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ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Review | 107 Data compared

Avg. price in UK:~£680Avg. price in US:~$650CPU socket:LGA 1700Chipset:Intel Z790Form factor:ATX

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Review: Compare 107 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Motherboards category and whether it is worth buying.

8.3

Overall score

Score
8.3/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 82% of models
Score components

90%

8.5

Technical Score

10%

7.0

User score

â–²Better than 82% of motherboards
8.5

Technical Score

Technical score
8.5/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 85% of models
Score components

19%

5.8

Memory

16%

9.0

Platform & Features

16%

9.5

Storage

15%

9.5

Network

13%

8.8

Ports & USB

8%

7.6

Expansion

8%

9.2

Power & Cooling

5%

9.7

Audio

â–²Better than 85% of motherboards
7.0

User score

User score
7.0/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 90% of models
Score components

70%

8.2

User reviews

30%

4.2

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(10)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(11)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

â–¼Worse than 90% of motherboards
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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Verdict

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex is an enthusiast-grade ATX motherboard built for extreme overclocking, featuring a robust 24+0 power stage VRM rated for 105A and a specialized two-slot DDR5 memory layout supporting speeds over 8000 MT/s. It offers advanced connectivity including two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, five M.2 sockets (one PCIe 5.0), Wi-Fi 6E, and dual USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C ports with 60W Quick Charge 4+. Main pros include its record-breaking overclocking toolkit with dedicated buttons (Safe Boot, BCLK, ReTry), superior memory frequency potential due to the 1-DIMM-per-channel design, and comprehensive liquid cooling zones. However, notable cons include the lack of onboard display outputs, a limit of only two RAM slots which restricts total capacity to 96GB (or 64GB depending on module density), and the high premium price specifically targeted at a niche competitive audience.

Technical Specifications of motherboard ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex

Technical Score
Technical score
8.5/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 85% of models
Score components:

19%

5.8

Memory

16%

9.0

Platform & Features

16%

9.5

Storage

15%

9.5

Network

13%

8.8

Ports & USB

8%

7.6

Expansion

8%

9.2

Power & Cooling

5%

9.7

Audio

8.5
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a technical score of 8.5 points, which is higher than that of 84.6% of products in this category.
User score
User score
7.0/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 90% of models
Score components

70%

8.2

User reviews

30%

4.2

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(10)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(11)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

7.0
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a user score of 7 points, which is lower than that of 89.6% of products in this category.
Popularity
Popularity
4.2/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 69% of models
Popularity:
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a popularity score of 4.2 points, which is lower than that of 68.7% of products in this category.
4.2
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a popularity score of 4.2 points, which is lower than that of 68.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price
Value for money
7.9/ 10
✕
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 distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–² Better than 62% of models
Score components:

