We should look forward to many offerings in 2024. This ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review will discuss the current refresh of the Z790 motherboard.
The Z790 Riptide WiFi is part of the Phantom Gaming lineup from ASRock, which is an affordable option available. It offers out-of-the-box support for 14th-generation Intel processors. Of course, it also provides backup for 12th and 13th Gen versions.
This ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review will discuss vital elements of the product, including its design, functions, performance, etc.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Packaging
Upon receiving our package, we immediately unboxed to check the Z790 Riptide WiFi. It ships in your standard ASRock box sporting a bluish-violet theme.
The front shows its name, company branding logo, and several primary features. The back has more details about the motherboard, which you can refer to when needed.
Inside, the motherboard ships with the following accessories to get you started. These include:
- 2x SATA Cables
- WiFi Antenna + Solid Base
- Thermistor Cable
- ARGB Splitter Cable
- User Manual
- Case Badge
We appreciate ASRock for also including a branded keyboard key. It is a notable addition for users interested in displaying their Phantom Gaming products.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review – Design and Functionality
This ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review focuses on the upgraded version of its Z790 Riptide predecessor. As its name suggests, the latter does not include WiFi.
The current model we are discussing features speedier memory support, optimised VRMs, and an advanced audio section. It also features a rear-mounted and embedded DisplayPort connector for a 33.8cm side panel kit.
On its appearance, the motherboard sports a premium matte black finish with massive heatsinks covering the VRM. These also conceal the SSD M.2 slots and Mosfets present on it.
Do note that there are no RGBs on its I/O hood or extra fans on the board. Moreover, a special eDP port lets you link the ASRock 33.8cm LCD side panel kit (optional).
The Z790 Riptide WiFi is covered with heat spreaders. Adequate heat spreaders cover the 16+1+1 MOSFETs and their active cooling, M.2 slots, and chipset.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Storage
Storage on this motherboard is abundant since you will receive the following:
- 8x SATA 6GB/s connectors via chipset
- An M.2 Gen5 CPU slot
- 3x M.2 Gen4 CPU slots
All its M.2 slots support 2260 and 2280-sized devices, save for the solo Gen5 slot.
The company implements toolless installation options for every M.2 drive that requires pre-installed standoffs for convenient and quick retention. However, its topmost M2_1 slot is the only toolless installation area since the heatsink is not screwed tight.
As mentioned, the M2_1 (PCIe 5.0) limits your main PCIe 5.0 slot and becomes x8 instead of x16. You will find one extra M.2 slot, which is exposed since it is specifically for the WiFi/Bluetooth adapter.
Expansion Slots
The expansion slots on this motherboard come from three PCIe slots. The middle and lower portions are PCIe 4.0 and 3.0, respectively. The top is PCIe 5.0 from the CPU. Additionally, the available chipset provides the middle and lower slots.
Like most motherboards, you will find extra connectivity options thanks to the internal USB headers. The Z790 chipset provides all the onboard headers, giving you options for the following:
- An extra USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C
- 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
- 4x USB 2.0 Type-A ports
Fan Headers
The fan header has 7x 4-pin type connectors with 1x reserved for the CPU fan. There is also 1x for an extra CPU fan/water pump, 4x fan/water pump connectors, and 1x for fans.
During our tests for this ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review, we set all pumps and fans to 100%. We did the latter since it was necessary for maximising CPU cooling.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi RGB Headers
If you are an RGB lover, this product has two 3-pin ARGB (5V) headers at the top-right portion. There is also an extra 3-pin ARGB (5V) header and a 4-pin RGB (12V) near its bottom centre.
Connectivity
You will also get the WiFi7 802.11be and Killer E3100G 2.5GbE LAN via the installed M.2 Key-E module.
Rear I/O of the ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
It has connections for the following:
- 2x Antenna Ports
- A 2.4 GbE Killer E3100G LAN
- One USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C Port
- 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A Ports
- 2x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A Ports
- 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A Ports
- 2x USB 2.0 Ports
- 2x Lightning Gaming USB Ports
- An HDMI and Display port + a line-in, mic-in, and front speaker out for audio connections.
Key Features of the ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
When looking at motherboards, we assume they all have the same features. So, what makes the Z790 Riptide WiFi better than its competition?
Here is a list of key features that make the motherboard an option worth considering.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi 20K Capacitor
These capacitors have a lifespan of around 20,000 hours, offering lengthier component durability than regular capacitors. It helps lengthen MTBF to provide optimised system stability for your needs.
16+1+1 Power Phase Design
This design sports solid components and smooth power delivery to your CPU. Moreover, it provides unparalleled overclocking capacities and optimised performance with decreased temperatures for advanced gamers.
SPS – Smart Power Stage
The DrMOS design provides the latest Smart Power Stage technology. It is enhanced for monitoring temperatures and current of each phase to provide seamless and clean power to the CPU. Moreover, it also provides upgraded OC capabilities and performance.
Hi-Density Power Connector of the ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
The motherboard features solid components and seamless power delivery to your CPU. It also offers unparalleled overclocking capacities and optimised performance with decreased temperatures for professional/advanced gamers.
