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ASUS Prime Z390 A Review | 107 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£230
  • Avg. price in US: ~$180
  • CPU socket: LGA 1151
  • Chipset: Intel Z390
  • Form factor: ATX

ASUS Prime Z390 A review. Compare 107 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among motherboards and if it is worth buying.

6.6

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%

6.2

Technical Score

10.0%

9.5

User score

Good
6.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the motherboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as power delivery, CPU and memory support, expansion, storage, connectivity, cooling, BIOS features, and design.

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

Score components:

19.0%

6.9

Memory

16.0%

6.8

Platform & Features

16.0%

6.0

Storage

15.0%

5.3

Network

13.0%

6.1

Ports & USB

8.0%

4.0

Expansion

8.0%

6.5

Power & Cooling

5.0%

9.6

Audio

Good
9.5

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%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(4213)
amazon
4.5
(1334)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(4329)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(1320)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 4.5
    Gaming

    Score components:

    28.0%

    5.5

    VRM phases

    22.0%

    5.5

    N. of M.2 sockets

    18.0%

    4.6

    LAN speed

    17.0%

    4.7

    Maximum RAM speed

    15.0%

    1.0

    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots

  • asus-prime-z390-a
asus-prime-z390-a

Best prices in UK

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 ASUS Prime Z390-A is an ATX motherboard built on the Intel Z390 chipset for 8th and 9th Gen Intel Core processors, featuring an LGA 1151 socket, four DDR4 DIMM slots supporting up to 128GB at 4266MHz (O.C.), and dual M.2 slots with one dedicated heatsink. Key advantages include AI Overclocking for automated performance tuning, robust 5X Protection III hardware safeguards, and high-fidelity audio via the Realtek S1220A codec with Crystal Sound 3. Connectivity is strong with USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A/Type-C ports and a Thunderbolt 3 header, although users have occasionally noted issues with the proprietary RGB software and potential PCIe bandwidth sharing between the third x16 slot and specific SATA ports.

Technical Specifications of ASUS Prime Z390 A

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the motherboard's technical performance, covering key areas such as power delivery, CPU and memory support, expansion, storage, connectivity, cooling, BIOS features, and design.

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

Score components:

19.0%

6.9

Memory

16.0%

6.8

Platform & Features

16.0%

6.0

Storage

15.0%

5.3

Network

13.0%

6.1

Ports & USB

8.0%

4.0

Expansion

8.0%

6.5

Power & Cooling

5.0%

9.6

Audio

6.2
ASUS Prime Z390 A has a technical score of 6.25 points, which is lower than that of 51.5% 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%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(4213)
amazon
4.5
(1334)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(4329)
Amazon_logo.png
4.6
(1320)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.5
ASUS Prime Z390 A has a user score of 9.51 points, which is higher than that of 99.3% 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.
10
ASUS Prime Z390 A has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 79.9% 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%

6.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.3

Price

7.4
ASUS Prime Z390 A has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.4 points, which is higher than 50.6% 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: MEDIUM

Asus
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 1151
ASUS Prime Z390 A uses the LGA 1151 CPU socket, which is less advanced than that of 70.5% of motherboards and equal to that of 13.8% of motherboards.
300-series / v2 revision.
CPU platform

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
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 Z390
ASUS Prime Z390 A uses the Intel Z390 chipset, which is less advanced than that of 60.1% of motherboards and equal to that of 2.1% 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: HIGH

ATX
ASUS Prime Z390 A has the ATX form factor, which is more versatile than that of 47.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 52.2% 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

DDR4
ASUS Prime Z390 A uses DDR4 memory, which is newer than that of 13.6% of motherboards and equal to that of 51% 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: HIGH

Good value: >=4

4
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 4 Memory slots, which is more than 21.5% of motherboards and equal to 72.5% 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

128 GB
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 40.4% of motherboards and equal to 32.1% of motherboards.
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: MEDIUM

2
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports 2 memory channels, which is more than 0.2% of motherboards and equal to 92.5% 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: HIGH

