The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is a powerhouse motherboard designed to accommodate the latest Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors. Tailored for gaming enthusiasts and PC builders seeking top-tier performance, this motherboard combines cutting-edge features such as PCIe 5.0, DDR5 support, and ultra-fast connectivity options.
Engineered with durability in mind, it boasts military-grade components, an enhanced power solution, and comprehensive cooling features, making it ideal for long, intense gaming sessions.
This review will dive deep into its key features, specifications, pros and cons, FAQs, and more to help you decide whether it’s the right choice for your gaming setup as the Best Budget Gaming Motherboard.
Key Features
1. Intel LGA 1700 Socket Compatibility
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi supports Intel’s latest 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Core processors, making it a future-proof solution for gamers. It is compatible with high-end CPUs like i9-13900K and i7-13700K, ensuring you get the most out of your gaming rig.
2. PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 Support
With PCIe 5.0 support, this motherboard offers ultra-fast data transfer speeds, enhancing gaming performance and future-proofing your system for upcoming graphics cards. The support for DDR5 memory ensures faster performance, reduced latency, and improved multitasking capabilities.
3. Enhanced Power Solution
The motherboard features a 16+1 DrMOS power stage configuration with ProCool sockets and military-grade components. This setup ensures superior power delivery, enabling you to push your CPU to its limits while maintaining stability.
4. Comprehensive Cooling System
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is equipped with extensive cooling solutions, including VRM heatsinks, a fanless PCH heatsink, M.2 heatsinks, and hybrid fan headers. Additionally, the Fan Xpert 4 utility provides intelligent cooling options, allowing your system to remain cool even during high-performance tasks.
5. Ultra-Fast Networking
This motherboard comes with built-in WiFi 6 and Intel I225-V 2.5Gb LAN, ensuring seamless, high-speed connectivity for online gaming. TUF LANGuard and TurboLAN technology further optimize network performance and stability, reducing latency during competitive gaming.
6. Comprehensive Connectivity Options
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi offers a wealth of connectivity options, including four M.2 slots for ultra-fast NVMe SSDs, a front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C header, and support for Thunderbolt 4 (USB4). These features make the motherboard perfect for creators and gamers who need fast data transfer capabilities and multiple storage options.
7. Robust Build Quality and Aesthetics
Sporting a rugged design with military-grade TUF components, this motherboard is built to last. The new TUF Gaming logo and geometric design elements give it a modern and dependable look. The Aura Sync technology allows you to synchronize RGB lighting effects with other compatible components, adding a personalized touch to your gaming rig.
8. Immersive Audio and AI Noise Cancellation
The Realtek S1200A codec offers pristine audio quality, delivering an immersive sound experience during gaming. With ASUS AI Noise-Canceling Mic technology, background noise is filtered out during communication, allowing for crystal-clear team coordination in multiplayer games.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | ASUS |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Compatible Processors | 12th, 13th, 14th Gen Intel Core |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 |
| Memory | DDR5, 192GB Max |
| Memory Speed | 7200 MHz |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 5.0 |
| Storage Support | 4x M.2 Slots |
| Networking | WiFi 6, 2.5Gb LAN |
| USB Ports | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, USB 2.0 |
| Audio Codec | Realtek S1200A |
| Cooling | VRM Heatsink, M.2 Heatsinks, Fan Xpert 4 |
| Dimensions | 10.7 x 2.75 x 14 inches |
| Weight | 2.91 pounds |
| Aura Sync RGB | Yes |
| Thunderbolt Support | Thunderbolt 4 (USB4) |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Future-Proof Features: PCIe 5.0, DDR5, Thunderbolt 4, and WiFi 6 offer modern connectivity and performance standards.
- Excellent Cooling: Extensive cooling options keep the system stable during heavy loads.
- Military-Grade Durability: Built with premium TUF components, ensuring long-lasting reliability.
- Seamless Connectivity: Multiple M.2 slots, fast networking, and comprehensive USB support.
- Audio Quality: Immersive sound with AI noise cancellation.
Cons:
- No Built-in Thunderbolt Port: Thunderbolt 4 requires an additional header.
- Price: High-end features come at a premium price.
- Size: The ATX form factor may not fit all PC cases.
Conclusion
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is an impressive ATX motherboard that delivers a robust set of features for gaming enthusiasts and PC builders alike. Its support for the latest Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors, along with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, positions it as a future-proof option. The enhanced power delivery and comprehensive cooling system ensure that your CPU and other components run optimally, even during intense gaming or productivity tasks.
