ASRock Z690 Aqua OC Review | 107 Data compared
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ASRock Z690 Aqua OC Review | 107 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£560
  • CPU socket: LGA 1700
  • Chipset: Intel Z690
  • Form factor: E-ATX

ASRock Z690 Aqua OC review. Compare 107 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Motherboards category and whether it is worth buying.

7.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the motherboard's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best motherboards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

7.8

Technical Score

10.0%

8.4

User score

Very good
7.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Motherboards category across these key areas: Platform & Features, Memory, Storage, Expansion, Ports & USB, Network, Audio, Power & Cooling.

When it matters: When you want to compare motherboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

19.0%

5.4

Memory

16.0%

9.6

Platform & Features

16.0%

8.0

Storage

15.0%

9.6

Network

13.0%

5.3

Ports & USB

8.0%

8.0

Expansion

8.0%

9.3

Power & Cooling

5.0%

9.2

Audio

Very good
8.4

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the motherboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a motherboard performs in real-world builds and how reliable it is in terms of stability, BIOS usability, connectivity, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

7.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(205)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(11)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Excellent
  • 8.3
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    8.5

    VRM phases

    22.0%

    7.8

    N. of M.2 sockets

    18.0%

    10

    LAN speed

    17.0%

    5.5

    Maximum RAM speed

    15.0%

    10

    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The ASRock Z690 Aqua OC is an ultra-premium, E-ATX flagship motherboard limited to only 500 units worldwide, specifically engineered for extreme overclocking on the Intel LGA1700 socket. Key technical specifications include a robust 20-phase 105A Smart Power Stage (SPS) VRM design, dual-channel DDR5 support optimized for two DIMM slots reaching speeds over 7000MHz (OC), and an integrated custom-loop monoblock that cools both the CPU and VRMs. It features two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, triple Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4x4) sockets, and top-tier connectivity including Marvell 10GbE, Killer 2.5GbE, Wi-Fi 6E, and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. Notable pros are its record-breaking overclocking potential, a built-in OLED status display, and an included digital leak detector for water cooling safety. However, primary cons include its high price point, a limited count of only three M.2 slots, and the lack of native PCIe 5.0 support for M.2 storage.

Technical Specifications of motherboard ASRock Z690 Aqua OC

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Motherboards category across these key areas: Platform & Features, Memory, Storage, Expansion, Ports & USB, Network, Audio, Power & Cooling.

When it matters: When you want to compare motherboards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

19.0%

5.4

Memory

16.0%

9.6

Platform & Features

16.0%

8.0

Storage

15.0%

9.6

Network

13.0%

5.3

Ports & USB

8.0%

8.0

Expansion

8.0%

9.3

Power & Cooling

5.0%

9.2

Audio

7.8
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a technical score of 7.82 points, which is higher than that of 73.1% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the motherboard.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a motherboard performs in real-world builds and how reliable it is in terms of stability, BIOS usability, connectivity, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

7.8

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(205)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.0
(11)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

8.4
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a user score of 8.37 points, which is higher than that of 69.8% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the motherboard.
When it matters: When you prefer a motherboard that has already been bought and reviewed by many other users.
7.8
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a popularity of 7.8 points, which is higher than 69.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the motherboard's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a motherboard that offers a strong balance of features, performance, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.9

Overall score

40.0%

7.6

Price

7.8
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.8 points, which is higher than 59.8% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The brand that makes the motherboard.
When it matters: When you have a brand preference for support, BIOS, or build quality.

Importance: LOW

Asrock
CPU socket
What it is: The socket type the motherboard is built to support.
When it matters: When you need the motherboard to match a specific CPU.

Importance: HIGH

LGA 1700
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC uses the LGA 1,700 CPU socket, which is more advanced than that of 55% of motherboards and equal to that of 22.6% of motherboards.
CPU platform
What it is: The processor platform supported by the motherboard, indicating compatibility with Intel or AMD processors.
When it matters: When choosing a motherboard to match your chosen processor brand (Intel or AMD).

