ASUS X870/X870E Motherboard Roundup & VRM Analysis

STRIX

The STRIX series are high-end to enthusiast-grade gaming motherboards. So again, a really strong focus on fast storage, extreme memory performance, larger VRM configurations and more robust heatsinks and armour for both aesthetic reasons and to ensure maximum performance for overclocking or maxing out the more extreme gaming CPUs.

In terms of the aesthetics, you’ll find the inclusion of RGB to really spice up your build, which of course, you get full control over using ASUS’ own software to really dial in how the whole system looks overall and if you want something really unique, then the X870-A Gaming WiFi comes in with a white PCB, white accents and some silver added visuals to add a premium touch to the board.

You also get a choice with STRIX as it’s arguably the largest range of boards with -A, -E, -F which are all ATX sized boards, and then -I which is ITX form factor.

Depending on the features you need, you’ll find that they coincide with the cost of the board, and you can see where the extra added value goes. More and faster connectivity options, much more powerful power delivery solutions and plentiful cooling that almost in some cases, like on the -E Gaming WiFi, fully encompasses the board to cater for the total of five M.2 slots.

As the boards are aimed at the enthusiast and high-end segment, we also get up to dual ProCool II power connectors, faster memory support and some individuality for troubleshooting and overclocking including debug LEDs, power and reset buttons and clear CMOS and BIOS Flashback buttons.

Then, there’s the X870-I, which is going to appeal to those wanting a small form factor build without sacrificing on functionality, as we still have two M.2 slots, super-fast memory support and VRMs that are rated for 110A so no slouch.

There’s also the full plethora of Q features on some boards, including M.2 Q-Release, Q-Slide, Q-Latch and again, that really handy Q-Release for your graphics card by just pulling on the card, so no need for push-down latches or buttons on a lot of these boards.