What To Know
- 2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x RJ45, 1 x S/PDIF, 5 x audio jacks.
- The Z790-E includes a few premium features not found on the Z790-F, such as a built-in Q-LED display and an integrated BIOS FlashBack button.
Choosing the right motherboard for your next high-end gaming PC build can be a daunting task. With a plethora of options available, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each model to make an informed decision. Today, we’ll be comparing two popular contenders from ASUS’s ROG Strix lineup: the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi and the **ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi**.
Both motherboards boast impressive features and performance, but their subtle differences can sway your choice depending on your specific needs and budget. Let’s dive into the key areas where these two motherboards stand out and see which one emerges as the champion.
Performance and Features: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Both the Z790-F and Z790-E are built on the Intel Z790 chipset, providing robust support for 13th Gen Intel Core processors. They offer a plethora of features that cater to gamers and enthusiasts alike, including:
- DDR5 Memory Support: Both motherboards support DDR5 memory, offering faster speeds and lower latency compared to DDR4.
- PCIe 5.0 Support: Both motherboards feature PCIe 5.0 slots for the latest high-speed graphics cards and storage devices.
- Integrated WiFi 6E: Both motherboards come equipped with Intel WiFi 6E for blazing-fast wireless connectivity.
- Onboard Audio: Both motherboards feature high-quality audio codecs for immersive audio experiences.
Key Differences: The Battleground
While both motherboards share many similarities, they also have key differences that set them apart:
1. Form Factor:
- Z790-F: ATX form factor (12″ x 9.6″)
- Z790-E: ATX form factor (12″ x 9.6″)
Both motherboards share the same ATX form factor, ensuring compatibility with most standard PC cases.
2. Expansion Slots:
- Z790-F: 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 5.0 x4, 3 x PCIe 4.0 x1
- Z790-E: 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16, 2 x PCIe 4.0 x1
The Z790-F offers more PCIe 4.0 x1 slots, providing additional flexibility for expansion cards. The Z790-E, on the other hand, features a second PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, which can be used for a secondary graphics card in a multi-GPU setup.
3. M.2 Slots:
- Z790-F: 3 x M.2 slots (1 x PCIe 5.0 x4, 1 x PCIe 4.0 x4, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x4)
- Z790-E: 2 x M.2 slots (1 x PCIe 5.0 x4, 1 x PCIe 4.0 x4)
The Z790-F offers one additional M.2 slot compared to the Z790-E, providing more options for fast NVMe SSDs.
4. I/O Panel:
- Z790-F: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x RJ45, 1 x S/PDIF, 5 x audio jacks.
- Z790-E: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x RJ45, 1 x S/PDIF, 5 x audio jacks.
The Z790-F offers more USB ports, including an additional USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port.
5. Price:
- Z790-F: Generally priced slightly lower than the Z790-E.
- Z790-E: Slightly more expensive than the Z790-F.
Z790-F Gaming WiFi: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- More Expansion Options: The Z790-F offers greater flexibility with its additional PCIe 4.0 x1 slots and an extra M.2 slot.
- More USB Ports: The Z790-F provides more USB ports, including an additional USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, which can be beneficial for connecting peripherals.
- Lower Price: The Z790-F is generally priced slightly lower than the Z790-E, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Weaknesses:
- No Second PCIe 4.0 x16 Slot: The Z790-F lacks a second PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, limiting its potential for multi-GPU configurations.
Z790-E Gaming WiFi: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Second PCIe 4.0 x16 Slot: The Z790-E features a second PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, enabling multi-GPU setups for extreme gaming performance.
- Premium Features: The Z790-E includes a few premium features not found on the Z790-F, such as a built-in Q-LED display and an integrated BIOS FlashBack button.
Weaknesses:
- Fewer Expansion Options: The Z790-E offers fewer expansion slots and M.2 slots compared to the Z790-F.
- Higher Price: The Z790-E is generally priced slightly higher than the Z790-F.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best motherboard for you depends on your specific needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
- Z790-F: The Z790-F is a great choice for users who prioritize flexibility and value. Its additional expansion slots, more USB ports, and lower price make it an attractive option.
- Z790-E: The Z790-E is a better fit for users who need a second PCIe 4.0 x16 slot for multi-GPU setups and appreciate premium features. However, its higher price and fewer expansion options may be a drawback for some.
Beyond the Specs: A Deeper Look
Beyond the technical specifications, there are other factors to consider when choosing between the Z790-F and Z790-E:
- Aesthetics: Both motherboards feature ROG Strix’s signature aggressive styling with RGB lighting, but the Z790-E has a more refined and premium look.
- Software and Utilities: Both motherboards come with ASUS’s comprehensive suite of software and utilities, including AI Suite 3, Armoury Crate, and Sonic Studio.
- Community Support: Both motherboards benefit from a large and active community, providing access to resources, drivers, and troubleshooting assistance.
The Final Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Choosing between the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi ultimately boils down to your individual priorities. If you value flexibility, more expansion options, and a lower price, the Z790-F is an excellent choice. If you prioritize multi-GPU support, premium features, and a more refined aesthetic, the Z790-E might be a better fit.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which motherboard offers better overclocking potential?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent overclocking potential due to the powerful Intel Z790 chipset. However, the Z790-E’s premium features, like its Q-LED display and BIOS FlashBack button, may provide a slight edge in terms of overclocking ease and stability.
Q: Is the Z790-F suitable for a multi-GPU setup?
A: While the Z790-F has a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, it lacks a second PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, making it unsuitable for multi-GPU configurations.
Q: Which motherboard is better for a budget-conscious build?
A: The Z790-F is generally priced lower than the Z790-E, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Q: What is the difference between the Z790-F and Z790-E in terms of power delivery?
A: Both motherboards feature a robust power delivery system with multiple power phases and high-quality components. However, the Z790-E may have a slightly more advanced power delivery system due to its premium features.
Q: Which motherboard is better for a content creator?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent features for content creators, including multiple M.2 slots for fast storage and high-quality audio codecs. The Z790-F’s additional USB ports might be beneficial for connecting external drives and peripherals.