Importance: LOW

Good value: Intel

Intel
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC is built for the Intel CPU platform, which is more versatile than that of 31.6% of motherboards and equal to that of 68.4% of motherboards.
Chipset
What it is: The chipset that defines the motherboard platform and many of its features.
When it matters: When you compare platform features, connectivity, and CPU support.

Importance: HIGH

Intel Z690
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC uses the Intel Z690 chipset, which is more advanced than that of 68.6% of motherboards and equal to that of 3.8% of motherboards.
Form factor
What it is: The physical size standard of the motherboard, such as ATX or Micro-ATX.
When it matters: When you need the board to fit a specific case size.

Importance: LOW

E-ATX
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has the E-ATX form factor, which is less versatile than that of 92% of motherboards and equal to that of 6.8% of motherboards.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the motherboard supports, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the board to match a certain memory platform.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: DDR5

DDR5
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC uses DDR5 memory, which is newer than that of 64.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 35.7% of motherboards.
Memory slots
What it is: The number of RAM slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more room for future memory upgrades.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=4

2
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 2 Memory slots, which is fewer than 78.6% of motherboards and equal to 21.4% of motherboards.
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of RAM the motherboard supports.
When it matters: When you plan a build with very high memory capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

96 GB
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports up to 96 GB of memory, which is less than 59.7% of motherboards and equal to 3% of motherboards.
higher limit with high-density DIMMs
Memory channels
What it is: The memory channel configuration supported by the motherboard platform.
When it matters: When memory bandwidth matters for your build.

Importance: LOW

2
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports 2 memory channels, which is more than 0.2% of motherboards and equal to 92.6% of motherboards.
Maximum RAM speed
What it is: The highest officially supported memory speed for the motherboard.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=6400 MT/s

4,800 MT/s
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports memory speeds up to 4,800 MT/s, which is higher than that of 51.2% of motherboards and equal to that of 5.1% of motherboards.
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N. of M.2 sockets
What it is: The number of M.2 slots available on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want room for more NVMe or M.2 drives.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=3

3
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 3 M.2 sockets, which is more than 65.2% of motherboards and equal to 18.8% of motherboards.
M.2 slot interface per slot
What it is: The storage or PCIe interface available for each M.2 slot on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want to check which drives each M.2 slot can use.

Importance: MEDIUM

1x PCIe 4 x4, 2x PCIe 4 x4/SATA
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC offers 1x PCIe 4.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4/SATA for M.2 slot interfaces, which is faster than that of 67.1% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.2% of motherboards.
N. of SATA 3 connectors
What it is: The number of SATA 6Gb/s connectors on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you plan to connect multiple SATA drives.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=6

6
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 6 SATA 3 connectors, which is more than 52.6% of motherboards and equal to 32.1% of motherboards.
Supported RAID levels
What it is: The RAID modes officially supported by the motherboard storage platform.
When it matters: When you plan to use multiple drives in a RAID setup.

Importance: LOW

0/1/5/10
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports RAID levels 0/1/5/10, which is broader than 32% of motherboards and equal to 68% of motherboards.
NVMe RAID support
What it is: Shows whether the board supports RAID configurations that use NVMe SSDs.
When it matters: When you plan to use multiple NVMe drives in RAID.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports NVMe RAID. 40.3% of motherboards support this feature.
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N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots
What it is: The number of PCIe 5.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want the newest high-bandwidth expansion slots.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=1

2
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 2 PCIe 5.0x16 slots, which is more than 95.2% of motherboards and equal to 4.3% of motherboards.
N. of PCIe 4.0 x16 slots
What it is: The number of PCIe 4.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more room for modern expansion cards.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=1

1
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 1 PCIe 4.0x16 slots, which is more than 55.5% of motherboards and equal to 35.4% of motherboards.
N. of PCIe 3.0 x16 slots
What it is: The number of PCIe 3.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need more full-length expansion slots.

