Highlights
Gigabyte unveils the AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboards, officially confirming that Intel's highly-anticipated 14th Gen processors will continue to utilize the LGA 1700 socket, marking the third consecutive generation to do so.
The AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboards are equipped with the newest technology, providing support for overclocking RAM, Wi-Fi 7, and other advanced features. The lineup includes seven models, with the flagship being the XTREME X and the ELITE X catering specifically to DIY beginners.
The Gigabyte website suggests that Intel will be sticking with the LGA 1700 socket for their 14th Generation processors. This marks a notable departure from their usual practice of changing sockets with each new generation. Details regarding pricing and availability have not yet been disclosed.
Gigabyte has unveiled the AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboards, which are compatible with Intel's upcoming 14th Gen processors. The lineup includes seven motherboards that offer advanced features like XMP 8200 MT/s or higher RAM overclocking, Wi-Fi 7 support, and more. The motherboard branding strongly suggests that Intel's next generation CPUs will continue to use the LGA 1700 socket, making it the third generation in a row to do so.
Intel is currently developing its 14th Gen Raptor Lake Refresh processors and is expected to provide more details during the Intel Innovation 2023 event on September 19th. Speculation surrounding the next-gen processors indicates that they will also utilize the LGA 1700 socket, and this speculation has been partially confirmed by Gigabyte. If true, this would mark the third consecutive generation of processors to be compatible with the LGA 1700 socket, with indications suggesting that it will be the last time this socket is used.
Gigabyte introduced its new AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboard lineup, designed for the next generation. The lineup consists of seven models, including the flagship model Z790 AORUS XTREME X, as well as MASTER X, ELITE X, PRO X, and others. These motherboards offer high-speed RAM overclocking of up to XMP 8266 MT/s, Wi-Fi 7 support, up to five M.2 slots, the new PCIe UD Slot X, and more. The XTREME X is described as the top-tier option, while the ELITE X caters to DIY beginners. Currently, the Z790 motherboards are available.
The MSI PRO Z790-A Wi-Fi Gaming Motherboard is a top-notch choice for gamers. With ample connectivity options and support for Intel's latest processors, it delivers outstanding performance. Additionally, its 16+1+1 phase power delivery mechanism ensures reliable power supply. Priced competitively, it rivals even Intel's budget B760 motherboards. Save $90 and get this fantastic motherboard for just $190!
$190 at Amazon $238 at Best Buy
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi
The Asus ROG Strix Z790-E is the ultimate motherboard choice for both gamers and content creators who want to stand out. It offers support for 12th and 13th-generation Intel CPUs and maximizes processor performance with its 18+1 power solution. In addition, it leads the competition by providing a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, ensuring lightning-fast storage capabilities.
Get it for $490 on Amazon, $500 at Best Buy, or $490 at Walmart.
The EVGA Z790 DARK K|NGP|N motherboard is specifically designed to unlock the full potential of Intel's 12th and 13th-generation CPUs. With its advanced 21-phase VRM, this motherboard ensures a consistent and reliable power supply to these high-performance processors. Additionally, the 14-layer low-loss PCB guarantees optimal signal integrity, facilitating efficient overclocking of memory modules. Pushing the boundaries of motherboard technology, the Z790 DARK K|NGP|N also offers support for cutting-edge PCIe Gen 5 components. This motherboard is a dream come true for overclockers, as it includes dedicated sensors that continuously monitor voltage levels and temperatures, allowing for precise control and optimization.
$800 at Newegg $800 at EVGA
ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 Gaming Motherboard
Save $85 on the ASRock Z790 PG-ITX/TB4 Gaming Motherboard, which offers a range of new features such as USB4, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. Despite its compact size, this mITX motherboard packs a powerful punch and is available at a significantly lower price compared to other Z790-based options. Purchase it for $335 on Amazon, Newegg, or Walmart.
Introducing the GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC Gaming Motherboard for only $195, a great deal compared to its original price of $231, saving you $36. This entry-level Z790 Motherboard not only supports DDR5 memory but also comes with Wi-Fi AC and 3 M2 slots. With a price range similar to most B760 motherboards, it provides exceptional value in terms of price-to-performance ratio.
$195 at Amazon, $195 at Walmart, and $195 at Newegg.
Additionally, AORUS has collaborated with HWiNFO, a renowned software for hardware analysis, monitoring, and reporting, to integrate a memory timing readout application. This allows overclockers to customize performance as needed. The M.2 slots are equipped with the EZ-Latch design, making storage installation and removal faster and easier. Furthermore, the BIOS has undergone a redesign to provide users with a more intuitive experience, thanks to the Quick Access function.
The AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboards, available on the Gigabyte website, claim compatibility with upcoming Intel Core processors. Although Intel is expected to release its 14th Gen processors soon, it remains uncertain if they will continue using the LGA 1700 socket. Intel initially introduced this socket for its 12th-gen CPUs last year and continued with the 13th-gen processors as well.
The Gigabyte website implies that Intel may once again utilize the LGA 1700 socket. Although not explicitly mentioning the 14th-gen processors, the website states that the AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboards are compatible with "Intel Core 13th and next-gen processors." This marks a rare occurrence of Intel using the same socket for three consecutive generations.
The company has not shared details on pricing and availability for the new AORUS Z790 X Gen motherboards, but the same can be expected in the coming weeks as Intel’s Innovation event approaches.