Asus recently unveiled its latest X870E and X870 motherboard lineup at Gamescom 2024. This lineup features a range of models catering to different needs and price points, including the ROG, Strix, TUF, ProArt, and Prime families. These motherboards are designed to be compatible with the Ryzen 9000-series CPUs and come equipped with the latest features such as USB4 and WiFi 7.
One of the key highlights of the Asus X870E and X870 motherboards is the incorporation of auto-optimizing ‘AI’ features. These include AI Networking II, AI Overclocking, and AI Cooling II, which are designed to enhance CPU and DRAM overclocking with more precise controls. Additionally, the VRM designs on these motherboards are robust, providing stable power delivery for demanding tasks.
The flagship option in this lineup is the ROG Crosshair X870E Hero motherboard. It boasts an impressive 18+2+2 phase VRM with 110A stages, making it suitable for heavily overclocked CPUs like the Ryzen 9 9950X. The board supports DDR5-8200+ RAM, multiple Gen 5 SSDs, dual USB4 ports, and WiFi 7, along with other ROG overclocking features. Despite the lack of pricing information, it is expected that this motherboard will be priced higher than its X670 counterparts.
The ROG Strix lineup includes four offerings, including the ROG Strix Z870-I Gaming WiFi. This Mini-ITX motherboard is expected to be a strong contender based on the success of its predecessor, the X670-I. The ROG Strix X870-F Gaming and X870-A Gaming models are also expected to be popular choices, offering similar features to the Hero model at a more affordable price point.
The Asus TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi motherboard features a unique blocky design and includes WiFi 7, USB4, and dual Gen 5 SSD support. The TUF brand has transitioned from a focus on reliability to a more budget-friendly gaming brand, making this motherboard a potentially competitive mid-range option if priced attractively.
The ProArt X870E Creator WiFi motherboard is targeted towards creators and comes with a 3-month Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. It offers a range of USB ports, 10G LAN, 2.5G LAN, and WiFi 7 support. The black and gold design of this motherboard adds a touch of elegance, although it is expected to come with a higher price tag compared to other models.
Asus also offers options in the mainstream Prime family, including the Prime X870-P WiFi and Prime X870-P. While both boards offer similar features, the X870-P WiFi model lacks WiFi support, which may seem out of place in today’s market. However, both boards come with Gen 5 SSD support and USB4 connectivity, with the X870-P WiFi standing out for its four PCIe expansion slots.
Overall, the Asus X870E and X870 motherboard lineup offers a diverse range of options catering to different user needs and preferences. From high-end gaming rigs to budget-friendly options for creators, Asus has designed a lineup that addresses a wide range of requirements. While pricing information is still not available, it is expected that these motherboards will come at a premium due to the advanced features and technologies they offer.