ASUS has introduced a range of Z890 motherboards from the ROG Maximus, ROG Strix, TUF Gaming, Prime, and ProArt families, all designed to support Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2).
ASUS is marking the occasion with innovative motherboard features designed to enhance performance and simplify the building process. The new ASUS AI Advisor is a natural-language build assistant powered by AI. AEMP III, NitroPath DRAM Technology, and DIMM Fit optimize DDR5 memory kits. NPU Boost allows for overclocking of the integrated NPU in Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) CPUs to improve AI performance. Asus ROG M.2 PowerBoost increases the number of M.2 slots available on the motherboard. Additionally, the motherboards come equipped with Thunderbolt™ 5, WiFi 7, and new features for PC DIY enthusiasts.
Designed to deliver top performance with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) in a new socket.
Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) utilize the new LGA 1851 socket. To use these processors, users will need an Intel 800 series motherboard, with a Z890 motherboard required for CPU overclocking. These processors feature up to 24 cores with a new disaggregated architecture. The performance cores, known as P-cores, deliver high clock rates, while the Efficient cores, or E-cores, provide high-end multithreaded performance.
Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) introduce a range of next-gen enhancements, beginning with an integrated neural processing unit (NPU) designed for fast and efficient handling of neural network tasks. With a peak theoretical performance of 13 TOPS, along with Intel Deep Learning Boost (VNNA, DP4A) and GNA 3.5 AI Processing, this NPU provides users with responsive AI performance right from the start.
To maximize the capabilities of the integrated NPU, ASUS Z890 motherboards come with NPU Boost. This BIOS feature allows users to overclock the NPU in just a few simple steps, enhancing performance in AI-powered applications and features by up to 24%, enabling users can freely explore, dream, and create.
With this new generation of CPUs, Intel is enhancing integrated graphics performance using its Xe LPG architecture. Featuring DisplayPort™ 2.1 and HDMI® 2.1 (FRL) support, this integrated GPU allows users to connect high-resolution displays without installing a graphics card.
ASUS Z890 motherboards offer a wide range of connectivity options, including numerous USB ports, high-speed networking, and plenty of M.2 slots. This expanded I/O capability is made possible by the Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and the latest chipset. With up to 20 PCIe® 5.0 lanes from the CPU and additional PCIe® 4.0 lanes from the chipset, ASUS provides users with even more ways to connect hardware to their new systems.
Ready for advanced AI PCs
ASUS Z890 motherboards are designed to fully harness the potential of AI. They support high-performance DDR5 memory modules and provide ample options for building spacious and fast storage arrays. Recognizing that many AI workflows benefit from multiple graphics cards working together, ASUS offers four motherboards—ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme, ROG Maximus Z890 Apex, and ProArt Z890-Creator WiFi—with dual PCIe® 5.0 x16 slots that can operate in an x8/x8 configuration.
An AI PC goes beyond just running AI applications and assistants; it utilizes AI and similar technologies to enhance the overall user experience. With the Z890 series, ASUS has integrated AI to provide users with a dedicated technical assistant: the ASUS AI Advisor.
Owners of compatible ASUS motherboards can engage with this AI-powered tool using natural language to learn more about their hardware. For DIY newcomers, it offers simple explanations of features like AI Overclocking and AI Cooling II. Meanwhile, experienced PC builders can receive guidance on the latest ASUS offerings and features.
The smart controls on ASUS Z890 motherboards allow users to optimize their PC’s performance with just a single click.
- AI Overclocking: Powered by exhaustive research and characterization of the performance potential of actual CPUs in ASUS testing labs, this tool boosts CPU clocks with just one click. AI Overclocking’s sophisticated intelligence also monitors the efficiency of a CPU cooler and changes in the operating environment of a system to tune its parameters over time for the best performance with a system’s unique set of components.
- AI Cooling II: AI Cooling II gives users an easy tool for getting effective airflow under load and quiet operation during light tasks, even for builders who opt for higher-RPM case fans. It uses CPU monitoring information and data from a brief stress test to calculate the lowest fan speed required to effectively cool a system while minimizing noise levels. This fan control system can reduce system fan noise by up to 5.7dB(A) under sustained loads.
- AI Networking II: Through AI Networking II, an AI PC can optimize network settings to ensure smooth online gameplay, uninterrupted creativity, and seamless sharing. Integrated into the Armoury Crate app, AI Networking II uses AI-enhanced identification and boost technology to ensure faster and smarter network optimization. The new Traffic Monitor feature tracks current WiFi channel usage and makes it easy to switch to a less-congested channel.