Importance: LOW

1
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 1 PCIe 3.0x16 slots, which is more than 40.5% of motherboards and equal to 26.8% of motherboards.
PCIe slot electrical configuration
What it is: The actual lane wiring used by the motherboard PCIe slots.
When it matters: When you need to know how much bandwidth each slot really gets.

Importance: LOW

x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC uses x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 for PCIe slot electrical configuration, which is more flexible than that of 62.6% of motherboards and equal to that of 12.4% of motherboards.
PCIe bifurcation support
What it is: Shows whether the board can split PCIe lanes across multiple devices from one slot or link.
When it matters: When you plan multi-SSD adapters or more advanced expansion setups.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports PCIe bifurcation. 40.4% of motherboards support this feature.
x8/x8.
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Total USB ports (rear I/O)
What it is: The total number of rear USB ports available on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you use many USB devices directly from the back of the PC.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=8

6
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 6 USB ports (rear I/O), which is fewer than 64.3% of motherboards and equal to 32.7% of motherboards.
Total USB ports (including headers)
What it is: The total number of USB ports supported when rear ports and internal headers are counted together.
When it matters: When you want to know the board's full USB expansion potential.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=14

16
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 16 USB ports (including headers), which is more than 61.1% of motherboards and equal to 10.1% of motherboards.
Total USB-C ports (rear I/O)
What it is: The total number of rear USB-C ports on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more USB-C devices connected without adapters.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=1

2
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 2 USB-C ports (rear I/O), which is more than 84.2% of motherboards and equal to 12.3% of motherboards.
Total USB-C ports (including headers)
What it is: The total number of USB-C ports supported when rear ports and internal headers are counted together.
When it matters: When you want more USB-C connectivity across the whole build.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

4
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 4 USB-C ports (including headers), which is more than 95.6% of motherboards and equal to 2.8% of motherboards.
N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C)
What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C ports on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want very fast USB-C connectivity on the rear I/O.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=1

0
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C), which is fewer than 18.3% of motherboards and equal to 81.7% of motherboards.
Thunderbolt excluded.
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LAN speed
What it is: The maximum wired Ethernet speed supported by the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want faster wired networking.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 2.5GbE

10 Gbps
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports LAN speeds up to 10 Gbps, which is higher than that of 95.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 4.2% of motherboards.
also includes 2.5GbE secondary port
LAN controller
What it is: The model of onboard Ethernet controller used by the motherboard.
When it matters: When you compare networking hardware quality and features.

Importance: MEDIUM

Marvell AQtion AQC113C + Killer E3100G
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC uses the Marvell AQtion AQC113C + Killer E3100G LAN controller, which is more advanced than that of 99% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.1% of motherboards.
dual LAN
N. of RJ45 ports
What it is: The number of wired Ethernet ports on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need one or more wired network connections.

Importance: MEDIUM

2
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 2 RJ45 ports, which is more than 85.7% of motherboards and equal to 13.4% of motherboards.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Shows whether the motherboard includes onboard Wi-Fi hardware instead of requiring a separate adapter.
When it matters: When you want wireless networking without adding an extra card.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 50% of motherboards support this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The supported Wi-Fi generation, such as Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7.
When it matters: When you care about wireless speed and router compatibility.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)

Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), which is newer than that of 72.1% of motherboards and equal to that of 16.6% of motherboards.
Show more
Audio codec
What it is: The onboard audio codec used by the motherboard.
When it matters: When sound quality from the built-in audio matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Realtek ALC1220
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC uses the Realtek ALC1,220 audio codec, which is more advanced than that of 65.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 12.9% of motherboards.
with ESS DAC.
Audio channels
What it is: The audio channel configuration supported by the onboard sound solution.
When it matters: When you want surround sound from the motherboard audio outputs.