Good value: >=6400 MT/s

4,266 MT/s
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports memory speeds up to 4266 MT/s, which is lower than that of 54.5% of motherboards and equal to that of 0.8% 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

2
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 2 M.2 sockets, which is more than 30.8% of motherboards and equal to 34.6% 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: HIGH

1x PCIe 3.0 x4/SATA, 1x PCIe 3.0 x4
ASUS Prime Z390 A offers 1x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA, 1x PCIe 3.0x4 for M.2 slot interfaces, which is slower than that of 63.9% of motherboards and equal to that of 3.3% 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: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6

6
ASUS Prime Z390 A 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: MEDIUM

0/1/5/10
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports RAID levels 0/1/5/10, which is broader than 31.8% of motherboards and equal to 68.2% 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: LOW

yes
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports NVMe RAID. 40.3% of motherboards support this feature.
Show more
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: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 0 PCIe 5.0x16 slots, which is equal to 68.5% 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: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 0 PCIe 4.0x16 slots, which is equal to 55.6% 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: MEDIUM

3
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 3 PCIe 3.0x16 slots, which is more than 82.8% of motherboards and equal to 11.1% of motherboards.
runs at x4 mode
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: HIGH

x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4
ASUS Prime Z390 A uses x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 for PCIe slot electrical configuration, which is more flexible than that of 56.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 11.7% 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: MEDIUM

yes
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports PCIe bifurcation. 39.1% of motherboards support this feature.
x8/x8, x8/x4/x4.
Show more
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: MEDIUM

Good value: >=8

8
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 8 USB ports (rear I/O), which is more than 40.3% of motherboards and equal to 30.7% 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

17
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 17 USB ports (including headers), which is more than 72.1% of motherboards and equal to 10.8% 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

1
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 1 USB-C ports (rear I/O), which is more than 35.4% of motherboards and equal to 48.8% 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: MEDIUM

Good value: >=2

2
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 2 USB-C ports (including headers), which is more than 51.8% of motherboards and equal to 32.8% 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: HIGH

Good value: >=1

0
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C), which is equal to 81.6% of motherboards.
10Gbps excluded.
Show more
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

1 Gbps
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports LAN speeds up to 1 Gbps, which is lower than that of 50.8% of motherboards and equal to that of 49.1% of motherboards.
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

Intel I219-V
ASUS Prime Z390 A uses the Intel I219-V LAN controller, which is more advanced than that of 41% of motherboards and equal to that of 14.2% of motherboards.
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: LOW

1
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 1 RJ45 ports, which is equal to 85.6% 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: MEDIUM

no
ASUS Prime Z390 A does not support Wi-Fi connectivity. 49.1% 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: MEDIUM

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

N/A
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

SupremeFX S1220A
ASUS Prime Z390 A uses the SupremeFX S1220A audio codec, which is more advanced than that of 86.7% of motherboards and equal to that of 3.5% of motherboards.
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
ASUS Prime Z390 A 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: MEDIUM

Good value: >=120 dB

120 dB
ASUS Prime Z390 A has an audio SNR of 120 dB, which is higher than that of 55% of motherboards and equal to that of 41.5% 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

yes
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports a headphone amp. 37% of motherboards support this feature.
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
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 5 3.5mm audio jacks, which is more than 49.8% of motherboards and equal to 36.8% 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: HIGH

Good value: >=12

8+1
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 8+1 VRM phases, which is fewer than 66.1% of motherboards and equal to 1.4% 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: HIGH

Good value: >=2

1
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 1 CPU power connectors, which is equal to 54.5% of motherboards.
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: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6

7
ASUS Prime Z390 A has 7 fan headers, which is more than 72.7% of motherboards and equal to 9.5% 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: MEDIUM

yes
ASUS Prime Z390 A has a pump header. 23.1% 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
ASUS Prime Z390 A supports up to 3 A on the pump header, which is higher than that of 76.7% of motherboards and equal to that of 23.2% of motherboards.
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ASUS Prime Z390 A vs the average motherboard

