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The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi is a feature-rich ATX motherboard for Intel’s LGA1700 processors, and it can still make sense if you already own a compatible CPU or find the board at a meaningful discount. Its biggest catch is easy to miss: installing a PCIe 5.0 SSD in M.2_1 reduces the main graphics slot from x16 to x8. For a new build without an LGA1700 processor, compare the full cost and upgrade path of a newer platform before buying.
What the ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi offers
This original Z790-E is an enthusiast-class, full-size ATX board built around Intel’s Z790 chipset and LGA1700 socket. It uses DDR5 memory only. ASUS lists support for Intel 12th-, 13th-, and 14th-generation desktop processors, as well as compatible Pentium Gold and Celeron LGA1700 processors. It is not a board for newer LGA1851 Core Ultra desktop processors.
Its appeal is the combination of five M.2 sockets, extensive USB connectivity, 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, onboard troubleshooting controls, and a substantial power and cooling layout. ASUS advertises an 18+1 power solution with 90A-rated stages. Those specifications describe the hardware design; they are not, by themselves, a benchmark of performance or a reason to expect a particular overclocking result.
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For the complete current specification, see ASUS’s ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi specifications. The official product page covers its advertised features.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Specifications at a glance
| Feature | ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi |
|---|---|
| Socket and chipset | Intel LGA1700, Z790 |
| Form factor | ATX |
| Processor support | Intel 12th-, 13th-, and 14th-generation desktop CPUs; compatible Pentium Gold and Celeron CPUs |
| Memory | Four DDR5 DIMM slots, dual-channel, up to 192GB; ASUS lists speeds up to DDR5-7800+ OC, depending on configuration |
| Expansion | One CPU-connected PCIe 5.0 x16 slot; two chipset-connected x16-length PCIe 4.0 slots operating at x4 |
| Storage | Five M.2 sockets and four SATA 6Gb/s ports; M.2_1 is PCIe 5.0 x4, while the other M.2 sockets are PCIe 4.0 x4, with M.2_5 also supporting SATA mode |
| Networking | Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, 2×2 Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Rear USB | 12 ports, including one USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C (20Gbps-class) |
| Audio | ROG SupremeFX 7.1-channel audio based on Realtek ALC4080; rear optical S/PDIF |
| Diagnostics and recovery | BIOS FlashBack, Clear CMOS button, Q-LED indicators, Q-Code display, and Start button |
Specifications can vary in practical use with the CPU, BIOS, memory kit, and installed devices. Check ASUS’s current support information for the exact processor and memory configuration you plan to use.
Understand the GPU and PCIe 5.0 SSD trade-off
The main graphics slot is connected to the CPU and supports PCIe 5.0 x16, but it shares CPU lanes with M.2_1. When M.2_1 is populated, the graphics slot runs at x8. That is the board’s most consequential layout constraint for a gaming build: if you want a PCIe 5.0 SSD in that socket and expect the GPU slot to remain x16, this board cannot provide both conditions at once.
| Connector | Connection and practical note |
|---|---|
| Main graphics slot | CPU-connected PCIe 5.0 x16; operates at x8 when M.2_1 is occupied |
| M.2_1 | PCIe 5.0 x4; using it triggers the GPU-slot lane-sharing behavior |
| M.2_2, M.2_3, M.2_4 | PCIe 4.0 x4 |
| M.2_5 | PCIe 4.0 x4 or SATA mode |
| Other expansion slots | Two chipset-connected PCIe 4.0 x16-length slots, each operating at x4 |
| SATA | Four 6Gb/s ports |
If preserving the main slot’s x16 link matters more than having a PCIe 5.0 SSD, use one of the PCIe 4.0 M.2 sockets for NVMe storage. For many gaming PCs, a PCIe 4.0 drive is the simpler fit: it avoids the M.2_1 trade-off while leaving four M.2 sockets available. If you plan multiple expansion cards or a complex drive layout, consult the motherboard manual for slot allocation and sharing details before installation.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Remove the relevant M.2 heatsink before fitting a drive, then reinstall it correctly. M.2_5 supports SATA-mode drives, but check the manual’s storage tables before populating every M.2 and SATA connector. If the operating system will boot from an Intel Rapid Storage Technology RAID volume, plan and configure the RAID setup before installing the OS and its required drivers.