New tools to unleash DDR5 memory kits
For enthusiasts seeking the highest memory overclocks, ASUS is introducing a groundbreaking DRAM slot design in three Z890 motherboards. Featured in the ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme, ROG Maximus Z890 Hero, and ROG Strix Z890-E Gaming WiFi, the new NitroPath DRAM Technology enhances slot retention and minimizes noise interference through shorter gold finger pins and optimized signal pathways. This improved layout facilitates faster data transfers between the DRAM and CPU, maximizing the overall performance of the system. When it comes to memory, some new kits on the block are making headlines. This new variety of DIMM, called Clock Unbuffered DIMM (CUDIMM), features an integrated clock driver on the memory stick itself for improved reliability and stability at high memory speeds.
Thunderbolt 5 makes a splashy entrance
For the first time in desktop motherboards, the Z890 series introduces Thunderbolt 5, offering up to 80 Gbps of bi-directional bandwidth, and up to 120 Gbps with Bandwidth Boost for optimal display performance. Thunderbolt 5 ports can support up to three 8K displays at 60Hz with DSC and are compatible with USB4® V2 for broad interoperability. Users can daisy-chain up to five devices per port. Two ASUS Z890 motherboards, the ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme, and the ProArt Z890-Creator WiFi, come equipped with two Thunderbolt 5 ports. For those considering other ASUS Z890 motherboards, the ASUS ThunderboltEX 5 add-in card allows for two Thunderbolt 5 ports. This card features three Mini DisplayPort IN ports for external displays and supports up to 100 watts (20V / 5A) of charging with flexible quick charge.
Next-gen networking with Wi-Fi 7
Except for the ASUS Prime Z890-P, which lacks an onboard wireless module, all ASUS Z890 motherboards feature Wi-Fi 7 support. The ROG and ProArt families deliver top-tier wireless performance, boasting link speeds of up to 6.5 Gbps with MLO, 4K QAM, and access to 320 MHz channels. These motherboards provide users with a premium wireless networking experience.
For users with modest wireless networking needs, the TUF Gaming and Prime motherboard families offer excellent options, featuring the latest Wi-Fi 7 advancements that significantly enhance speed compared to previous models. All ASUS Z890 motherboards with Wi-Fi 7 support come equipped with the ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna and exclusive software to optimize networking performance. The WiFi Q-Antenna, with circuit optimizations and improved inner pin connectors, delivers exceptional signal throughput for 5GHz and 6GHz bands. Users can easily leverage features in Armoury Crate, such as Direction Finder for optimal antenna positioning, Fast Check for quick signal strength assessments, and the new Traffic Monitor to track Wi-Fi channel usage. The Channel Switch feature allows users to switch to less congested channels, further improving network performance.
ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme
The ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme is a flagship motherboard that combines a refined black and charcoal aesthetic with advanced performance features. This motherboard is designed to push Intel Core Ultra processors to their limits, featuring an eight-layer PCB, a robust 24+1+2+2 power stage configuration, and advanced cooling solutions, including a 3D VC M.2 Heatsink for high-end PCIe 5.0 SSDs. With four M.2 slots (three for PCIe 5.0), dual PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for graphics cards, and extensive connectivity options like two Thunderbolt 5 ports and Wi-Fi 7 support, it caters to gamers and enthusiasts alike. The SupremeFX 7.1 Surround Sound audio system enhances gaming immersion, while a customizable 5-inch LCD panel on the I/O shroud allows users to display ROG animations and real-time hardware information.
ROG Maximus Z890 Apex
The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex is a go-to choice for professional overclockers seeking record-breaking memory performance. With a design featuring only two DDR5 DIMM slots, it minimizes trace lengths for high RAM multipliers, while its 8+8 ProCool II power connectors and a robust 22+1+2+2 VRM architecture ensure stable power delivery for top-end CPUs. The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex might prove to be the favorite Z890 motherboard for overclocking enthusiasts, with a cobble-gray PCB and polished metallic accents, appealing to those who prefer a sleek, predominantly silver look in their builds.
ROG Maximus Z890 Hero
The ROG Maximus Z890 Hero combines premium features and high performance, bringing the essence of the advanced ROG Maximus Z890 Extreme to a broader audience. Its sleek black and charcoal design exudes understated luxury, enhanced by metallic accents and dynamic Polymo Lighting II for vibrant RGB illumination. With a compact ATX form factor, it offers better compatibility while maintaining a robust 22+1+2+2 power solution for stable performance. The motherboard supports high-speed DDR5 memory through four DIMM slots and features six M.2 slots, three of which are PCIe 5.0-ready, thanks to ROG M.2 PowerBoost. Building with the Hero is streamlined, featuring user-friendly mechanisms for graphics and storage installation. Connectivity is impressive, with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, nine USB ports, Wi-Fi 7, and both 5G and 2.5G Ethernet options. For immersive audio, it includes SupremeFX 7.1 Surround Sound with an ESS ES9219 Quad DAC, delivering exceptional sound quality for gamers.
