What To Know
- Both the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero and the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi are based on Intel’s Z790 chipset, which supports the latest 13th and 12th generation Intel Core processors.
- The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi, on the other hand, has an 18+1 power stage design, which is still capable of handling overclocking but may not be as extreme as the Maximus Z790 Hero.
- The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a large VRM heatsink with multiple heat pipes, while the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a smaller heatsink with a single heat pipe.
When it comes to building a high-performance gaming PC, the motherboard plays a crucial role. It serves as the foundation for connecting all your essential components, including the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. In the realm of gaming motherboards, two standout options from ASUS are the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero and the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi. Both boards offer an impressive array of features, but which one is the better choice for your gaming needs? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two ROG motherboards, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Features Overview: Comparing the Essentials
Chipset and CPU Compatibility
Both the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero and the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi are based on Intel’s Z790 chipset, which supports the latest 13th and 12th generation Intel Core processors. This compatibility ensures that you can use the latest and greatest CPUs for optimal gaming performance.
Memory Support
In terms of memory support, both motherboards offer four DDR5 memory slots, allowing you to install up to 128GB of RAM. However, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a slight edge with its support for speeds up to DDR5-7600, while the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi supports speeds up to DDR5-6800.
Storage Options
For storage, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features six SATA III ports and four M.2 slots, including three PCIe 5.0 x4 slots and one PCIe 4.0 x4 slot. The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi also offers six SATA III ports but has only three M.2 slots, including two PCIe 5.0 x4 slots and one PCIe 4.0 x4 slot.
Expansion Slots
For expansion cards, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero provides four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a similar configuration, but it has two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots instead of one.
Connectivity Options
Both motherboards offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, Ethernet ports, and Wi-Fi 6E. However, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a slight advantage with its 10GbE Ethernet port and Thunderbolt 4 header.
Performance and Overclocking: Pushing the Limits
Power Delivery
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features a robust 20+1 power stage design, providing ample power for overclocking even the most demanding CPUs. The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi, on the other hand, has an 18+1 power stage design, which is still capable of handling overclocking but may not be as extreme as the Maximus Z790 Hero.
Cooling
Both motherboards are equipped with comprehensive cooling solutions to ensure stable performance under heavy loads. The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a large VRM heatsink with multiple heat pipes, while the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a smaller heatsink with a single heat pipe.
Overclocking Potential
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is renowned for its exceptional overclocking capabilities, thanks to its high-quality components and robust power delivery system. The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi also offers good overclocking potential, but it may not be able to reach the same extreme levels as the Maximus Z790 Hero.
Aesthetics and Customization: Personalizing Your Rig
Design and Aesthetics
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero sports a sleek and aggressive design with a black and silver color scheme. It features RGB lighting zones that can be customized using the Aura Sync software. The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a more understated design with a black and gray color scheme. It also has RGB lighting zones, but they are not as extensive as on the Maximus Z790 Hero.
Customization Options
Both motherboards offer a wide range of customization options to match your personal style. They both support Aura Sync RGB lighting, allowing you to synchronize the lighting effects with other compatible components. Additionally, they both have headers for connecting additional RGB strips or devices.
Other Features: Enhancing the Gaming Experience
Audio Enhancements
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features the SupremeFX audio codec, which provides high-quality audio output. It also has a dedicated headphone amplifier for improved audio fidelity. The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a similar audio solution, but it does not have a dedicated headphone amplifier.
Networking Features
Both motherboards support Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connectivity. However, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has a 10GbE Ethernet port, while the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a 2.5GbE Ethernet port.
BIOS and Software
Both motherboards come with the ASUS UEFI BIOS, which provides a user-friendly interface for configuring your system settings. They also come with a suite of software utilities, such as AI Suite 3 and Armoury Crate, for monitoring and controlling your system.
Final Note: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero and the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for an extreme overclocking motherboard with the best possible performance, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is the clear choice. However, if you want a high-quality motherboard with excellent gaming features at a more affordable price, the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi is a solid option.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which motherboard has better overclocking potential?
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has better overclocking potential due to its more robust power delivery system and higher-quality components.
2. Which motherboard has more storage options?
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has more storage options with four M.2 slots compared to three on the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi.
3. Which motherboard has more connectivity options?
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has more connectivity options with a 10GbE Ethernet port and a Thunderbolt 4 header, which are not available on the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi.
4. Which motherboard has better audio quality?
The ROG Maximus Z790 Hero has better audio quality with a dedicated headphone amplifier, which is not available on the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi.
5. Which motherboard is more affordable?
The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi is more affordable than the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, making it a better choice for budget-conscious gamers.
