What To Know
- The Z790-H features a sleek black and silver design with RGB lighting, while the Z790-F sports a more aggressive black and red aesthetic with customizable Aura Sync lighting.
- Considering the additional PCIe slot and PCH heatsink on the Z790-F, it provides a slightly better value proposition for users who prioritize expansion flexibility and cooling performance.
- If you’re looking for a feature-rich motherboard at a competitive price, the Z790-H is a solid choice.
In the realm of high-performance gaming, the choice of motherboard can make all the difference. Two contenders that have captured the attention of enthusiasts are the ROG Strix Z790-H and Z790-F. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two motherboards, exploring their features, performance, and value proposition.
Feature Comparison
Connectivity
- Z790-H: 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Z790-F: 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
Both motherboards offer excellent connectivity options with high-speed Ethernet and the latest wireless standards.
Expansion Slots
- Z790-H: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 2x PCIe 4.0 x1
- Z790-F: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x1
The Z790-H provides an additional PCIe 4.0 x1 slot for more expansion flexibility.
Storage
- Z790-H: 6x SATA III, 4x M.2 NVMe slots
- Z790-F: 6x SATA III, 4x M.2 NVMe slots
Both motherboards offer ample storage options with multiple SATA and NVMe slots.
Performance
CPU Support
Both motherboards support Intel‘s 13th and 12th generation processors, providing the latest performance advancements.
Power Delivery
- Z790-H: 16+1 DrMOS power stages
- Z790-F: 18+1 DrMOS power stages
The Z790-F boasts a slightly more robust power delivery system, ensuring stable performance even with power-hungry processors.
Cooling
- Z790-H: VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink
- Z790-F: VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink, PCH heatsink
The Z790-F comes with an additional PCH heatsink for enhanced cooling capabilities.
Aesthetics and Design
Aesthetics
The Z790-H features a sleek black and silver design with RGB lighting, while the Z790-F sports a more aggressive black and red aesthetic with customizable Aura Sync lighting.
Form Factor
- Z790-H: ATX
- Z790-F: ATX
Both motherboards utilize the ATX form factor, providing ample space for component installation.
Value Proposition
Pricing
- Z790-H: $250-$300
- Z790-F: $300-$350
The Z790-H offers a slightly lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Features vs. Price
Considering the additional PCIe slot and PCH heatsink on the Z790-F, it provides a slightly better value proposition for users who prioritize expansion flexibility and cooling performance.
Takeaways: Choosing the Right Motherboard
The choice between the ROG Strix Z790-H and Z790-F ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a feature-rich motherboard at a competitive price, the Z790-H is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize expansion flexibility, enhanced cooling, and a customizable aesthetic, the Z790-F is the superior option.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: The Z790-F’s robust power delivery system and additional cooling features provide a slight edge in overclocking potential.
Q: Can these motherboards support DDR5 memory?
A: Yes, both motherboards support DDR5 memory.
Q: Do these motherboards come with built-in Wi-Fi?
A: Yes, both motherboards feature built-in Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
