aorus master x review GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review

Motherboard companies are busy releasing new offerings to cater to your needs. Today, we will discuss one product in our GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review. 

The Z790 AORUS MASTER X integrates impressive specifications and features with top-notch DDR5 support and built-in WiFi 7. You will also get a new BIOS layout, plus EZ latches for adding and upgrading components easier.

Continue reading this GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review to learn about its design.

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Packaging

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A standard-looking AORUS cardboard container protects the motherboard during shipping. The package sports a black-purple theme, which has been part of the company lineup lately.  

You will also find an AORUS eagle logo on the front of the package, which looks great. The box also shows a list of provided support for the 14th generation of Intel Core processors. 

The rear part of the box shows a list of the product specifications and features. 

Inside, the motherboard is packed with an anti-static wrap held in between foam packages to keep it stable during transit. 

In the box is another package holding the accessories that ship with the motherboard. 

  • SATA Cables 4x
  • Quick Installation Guide
  • User Manual
  • Thermistors 2x
  • M.2 Socket Screws 3x
  • M.2 Standoffs 3x
  • WiFi Antenna 
  • GIGABYTE G-Connector

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review – Design and Functionality

The company once again went all out on this product. So, we will check its design and functions in our GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review. 

This motherboard may be a tier lower than the Xtreme X. However, it offers its visual aesthetic, setting the motherboard apart from its competition. The product also features a sleek and shiny texture, giving off a premium feel. 

The pricing and quality of this motherboard give it a more optimised vibe than the earlier MASTER X products. It also features the E-ATX layout, which allows AORUS to integrate more features into the product. 

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The Raptor Lake-S desktop processors are compatible with the LGA 1700 socket. The latter also functions effectively with the Alder Lake CPUs. 

The launch of Raptor Lake-S CPUs coincided with the introduction of the 700-series motherboards. These motherboards, such as the Z790, boast top-tier specifications like superior overclocking capabilities and precise fine-tuning features.

The newly designed socket incorporates additional pins and goes through a dimensional transformation. With more than 500 pin connections, the LGA 1700 socket enhances communication channels between the CPU and motherboard. 

This augmentation accommodates electrical pin configurations crucial for supporting 14th, 13th, and 12th-generation CPUs.

The socket integrates a protective cover at the top. The latter indicates the exclusivity of the Raptor Lake 13th and Alder 12th-generation CPUs. It prevents you from using older 10th and 11th-generation CPUs since they will not fit the socket. 

If you force these older versions, you may cause permanent damage to the motherboard.

Adjacent to the socket are four DDR5 DIMM slots that accommodate up to 192GB of dual-channel memory.

These slots are optimised to handle XMP profiles up to 8266 MT/s (OC Plus). Each of these is also labelled to simplify the installation process while ensuring DIMMs have the correct orientation. 

GIGABYTE integrates the Memory UD slot D5 style and PCIe UD Slot X. These include metal shielding on all expansion sides, plus DDR5 DIMM slots for more security and durability. Simultaneously, it safeguards the PCB of your card against potential scratches.

The DIMM slots feature a notable 1.3x increase in anti-plate bending, combined with the Surface Mount Device (SMD) technology. It does not only guarantee structural integrity but also minimises signal degradation.

Moreover, the PCIe slot boasts an EZ latch click feature. It lets you conveniently remove the graphics card from the PCIe slot.

The AORUS MASTER X integrates a sophisticated 20+1+2 (VCore/ VccGT/VccAUX) phase digital power delivery system. It leverages the RAA229131 PWM controller and RAA220105 (105A) MOSFETs for VCore functionality. The MOSFETs for Vcc GT and Vcc AUX (DRPS) have ratings of 105A and 60A, respectively.

The VRMs benefit from robust VRM Thermal Armor Fins-Array heatsinks and guarantee optimal thermal management. These have substantial size and actual cooling fins. 

This motherboard ensures a seamless and stable operation of its electrical circuitry since GIGABYTE designed it with overclocking in mind. Additionally, including a backplate with thermal pads enhances cooling performance, contributing to its efficiency. 

The CPU receives power through an 8+8 pin power connector setup, providing 300W of power. The Intel 14th, 13th, & 12th Gen Unlocked CPUs exhibit significant power demands, particularly in the Core i9-14900K. If overclocking is in your plans, it has a maximum turbo power rating of 253W, even more.

Upon closer examination of the VRM heatsinks, an aluminium fin design is on both. Underneath these are thermal pads strategically placed for effective heat transfer. The thermal pads on the Z790 AORUS Master X boast a thermal conductivity rating of 12w/mK.

