ASUS Unveils ROG and TUF Gaming Z790 Motherboards During Gamescom 2023

ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero, ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II, and TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi deliver brilliant performance, connectivity, and aesthetics

• All three motherboards support 12th, 13th and next generation Intel® Core™ processors for the LGA 1700 socket
• Ultra-bandwidth: WiFi 7 with ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna, PCIe® 5.0, Thunderbolt™ 4 (USB4® compatible), 20Gbps USB front header with fast charging
• ASUS exclusives: AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, AEMP II and ASUS Q-Design including Q-Antenna, M.2 Q-Latch, PCIe Slot Q-Release and Q-LED
• ASUS 700 and 600 series motherboards are ready for the next generation of Intel Core processors with a BIOS update

ASUS announced three new Intel® Z790 motherboards at Gamescom 2023: the ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero, ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II, and TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi, all of which support 12th generation Intel Core™ processors. 13th and next generation. Each motherboard includes PCIe® 5.0, DDR5 memory support, enhanced connectivity, performance tuning features, efficient cooling solutions, DIY-friendly features, and a host of other features.

Intel LGA 1700 CPU socket returns to the fray

Intel's 12th and 13th generation Core processors fit into the LGA 1700 socket, so users have been able to build their own Z690 or Z790 motherboards and choose from a wide selection of CPUs. But the time of LGA 1700 is not over. This socket will also be compatible with Intel Next-Gen CPUs.

This means that users will have many options when planning a new build or upgrade. They can upgrade their motherboard to take advantage of high-performance networking, abundant connectivity, and optimized power solutions from latest ASUS Z790 motherboards. Or they can keep their motherboard Z690 o Z790 time-tested while upgrading to an Intel Next-Gen CPU. They just have to make sure update the BIOS of your older motherboard to make it fully compatible with upcoming Intel CPUs.

Bandwidth next level with WiFi 7

In early 2023, we announced our first WiFi 7 routers. Blazing-fast WiFi 7 (802.11be) breaks all limits to give users exceptional network speeds for gaming, entertainment, and more. Users were asking for more speed, and WiFi 7 delivers. While WiFi 6 focused on anti-congestion technology designed for crowded networks, WiFi 7 kicks in with new features that deliver faster wireless speeds than ever before, all while retaining or enhancing the benefits of WiFi 6 and WiFi 6E. 

WiFi 7 uses many technologies to achieve these higher speeds. It starts with ultra-wide 320 MHz channels that enable WiFi 7 routers to deliver higher performance and higher capacity. 4.096 Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) allows larger amounts of data to be packed more densely into each signal. In addition, multi-link operation (MLO) allows devices to simultaneously transmit and/or receive across different bands and channels, with separation of data and control planes. Parallel links enable faster speeds by adding bandwidth, with more reliable WiFi connections on multiple bands used simultaneously. 

WiFi 7 also makes more efficient use of the available spectrum. With Multi-RU and Puncturing, WiFi 7 devices will be able to take full advantage of the remaining part of the channels that are not being used or interrupted. In this way, WiFi bandwidth can be used efficiently for faster and more reliable data transmission. 

To take full advantage of the latest wireless standard, users will need both a WiFi 7 router and a WiFi 7 device. The latest ROG Maximus and ROG Strix Z790 motherboards will be among the first WiFi 7-equipped ASUS products. The ROG Maximus Z790 motherboard Dark Hero offers the best wireless network experience. Offering link speeds of up to 5,8 Gbps, this motherboard is perfect for users with a multi-gigabit Internet connection or those who want a high-speed wireless connection to a Network Attached Storage (NAS) drive.
 
To help users get the most out of their WiFi 7 connection, ASUS introduces the WiFi Q-Antenna. It features a completely new design that includes both circuit optimizations on the PCB and improved internal pin headers, greatly improving signal performance for both the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands. Its simple one-step design means that the Users don't have to do anything more than plug it in to enjoy a great experience. As this is a directional antenna, in the Armory Crate app we provide users with convenient tools to improve the signal quality and range by adjusting its position. Direction Finder detects signal strength and identifies the ideal positioning for this antenna in just a few steps, while Fast Check gives users a quick way to check signal strength and ensure they're getting the best connection..

More fast storage available to the user

In the months following the release of the first ASUS Z790 motherboards, the first PCIe 5.0 M.2 SSDs hit the market. Offering unprecedented transfer speeds, these drives are perfect for enthusiasts who need fast access to large files and data sets, not to mention anyone who craves the fastest boot up and application load times. . 

To make it even easier for users to take advantage of these cutting-edge drives, ASUS offers PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots on more Z790 boards than ever before. The ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero awaits users who need one of these high-performance M.2 slots.  
For users building a PC in 2023, the number of M.2 slots available is often as important as the available bandwidth of each slot. They may need many M.2 slots to comfortably create a large storage library, or perhaps they have a collection of M.2 drives from older builds that they would rather get more out of. In any case, ASUS is reinforcing its Z790 range with more options, such as the ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II, which includes five M.2 slots with high-quality heatsinks and a matching aesthetic..

