Game-Changing Gigabyte Z390 AORUS PRO (WiFi)

Game-Changing Gigabyte Z390 AORUS PRO (WiFi)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Overview of Gigabyte Motherboard
   • Unboxing and First Impressions
   • Specifications
3. Performance and Features
   • VRM and Overclocking Capabilities
   • Memory Support
   • Storage Options
4. Connectivity
   • PCI Express Slots
   • Integrated I/O Shield
   • Networking and Audio
5. Design and Build Quality
   • RGB Lighting and Aesthetics
   • Custom Water Cooling Support
6. User Experience
   • Ease of Installation
   • Troubleshooting Features
7. Value for Money
   • Comparison with Competitors
   • Pros and Cons
8. Conclusion

Introduction

So, a lot of you guys reached out to me for a review of a Gigabyte motherboard. Surprisingly, for the past two and a half years, almost three, and about 50 plus motherboards, I had never reviewed a Gigabyte motherboard on the Channel. I mean, I've been toying around with them, playing with them—people sent me some, but I really never had the time to take a Second look at it. I did spend a little bit of time, particularly with the Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi gaming motherboard, and there's so much to unpack. In a nutshell, I'm absolutely in love. Gigabyte is giving tough competition, and in such a highly competitive market, such as the gaming market, it doesn't only take engineering to differentiate yourself; it also takes a lot of imagination. That's probably why I love this board so much. But let's start with the obvious.

Overview of Gigabyte Motherboard

Unboxing and First Impressions

When you first lay eyes on the Gigabyte Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi, it's evident that this is no ordinary motherboard. The packaging is sleek and professional, giving a hint of the premium experience to come. Upon unboxing, you're greeted with a sturdy, well-built board that exudes quality from every angle.

Specifications

The Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi is an ATX motherboard, meaning it's 24.4 centimeters wide and 430.5 centimeters long. Powered by the LGA 1151 CPU socket, it supports both the eighth and ninth generations of Intel Core processors. The VRM setup is particularly impressive, boasting 12+1 phases for rock-solid voltage delivery even under heavy loads.

Performance and Features

VRM and Overclocking Capabilities

The heart of any motherboard lies in its VRM, and Gigabyte has spared no expense here. With 12+1 phases and 1250 ms individual capacitors, this board can handle even the most demanding CPUs with ease. Overclocking is a breeze, with the potential to push frequencies to 5 gigahertz and beyond.

Memory Support

Memory-wise, the Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi doesn't disappoint. Supporting up to 128 gigabytes of DDR4 RAM in a dual-channel configuration, it's a rare find in its price range. Additionally, the DIMMs can be overclocked to a staggering 4266 megahertz, providing ample headroom for enthusiasts.

Storage Options

In terms of storage, the board offers support for two horizontal M.2 solid-state drives, each capable of transferring data at up to 32 gigabits per second. Thermo-shields ensure optimal performance, even under heavy loads, though there's room for improvement in securing them more firmly.

Connectivity

PCI Express Slots

Connectivity-wise, the Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi is well-equipped, with six third-generation PCI Express slots offering ample room for expansion. The closest slot to the CPU delivers up to 16 bus speed, making it ideal for single GPU configurations.

Integrated I/O Shield

One standout feature of the board is its integrated I/O shield, a welcome addition that enhances both aesthetics and ease of installation. With a plethora of USB ports, HDMI output, Wi-Fi, and high-end audio, it covers all the essentials and then some.

Networking and Audio

Networking is handled by an 802.11ac dual-band Wi-Fi adapter and Gigabit LAN, ensuring a fast and reliable connection. The onboard audio, featuring the ALC1220 VB chipset and premium capacitors, delivers crystal-clear sound with deep bass, making it ideal for gaming and multimedia.

Design and Build Quality

RGB Lighting and Aesthetics

From a design perspective, the Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi strikes the perfect balance between form and function. The RGB lighting, customizable via Fusion Sync, adds a touch of Flair without being overly ostentatious. Furthermore, the inclusion of RGB headers in convenient locations shows thoughtful design.

Custom Water Cooling Support

Enthusiasts will appreciate the board's support for custom water cooling setups, with dedicated PWM and Pump connectors ensuring compatibility with even the most extreme configurations. Thermal monitoring features further enhance reliability, making it a dream for overclockers.

User Experience

Ease of Installation

Installing the Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi is a straightforward process, thanks to thoughtful design choices such as clear labeling and well-placed connectors. The inclusion of troubleshooting features like the easy debugger makes diagnosing issues a breeze, even for novice builders.

Troubleshooting Features

For advanced builders, features like the easy debugger and dedicated thermistor connectors provide invaluable diagnostic information, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. Additionally, the board's sturdy build quality inspires confidence, even when pushing the limits of overclocking.

Value for Money

Comparison with Competitors

Priced competitively at around $195 to $200, the Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi offers exceptional value for money compared to its competitors. With premium features usually found on higher-end boards, it strikes a perfect balance between performance and affordability.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional VRM and overclocking capabilities
• Extensive memory support
• Integrated I/O shield for ease of installation
• High-quality audio components for immersive sound
• Custom water cooling support for enthusiasts

Cons:

• Thermo-shields could be more securely attached
• Limited support for three-way GPU configurations
• Some may find the RGB lighting excessive

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Gigabyte Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi is a standout motherboard that offers premium features at an affordable price point. With exceptional performance, robust build quality, and a plethora of features tailored to both novice builders and seasoned enthusiasts, it's a worthy investment for anyone looking to build a high-performance gaming rig.

Highlights:

• Exceptional VRM and overclocking capabilities
• Extensive memory support for up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM
• Integrated I/O shield and high-quality audio components for ease of installation and immersive sound
• Custom water cooling support for enthusiasts seeking extreme performance
• Competitive pricing compared to its competitors

FAQs:

Q: Does the Gigabyte Z390 AORUS Pro Wi-Fi support RGB lighting? A: Yes, the board features customizable RGB lighting that can be synced with other compatible components using Gigabyte's Fusion Sync software.

Q: Can I use this motherboard for gaming? A: Absolutely! With its robust VRM, extensive memory support, and