An 8mm nickel-coated heat pipe is a pivotal component, connecting the two MOSFET heatsinks to enhance heat dissipation. The heatsinks, coated in an elegant black colour, not only contribute to efficient thermal management. These are also densely packed, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the motherboard.

The M.2 Thermal Guard design incorporates thermal pads and an aluminium baseplate. These provide cooling for all five M.2 slots, ensuring the stable operation of M.2 storage devices. 

The thermal adhesive has a plastic cover that must be removed before connecting to the storage devices. The uppermost heatsink, featuring the most substantial cooling mechanism, adopts the M.2 EZ-Latch Plus design for effortless removal. The sizable M.2 heatsink and front cover plate are also easily detachable with the M.2 EZ-Latch Click feature.

I/O Ports 

The Z790 AORUS MASTER X has top-notch I/O ports, including the following:

  • 14x USB ports
  • CMOS Clear Button
  • BIOS Flashback Button
  • WiFi 7 Antenna Connectors
  • 10G LAN Port
  • DisplayPort 1.2

Aside from these ports and buttons, the Z790 AORUS MASTER X uses a Marvell AQtion AQC113 network controller.

This motherboard has mic-in and line-out ports with an optical S/PDIF connector. It uses the ALC-1220VB audio codec with an ESS Sabre ES9118 DAC and premium components.

Key Features of the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard

What makes this motherboard worth purchasing? Should this product replace your current motherboard? Determine the answer as we discuss its primary features in our GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review.

X – Built for the 14th Generation Processors

The X Gen motherboards are for the most high-powered 14th-generation Intel core processors. These offer top-notch performance in the DDR5 memory combined with more DIY-friendly innovations and a redesigned BIOS. Plus, it has new technologies to improve the overall performance of your system.

Unparalleled DDR5 Performance

Our GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review also discusses the unparalleled performance delivered by DDR5. The company commits to unleashing the potential of the latest processors by using industry-leading technologies for the motherboard. As a result, it achieves top-notch DDR5 performance.

New and Improved Thermal Design of the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard

GIGABYTE uses VRM Thermal Armor Fins-Array technology to prevent system throttling and maintain thermal performance. The company also combines the M.2 Thermal Guard, fully covered MOSFET heatsink, and eight-layer 2X Copper PCB. Plus, it has vent holes and Smart Fan 6 to guarantee the safety of onboard components under heavy loads.

The Smart Fan 6 allows users to monitor and configure the cooling capabilities of all connected fans.

Front Panel USB-C Connector

The front and back USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports offer up to 20 GB/s throughput. These also have a reversible design for quick access and storage of massive data.

Customise Your Lighting with RGB Fusion 

By leveraging a variety of RGB headers, you can personalise your setup. All the settings for RGB lighting are accessible via the GIGABYTE RGB Fusion and GIGABYTE Control Centre software apps. You can tailor your build with an extensive colour palette and dynamic lighting effects.

PCB Crafting – Additional Layers for Excellent Integrity

Although its role is subtle, the PCB is crucial since it makes the CPU operate seamlessly. The Z790 AORUS MASTER X uses an eight-layer PCB for signal quality, power integrity, and dense integration. It is best for demanding systems to deliver excellent performance.

The PCB also has 2X copper enhancement to enhance system performance while effectively boosting heat dissipation and handling power. As a result, the motherboard allows seamless overclocking support.

With a lower dissipation factor of 56%, the Z790 AORUS MASTER X can elevate signal integrity with high-frequency circuits.

Enjoy the Ultimate Virtual Reality Experience with WiFi 7

WiFi 7 is highly beneficial in virtual reality (VR). It has low latency and high bandwidth capabilities to guarantee an immersive and smooth VR experience. Plus, it supports 320/160 MHz channels to increase bandwidth for increased data rates significantly.

The Multi-Link Operation technology lets you allocate the 2.4GHz band for streaming and the 5/6GHz band for gaming. As a result, it offers a higher-quality network experience with fewer interruptions.

Additionally, this motherboard features the 4K-QUAM technology that allows WiFi 7 to improve data throughput. This innovation enables streaming seamlessly and transferring files faster.

WiFi 7 also uses deterministic low latency for minimal delays, making it best for online gaming, video conferencing, and other applications.

GIGABYTE Ultra-high Gain Antenna

The Ultra-high gain antenna enhances signal strength. GIGABYTE incorporated an antenna function to optimise the transmission of WiFi signals.

Intuitively Customise Your System with the Redesigned BIOS

The UEFI BIOS of the Z790 AORUS MASTER X is now easily accessible, allowing you to fine-tune your profile conveniently. It also has a redesigned user interface, Quick Access function, BIOS Cooling, and PerfDrive technology.