Convenient front panel device charging

Most people need as many charging points as they can get. With all the devices in today's connected homes, users almost certainly have a smartphone, tablet, or portable device that could use a recharge every time they sit down at their computer. The latest Z790 motherboards make it easy by including a connector that allows users to configure a fully loaded front panel USB Type-C® port on a compatible case. With USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 speeds, you'll transfer data at up to 20Gbps. With Quick Charge 4+ or USB Power Delivery 3.0 technology, depending on the motherboard the user chooses, they will be able to quickly recharge their connected device.  

But that is not all. We also offer a built-in feature called USB Wattage Watcher. USB Wattage Watcher allows users to monitor the current wattage supplied to a device connected to the front panel USB 20 Gbps Type-C connector. With USB Wattage Watcher, users can take a look at their device's charging power in real time and check their device's fast charging status..

Easy memory optimization with AEMP II

For a while, PC builders debated whether they wanted affordable DDR4 RAM or high-performance DDR5 RAM for their systems. Now that the DDR5 market has matured and there are a wide range of memory kits available at increasingly attractive prices, it's increasingly difficult to ignore the performance potential of next-generation memory. Content creators, gamers, engineers working with large data sets, and the most demanding multitaskers benefit from a high core count CPU with exceptional multithreading performance, and DDR5 memory is better suited than DDR4 for Intel Next-Gen Core CPUs.  
 
To offer users an easy way to upgrade their memory kit, all DDR790 compatible ASUS Z5 motherboards offer users access to AEMP II profiles. Created using a flexible training method, these profiles make it easy to tune memory above reference values ​​while maintaining stable system operation. With AEMP II, optimized memory configuration is just a click away, whether users want to get the most out of a basic module or build a high-speed kit for maximum performance. The high-end ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero and ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II go one step further with DIMM Flex, a BIOS feature that monitors DRAM temperatures and dynamically adjusts performance as thermal headroom changes. allows it.

Smart controls

Intelligent motherboard control starts with AI Overclocking. Through extensive research and characterization of the performance potential of thousands of real CPUs in our test labs, this tool leads the industry in overclocking performance and ease of use. Increase CPU clocks with one click. The sophisticated intelligence of AI Overclocking also monitors the efficiency of the CPU cooler and changes in the operating environment to adjust its parameters over time to get the best performance from a system's unique set of components. Users will have access to AI Overclocking on all ROG Maximus and ROG Strix Z790 motherboards. For the first time, they will also be able to use AI Overclocking on a TUF Gaming motherboard with Intel chipset.  

This smart technology is also set to optimize cooling. AI Cooling II is the perfect solution for manufacturers who choose high speed fans capable of moving large volumes of air. These fans keep high-performance components cool under load, but can produce excessive noise when users are doing light tasks like reading articles, streaming media, or writing email. AI Cooling II offers users a simple tool for efficient airflow under load and quiet operation during light tasks.

When users first activate this tool via FanXpert in the Armory Crate app, it uses a machine learning algorithm to collect system data during a brief stress test. Thereafter, AI Cooling II monitors the CPU and uses the stress test data to calculate the minimum fan speed required to effectively cool the system while minimizing noise levels. This fan control system can reduce system noise by up to 5,7 dB under sustained loads. Thanks to this self-adaptive system, users always have cooling power when they need it and quiet operation when they want it. ASUS has also taken this opportunity to update FanXpert with a complete set of fan control and calibration options. Users will have input temperature mapping and fan response mapping all within Windows via the handy Armory Crate application. 

Whether users are coordinating with their squadmates in an online game or video conferencing with co-workers and potential clients, clear communication is essential. Two-Way AI Noise Cancellation makes it possible. Leverages a huge deep learning database to filter background noise from a microphone and incoming audio. Keyboard rattle, mouse clicks and other ambient noise are intelligently reduced so users can hear and be heard with crystal clarity while gaming or making calls.

DIY features make building a PC easier than ever

With each generation of PC components, we work to make the process of building a PC easier. The exclusive ASUS Q-Design innovations in the ASUS Z790 family make it simple and fast to build and upgrade a PC. 

Today's latest generation graphics cards often have robust cooling solutions and rugged backplates. This is great for performance, but it can get in the way of releasing the PCIe release latch. The ASUS PCIe Slot Q-Release button allows you to release a graphics card from the slot with a single press. ASUS debuted this handy feature on its highest-end Z690 motherboards, and is proud to offer it on high-end TUF Gaming models as well. 

Similarly, traditional DIMM slot designs require users to lock both sides of the memory stick, and it wasn't always easy for those with larger fingers to unlock the latch closest to the graphics card. That's why ASUS has also implemented its single-sided Q-DIMM latch design on many of its Z790 motherboards. With this arrangement, users don't have to worry about a latch that might be too close to their graphics card. A single latch on the more easily accessible side of the DIMM slot is all that is needed to hold memory modules firmly in place. Installing RAM - and upgrading it later - is much easier.