Importance: LOW

Good value: 7.1

7.1
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC offers 7.1 audio channels, which is more than 4.9% of motherboards and equal to 95.1% of motherboards.
Audio SNR
What it is: The signal-to-noise ratio of the onboard audio solution.
When it matters: When you care about cleaner onboard audio output.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=120 dB

120 dB
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has an audio SNR of 120 dB, which is higher than that of 56% of motherboards and equal to that of 40.5% of motherboards.
Headphone amp support
What it is: Shows whether the onboard audio path includes dedicated headphone amplification for harder-to-drive headsets.
When it matters: When you use harder-to-drive headphones from the onboard audio.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports a headphone amp. 40.8% of motherboards support this feature.
supports up to 600Ω.
N. of 3.5mm audio jacks
What it is: The number of rear 3.5mm audio jacks on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you want more analog audio connection options.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=5

5
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 5 3.5mm audio jacks, which is more than 49.6% of motherboards and equal to 37% of motherboards.
Show more
VRM phases
What it is: The number of power-delivery phases used by the motherboard VRM.
When it matters: When you care about CPU power delivery and overclocking headroom.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=12

20
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 20 VRM phases, which is more than 93.4% of motherboards and equal to 0.5% of motherboards.
N. of CPU power connectors
What it is: The number of CPU power connectors on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you care about power delivery for higher-end CPUs.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

2
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 2 CPU power connectors, which is more than 54.6% of motherboards and equal to 45.1% of motherboards.
Dual 8-pin CPU power.
N. of fan headers
What it is: The number of headers available for case or CPU fans.
When it matters: When your build uses several fans.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=6

8
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has 8 fan headers, which is more than 82.2% of motherboards and equal to 15% of motherboards.
Pump header
What it is: Shows whether the motherboard includes a dedicated header designed for a liquid-cooling pump.
When it matters: When you build with an AIO or custom liquid cooling loop.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a pump header. 21.9% of motherboards include this feature.
Pump header max current
What it is: The maximum current the dedicated pump header can supply.
When it matters: When you want to make sure the pump header can power your cooling setup.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2 A

3 A
ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports up to 3 A on the pump header, which is higher than that of 77.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 22.1% of motherboards.
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ASRock Z690 Aqua OC vs the average motherboard

  • More advanced LAN controller
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has better LAN controller than the average motherboard (Marvell AQtion AQC113C + Killer E3100G vs Killer + Intel + Realtek). The average motherboard uses Killer + Intel + Realtek LAN controller.
    dual LAN
    What it is: The model of onboard Ethernet controller used by the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you compare networking hardware quality and features.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has better LAN controller than the average motherboard (Marvell AQtion AQC113C + Killer E3100G vs Killer + Intel + Realtek). The average motherboard uses Killer + Intel + Realtek LAN controller.Marvell AQtion AQC113C + Killer E3100G vs Killer + Intel + Realtek
  • 2 more PCIe 5.0x16 slots
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more PCIe 5.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 5.0x16 slot/s.
    What it is: The number of PCIe 5.0 x16 physical slots on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want the newest high-bandwidth expansion slots.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more PCIe 5.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 5.0x16 slot/s.2 vs 0
  • Newer DDR memory generation
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR5 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.
    What it is: The RAM generation the motherboard supports, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
    When it matters: When you need the board to match a certain memory platform.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: DDR5

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR5 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.DDR5 vs DDR4
  • Newer CPU socket
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 1,700 vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 CPU socket.
    What it is: The socket type the motherboard is built to support.
    When it matters: When you need the motherboard to match a specific CPU.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 1,700 vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 CPU socket.LGA 1700 vs LGA 1151
  • More VRM phases
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more VRM phases than the average motherboard (20 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.
    What it is: The number of power-delivery phases used by the motherboard VRM.
    When it matters: When you care about CPU power delivery and overclocking headroom.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=12

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more VRM phases than the average motherboard (20 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.20 vs 10
  • 1 more M.2 sockets
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.
    What it is: The number of M.2 slots available on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want room for more NVMe or M.2 drives.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=3

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.3 vs 2
  • 4x higher LAN speed
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a higher LAN speed than the average motherboard (10 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.
    also includes 2.5GbE secondary port
    What it is: The maximum wired Ethernet speed supported by the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want faster wired networking.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 2.5GbE