In terms of connectivity, this motherboard shines with four M.2 slots, WiFi 6, and 2.5Gb LAN, allowing for fast data transfers and seamless online gaming experiences. While its Thunderbolt 4 support is limited to an additional header, the inclusion of multiple USB ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, compensates for that.
The durability of the TUF series, combined with aesthetic features like Aura Sync RGB lighting, makes it an excellent choice for those who want both functionality and style. The Realtek S1200A codec offers immersive audio quality, and the AI noise-canceling microphone ensures that communication is crystal clear during team-based games.
On the downside, the motherboard’s size and premium price point might not suit everyone. However, for gamers who want top-tier features and long-term reliability, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is undoubtedly worth the investment.
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Highly Recommended – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you’re building a high-end gaming or productivity PC that demands the latest features and top-tier performance, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is a fantastic choice. It combines cutting-edge technology, superb build quality, and versatile connectivity options that will future-proof your system for years to come.
Don’t compromise on performance — get your ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi motherboard today and take your gaming or productivity setup to the next level!
Comparison With Similar Products
When comparing the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi with other motherboards in its category, it’s essential to look at the features, performance, and price points. Here, we’ll compare it to two other popular options in the gaming motherboard market: the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX. These boards cater to a similar audience, focusing on gaming and high-performance tasks while supporting Intel’s latest 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors.
| Feature | ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi | Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 (12th, 13th, 14th Gen Intel) | LGA 1700 (12th, 13th, 14th Gen Intel) | LGA 1700 (12th, 13th, 14th Gen Intel) |
| Memory Support | DDR5, 192GB, 7200 MHz | DDR5, 128GB, 7200 MHz | DDR5, 128GB, 7600 MHz |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 4x M.2 Slots | 4x M.2 Slots | 4x M.2 Slots |
| LAN | 2.5Gb LAN | 2.5Gb LAN | 2.5Gb LAN |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) | WiFi 6E (802.11ax) |
| USB Ports | USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Thunderbolt Support | Yes (Header only) | Yes (Header only) | Yes (Header only) |
| Cooling Solution | VRM, M.2 heatsinks, Hybrid Fan headers | VRM, M.2 heatsinks, Hybrid Fan headers | VRM, M.2 heatsinks, Hybrid Fan headers |
| Audio Codec | Realtek S1200A | Realtek ALC4080 | Realtek ALC1220-VB |
| RGB Support | Aura Sync (RGB + ARGB headers) | Mystic Light (RGB headers) | RGB Fusion (RGB headers) |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX | ATX |
| Price | ~$280 | ~$330 | ~$300 |
ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi vs MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi
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Memory Capacity
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi supports up to 192GB of DDR5 memory, which is more than the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi’s 128GB. This makes the ASUS model more future-proof for users who might need higher RAM in the future.
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WiFi Version
While both motherboards feature WiFi 6 support, the MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi offers WiFi 6E, providing a slight edge with access to additional spectrum, which can be beneficial in environments with a lot of wireless traffic.
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Audio
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk WiFi uses the more advanced Realtek ALC4080 codec compared to ASUS’s Realtek S1200A. While this might only be a minor consideration for most users, audio enthusiasts might prefer MSI for its richer audio experience.
ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi vs Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX
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Memory Speed
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers slightly faster memory speeds with support for DDR5 7600 MHz, compared to the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi’s 7200 MHz. However, this difference is minimal and only noticeable in very specific use cases.
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WiFi
Like the MSI, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers WiFi 6E, which provides additional bandwidth and improved wireless performance in busy networks. ASUS, on the other hand, sticks with WiFi 6.
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RGB
For users interested in building a visually stunning gaming rig, Gigabyte’s RGB Fusion offers highly customizable lighting effects, which some may prefer over ASUS’s Aura Sync. However, both are fully capable RGB systems that work with a variety of peripherals and components.
FAQs
What is the maximum memory capacity supported by the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi?
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi supports a maximum memory capacity of up to 192GB, utilizing DDR5 technology. This makes it highly future-proof, as DDR5 is the latest memory standard that offers significant improvements in speed and efficiency over the older DDR4 standard.