ROG Strix Z890-E Gaming WiFi
The ROG Strix Z890-E Gaming WiFi features a robust 18+1+2+2 power architecture, the highest in the Strix series, making it ideal for pairing with top-tier Intel Core Ultra 9 processors. Its eight-layer PCB with two-ounce copper layers enhances signal integrity and supports fast memory kits through NitroPath DRAM Technology. This motherboard excels in M.2 support, offering seven onboard slots, Three of them are wired for the latest PCIe 5.0 SSDs. All are equipped with effective cooling solutions. Innovations like the M.2 Q-Latch and tool-free M.2-Release heatsink simplify drive installation. The striking Polymo Lighting design adds a unique aesthetic, while Wi-Fi 7 support and the included Wi-Fi Q-Antenna ensure exceptional connectivity. For wired networking, a 5G Ethernet port provides a high-bandwidth link to routers.
ROG Strix Z890-F Gaming WiFi
For builders seeking a more mainstream option, ASUS offers the ROG Strix Z890-F Gaming WiFi and ROG Strix Z890-A Gaming WiFi. The ROG Strix Z890-F Gaming WiFi is optimized for fast DDR5 memory kits, PCIe 5.0 M.2 drives, and high-end graphics cards. While it has fewer USB ports than the Z890-E, it features two versatile Thunderbolt 4 ports and retains Wi-Fi 7 support, though it includes a 2.5G Ethernet port instead of a faster option. With five M.2 slots, it meets most gamers’ storage needs. The board boasts a sleek black design with Polymo Lighting, premium audio through the ROG SupremeFX 7.1 codec and Savitech amp, and user-friendly features that simplify building and troubleshooting, including one-click optimization tools and advanced BIOS options like DIMM Flex.
ROG Strix Z890-A Gaming WiFi
The ROG Strix Z890-A Gaming WiFi offers builders a striking visual aesthetic that captures the essence of the ROG Strix series. Designed for a white-themed build, it features a bold white and silver I/O shroud and heatsinks, complemented by a cobble-gray PCB that provides subtle contrast. These surfaces provide a sweeping expanse of hardware that is uniquely equipped to capture the glow from the Polymo Lighting module. Beyond its stunning appearance, the ROG Strix Z890-A Gaming WiFi delivers a robust feature set comparable to the ROG Strix Z890-F Gaming WiFi. With ample and fast M.2 slots for advanced storage options, powerful optimization tools for easy performance tuning, and versatile next-gen connectivity, this motherboard ensures a top-notch experience for any new PC build.
ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi
The ROG Strix Z890-I Gaming WiFi is compact enough to hold in one hand, yet it boasts an impressive array of features. Its innovative thermal design includes robust VRM heatsinks with a dedicated fan, an L-shaped backplate, and a fan for the M.2 and chipset heatsink, ensuring top performance in a space-saving form factor. This motherboard supports dual DDR5 memory sticks and has a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for powerful graphics cards suitable for small form factor (SFF) cases. Additionally, it includes two onboard PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots, Wi-Fi 7, and a 2.5G Ethernet port for fast connectivity.
TUF Gaming Z890 motherboards deliver dependable gaming performance
The TUF Gaming Z890-Pro WiFi features a stylish design with white and metallic accents on a cobble-gray PCB, while the TUF Gaming Z890-Plus WiFi maintains the classic charcoal and yellow accents that define the series. Both motherboards offer similar features, including multiple PCIe slots and four M.2 slots with varying capabilities. Smart features like AI Advisor, AI Networking II, and AI Cooling II simplify optimization, while Wi-Fi 7 and a 2.5G Ethernet port ensure fast networking.
ProArt Z890-CREATOR WIFI
CUDIMM memory is gaining attention in the professional community for its impressive speed and stability. The ProArt Z890-Creator WiFi features a sleek design with charcoal hues and gold accents, offering four DDR5 memory slots, support for DIMM Fit and AEMP III, and robust power and cooling solutions for Intel Core Ultra processors. With five M.2 slots for fast data access and two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots supporting x8/x8 configurations for multi-GPU setups, it’s well-equipped for demanding tasks. Connectivity options include dual Thunderbolt 5 ports, a DisplayPort In for display support, a Marvell AQtion 10G Ethernet port, Wi-Fi 7, and an Intel 2.5G Ethernet port, ensuring versatile and high-bandwidth connections.