ASUS PRIME Z890-P WIFI Motherboard: features, specs and who it suits

The ASUS PRIME Z890-P WIFI is an ATX motherboard with an Intel Z890 chipset and an LGA1851 socket, made for Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). It's the part everything else in a desktop PC plugs into, and this one adds Wi-Fi 7, fast memory support and several storage slots for people building their own computer.

The socket and chipset

LGA1851 is the processor socket, and it only accepts compatible Intel CPUs. ASUS says this board works with Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2). The Z890 chipset is Intel's higher tier for that generation, which typically means support for overclocking on unlocked processors and more connectivity than lower-tier chipsets. Whether you overclock or not, check the exact processor you plan to use against ASUS's CPU support list.

Power design and cooling

The board has a 14+1+2+1 power phase design. Power phases feed clean, steady voltage to the processor and other parts. More phases typically help a high-end processor hold its performance under heavy load, though phase count isn't the only thing that matters. ASUS describes comprehensive cooling solutions, which in this class generally means heatsinks over the power circuitry and the M.2 drives.

Memory and storage

The listing mentions DDR5 memory at speeds up to 8400. That figure is the top supported speed; reaching it generally depends on the memory kit and processor, and the BIOS settings. The board has four M.2 slots, which hold compact NVMe solid-state drives straight on the motherboard without cables. Four slots let you add drives over time. Check the manual for which slots share bandwidth and which support which drive speeds.

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth are built in, so no add-in card is needed for wireless.
• 2.5Gbit LAN gives a wired network connection faster than standard Gigabit, if your router and cabling support it.
• Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 offer fast external storage and docks.
• DisplayPort and HDMI outputs let you use the processor's integrated graphics, if your CPU has them, without a graphics card.

AI features and NPU Boost

Intel Core Ultra processors include an NPU, a neural processing unit built to speed up neural-network tasks. ASUS says this board can run an NPU Boost option from the BIOS, which overclocks the NPU to improve AI performance. The gain depends on software that actually uses the NPU. For ordinary gaming or office work, it's an optional extra. The board also includes AURA RGB lighting control and software tools, which ASUS says suit people who build their own computers.

Size and what you'll need

The board measures about 12.0 x 9.6 inches (30.5 x 24.4 cm), which is standard ATX, and weighs 2.9 lb. You'll need an ATX-compatible case, a matching Intel processor and cooler, DDR5 memory, a power supply with the right connectors, and storage.

Who it suits

It suits people building or upgrading a desktop around an Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) processor who want Wi-Fi 7, Thunderbolt 4 and room for several drives. Builders who don't need that much connectivity could look at simpler boards.

What to check before you buy

• Processor match: LGA1851 only fits supported Core Ultra chips.
• Memory type: it uses DDR5, which isn't interchangeable with DDR4.
• Case size: it needs an ATX-compatible case.
• BIOS version: check whether your processor needs a BIOS update, and whether ASUS describes a way to do it without a CPU installed.
• Ports: count the USB, display and network ports you need.
• Cooler fit: confirm your CPU cooler supports LGA1851 mounting.

The short version

• ATX motherboard with Intel Z890 and LGA1851 socket for Core Ultra (Series 2).
• 14+1+2+1 power phases, DDR5 up to 8400 and four M.2 slots.
• Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, 2.5Gbit LAN, Thunderbolt 4 and USB4.
• NPU Boost option in the BIOS for AI workloads.

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