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a higher LAN speed than the average motherboard (10 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.10 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps
  • 1 more rear USB-C ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more rear USB-C ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 rear USB-C port/s.
    What it is: The total number of rear USB-C ports on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want more USB-C devices connected without adapters.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=1

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more rear USB-C ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 rear USB-C port/s.2 vs 1
  • Newer CPU socket
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 1,700 vs LGA 1,151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1,151 CPU socket.
  • Integrated I/O shield
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has an integrated I/O shield, while the average motherboard does not. 46% of motherboards include an integrated I/O shield.
  • Includes POST code display
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • Includes dual BIOS
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 23% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
  • Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a rear-panel CMOS reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 26.7% of motherboards include a rear-panel CMOS reset button.
  • Includes onboard power button
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has an onboard power button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.7% of motherboards include an onboard power button.
  • Includes onboard reset button
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has an onboard reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.6% of motherboards include an onboard reset button.
  • Newer DDR memory generation
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR5 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.
  • 1 more M.2 sockets
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.
  • 2 more SATA 3 connectors
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (6 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
  • 2 more PCIe 5.0x16 slots
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more PCIe 5.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 5.0x16 slot/s.
  • 1 more PCIe 4.0x16 slots
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more PCIe 4.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe 4.0x16 slot/s.
  • 1 more rear USB-C ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more rear USB-C ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 rear USB-C port/s.
  • 3 more total USB-C connections
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more total USB-C connections than the average motherboard (4 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 total USB-C connections.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen1 headers
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more USB 3.2 Gen1 headers than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen1 header/s.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.
  • 2 more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 header/s.
  • 2 more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers than the average motherboard (2 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 header/s.
  • 1 more total USB connections
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (16 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
  • More advanced LAN controller
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has better LAN controller than the average motherboard (Marvell AQtion AQC113C + Killer E3100G vs Killer + Intel + Realtek). The average motherboard uses Killer + Intel + Realtek LAN controller.
  • 4x higher LAN speed
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a higher LAN speed than the average motherboard (10 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.
  • Newer Wi-Fi standard
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has newer Wi-Fi standard than the average motherboard (Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)). The average motherboard supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) Wi-Fi.
  • Supports Bluetooth
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC supports Bluetooth, while the average motherboard does not. 48.9% of motherboards support Bluetooth.
  • Better audio codec
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has better audio codec than the average motherboard (Realtek ALC1,220 vs Realtek ALC897). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC897 audio codec.
  • 5 dB higher audio SNR
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a higher audio SNR than the average motherboard (120 dB vs 115 dB). The average motherboard has audio SNR of 115 dB.
  • More VRM phases
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more VRM phases than the average motherboard (20 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.
  • 1 more CPU power connectors
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more CPU power connectors than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 CPU power connectors.
  • 2.5 more fan headers
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more fan headers than the average motherboard (8 vs 5.5). The average motherboard has 5.5 fan header/s.
  • 1 more ARGB headers
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more ARGB headers than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
  • 1 A higher pump header current limit
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has a higher pump header current than the average motherboard (3 A vs 2 A). The average motherboard provides pump header current of 2 A.

Total
Platform & Features
Memory
Storage
Expansion
Ports & USB
Network
Audio
Power & Cooling
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z690 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
  • Less versatile form factor
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has less versatile form factor than the average motherboard (E-ATX vs ATX). The average motherboard comes in ATX form factor.
  • Fewer useful accessories
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer useful accessories than the average motherboard (4x SATA cables, Wi-Fi antenna, M.2 kit vs 2x SATA cables, Wi-Fi antenna, M.2 kit, front-panel adapter, RGB cable). The average motherboard comes with 2x SATA cables, Wi-Fi antenna, M.2 kit, front-panel adapter, RGB cable.
  • 2 fewer memory slots
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer memory slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.
  • 25% less maximum memory capacity
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (96 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.
    higher limit with high-density DIMMs
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (1x PCIe 4.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4). The average motherboard uses 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 slot interfaces.
  • 2 fewer rear USB ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer rear USB ports than the average motherboard (6 vs 8). The average motherboard has 8 rear USB port/s.
  • 2 fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
  • 2 fewer USB 2.0 ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer USB 2.0 ports than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 USB 2.0 port/s.
  • 1 fewer RJ45 ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer RJ45 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 RJ45 port/s.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has older Bluetooth version than the average motherboard (5.2 vs 5.4). The average motherboard supports Bluetooth 5.4.
  • 23 mm wider
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC is wider than the average motherboard (267 mm vs 244 mm). The average motherboard width is 244 mm.
  • 2 fewer memory slots
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer memory slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.
    What it is: The number of RAM slots on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want more room for future memory upgrades.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=4