In addition, the UEFI BIOS allows you to access Optimisation, Spec Enhance, E-Core Disable, and Instant 6GHz+ modes.

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Ultra Durable Technology

The Ultra Durable technology from GIGABYTE shows the company’s highest standards in providing durable and reliable gaming platforms. As a result, the Z790 AORUS MASTER X has a longer lifespan and can withstand high performance.

This motherboard also has a reinforced PCIe UD Slot X. M.2 UD Slot PG5 and Memory UD Slot D5. Plus, it has a UD Power Connector and UD Nanocarbon Backplate.

Build Your PC Quickly and Efficiently

Our GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review will discuss the newest innovations the company implemented on the latest motherboards. GIGABYTE guarantees that your PC building experience is fun and effortless with the Z790 AORUS MASTER X. It has various innovations to make it the most DIY-friendly motherboard.

The EZ-Latch designs are user-friendly mechanisms that allow effortless installation of components. Another feature is the Multi-key, a reset button with multiple functions, which you can reconfigure for different uses.

Specifications

  • Socket: Intel LGA 1700
  • Processor Compatibility: Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation Processors
  • Form Factor: E-ATX
  • Dimensions: 30.5 x 26.0cm
  • Memory Support: DDR5-8266(OC), up to 192GB
  • LAN Chip: Marvell AQC113C 10G LAN 
  • Wireless Module: Qualcomm QCNCM865 WiFi 7
  • Storage: 5x M.2 slots and 4x SATA ports
  • USB: 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, 7x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 9x USB 3.1 Gen 1, 4x USB 2.0
  • Display: 1x DisplayPort 1.2
  • Audio: Realtek ALC1220-VB
  • Supported Operating System: Windows 11 (64-bit)

Hands-on with the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard 

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GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard BIOS

As mentioned, GIGABYTE redesigned the BIOS for Z790 X motherboards, which has significantly improved over the older versions. It retains most core functionalities, but the company changed the layout and fonts, making it easier to read. 

The interface has a black background with white characters for easy viewing. It also has purple and blue accents to add to its aesthetic appeal.

Aside from the new intuitive design and visual update, the BIOS is fast, snappy, and responsive. It instantly applies our changes in the tuning options, which we highly appreciate.

The Easy Mode has logically placed menus and shows informative stats about the system, RAM, processor, fans, and more. It has several options, including Smart Fan 6 access, XMP profiles and RAM tweaks, Re-Size BAR support, and more.

The Advanced Mode also has several changes, and the most prominent is the increase in the size of buttons. The highlight bar is AORUS orange, making it highly visible and more visually appealing. GIGABYTE retained most of the functions and settings in this section but added parameters for Raptor Lake-S.

The best thing about the redesigned BIOS is everything is at your fingertips. GIGABYTE made the most used functions more accessible, and you can also add them to your Favourites section.

GIGABYTE Control Centre

GIGABYTE recently released the GIGABYTE Control Centre (GCC), a one-stop utility software suite for managing different GIGABYTE products. It offers multiple functions, like monitoring the stats of components and overclocking.

GCC is also handy in searching, downloading, and installing driver updates. GIGABYTE made many improvements from the previous App Centre. 

The Z790 AORUS MASTER X shows that GIGABYTE can combine form and function in a single motherboard. It can perform fast without compromising thermal performance.

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review Summary

The Z790 AORUS MASTER X is an excellent upgrade of the original Z790 AORUS MASTER. It has the latest technologies like WiFi 7, 10GbE, additional EZ Latches, 14 USB ports and DDR5. 

This motherboard delivered superb performance and gave us satisfying test results. We had no issues during operation when we tested it for this GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard Review. It made our system fast and efficiently maintained low temperatures.

The Z790 AORUS MASTER X is a high-quality motherboard. As mentioned, it has many advanced features and innovations, superior memory overclocking capabilities, and meets the demands of modern users. However, it is a refreshed motherboard, like all models optimised for 14th-gen processors.

This motherboard will appeal to users who need an upgrade from an older PC like a 12th Gen system. It is best for those not frequently updating since it uses LGA1700, WiFi 7, and 10G LAN. Plus, you can install a PCIe 5.0 graphics card and enjoy significantly improved gaming experiences.

We highly recommend this motherboard for gamers who need to update their PC build. Its latest features will meet the demands of modern titles and many other applications. The technologies implemented in this motherboard are high-quality and will take years to become obsolete.

Learn more about the Z790 AORUS MASTER X Motherboard when visiting the official GIGABYTE product page.