With a memory clock speed of 7200 MHz, it provides exceptional performance, making it ideal for tasks like gaming, content creation, video rendering, and more. The motherboard features four DIMM slots, allowing users to maximize their memory configuration based on their specific needs.
This ample memory capacity is crucial for multitasking and running memory-intensive applications simultaneously without experiencing system slowdowns. Whether you’re into high-end gaming, streaming, or running virtual machines, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi ensures smooth performance even with demanding workloads.
Additionally, the motherboard’s support for overclocking means you can push your memory beyond standard speeds, making it an excellent option for enthusiasts and professionals who want to squeeze every bit of performance from their system.
Does the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi support PCIe 5.0?
Yes, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi supports PCIe 5.0, which is the latest iteration of the PCI Express standard. PCIe 5.0 offers double the bandwidth compared to PCIe 4.0, allowing for faster data transfer speeds, which are essential for high-performance GPUs, SSDs, and other peripheral devices.
This future-proof feature ensures that your system will be ready to support upcoming generations of high-speed devices, including the latest GPUs that take full advantage of PCIe 5.0’s superior bandwidth.
Having PCIe 5.0 support also opens up possibilities for faster storage solutions like NVMe SSDs, which can significantly improve system boot times and load times for games and applications. Even though PCIe 4.0 devices are still widely used today, the presence of PCIe 5.0 ensures that your build won’t become obsolete anytime soon. Whether you’re upgrading now or in the future, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is designed to handle the latest and most demanding components with ease.
What cooling features are available on the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi?
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is equipped with a comprehensive cooling solution that ensures optimal thermal performance, even during intense gaming sessions or high workload situations. It features a large VRM heatsink that covers the motherboard’s critical components, preventing overheating and ensuring stable power delivery.
In addition, the motherboard comes with a fanless PCH heatsink, which is designed to efficiently dissipate heat while keeping noise levels low. For M.2 storage devices, it includes multiple M.2 heatsinks that help maintain SSD performance by preventing thermal throttling.
One of the standout cooling features of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is its hybrid fan headers and the Fan Xpert 4 utility. These hybrid fan headers allow for the automatic detection and management of both PWM and DC fans, offering better control over your system’s airflow.
With the Fan Xpert 4 utility, users can fine-tune the cooling setup by adjusting fan speeds and profiles according to their preferences or system demands. This intelligent cooling solution is perfect for gamers and content creators who need a high-performance system without compromising on noise or thermal efficiency.
How does the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi enhance connectivity for gaming and productivity?
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi enhances connectivity in multiple ways, offering users fast and stable networking for both gaming and productivity. It comes equipped with Intel WiFi 6, also known as AX201 (802.11 ax), which ensures ultra-fast wireless internet speeds and lower latency, making it ideal for online gaming, streaming, and large file transfers.
Additionally, the motherboard features Intel I225-V 2.5Gb LAN, which offers a wired connection with faster data transfer rates compared to traditional gigabit Ethernet, making it perfect for LAN gaming or intensive data workflows.
In terms of ports and expansion, the motherboard includes multiple high-speed USB options, such as USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, which provide faster data transfer rates and better peripheral compatibility.
The inclusion of a Thunderbolt 4 (USB4) header ensures that you can easily connect to next-gen devices and peripherals that require higher bandwidth. Whether you’re gaming or working on creative tasks, these connectivity features make the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi an excellent choice for users who need reliable and fast network and peripheral connections.
Is the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi suitable for PC building enthusiasts?
Yes, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi is an excellent choice for PC building enthusiasts, especially those who want a balance between performance, durability, and ease of installation. One of the key features that make it appealing to DIY PC builders is the SafeDIMM and PCIe 5.0 SafeSlot, which ensures safe and secure installation of RAM and GPUs, reducing the risk of physical damage during assembly. Moreover, the motherboard comes with pre-mounted I/O shields, making the installation process simpler and saving time during the build.
Another feature that makes it builder-friendly is the M.2 Q-Latch system, which allows for tool-less installation of M.2 SSDs. This simplifies the upgrade process and minimizes the potential for damage to delicate components.
Additionally, the onboard Q-LED diagnostic system helps builders easily identify and troubleshoot any issues during the build process, providing visual indicators for different hardware components.
For those who enjoy customizing their PCs, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z790-Plus WiFi also supports extensive RGB customization with Aura Sync, enabling builders to synchronize lighting across compatible components and peripherals for a visually appealing setup.
