compared to similar products.
• Limited expansion options for future upgrades.
• Cooling solutions may not be enough for extreme overclocking.
• Some features may be underutilized for casual users.

Competitive Options

In the realm of mini-ITX motherboards, several competitors vie for attention. Gigabyte and MSI both offer solid alternatives, but the ASRock Z790M-ITX holds its ground well. Compared to the Gigabyte Z690I AORUS Ultra, the ASRock model offers slightly better audio quality and more USB ports, but the Gigabyte variant may have better support for extreme overclocking due to its robust power delivery system. On the other hand, MSI’s MAG B560I GAMING EDGE WIFI is more budget-friendly but lacks some of the advanced features found in the ASRock.

Value Assessment

The price of the ASRock Z790M-ITX reflects its premium features and performance. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option on the market, the investment pays off with its range of capabilities. For anyone who values performance and future-proofing, the features justify the cost. The solid construction and comprehensive connectivity options make it a worthy contender in the mini-ITX space.

In summary, the ASRock Z790M-ITX WiFi Motherboard has a lot to offer. With its compact design, robust performance, and extensive connectivity, it caters to a wide range of users, from gamers to casual PC builders. While there are some drawbacks to keep in mind, the overall experience has been positive, making it a notable choice for anyone looking to build a powerful yet compact computer setup.

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