What To Know
- This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A and Z790-E, empowering you to make an informed decision when choosing the ultimate motherboard for your gaming or content creation setup.
- The Z790-E, on the other hand, features a bolder design with a black and silver color combination, vibrant RGB lighting, and an integrated I/O shield.
- However, if you value a more affordable option with solid performance and a stealthy aesthetic, the Z790-A is a compelling choice.
In the realm of high-end motherboards, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A and Z790-E stand out as formidable contenders. Both designed for 13th Gen Intel processors, these motherboards boast exceptional features and capabilities. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A and Z790-E, empowering you to make an informed decision when choosing the ultimate motherboard for your gaming or content creation setup.
Features and Specifications:
Chipset and Socket:
Both the ROG Strix Z790-A and Z790-E utilize the Intel Z790 chipset and support all 13th Gen Intel Core processors, including the latest Raptor Lake models.
Memory:
The Z790-A features four DDR5 memory slots, supporting up to 128GB of RAM with speeds up to 6400MHz (OC). The Z790-E offers a more robust memory setup with four DDR5 slots, accommodating up to 128GB of RAM with support for speeds up to 7200MHz (OC).
Storage:
The Z790-A provides four M.2 slots, three of which support PCIe 4.0 x4 and one supports PCIe 3.0 x4. In contrast, the Z790-E boasts five M.2 slots, with four supporting PCIe 4.0 x4 and one supporting PCIe 3.0 x4.
Expansion Slots:
Both motherboards offer two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for graphics cards, providing ample bandwidth for high-performance gaming and rendering. Additionally, the Z790-A includes a PCIe 4.0 x1 slot and a PCIe 3.0 x1 slot, while the Z790-E features a PCIe 4.0 x4 slot and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots.
Connectivity:
The Z790-A and Z790-E both include an Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet controller, ensuring fast and reliable wired network connectivity. For wireless connectivity, the Z790-A supports Wi-Fi 6E, while the Z790-E offers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
Audio:
Both motherboards feature the Realtek ALC4080 audio codec, providing high-quality audio performance. However, the Z790-E boasts a dedicated ESS ES9218 DAC chip for even more exceptional audio clarity.
Design and Aesthetics:
Form Factor:
The Z790-A and Z790-E share the ATX form factor, making them suitable for full-tower and mid-tower cases.
Aesthetics:
The Z790-A showcases a stealthy black and gray color scheme with angular accents and a brushed metal finish. The Z790-E, on the other hand, features a bolder design with a black and silver color combination, vibrant RGB lighting, and an integrated I/O shield.
Overclocking Capabilities:
Power Delivery:
The Z790-A features a 16+1 power stage design, while the Z790-E boasts an upgraded 18+1 power stage design. Both motherboards provide ample power for overclocking and demanding workloads.
Cooling:
The Z790-A includes a large VRM heatsink with a heat pipe, ensuring efficient cooling during overclocking. The Z790-E takes cooling to the next level with a massive VRM heatsink and a dedicated chipset fan, providing exceptional thermal management.
BIOS and Software:
BIOS:
Both motherboards feature the UEFI BIOS, offering comprehensive overclocking options and system settings. The Z790-E, however, provides a more user-friendly BIOS interface and additional overclocking presets.
Software:
ASUS offers a suite of software utilities with both motherboards, including AI Suite III for system monitoring and overclocking, Armoury Crate for RGB lighting control, and Fan Xpert 4 for fan control.
Performance and Benchmarks:
In terms of performance, both the Z790-A and Z790-E deliver exceptional results. Benchmarks show that the Z790-E offers a slight edge in gaming performance due to its higher memory speeds and improved cooling capabilities.
Pricing and Availability:
The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A is available at a starting price of around $350, while the Z790-E is priced slightly higher at around $400. Both motherboards are readily available from major online retailers and authorized ASUS partners.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The choice between the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A and Z790-E ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize overclocking potential and exceptional memory performance, the Z790-E is the superior choice. However, if you value a more affordable option with solid performance and a stealthy aesthetic, the Z790-A is a compelling choice.
The Ultimate Verdict:
Both the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A and Z790-E are exceptional motherboards that cater to the demands of high-end gaming and content creation enthusiasts. The Z790-E emerges as the winner for its superior overclocking capabilities, enhanced audio, and user-friendly BIOS interface. However, the Z790-A remains a formidable option for those seeking a high-performance motherboard at a more budget-friendly price.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the difference between the Z790-A and Z790-E?
A: The key differences lie in the Z790-E’s upgraded power delivery, improved cooling, higher memory speeds, dedicated ESS DAC chip, and more user-friendly BIOS interface.
Q: Which motherboard offers better overclocking performance?
A: The Z790-E boasts a stronger power stage design and more robust cooling, providing superior overclocking potential.
Q: Is the Z790-A compatible with 13th Gen Intel processors?
A: Yes, both the Z790-A and Z790-E support all 13th Gen Intel Core processors, including Raptor Lake models.