60%

8.3

Overall score

40%

6.9

Price

7.9
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a value-for-money score of 7.9 points, which is higher than that of 62.2% of products in this category.
Brand name
Asus
CPU socket
LGA 1700
CPU socket
LGA 1700
â–² Better than 55% of models
This motherboard uses the LGA 1700 CPU socket, which is more advanced than that of 55% of motherboards and equal to that of 22.6% of motherboards.
CPU platform
Intel
CPU platform
Intel
â–² Better than 32% of models
This motherboard 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
Intel Z790
Chipset
Intel Z790
â–² Better than 77% of models
This motherboard uses the Intel Z790 chipset, which is more advanced than that of 77.2% of motherboards and equal to that of 6.5% of motherboards.
Form factor
ATX
Form factor
ATX
â–² Better than 48% of models
This motherboard 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.
Show more
DDR memory version
DDR5
DDR memory version
DDR5
â–² Better than 64% of models
This motherboard uses DDR5 memory, which is newer than that of 64.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 35.7% of motherboards.
Memory slots
2
Memory slots
2
â–¼ Worse than 79% of models
Market range: <2 – >4
This motherboard has 2 Memory slots, which is fewer than 78.6% of motherboards and equal to 21.4% of motherboards.
Maximum memory capacity
96 GB
Maximum memory capacity
96 GB
â–¼ Worse than 60% of models
Market range: <32 GB – >256 GB
This motherboard supports up to 96 GB of memory, which is less than 59.7% of motherboards and equal to 3% of motherboards.
requires BIOS update for full capacity
Memory channels
2
Memory channels
2
â–¼ Worse than 7% of models
This motherboard supports 2 memory channels, which is more than 0.2% of motherboards and equal to 92.6% of motherboards.
Maximum RAM speed
8,000 MT/s
Maximum RAM speed
8,000 MT/s
â–² Better than 85% of models
Market range: <2k MT/s – >8k MT/s
This motherboard supports memory speeds up to 8,000 MT/s, which is higher than that of 85% of motherboards and equal to that of 5.7% of motherboards.
Show more
N. of M.2 sockets
5
N. of M.2 sockets
5
★ Better than 95% of models
Market range: <0 – >4
This motherboard has 5 M.2 sockets, which is more than 94.8% of motherboards and equal to 4.3% of motherboards.
M.2 slot interface per slot
?
N. of SATA 3 connectors
6
N. of SATA 3 connectors
6
â–² Better than 53% of models
Market range: <4 – >8
This motherboard has 6 SATA 3 connectors, which is more than 52.6% of motherboards and equal to 32.1% of motherboards.
Supported RAID levels
0/1/5/10
Supported RAID levels
0/1/5/10
â–² Better than 32% of models
This motherboard supports RAID levels 0/1/5/10, which is broader than 32% of motherboards and equal to 68% of motherboards.
JBOD excluded from RAID-level set
NVMe RAID support
yes
NVMe RAID support
yes
â–² Better than 40% of models
This motherboard supports NVMe RAID. 40.3% of motherboards support this feature.
Show more
N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots
2
N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots
2
★ Better than 95% of models
Market range: <0 – >1
This motherboard 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
0
N. of PCIe 4.0 x16 slots
0
â–¼ Worse than 45% of models
Market range: <0 – >1
This motherboard has 0 PCIe 4.0x16 slots, which is fewer than 44.5% of motherboards and equal to 55.5% of motherboards.
N. of PCIe 3.0 x16 slots
0
N. of PCIe 3.0 x16 slots
0
â–¼ Worse than 60% of models
Market range: <0 – >3
This motherboard has 0 PCIe 3.0x16 slots, which is fewer than 59.6% of motherboards and equal to 40.4% of motherboards.
PCIe slot electrical configuration
x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4
PCIe slot electrical configuration
x16/x0/x4, x8/x8/x4
â–² Better than 63% of models
This motherboard 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
yes
PCIe bifurcation support
yes
â–² Better than 40% of models
This motherboard supports PCIe bifurcation. 40.4% of motherboards support this feature.
x8/x8.
Show more
Total USB ports (rear I/O)
10
Total USB ports (rear I/O)
10
â–² Better than 75% of models
Market range: <6 – >10
