ROG Showdown: ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F vs. ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E – Which Motherboard Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- The F model boasts a predominantly black PCB with silver accents, while the E model features a striking white PCB with gold highlights.
- The Z790-F utilizes a large VRM heatsink with a dedicated fan, while the Z790-E employs a more elaborate heatsink design with integrated heatpipes.
- The Z790-E, however, boasts a slightly superior audio solution with a dedicated audio chip and ESS DAC, providing a more refined and immersive soundscape.
The realm of PC hardware is constantly evolving, with new motherboards emerging as the backbone of high-performance systems. Two contenders that have captured the attention of enthusiasts and overclockers alike are the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these motherboards to determine which one emerges victorious.
Design and Aesthetics:
Both the ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E exude a sleek and futuristic aesthetic. The F model boasts a predominantly black PCB with silver accents, while the E model features a striking white PCB with gold highlights. Both motherboards feature integrated RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the ambiance of your build.
Connectivity and Expansion:
The ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E offer a comprehensive array of connectivity options. Both feature multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, as well as Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for high-speed data transfer. The Z790-E, however, boasts an additional USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port and a dedicated USB-C port for front-panel connectivity.
In terms of expansion, both motherboards support multiple PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 slots, ensuring compatibility with the latest graphics cards and other high-performance devices. The Z790-E, however, features an additional PCIe 3.0 slot, providing more flexibility for legacy devices.
Power Delivery and Cooling:
A robust power delivery system is crucial for stable and efficient performance. The ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E both employ a 16+1 power stage design, capable of handling even the most demanding CPUs. The Z790-E, however, features a slightly more robust design with 80A power stages, providing it with an edge in overclocking and stability.
Both motherboards feature comprehensive cooling solutions. The Z790-F utilizes a large VRM heatsink with a dedicated fan, while the Z790-E employs a more elaborate heatsink design with integrated heatpipes. This ensures that both motherboards can effectively dissipate heat, even under heavy loads.
Audio and Networking:
Immersive audio is essential for gaming and multimedia experiences. The ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E both feature high-quality audio codecs, delivering crystal-clear sound. The Z790-E, however, boasts a slightly superior audio solution with a dedicated audio chip and ESS DAC, providing a more refined and immersive soundscape.
Both motherboards offer excellent networking capabilities. The Z790-F features a 2.5Gb Ethernet port, while the Z790-E includes a more advanced 10Gb Ethernet port, enabling lightning-fast internet connectivity.
BIOS and Overclocking:
The BIOS plays a crucial role in system configuration and overclocking. The ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E both feature user-friendly BIOS interfaces with intuitive navigation and extensive overclocking options. The Z790-E, however, boasts a slightly more advanced BIOS with a dedicated overclocking panel, providing even more granular control for enthusiasts.
Features and Extras:
Both the ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E offer a range of additional features and extras. The Z790-F includes a dedicated AI Overclocking chip, which can automatically optimize system settings for improved performance. The Z790-E, on the other hand, features a dedicated BIOS Flashback button, allowing for easy BIOS updates even without a CPU or memory installed.
Verdict:
The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E are both exceptional motherboards that offer a compelling combination of features, performance, and aesthetics. The Z790-F is an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking a high-quality motherboard at a more affordable price point. The Z790-E, on the other hand, is the ultimate choice for those demanding the best possible performance, with its superior audio solution, advanced BIOS, and robust power delivery system.
Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize value and a solid foundation for your system, the ROG Strix Z790-F is an excellent option. However, if you seek the absolute best in performance and features, the ROG Strix Z790-E is the undisputed champion.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Which motherboard has better audio quality?
- The ROG Strix Z790-E offers a superior audio solution with a dedicated audio chip and ESS DAC.
2. Which motherboard has more PCIe slots?
- The ROG Strix Z790-F and Z790-E both offer multiple PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 slots, but the Z790-E includes an additional PCIe 3.0 slot.
3. Which motherboard has a better BIOS for overclocking?
- The ROG Strix Z790-E features a slightly more advanced BIOS with a dedicated overclocking panel, providing more granular control for enthusiasts.
4. Which motherboard has more USB ports?
- The ROG Strix Z790-E offers one additional USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port and a dedicated USB-C port for front-panel connectivity.
5. Which motherboard has better cooling?
- Both motherboards feature comprehensive cooling solutions, but the ROG Strix Z790-E employs a more elaborate heatsink design with integrated heatpipes.