CPU and BIOS compatibility
ASUS’s current specification lists 12th-, 13th-, and 14th-generation Intel desktop CPU support. The board’s older English manual predates 14th-generation support and lists only 12th- and 13th-generation processors, so use the current ASUS specification and the board’s CPU support information rather than treating that older manual as the final word.
Support for a CPU family does not guarantee that every board will boot with every later processor straight out of the box. A board manufactured before a needed BIOS or microcode release may require an update. Check the exact CPU model and its required BIOS before assembly; if the installed CPU is not recognized, BIOS FlashBack can update firmware without relying on a successful normal boot.
Rank #3
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DDR5 capacity and realistic memory speeds
The current ASUS specification lists four DDR5 DIMM slots, dual-channel operation, non-ECC unbuffered memory, XMP support, and up to 192GB. It also lists memory speeds through DDR5-7800+ as overclocked options. The older manual lists 128GB, so the current product specification is the more relevant capacity reference; confirm the precise kit and CPU combination in ASUS’s support information.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchDDR5-7800+ is not a promise that every kit, processor, BIOS, or four-module configuration will run at that speed. Memory overclocking depends on the CPU’s memory controller, DIMM count and rank, BIOS, and the particular kit. Two matched modules are generally a more practical route to high memory speeds than filling all four slots.
- Gaming: Start with a matched 32GB or 64GB kit suited to your budget and games.
- Content creation and workstation use: Consider 96GB or 192GB only when your workload benefits from the capacity, and validate the exact kit on ASUS’s memory-support list.
- First boot: Confirm stable operation at default memory settings before enabling XMP. If instability appears after enabling it, return to defaults and troubleshoot before adding other overclocking changes.
Networking, USB, audio, and cooling
Networking
The board provides Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet, ASUS LANGuard, 2×2 Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. Wi-Fi 6E can use 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, subject to local regulations and compatible network equipment. It is not Wi-Fi 7, and a 6GHz-capable motherboard alone will not add 6GHz to a router or client that lacks it. Attach the supplied Wi-Fi antenna and follow the manual’s placement guidance.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
USB connectivity
ASUS lists 12 rear USB ports: one USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, seven USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (six Type-A and one Type-C), and four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports. The front-panel USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C header supports up to 30W USB Power Delivery fast charging when paired with a compatible case connection and device. USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 is a 20Gbps-class interface; not every Type-C port has that speed or charging capability.
Audio and cooling
The manual identifies ROG SupremeFX 7.1-channel audio, a Realtek ALC4080 codec, a Savitech SV3H712 amplifier, support for up to 32-bit/384kHz playback, rear optical S/PDIF, and gold-plated analog audio jacks. These are component and implementation specifications, not a guarantee that onboard audio will outperform a dedicated interface or headphone amplifier in every setup.
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For cooling, ASUS lists VRM heatsinks, multiple M.2 heatsinks, one AIO pump header, CPU and CPU optional-fan headers, and five chassis-fan headers. The board’s power connectors and cooling hardware are useful for a high-power build, but CPU temperatures and sustained performance still depend heavily on the processor, cooler, case airflow, and settings.
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Build and first-boot checklist
- Confirm fit and power: Check that the case supports an ATX motherboard and that the PSU has the CPU power connectors required by your build. ASUS provides two 8-pin CPU power connectors; connect both for a high-power processor build.
- Verify the CPU and BIOS: Look up the exact CPU model and required BIOS before assembly. Update firmware before tuning memory, overclocking, or undervolting.
- Install memory in the recommended slots: For two modules, use the DIMM positions specified in the manual. Begin at default memory settings.