The latest Z790 motherboards even help in case users do not install a proper RAM. The Q-LED indicator lights up, even before booting, to warn that the memory stick is not seated correctly. 

ASUS has also simplified the process of installing an M.2 drive. Our M.2 Q-Latch gives users the peace of mind of never having to fiddle with another tiny, easy-to-lose M.2 screw again. Now, they can secure or loosen an M.2 drive with their fingertips. You'll find the M.2 Q-Latch on all ROG Maximus, ROG Strix and TUF Gaming Z790 motherboards.

Stealthy looks and stellar performance: the ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero

Other colors are more or less popular, but black has a timeless quality that never goes out of style. ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero doubles down on dark tones to create a striking aesthetic. Polymo lighting on the I/O cover sets the perfect accent. This microstructural matrix of light and color features two separate layers of RGB lighting, allowing creators to pull off a luminous RGB style they won't see anywhere else. 

ASUS backs up the stealthy good looks of the ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero with a set of cutting-edge features. Dual rear-panel Thunderbolt™ 4 connectors are ready to support next-gen peripherals at full speed, and next-gen ROG SupremeFX audio paired with an ESS® ES9218 Quad-DAC for front-panel connections provides gaming audio. crisp and clear no matter what headphones or speakers users connect to a PC. A 20Gbps USB connector provides users with a high-bandwidth USB Type-C port for their front panel, and support for Quick Charge 4+ means this port can also quickly recharge a connected device, such as a smartphone. Three Gen 2 addressable RGB LED headers and a traditional four-pin lighting head perfectly coordinate lighting an Aura Sync-enabled structure. 

For those planning to overclock a high-end Intel processor, the ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero offers a 20+1 teamed power stage topology to power the CPU Vcore and integrated graphics processor. Each power stage is rated for up to 90A of output, providing the cleanest possible power delivery to the processor, even under the highest loads. 

ROG Maximus Z2 Dark Hero's extensive M.790 compatibility gives users high-end options for creating a fast and spacious storage system. The integrated PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot allows you to install one of the fastest drives on the market, and four additional PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots allow you to supplement your storage with additional drives.  

The ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero offers users high-end networking options. WiFi 7 support will allow you to access the latest generation of wireless networks when you pair this motherboard with a WiFi 7 router. For those who prefer wired connections, a high-bandwidth 2,5Gb Ethernet port awaits. .

Finally, this motherboard simplifies the assembly process and provides useful diagnostic tools. Pre-mounted I/O shielding eases an important installation step, and the PCIe slot Q-Release button and Q-Latch M.2 system streamline the process of installing and upgrading graphics cards and storage drives.

White surfaces and plenty of gaming power: the ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II

ROG Strix motherboards take the basic DNA of the ROG Maximus series and distill it into more affordable designs that deliver exceptional gaming performance and straightforward style. The ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II moves the series forward with more connectivity, refined VRM cooling, and more storage options. 

ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II is poised to serve as the base for a white build with its striking white and silver I/O cover and heatsinks, contrasting against the black PCB. Even the ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna is clad in luxurious white for a cohesive aesthetic to the mount. 

WiFi 7 support tops this motherboard's spec sheet, but it's far from the only enhancement the ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II offers. ASUS has increased the number of M.2 slots to five, each with an integrated heatsink. The rear I/O selection now includes a total of twelve USB ports to ensure users have the connectivity they need. And ASUS has beefed up the VRM cooling solution with massive heatsinks and high conductivity thermal pads..

New intelligence, same heart: the TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi

PC builders around the world trust TUF Gaming to deliver essential gaming features, no-frills aesthetics, and reliable performance. The TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi breaks new ground for the family with features that used to be the preserve of the latest ASUS motherboards. 

The TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi offers access to AI Overclocking, a first for the TUF Gaming family of ASUS Intel motherboards. Beginners will appreciate how it allows them to easily elevate the performance of their build. Advanced PC enthusiasts can take advantage of AI Overclocking to establish a baseline for their tuning efforts. And everyone can enjoy the way this feature can act as a failsafe, reducing performance as needed if something unexpected happens, like a fan failure. 

Many PC users love to use a front panel port to recharge their smartphone while using the PC. The TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi allows users to connect a high-speed port on the front panel of a case with its 20 Gbps Type-C USB connector equipped with USB Power Delivery 3.0.  

Lastly, ASUS is also offering its new ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna with the TUF Gaming Z790-Pro WiFi. Paired with a WiFi 6E router, this motherboard's WiFi 6E connectivity allows users to take advantage of the newly opened 6GHz band to rise above interference that could be slowing down their home wireless network. The ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna will give you the tools you need to get the best possible signal.
You will find pictures and more details about the specifications of the new ASUS Z790 motherboards in the Edge Up Buyer's Guide, or visit ASUS 700 page to see the first videos of each series.