CPU Indicator
Tune and manage your computer with the CPU Indicator from ASRock. It rates your CPU by allocating points according to its capabilities and performance. This feature helps you upgrade overclocking settings for better performance.
DDR5 XMP + EXPO Support
This feature is also worth discussing in our ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review. It is taken from the concept – built for stability and reliability – since ASRock does not compromise on quality and details.
The Z790 Riptide WiFi integrates high-quality materials, allowing you to enjoy the boost in overclocking performances from DDR5 memory. It is possible because it allows pre-tested profiles.
Ensure that the memory modules are Intel AMD/XMP EXPO-capable so overclocking can be made affordable.
Server-grade Low-loss PCB
This feature enhances signal integrity, allowing the motherboard to support PCIe 5.0 for M.2 SSDs and graphics cards. Moreover, the server-grade low-loss PCB optimises memory OC potential to provide extreme performance.
PCIe Gen5 + Surface Mount Technology
Unlike conventional DIP-styled PCIe slots, the SMT variants optimise signal flow while maximising stability at high speeds. It is a notable breakthrough in supporting the lightning speed of current PCIe 5.0 standards.
The latest PCIe 5.0 can perform a bandwidth of 128GBps, letting you experience the potential of high-end graphics cards. We experienced this element when testing the product for our ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review, making it a remarkable feature.
8-layer PCB Design
This specific design offers solid and reliable signal traces and power shapes. It delivers decreased temperatures with increased energy efficiency.
The 8-layer PCB design ensures a long-lasting and reliable system while delivering top-notch performance without compromises.
Top-speed M.2 Solution – PCIE Gen5 Blazing M.2
Unlike earlier generations, the Blazing M.2 feature supports the current PCIe 5.0 standard, performing twice the bandwidth. Its excellent 128GB/s transfer speed can unleash satisfactory potential for future ultrafast SSDs.
XXL M.2 Heatsink
The massive aluminium alloy M.2 heatsink improves heat dissipation to help high-speed M.2 SSDs stay cooled. It can provide improved stability while supporting quality performance.
Anti-Drop Screw for Increased Security
If you tend to drop screws or lose them within your chassis, you will love this feature for the motherboard. The upgraded M.2 heatsink featuring an anti-drop screw design will guarantee a more convenient and seamless installation.
Intelligent Cooling Design – Aluminium Heatsink
The most eye-catching feature of this product is its aluminium heatsink design. Generally, these are vital for proper heat dissipation, especially for heavy loads like gaming/productivity tasks.
A motherboard built with heatsinks can properly manage thermal performance, guaranteeing system stability and durability without effort.
KiLLER E3100 – Optimising Prioritisation for Excellent Networking Experiences
This feature is a 2.5Gbps Ethernet controller for competitive users and performance-hungry players. Its optimised prioritisation and detection engine offers the best networking experience for multimedia applications and gaming.
Killer GameFast Technology
Killer GameFast Technology frees up to 10% of your processor cycles and 20% of memory for smoother gaming experiences. Once activated, it does all the work. Its settings are also customisable based on your preferences and needs.
WiFi7 802.11be
The current WiFi technology offers excellent wireless speeds, low latency, increased throughput and multi-RU, and puncturing technology. The new WiFi7 technology can boost cloud-based gaming, video conferencing, and 8K video streaming.
Front USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C
The current USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C offers as high as 20Gbps data transfer rate. It is twice as fast as the earlier generation, providing a speedy data transfer interface with a reversible USB-C design. The latter fits the connector perfectly either way.
Dual USB 3.2 Gen2 Ports
The Z790 Riptide WiFi has a pair of Type-A USB 3.2 Gen2 ports built into the rear I/O. These ports help support next-gen USB 3.2 Gen2 devices and can deliver up to 10Gbps of data transfer rates.
Lightning Gaming Ports of the ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
The motherboard has these types of gaming ports, which are aimed at die-hard gamers. These ports are sourced from varying controller interfaces that help gamers connect high-speed mice/keyboards with decreased jitter and latency.
Nahimic Audio by Steelseries
It does not matter whether you use a headset, headphones, or external/internal speakers. WiFi, USB, analogue output, or HDMI works well with Nahimic Audio since it offers a top-notch, engaging, and rich-in-detail experience.
Polychrome RGB
The product features an onboard, addressable RGB header that links the motherboard to LED devices like CPU fans, strips, etc. With Polychrome RGB Sync-certified accessories, you can easily link RGB LED devices. Do this to create your distinct lighting effects based on your preferences.
Integrated eDP Signal Connector Supporting the ASRock Side Panel kit
ASRock implemented an eDP signal connector on selected motherboards. It simultaneously supports two functions – transmission and power of digital display signal.
This connector is for upgrading with the exclusive side panel kit from ASRock. It perfectly matches the standard form factor chassis. Plus, it allows creating an RGB display on your PC or adding a sub-screen for PC monitoring and watching videos.
This new customisation concept brings new possibilities for personalising designs.
