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Looking for an unbiased review of the ASUS ROG STRIX Z690-F? Then look no further! Read on to learn more in this honest and detailed review.
Form Factor: ATX | Chipset: Z690 | VRM: 16+1 Phase | Memory: 4x DIMM, 128GB, DDR5-6400 | Video Outputs: HDMI 2.1 | USB Ports: 11x rear IO, 9x internal | Network: 1x 2.5 GbE LAN, 1x WiFi 6e, 1x Bluetooth | Storage: 4x M.2, 6x SATA
Pros:
- Digi+ VRM for stable power delivery
- Efficient cooling options
- AI-enhanced features for performance optimization
- Generous USB port selection
- Comprehensive feature set at a competitive price
- Support PCIe 4.0 for all 4 M.2 slots
Cons:
- No NVIDIA SLI and AMD CrossFire Support
- Limited onboard RGB lighting
- No ECC RAM Support
- Potential incompatibility with large coolers
Feature-Rich and Budget-Friendly
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F offers a remarkable balance between price and performance, making it an ideal choice for those looking to build an Intel Core i5 12600K-powered gaming rig. Despite being over $100 cheaper than the ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 HERO, the Strix Z690-F packs in most of its features, allowing you to divert your savings towards other hardware upgrades such as RAM or a graphics card.
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Sleek and Elegant Design
Sporting a more traditional look than the HERO, the Strix Z690-F has a minimalist design featuring a tasteful logo and “Republic of Gamers” written in cursive on the I/O shroud. In addition, the black motherboard highlights the central portion, creating a clean and aesthetic appearance.
RGB and Aesthetics
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F boasts AURA SYNC RGB options, allowing personalized lighting effects to match your gaming setup. Its subtle design and understated RGB lighting create a perfect blend of style and functionality for any gaming rig.
Power and Overclocking Capabilities
The Strix Z690-F comes with a 16+1 phase VRM design, providing 1,120A of power to the CPU and ensuring optimal overclocking capabilities. Compared to similar motherboards in its price range, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F outshines its competition with its robust VRM design, AI-enhanced features, and comprehensive set of expansion and connectivity options.
As we mentioned before its performance is comparable to the more expensive ASUS ROG Maximus Z690 HERO, so the value to performance you get is undeniable.
Cooling and Audio Features
The board offers efficient cooling solutions, with thermal pads and heatsinks for each of the four M.2 drives. Additionally, the SupremeFX audio codec ensures high-quality audio for gaming and music listening.
Comprehensive BIOS AI-Enabled Features
It comes with an easy-to-navigate BIOS, offering users a variety of settings and options to fine-tune their gaming rig. In addition, the BIOS flashback button simplifies updating the BIOS, ensuring a hassle-free experience for users.
It also boasts Q-latch for M.2 drives, and a Q-release feature for the PCIe slot, making it incredibly user-friendly. The AI overclocking function automatically selects the best settings based on your hardware to maximize performance while keeping temperatures acceptable. The AI cooling and networking features further enhance performance, ensuring smooth online gaming experience.
Expansion and Connectivity
When it comes to connectivity and expansion options you will not be disappointed. The Strix Z690-F comes with four M.2 slots, two x16 PCIe slots, and a PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. Also, there are two USB-C ports, eight USB-A ports, a 5+1 audio stack, DisplayPort, HDMI, 2.5G Ethernet, and WiFi 6E support.
Who Should Buy the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F
The ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F is perfect for mid-range gaming enthusiasts seeking a feature-rich motherboard that won’t break the bank. With its power and overclocking capabilities, cooling solutions, AI-enhanced features, and ample connectivity options, this motherboard is an excellent choice for high-end gaming rigs.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F
If you require NVIDIA SLI, AMD CrossFire support, or ECC RAM support for your build, this motherboard may not be the right fit. Additionally, users looking for more onboard RGB lighting or planning to use large coolers may want to explore other options.
In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Strix Z690-F is an outstanding choice for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing motherboard with a sleek design and ample features. Furthermore, its excellent balance between price and performance makes it the ideal choice both for mid range and high-end Intel gaming builds.
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