This motherboard has 10 USB ports (rear I/O), which is more than 75.5% of motherboards and equal to 15.5% of motherboards.
Total USB ports (including headers)
19
Total USB ports (including headers)
19
â–² Better than 87% of models
Market range: <11 – >19
This motherboard has 19 USB ports (including headers), which is more than 87% of motherboards and equal to 4.2% of motherboards.
Total USB-C ports (rear I/O)
1
Total USB-C ports (rear I/O)
1
â–² Better than 35% of models
Market range: <0 – >2
This motherboard has 1 USB-C ports (rear I/O), which is more than 35.5% of motherboards and equal to 48.7% of motherboards.
Total USB-C ports (including headers)
2
Total USB-C ports (including headers)
2
â–² Better than 52% of models
Market range: <0 – >3
This motherboard has 2 USB-C ports (including headers), which is more than 51.7% of motherboards and equal to 32.9% of motherboards.
N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C)
1
N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C)
1
â–² Better than 82% of models
Market range: <0 – >1
This motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C), which is more than 81.7% of motherboards and equal to 18% of motherboards.
Show more
LAN speed
2.5 Gbps
LAN speed
2.5 Gbps
â–² Better than 49% of models
Market range: <1 Gbps – >2.5 Gbps
This motherboard supports LAN speeds up to 2.5 Gbps, which is higher than that of 49.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 41.4% of motherboards.
LAN controller
Intel I226-V
LAN controller
Intel I226-V
★ Better than 95% of models
This motherboard uses the Intel I226-V LAN controller, which is more advanced than that of 94.7% of motherboards and equal to that of 1.3% of motherboards.
N. of RJ45 ports
1
N. of RJ45 ports
1
â–¼ Worse than 14% of models
Market range: <1 – >2
This motherboard has 1 RJ45 ports, which is fewer than 14.4% of motherboards and equal to 85.6% of motherboards.
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
Wi-Fi connectivity
yes
â–² Better than 50% of models
This motherboard supports Wi-Fi connectivity. 50% of motherboards support this feature.
Wi-Fi version
Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)
Wi-Fi version
Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)
â–² Better than 72% of models
This motherboard 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
Realtek ALC4080
Audio codec
Realtek ALC4080
★ Better than 90% of models
This motherboard uses the Realtek ALC4080 audio codec, which is more advanced than that of 90.3% of motherboards and equal to that of 6.5% of motherboards.
Audio channels
7.1
Audio channels
7.1
â–² Better than 5% of models
This motherboard offers 7.1 audio channels, which is more than 4.9% of motherboards and equal to 95.1% of motherboards.
Audio SNR
120 dB
Audio SNR
120 dB
â–² Better than 56% of models
Market range: <95 dB – >120 dB
This motherboard 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
yes
Headphone amp support
yes
â–² Better than 41% of models
This motherboard supports a headphone amp. 40.8% of motherboards support this feature.
headphone amp on front panel.
N. of 3.5mm audio jacks
5
N. of 3.5mm audio jacks
5
â–² Better than 50% of models
Market range: <2 – >6
This motherboard has 5 3.5mm audio jacks, which is more than 49.6% of motherboards and equal to 37% of motherboards.
Show more
VRM phases
24
VRM phases
24
★ Better than 98% of models
This motherboard has 24 VRM phases, which is more than 97.9% of motherboards and equal to 0.2% of motherboards.
N. of CPU power connectors
2
N. of CPU power connectors
2
â–² Better than 55% of models
Market range: <1 – >2
This motherboard has 2 CPU power connectors, which is more than 54.6% of motherboards and equal to 45.1% of motherboards.
N. of fan headers
6
N. of fan headers
6
â–² Better than 50% of models
Market range: <3 – >8
This motherboard has 6 fan headers, which is more than 50% of motherboards and equal to 22.3% of motherboards.
Pump header
yes
Pump header
yes
â–² Better than 22% of models
This motherboard has a pump header. 21.9% of motherboards include this feature.
Pump header max current
3 A
Pump header max current
3 A
â–² Better than 78% of models
Market range: <0 A – >3 A
This motherboard 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.
Show more

ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex vs the average motherboard

246810TotalPlatform & FeaturesMemoryStorageExpansionPorts & USBNetworkAudioPower & Cooling
  • 3 more M.2 sockets
    N. of M.2 sockets
    5
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0 – >4
    This motherboard has more M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (5 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.
    5 vs 2
  • 2 more PCIe 5.0x16 slots
    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots
    2
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard 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
    DDR memory version
    DDR5
    â–² Better than 64% of models
    This motherboard has newer DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR5 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.
    DDR5 vs DDR4
  • 4 more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen2 ports (USB-A)
    5
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    Market range: <0 – >4
    This motherboard has more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (5 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.
    5 vs 1
  • More advanced LAN controller
    LAN controller
    Intel I226-V
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    This motherboard has better LAN controller than the average motherboard (Intel I226-V vs Killer + Intel + Realtek). The average motherboard uses Killer + Intel + Realtek LAN controller.
    Intel I226-V vs Killer + Intel + Realtek
  • More VRM phases
    VRM phases
    24
    ★ Better than 98% of models
    This motherboard has more VRM phases than the average motherboard (24 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.
    24 vs 10
  • Better audio codec
    Audio codec
    Realtek ALC4080
    ★ Better than 90% of models
    This motherboard has better audio codec than the average motherboard (Realtek ALC4080 vs Realtek ALC897). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC897 audio codec.
    Realtek ALC4080 vs Realtek ALC897
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 USB-C ports
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C)
    1
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 USB-C port/s.
    1 vs 0
  • Newer CPU socket
    CPU socket
    LGA 1700
    â–² Better than 55% of models
    This motherboard has newer CPU socket than the average motherboard (LGA 1700 vs LGA 1151). The average motherboard uses LGA 1151 CPU socket.
    LGA 1,700 vs LGA 1,151
  • Integrated I/O shield
    Integrated I/O shield
    yes
    â–² Better than 54% of models
    This motherboard has an integrated I/O shield, while the average motherboard does not. 46% of motherboards include an integrated I/O shield.
    Pre-installed I/O shield.
  • Includes POST code display
    POST code display
    yes
    â–² Better than 73% of models
    This motherboard has a POST code display, while the average motherboard does not. 27.2% of motherboards include a POST code display.
  • Includes dual BIOS
    Dual BIOS
    yes
    â–² Better than 77% of models
    This motherboard has dual BIOS, while the average motherboard does not. 23% of motherboards include dual BIOS.
  • Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    Rear-panel CMOS reset button
    yes
    â–² Better than 73% of models
    This motherboard 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
    Onboard power button
    yes
    â–² Better than 72% of models
    This motherboard has an onboard power button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.7% of motherboards include an onboard power button.
  • Includes onboard reset button
    Onboard reset button
    yes
    â–² Better than 72% of models
    This motherboard has an onboard reset button, while the average motherboard does not. 27.6% of motherboards include an onboard reset button.
  • Newer DDR memory generation
    DDR memory version
    DDR5
    â–² Better than 64% of models
    This motherboard has newer DDR memory generation than the average motherboard (DDR5 vs DDR4). The average motherboard supports DDR4 memory.
    DDR5 vs DDR4
  • 69% higher maximum RAM speed
    Maximum RAM speed
    8,000 MT/s
    â–² Better than 85% of models
    Market range: <2k MT/s – >8k MT/s
    This motherboard has a higher maximum RAM speed than the average motherboard (8000 MT/s vs 4733 MT/s). The average motherboard supports RAM speed of 4733 MT/s.
    8,000 MT/s vs 4,733 MT/s
  • 62.2% higher overclocked RAM speed
    Maximum overclocked RAM speed
    8,000 MT/s
    â–² Better than 81% of models
    Market range: <2.7k MT/s – >8.2k MT/s
    This motherboard has a higher overclocked RAM speed than the average motherboard (8000 MT/s vs 4933 MT/s). The average motherboard supports overclocked RAM speed of 4933 MT/s.
    top speed depends on CPU and memory setup
    8,000 MT/s vs 4,933 MT/s
  • 3 more M.2 sockets
    N. of M.2 sockets
    5
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0 – >4
    This motherboard has more M.2 sockets than the average motherboard (5 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 M.2 socket/s.
    5 vs 2
  • 2 more SATA 3 connectors
    N. of SATA 3 connectors
    6
    â–² Better than 53% of models
    Market range: <4 – >8
    This motherboard has more SATA 3 connectors than the average motherboard (6 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 SATA 3 connectors.
    6 vs 4
  • 2 more PCIe 5.0x16 slots
    N. of PCIe 5.0 x16 slots
    2
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard 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
  • 1 more PCIe x4 slots
    N. of PCIe x4 slots
    1
    â–² Better than 73% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has more PCIe x4 slots than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 PCIe x4 slot/s.
    1 vs 0
  • 4 more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen2 ports (USB-A)
    5
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    Market range: <0 – >4
