Biostar Gaming Z97X (LGA 1150) Motherboard Review

A Closer Look & Layout Analysis

Styling is very simple here; following the trend of black covers with a black PCB. I understand the theory behind using different coloured DIMM slots for the different channels, but surely dark grey or maybe even red would be better than brown.

A very nice array of connection options on the I/O. Left to right: PS2 combo port, 2x USB 3.0 ports, 1x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI port, 1x DVi port, 1x HDMI port, 1x Killer LAN port, 2x USB 3.1 ports, 1x Intel LAN port, 2x USB 3.0 ports and HD audio jacks.

Along the bottom of the board, we see all of the usual headers such as USB 2.0, fan headers and audio. Along with those, we also have a Gaming Commander header for the Commander unit and also an XMP and Clear CMOS buttons; something very useful on a gamer-oriented board. On the far right, we also see a LN2 switch, allowing the motherboard to boot in temperatures as low as

Coming back up the side, we have a small array of SATA ports, along with 1 SATA express and a USB 3.0 header.

Look at all the options, 6 USB ports (4 USB 3.0), DVI, DisplayPort, HDMI in and HDMI out, ethernet, wireless adapter plugs and a full array of HD audio jacks.

Around the CPU socket, is a very uncluttered 12 phase power setup with very simple heatsinks on the Mosfets.

The chipset heatsink is hidden under the Gaming logo shroud.

Concealed under the shroud, you can find the M.2 port. I particularly like this feature as it protects the M.2 card from any possible damage from installing a PCIe device incorrectly; potentially being forced onto the card and snapping it.