  • 2 more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.
    What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want faster USB-A ports for storage or accessories.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.3 vs 1
  • Better audio codec
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has better audio codec than the average motherboard (SupremeFX S1,220A vs Realtek ALC898). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC898 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

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has better audio codec than the average motherboard (SupremeFX S1,220A vs Realtek ALC898). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC898 audio codec.SupremeFX S1220A vs Realtek ALC898
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C port/s.
    What it is: The number of rear USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want faster rear USB-C connectivity.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=1

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C port/s.1 vs 0
  • 2 more PCIe x1 slots
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more PCIe x1 slots than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe x1 slot/s.
    What it is: The number of PCIe x1 slots on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want space for smaller add-in cards.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more PCIe x1 slots than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe x1 slot/s.3 vs 1
  • 2 more fan headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more fan headers than the average motherboard (7 vs 5). The average motherboard has 5 fan header/s.
    What it is: The number of headers available for case or CPU fans.
    When it matters: When your build uses several fans.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=6

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more fan headers than the average motherboard (7 vs 5). The average motherboard has 5 fan header/s.7 vs 5
  • 2 more total USB connections
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (17 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
    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

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (17 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.17 vs 15
  • 1 more USB 2.0 headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 2.0 headers than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 USB 2.0 header/s.
    supports 6 ports total
    What it is: The number of internal USB 2.0 headers available for case connections.
    When it matters: When your case or accessories need internal USB connections.

    Importance: LOW

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 2.0 headers than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 USB 2.0 header/s.3 vs 2
  • More flexible PCIe lane configuration
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more flexible PCIe lane configuration than the average motherboard (x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1). The average motherboard uses x16/x1 PCIe slot lane 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: HIGH

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more flexible PCIe lane configuration than the average motherboard (x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1). The average motherboard uses x16/x1 PCIe slot lane configuration.x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1
  • Includes onboard power button
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has an onboard power button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.7% of motherboards include an onboard power button.
  • 2 more SATA 3 connectors
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (6 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
  • 2 more PCIe x1 slots
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more PCIe x1 slots than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe x1 slot/s.
  • More flexible PCIe lane configuration
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more flexible PCIe lane configuration than the average motherboard (x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4 vs x16/x1). The average motherboard uses x16/x1 PCIe slot lane configuration.
  • 2 more PCIe 3.0x16 slots
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more PCIe 3.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe 3.0x16 slot/s.
  • 2 more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (3 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 USB-C port/s.
  • 2 more total USB connections
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (17 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
  • 1 more USB 2.0 headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB 2.0 headers than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 USB 2.0 header/s.
  • 1 more USB4 or Thunderbolt headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more USB4 or Thunderbolt headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB4 or Thunderbolt header/s.
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more DVI outputs than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 1 more total USB-C connections
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more total USB-C connections than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 total USB-C connections.
  • Better audio codec
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has better audio codec than the average motherboard (SupremeFX S1,220A vs Realtek ALC898). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC898 audio codec.
  • 5 dB higher audio SNR
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has a higher audio SNR than the average motherboard (120 dB vs 115 dB). The average motherboard has audio SNR of 115 dB.
  • 2 more fan headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more fan headers than the average motherboard (7 vs 5). The average motherboard has 5 fan header/s.
  • 1 more RGB headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more RGB headers than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 RGB header/s.
  • 1 A higher pump header current limit
    ASUS Prime Z390 A 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
Overall
Platform & Features
Storage
Expansion
Ports & USB
Audio
Power & Cooling
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z390 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
  • No BIOS flashback support
    ASUS Prime Z390 A does not support BIOS flashback, while the average motherboard does. 50.8% of motherboards support BIOS flashback.
    requires CPU/RAM
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (1x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA, 1x PCIe 3.0x4 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 USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    ASUS Prime Z390 A 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.
  • Older HDMI version
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has older HDMI version than the average motherboard (1.4 vs 2.1). The average motherboard supports HDMI 2.1.
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has a lower LAN speed than the average motherboard (1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.
  • No Wi-Fi antenna included
    ASUS Prime Z390 A does not include a Wi-Fi antenna, while the average motherboard does. 51.1% of motherboards include a Wi-Fi antenna.
  • 2 fewer ARGB headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
  • Fewer VRM phases
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has fewer VRM phases than the average motherboard (8+1 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z390 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