    This motherboard has more USB 3.2 Gen2 ports than the average motherboard (5 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 USB 3.2 Gen2 port/s.
    5 vs 1
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 USB-C ports
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 ports (USB-C)
    1
    â–² Better than 82% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 USB-C ports than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 USB-C port/s.
    1 vs 0
  • 2 more rear USB ports
    Total USB ports (rear I/O)
    10
    â–² Better than 75% of models
    Market range: <6 – >10
    This motherboard has more rear USB ports than the average motherboard (10 vs 8). The average motherboard has 8 rear USB port/s.
    10 vs 8
  • 4 more total USB connections
    Total USB ports (including headers)
    19
    â–² Better than 87% of models
    Market range: <11 – >19
    This motherboard has more total USB connections than the average motherboard (19 vs 15). The average motherboard has 15 total USB connections.
    19 vs 15
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen1 headers
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen1 headers (USB-A)
    2
    â–² Better than 68% of models
    Market range: <1 – >2
    This motherboard 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.
    two internal headers
    2 vs 1
  • 1 more USB4 or Thunderbolt headers
    N. of USB4 / Thunderbolt headers (USB-C)
    1
    â–² Better than 66% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has more USB4 or Thunderbolt headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB4 or Thunderbolt header/s.
    1 vs 0
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen2 headers (USB-C)
    1
    â–² Better than 61% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has more USB 3.2 Gen2 headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2 header/s.
    20Gbps Type-C header
    1 vs 0
  • 1 more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers
    N. of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers (USB-C)
    1
    â–² Better than 80% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has more USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers than the average motherboard (1 vs 0). The average motherboard has 0 USB 3.2 Gen2x2 header/s.
    1 vs 0
  • 1 more total USB-C connections
    Total USB-C ports (including headers)
    2
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    Market range: <0 – >3
    This motherboard has more total USB-C connections than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 total USB-C connections.
    2 vs 1
  • More advanced LAN controller
    LAN controller
    Intel I226-V
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    This motherboard has better LAN controller than the average motherboard (Intel I226-V vs Killer + Intel + Realtek). The average motherboard uses Killer + Intel + Realtek LAN controller.
    Intel I226-V vs Killer + Intel + Realtek
  • Newer Wi-Fi standard
    Wi-Fi version
    Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax)
    â–² Better than 72% of models
    This motherboard 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.
    Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) vs Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
  • Supports Bluetooth
    Bluetooth connectivity
    yes
    â–² Better than 51% of models
    This motherboard supports Bluetooth, while the average motherboard does not. 48.9% of motherboards support Bluetooth.
  • Better audio codec
    Audio codec
    Realtek ALC4080
    ★ Better than 90% of models
    This motherboard has better audio codec than the average motherboard (Realtek ALC4080 vs Realtek ALC897). The average motherboard uses Realtek ALC897 audio codec.
    Realtek ALC4080 vs Realtek ALC897
  • 5 dB higher audio SNR
    Audio SNR
    120 dB
    â–² Better than 56% of models
    Market range: <95 dB – >120 dB
    This motherboard has a higher audio SNR than the average motherboard (120 dB vs 115 dB). The average motherboard has audio SNR of 115 dB.
    120 dB vs 115 dB
  • More VRM phases
    VRM phases
    24
    ★ Better than 98% of models
    This motherboard has more VRM phases than the average motherboard (24 vs 10). The average motherboard has 10 VRM phase/s.
    24 vs 10
  • 1 more CPU power connectors
    N. of CPU power connectors
    2
    â–² Better than 55% of models
    Market range: <1 – >2
    This motherboard has more CPU power connectors than the average motherboard (2 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 CPU power connectors.
    2 vs 1
  • 1 more ARGB headers
    N. of ARGB headers (3-pin)
    3
    â–² Better than 76% of models
    Market range: <0 – >3
    This motherboard has more ARGB headers than the average motherboard (3 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 ARGB header/s.
    3 vs 2
  • 1 A higher pump header current limit
    Pump header max current
    3 A
    â–² Better than 78% of models
    Market range: <0 A – >3 A
    This motherboard 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.
    3 A vs 2 A
  • 2 fewer memory slots
    Memory slots
    2
    â–¼ Worse than 79% of models
    Market range: <2 – >4
    This motherboard has fewer memory slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.
    2 vs 4
  • No integrated graphics support
    Integrated graphics support
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 89% of models
    This motherboard does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.5% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • 25% less maximum memory capacity
    Maximum memory capacity
    96 GB
    â–¼ Worse than 60% of models
    Market range: <32 GB – >256 GB
    This motherboard has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (96 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.
    requires BIOS update for full capacity
    96 GB vs 128 GB
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    N. of DisplayPort outputs
    0
