Quick notes
- 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.