Specifications
- CPU: LGA1700 (Supports 12th, 13th, 14th Gen Intel Core Processors)
- Chipset: Intel Z790
- Memory: DDR5 with Dual-channel Architecture
- DIMM Slots: 4x
- Maximum Memory Capacity: 192GB
- Graphics: Intel Xe Graphics Architecture (Gen 12)
- Audio: Realtek ALC1220
- LAN: 2.5 Gigabit, Killer E3100G
- Wireless LAN: WiFi7
- Bluetooth: 5.4
- Form Factor: ATX
- Dimensions: 30.5 x 24.4 cm
- Operating System: Windows 10 and 11 (64-bit)
Hands-on with the ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
If you are familiar with previous or current-generation ASRock products, this UEFI BIOS interface instantly makes you feel at home. Its design is similar to the previous motherboards we tested, so we did not have trouble finding its features/options.
Upon entering BIOS, the first page you will see is Easy Mode – a place to monitor the system status.
In Advanced Mode, you can see the other options for tweaking the memory, processor, etc. On this page, you can adjust the processor and memory voltages.
Other options you will find in Advanced Mode lets you configure settings for the storage, chipset, LEDs, and NVMEs. You can also manage onboard devices like audio, LAN, and Bluetooth.
If you are an overclocker, the BIOS allows memory and CPU overclocking. You can also set the CPU voltage and frequencies, switch Efficient Cores on/off, and configure the cooler type.
The BIOS was user-friendly, and its interface made navigation easier than ever. Updating it was also a breeze, which is unusual in other motherboards.
Installing the Z790 Riptide WiFi and our components was as easy as most motherboards we used. The fan and power connectors were well-placed. Plus, the Blazing M.2 slot was entirely toolless, making installation more convenient.
We tested the Z790 Riptide WiFi and immediately noticed its impressive performance. It performed brilliantly with the latest processor, and we had no issues with it.
We played various games to test its gaming performance. We did not have issues with it, even with the latest processor and GPU. As always, we highly recommend using a chassis that allows adequate airflow to retain low temperatures for the VRM.
During our time using this motherboard we did not experience any stability/temperature issues.
We can highly recommend the ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi motherboard to anyone that is looking for a high performing, stable, and afforadable motherboard for their new PC build.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review Summary
Intel launched the 14th-generation processor last October. As a result, ASRock took the opportunity to release refreshed versions of Z790 motherboards, like the Z790 Riptide WiFi.
Unlike the older versions, this new range of budget-friendly Z790 motherboards offers the latest technologies. It supports the current processors and DDR5 memory with speeds reaching 8000MHz. Plus, you can enjoy WiFi7 onboard.
What makes this motherboard more interesting is its flexibility. It supports Intel XMP and AMD EXPO memory standards, allowing you to choose from more memory kits for your build.
Aside from supporting the latest technologies and flexible compatibility, it offers impressive storage potential.
We enjoyed our user experience when we installed and tested the product performance of this ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi Review. Installing the motherboard was easy, and its user-friendly BIOS made everything more convenient.
The ASRock Z790 is an affordable and attractive motherboard packed with premium features. Its support for the latest technologies delivers superior performance with fast speeds. It is highly suitable for modern demands, and we highly recommend it.
Visit the official product page of ASRock for more information about the Z790 Riptide WiFi.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
The ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi motherboard delivers high performance and affordability, catering to Intel's 12th to 14th Gen processors with features like WiFi7 and DDR5 support. It stands out with its user-friendly BIOS, extensive cooling solutions, and robust power design, making it an ideal choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts.
5
Pros
- Affordable option within the Phantom Gaming lineup, offering great value.
- Supports Intel's 12th to 14th Gen processors with out-of-the-box support.
- Features high-speed WiFi7 and DDR5 memory support up to 8000MHz.
- Extensive cooling solutions, including massive heatsinks and M.2 heatsinks for improved stability.
- User-friendly BIOS for easy installation and configuration.
- Robust power design with 16+1+1 phases for efficient and smooth power delivery.
Cons
- Limited RGB lighting options for users looking to customize their build's aesthetics further.
- Some users may find the lack of extra fans on the board a downside for thermal management, although the extensive heatsinks are designed to compensate for this.
ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi
The ASRock Z790 Riptide WiFi motherboard delivers high performance and affordability, catering to Intel's 12th to 14th Gen processors with features like WiFi7 and DDR5 support. It stands out with its user-friendly BIOS, extensive cooling solutions, and robust power design, making it an ideal choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts.
5
Pros
- Affordable option within the Phantom Gaming lineup, offering great value.
- Supports Intel's 12th to 14th Gen processors with out-of-the-box support.
- Features high-speed WiFi7 and DDR5 memory support up to 8000MHz.
- Extensive cooling solutions, including massive heatsinks and M.2 heatsinks for improved stability.
- User-friendly BIOS for easy installation and configuration.
- Robust power design with 16+1+1 phases for efficient and smooth power delivery.
Cons
- Limited RGB lighting options for users looking to customize their build's aesthetics further.
- Some users may find the lack of extra fans on the board a downside for thermal management, although the extensive heatsinks are designed to compensate for this.