    â–¼ Worse than 54% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
    0 vs 1
  • 4.25x more expensive
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex is more expensive than the average motherboard (£680 vs £160).
    £680 vs £160
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    Chipset
    Intel Z790
    â–² Better than 77% of models
    This motherboard has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z790 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
    Intel Z790 vs Intel B860
  • 14.3% lower user score
    User score
    7.0/ 10
    ✕
    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 distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex
    the average motherboard
    â–² Better than 62% of models
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a lower user score than the average motherboard (7.00 vs 8.000).
    7 vs 8
  • 1 fewer HDMI outputs
    N. of HDMI outputs
    0
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has fewer HDMI outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 HDMI outputs.
    0 vs 1
  • 4.25x more expensive
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex is more expensive than the average motherboard (£680 vs £160).
    £680 vs £160
  • 14.3% lower user score
    User score
    7.0/ 10
    ✕
    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 distribution
    ▼▼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex
    the average motherboard
    â–² Better than 62% of models
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex has a lower user score than the average motherboard (7.00 vs 8.000).
    7 vs 8
  • 49.3% less popular
    ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex is less popular than the average motherboard (4.19 vs 6.3).
    4.19 vs 6.26
  • No integrated graphics support
    Integrated graphics support
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 89% of models
    This motherboard does not support integrated graphics, while the average motherboard does. 89.5% of motherboards support integrated graphics.
  • More basic motherboard chipset
    Chipset
    Intel Z790
    â–² Better than 77% of models
    This motherboard has more basic motherboard chipset than the average motherboard (Intel Z790 vs Intel B860). The average motherboard uses Intel B860 chipset.
    Intel Z790 vs Intel B860
  • No TPM connector
    TPM connector
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 88% of models
    This motherboard does not have a TPM connector, while the average motherboard does. 88% of motherboards include a TPM connector.
  • 2 fewer memory slots
    Memory slots
    2
    â–¼ Worse than 79% of models
    Market range: <2 – >4
    This motherboard has fewer memory slots than the average motherboard (2 vs 4). The average motherboard has 4 memory slot/s.
    2 vs 4
  • 25% less maximum memory capacity
    Maximum memory capacity
    96 GB
    â–¼ Worse than 60% of models
    Market range: <32 GB – >256 GB
    This motherboard has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average motherboard (96 GB vs 128 GB). The average motherboard supports 128 GB of memory.
    requires BIOS update for full capacity
    96 GB vs 128 GB
  • 1 fewer PCIe 3.0x16 slots
    N. of PCIe 3.0 x16 slots
    0
    â–¼ Worse than 60% of models
    Market range: <0 – >3
    This motherboard has fewer PCIe 3.0x16 slots than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 PCIe 3.0x16 slot/s.
    0 vs 1
  • 1 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    N. of DisplayPort outputs
    0
    â–¼ Worse than 54% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 DisplayPort outputs.
    0 vs 1
  • 1 fewer HDMI outputs
    N. of HDMI outputs
    0
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    Market range: <0 – >1
    This motherboard has fewer HDMI outputs than the average motherboard (0 vs 1). The average motherboard has 1 HDMI outputs.
    0 vs 1
  • 2 fewer USB 2.0 ports
    N. of USB 2.0 ports
    0
    â–¼ Worse than 81% of models
    Market range: <0 – >4
    This motherboard has fewer USB 2.0 ports than the average motherboard (0 vs 2). The average motherboard has 2 USB 2.0 port/s.
    0 vs 2
  • 61 mm wider
    Width
    305 mm
    â–¼ Worse than 85% of models
    Market range: <170 mm – >320 mm
    This motherboard is wider than the average motherboard (305 mm vs 244 mm). The average motherboard width is 244 mm.
    305 mm vs 244 mm

Graphic comparison of ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex and other products in the Motherboards category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
10 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
11 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex?

  • Exceptional memory overclocking potential due to the optimized 2-DIMM slot layout
  • Robust 24-phase power delivery (VRM) designed for extreme performance and LN2 cooling
  • Highly reactive engineering team with frequent BIOS updates tailored for enthusiasts
  • Premium aesthetic with a distinctive white PCB design and customizable RGB lighting
  • Includes high-end accessories like the ROG DIMM.2 module for extra M.2 storage and a dedicated RAM fan kit
  • Advanced BIOS features such as 'Memory Controller SP' for assessing CPU quality and integrated Memtest86

What customers dislike about ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Apex?

  • Limited to only two RAM slots, restricting maximum memory capacity to 128GB (or less with older modules)
  • Extremely high price point that is difficult to justify for users who aren't hardcore overclockers
  • Lack of integrated graphics (iGPU) support, which can make troubleshooting difficult if the dedicated GPU fails
  • Reported stability issues like 'WHEA_Uncorrectable_Error' and SSD detection bugs in some user units
  • Niche target audience; lacks many 'quality of life' features found on standard consumer boards like the ROG Hero

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

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