ASUS Prime Z790-P WiFi ATX Motherboard: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS Prime Z790-P WiFi is an ATX motherboard built around Intel's Z790 chipset and the LGA 1700 processor socket. It is the foundation of a desktop PC: the processor, memory, storage and graphics card all plug into it. ASUS pairs current-generation features such as DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 with built-in wireless networking.

The platform: Z790 and LGA 1700

LGA 1700 is the socket used by Intel's 12th, 13th and 14th generation desktop processors, and Z790 is the chipset that sits alongside the processor. Chipsets of this tier typically allow processor and memory tuning on unlocked CPUs, and they offer more high-speed connections than entry-level boards. Before you buy, check ASUS's processor support list for the exact chip you plan to use, since some processors need a BIOS update to be recognised.

DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0

The listing specifies DDR5 memory. DDR5 modules are not physically or electrically compatible with DDR4 sockets, so memory from an older build cannot be reused. DDR5 generally offers higher data rates than DDR4 at the same generation of platform.

PCIe 5.0 doubles the per-lane bandwidth of PCIe 4.0. In practice, that headroom matters most for the main graphics slot and for the newest generation of NVMe solid-state drives. Older PCIe 4.0 and 3.0 cards still work in a PCIe 5.0 slot at their own speed.

Storage and power delivery

ASUS lists three M.2 slots, which accept compact NVMe drives that plug directly into the board with no cables. Three slots let you keep an operating-system drive, a games or projects drive, and a spare for later. Which slots run at which speed, and whether using one disables a SATA port, is set out in the manual.

The power design is listed as 14+1 DrMOS. A DrMOS stage combines the switching components into one package, and the numbers refer to the stages feeding the processor cores and the integrated graphics. A larger count generally spreads the load across more stages, which helps the voltage regulator run cooler under sustained work.

Networking and ports

Networking is handled by Intel Wi-Fi 6 and a Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet port. The 2.5Gb port is faster than the 1Gb connection common on older boards, though you will need a router or switch that supports 2.5Gb to benefit from it.

For display and data, the listing names HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, which work with the integrated graphics of processors that have them, and a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port rated for up to 20Gbps. ASUS also lists a front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connector for a compatible case, plus Thunderbolt (USB4) support, and Aura Sync for controlling compatible RGB lighting.

Who it suits

This board is aimed at people building or upgrading a mainstream to high-performance desktop on a current Intel platform. It makes sense if you want DDR5, several fast drives and wireless networking without a separate adapter. The ATX form factor, about 12.0 x 9.2 inches (30 x 23 cm), offers more expansion slots than smaller boards, but it needs a case that supports ATX.

What to check before you buy

• Your processor is LGA 1700 and is on the board's supported list, and whether a BIOS update is needed first.
• Your memory is DDR5, not DDR4.
• Your case supports full ATX boards.
• You have enough M.2 drives, SATA ports and USB headers for your plans, and your case has the front connectors the board expects.
• Whether you need the Thunderbolt (USB4) header to work, which can depend on an add-in card; check the manual.
• Your power supply has the connectors for the processor and graphics card.
• Whether you have a cooler with an LGA 1700 mounting kit.

The short version

• Intel Z790, LGA 1700, ATX board with DDR5 memory.
• PCIe 5.0, three M.2 slots and a 14+1 DrMOS power design.
• Built-in Wi-Fi 6, Realtek 2.5Gb Ethernet, HDMI, DisplayPort and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C.
• Weighs about 2.2 lb (1 kg); check processor and memory compatibility before choosing it.

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