- Plan the storage layout: Decide whether the performance benefit of a PCIe 5.0 SSD in M.2_1 is worth having the GPU slot run at x8. Fit drives with their M.2 heatsinks removed, then reinstall the heatsinks.
- Connect the antenna and front-panel leads: Attach the Wi-Fi antenna and connect case USB headers, including front Type-C if your case has the matching cable and you want that port’s capabilities.
- Boot at defaults and diagnose deliberately: Use the Q-LED indicators and Q-Code display to identify whether a stalled boot is associated with the CPU, memory, graphics, or boot device. Once the system is stable, enable XMP and test again.
- Check cooling under load: Confirm fan operation and review CPU temperatures during sustained workloads rather than relying only on a brief idle reading.
Updating BIOS with FlashBack
BIOS menu labels and options can change between releases. Use the live ASUS support page for the BIOS files and current documentation; a dated BIOS manual is not proof of the latest firmware version.
- Download the BIOS for the exact ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi model from ASUS’s support page.
- Prepare a USB drive for the update; ASUS recommends a USB 2.0 drive for compatibility. Use the manual’s directions for formatting and the designated rear BIOS FlashBack port.
- Rename the BIOS file to
SZ790E.CAP, or use ASUS’s BIOSRenamer utility. - Shut down the computer, insert the drive into the BIOS FlashBack port, and press the FlashBack button for three seconds.
- Wait for the FlashBack LED to turn off. Do not remove power or the USB drive, or press Clear CMOS, while the update is in progress.
If the LED flashes for five seconds and then stays solid, ASUS identifies the condition as a FlashBack failure commonly related to the USB device, file name, or file format. Recheck that the BIOS is for the correct board, the file is named correctly, and the drive and port follow the manual’s procedure. Retry with a simple USB 2.0 drive if needed; do not interrupt an update while the LED is active.
Original Z790-E versus Z790-E Gaming WiFi II
The original ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi and the Z790-E Gaming WiFi II are distinct products, not interchangeable names for the same board. Confirm the full model name on the box, product listing, and support page before downloading firmware or comparing specifications.
The supplied official comparison point is ASUS’s ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II, not a verified specification sheet for a Z790-E Gaming WiFi II. ASUS advertises Wi-Fi 7 and a different storage and USB configuration for that Z790-F II. Do not transfer those features to the original Z790-E—or assume a model with “II” in its name has the same slot layout, power design, or storage arrangement. Compare the exact board’s official specifications before purchasing.
Who should buy it—and who should skip it?
It makes sense if
- You already own a compatible 12th-, 13th-, or 14th-generation LGA1700 processor.
- You need several M.2 drives, plentiful USB connectivity, and built-in Wi-Fi plus 2.5Gb Ethernet.
- You value FlashBack, Q-LEDs, a Q-Code display, and physical troubleshooting controls.
- You find it at a substantial discount compared with newer-platform options.
Look elsewhere if
- You are starting a PC build from scratch and are not committed to LGA1700; compare the total CPU-and-motherboard cost and the newer platform’s upgrade path.
- You need Wi-Fi 7 or a newer CPU socket.
- You want both a PCIe 5.0 SSD in M.2_1 and an x16 link to the graphics card.
- You only need one or two M.2 drives and ordinary expansion; a less expensive board may cover those needs without paying for this model’s extras.
For a lower-tier LGA1700 comparison, ASUS’s ROG Strix Z790-H Gaming WiFi is listed with four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots and Wi-Fi 6E. For a newer platform, the ROG Strix Z890-E Gaming WiFi uses LGA1851, so it is not a drop-in replacement: it requires a compatible processor and a new platform plan.
There is no reliable universal price verdict without checking the listing in your region. ASUS’s Where to Buy page is a starting point, but compare the actual checkout price with current alternatives. The board is compelling when its premium features are useful and its price reflects its LGA1700 platform age; it is much harder to justify near the cost of a newer CPU-and-board combination.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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