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z390 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.Intel Z390 vs Intel B860
  • 60% lower LAN speed
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has a lower LAN speed than the average motherboard (1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.
    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

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has a lower LAN speed than the average motherboard (1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps). The average motherboard offers LAN speed of 2.5 Gbps.1 Gbps vs 2.5 Gbps
  • Slower M.2 slot interfaces
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (1x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA, 1x PCIe 3.0x4 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: HIGH

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has slower M.2 slot interfaces than the average motherboard (1x PCIe 3.0x4/SATA, 1x PCIe 3.0x4 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 3.0x4/SATA, 1x PCIe 3.0x4 vs 1x PCIe 5.0x4, 2x PCIe 4.0x4
  • No BIOS flashback support
    ASUS Prime Z390 A does not support BIOS flashback, while the average motherboard does. 50.8% of motherboards support BIOS flashback.
    requires CPU/RAM
    What it is: Shows whether the motherboard can update BIOS without needing a fully installed or supported CPU to boot first.
    When it matters: When you may need to update BIOS before the system can boot.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    ASUS Prime Z390 A does not support BIOS flashback, while the average motherboard does. 50.8% of motherboards support BIOS flashback.
  • No Wi-Fi antenna included
    ASUS Prime Z390 A does not include a Wi-Fi antenna, while the average motherboard does. 51.1% of motherboards include a Wi-Fi antenna.
    What it is: Shows whether the external Wi-Fi antenna is included with the motherboard package.
    When it matters: When the board has Wi-Fi and you want it ready to use right away.

    Importance: LOW

    ASUS Prime Z390 A does not include a Wi-Fi antenna, while the average motherboard does. 51.1% of motherboards include a Wi-Fi antenna.
  • 2 fewer USB 3.2 Gen1 ports
    ASUS Prime Z390 A 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: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=4

    ASUS Prime Z390 A 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
  • 2 fewer ARGB headers
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
    What it is: The number of 3-pin addressable RGB headers available on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you want to connect more ARGB lighting devices.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has fewer ARGB headers than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.0 vs 2
  • Older HDMI version
    ASUS Prime Z390 A has older HDMI version than the average motherboard (1.4 vs 2.1). The average motherboard supports HDMI 2.1.
    What it is: The HDMI standard supported by the motherboard video output.
    When it matters: When you plan to use integrated graphics with a monitor or TV.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: 2.1

    ASUS Prime Z390 A has older HDMI version than the average motherboard (1.4 vs 2.1). The average motherboard supports HDMI 2.1.1.4 vs 2.1
Total
Overall
Platform & Features
Storage
Ports & USB
Network
Power & Cooling

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
4213 Reviews
amazon
4.5
1334 Reviews
United States
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4.7
4329 Reviews
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4.6
1320 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about ASUS Prime Z390 A?

  • Elegant and clean design with white plastic shrouds and glossy finish
  • Excellent UEFI BIOS interface that is user-friendly for both beginners and enthusiasts
  • AI Overclocking technology simplifies performance tuning
  • Good value for money, offering high-end features at a mid-range price point
  • Dual M.2 slots and USB 3.1 Gen2 support for fast data transfer
  • Compatible with both 8th and 9th Gen Intel Core processors

What customers dislike about ASUS Prime Z390 A?

  • Limited number of RGB and fan headers for some users' builds
  • RGB software (Aura Sync) and hardware colors can sometimes be inconsistent or buggy
  • Lacks integrated Wi-Fi, unlike some other Z390 competitors
  • VRM thermal performance is considered inferior to similarly priced boards like the Gigabyte Aorus Pro
  • Packaging lacks significant protection inside the box (standard antistatic bag on cardboard)
  • Manuals provided in some regions may not be in English

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