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Asus Rog Strix Z790-e Gaming Wifi Vs Asus Rog Strix Z790-f Gaming Wifi

Main points

  • Both the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi feature a sleek and angular design with a predominantly black and gray color scheme.
  • The Z790-E Gaming WiFi, however, has a more extensive RGB lighting system with additional headers and a built-in RGB strip on the I/O cover.
  • The choice between the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi depends on your specific needs and budget.

The latest iteration of Intel’s Core processors brings with it a new wave of motherboards designed to maximize their potential. Among the most anticipated are the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi from ASUS. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two high-performance motherboards to help you make an informed decision.

Specifications at a Glance

Feature ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi
Socket LGA 1700 LGA 1700
Chipset Intel Z790 Intel Z790
Memory 4x DDR5 DIMM slots, up to 128GB 4x DDR5 DIMM slots, up to 128GB
Storage 4x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, 8x SATA III ports 3x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, 6x SATA III ports
Expansion 3x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, 1x PCIe 4.0 x1 slot 3x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, 1x PCIe 4.0 x1 slot
Networking Intel Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb Ethernet Intel Wi-Fi 6E, 2.5Gb Ethernet
Audio SupremeFX ALC4082 codec, 7.1-channel surround sound SupremeFX ALC4080 codec, 5.1-channel surround sound
RGB Lighting Addressable Gen 2 RGB headers, Aura Sync support Addressable Gen 2 RGB headers, Aura Sync support

Design and Features

Both the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi feature a sleek and angular design with a predominantly black and gray color scheme. The Z790-E Gaming WiFi, however, boasts a more premium aesthetic with its brushed aluminum heatsink and integrated I/O shield.

In terms of features, the Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a slight edge over its counterpart. It offers an additional M.2 slot, allowing for a total of four high-speed storage devices. Additionally, it features a dedicated BIOS Flashback button for easy BIOS updates.

Performance and Overclocking

Both motherboards are equipped with a robust power delivery system capable of supporting even the most demanding processors. However, the Z790-E Gaming WiFi‘s enhanced 20+1 power stages provide a more stable and efficient power supply.

As for overclocking, the Z790-E Gaming WiFi offers a wider range of options and presets. It also includes a dedicated overclocking header for external voltage control.

Cooling and Thermal Management

The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi features a more comprehensive cooling solution than the Z790-F Gaming WiFi. It comes with an enlarged VRM heatsink, a dedicated chipset heatsink, and a built-in fan for additional airflow.

Connectivity and Expansion

Both motherboards provide ample connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, Thunderbolt 4, and high-speed Ethernet. However, the Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a slight advantage with its additional USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 port and 10Gb Ethernet port.

In terms of expansion, both motherboards offer three PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for the latest graphics cards. However, the Z790-E Gaming WiFi features an additional PCIe 4.0 x1 slot for legacy devices.

Audio and Networking

The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi boasts a superior audio solution with its SupremeFX ALC4082 codec and 7.1-channel surround sound. The Z790-F Gaming WiFi, on the other hand, uses the slightly less capable ALC4080 codec with 5.1-channel surround sound.

Both motherboards come with Intel Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5Gb Ethernet for fast and reliable networking.

RGB Lighting and Aesthetics

Both motherboards feature addressable Gen 2 RGB headers and support ASUS’s Aura Sync technology for customizable lighting effects. The Z790-E Gaming WiFi, however, has a more extensive RGB lighting system with additional headers and a built-in RGB strip on the I/O cover.

Which Motherboard is Right for You?

The choice between the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi depends on your specific needs and budget.

Choose the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi if:

  • You want the ultimate performance with enhanced cooling and overclocking capabilities.
  • You need additional storage options and connectivity ports.
  • You prefer a more premium design and RGB lighting.

Choose the ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi if:

  • You want a high-performance motherboard at a slightly lower price point.
  • You don’t need as many storage or connectivity options.
  • You’re primarily interested in gaming and don’t require extensive overclocking features.

Final Thoughts

Both the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi are excellent motherboards for enthusiasts and gamers. The Z790-E Gaming WiFi offers a more comprehensive feature set and premium design, while the Z790-F Gaming WiFi provides a solid balance of performance and affordability.

Ultimately, the right choice for you depends on your individual requirements and budget. Whichever motherboard you choose, you can be confident that you’re getting a top-of-the-line product from ASUS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which motherboard has better audio quality?

A: The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi features a superior audio codec and 7.1-channel surround sound.

Q: Which motherboard has more RGB lighting options?

A: The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a more extensive RGB lighting system with additional headers and a built-in RGB strip.

Q: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?

A: The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi offers a wider range of overclocking options and presets, as well as a dedicated overclocking header.

Q: Which motherboard has more storage options?

A: The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has one additional M.2 slot compared to the Z790-F Gaming WiFi.

Q: Which motherboard has better cooling?

A: The ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi has a more comprehensive cooling solution with an enlarged VRM heatsink, dedicated chipset heatsink, and built-in fan.

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