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer memory slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.2 vs 4
  • 2 fewer rear USB ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer rear USB ports than the average motherboard (6 vs 8). The average motherboard has 8 rear USB port/s.
    What it is: The total number of rear USB ports available on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you use many USB devices directly from the back of the PC.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=8

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer rear USB ports than the average motherboard (6 vs 8). The average motherboard has 8 rear USB port/s.6 vs 8
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z690 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
    What it is: The chipset that defines the motherboard platform and many of its features.
    When it matters: When you compare platform features, connectivity, and CPU support.

    Importance: HIGH

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z690 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.Intel Z690 vs Intel B860
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (1x PCIe 4.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4). The average motherboard uses 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 slot interfaces.
    What it is: The storage or PCIe interface available for each M.2 slot on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want to check which drives each M.2 slot can use.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (1x PCIe 4.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4). The average motherboard uses 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4 M.2 slot interfaces.1x PCIe 4x4, 2x PCIe 4x4/SATA vs 1x PCIe 5x4, 2x PCIe 4x4
  • 2 fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.
    What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want more standard USB ports with faster transfer speeds.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=4

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 USB 3.2 Gen1 port/s.2 vs 4
  • 25% less maximum memory capacity
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (96 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.
    higher limit with high-density DIMMs
    What it is: The largest total amount of RAM the motherboard supports.
    When it matters: When you plan a build with very high memory capacity.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=128 GB

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (96 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.96 GB vs 128 GB
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
    What it is: The number of DisplayPort video outputs on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want to connect compatible displays through the rear I/O.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1

    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.0 vs 1
  • 3.5x more expensive
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC is more expensive than the average motherboard (£560 vs £160).
    ASRock Z690 Aqua OC is more expensive than the average motherboard (£560 vs £160).£560 vs £160
Total
Overall
Platform & Features
Memory
Storage
Ports & USB
Network
Power & Cooling

Graphic comparison of ASRock Z690 Aqua OC and other products in the Motherboards category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
205 Reviews
United States
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4.0
11 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about ASRock Z690 Aqua OC?

  • Premium integrated monoblock provides efficient cooling for both the CPU and VRMs.
  • Elite overclocking performance, specifically for DDR5 memory due to the 1DPC (one DIMM per channel) layout.
  • Extensive high-end connectivity including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and 10GbE + 2.5GbE LAN.
  • Striking 'NASA-like' futuristic aesthetic with high-quality stainless steel and aluminum materials.
  • Unique accessories included, such as a digital water leak detector and additional thermal pads.
  • Limited edition exclusivity with only 500 units produced worldwide.

What customers dislike about ASRock Z690 Aqua OC?

  • Extremely high price point (MSRP ~$1,399 - $1,499), making it one of the most expensive Z690 boards.
  • Limited memory capacity and expansion with only two DIMM slots compared to the four found on standard boards.
  • Lacks a PCIe 5.0-capable M.2 socket, which is disappointing at this price tier.
  • Fewer M.2 storage slots (three total) than many competing flagship motherboards.
  • Rear I/O connectivity for USB Type-A is relatively sparse for an enthusiast-class board.
  • Requires a custom water cooling loop to be functional, as it lacks standalone VRM heatsinks.

Video reviews

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