Gigabyte Z490I AORUS Ultra Review

Source: Tech Power Up added 08th Jan 2021

  • gigabyte-z490i-aorus-ultra-review

Introduction

Last year, AMD released the Ryzen 5000 series desktop processors in one of the most monumental hardware launches of the modern era. This final step completed the Red brand’s ascent back into the forefront of the desktop processor market that began with the launch of the first generation of Ryzen CPUs. While Intel prepares its next move, Z490 and the 10th generation are here to hold the line.

While the 10th Gen Intel Core processors will not support PCIe 4.0 connectivity due to signal integrity issues, many of the Z490 motherboards are designed to support the PCIe 4.0 specification. This is accomplished by adding clock generators to help clean up the signal. Generally speaking, when it comes to long-term platform support, AMD has been the trendsetter. Has AMD’s long support of the AM4 socket on its newer generation processors inspired Intel to take similar steps?

So what is Z490 offering right now? For starters, there has been a large focus on VRM and VRM cooling design. With the top-level Intel Core i9-10900K featuring 10 cores along with HyperThreading, the ability to deliver clean, continuous power is going to be one of the primary factors that separates a good Z490 board from the competition. With the introduction of HyperThreading on Intel’s mid-range line-up, power delivery is going to be vital in all segments.

The AORUS line from Gigabyte spans a broad range of products—laptops, peripherals, and core components. Across the enthusiast spectrum, the AORUS name denotes Gigabyte’s gaming-focused products. The AORUS motherboard range features a consistent naming scheme that includes the Pro, Elite, Ultra, Master, and Extreme motherboards. Within this line up, the Master serves as the high-end mainstream option offering prime features at a high, but attainable price point.

The Gigabyte Z490I AORUS Ultra features a robust VRM utilizing 90 A power stages, along with Q-Flash for a redundant safety net for ambitious overclocking. The Gigabyte Z490I AORUS Ultra also offers a full-coverage aluminium backplate for added rigidity and additional VRM cooling. This little board should pack a punch, so let’s see how the Gigabyte Z490I AORUS Ultra stacks up against the competition.

Specifications

Specifications
CPU Support: Intel 10th Gen or later processors
Power Design: CPU Power: 9 phase*

Memory Power: 2 phase
Chipset: Intel Z490
Integrated Graphics: Dependent on installed CPU
Memory: 2x DIMM, supports dual-channel DDR4-5000 (OC) MHz
BIOS: AMI UEFI BIOS
Expansion Slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot
Storage: 4x SATA 6 Gb/s ports

2x M.2 ports (SATA3/PCIe 3.0 x4)
Networking: 1x Intel 2.5 Gb/s LAN

1x Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201
Rear Ports: 2x Antenna ports

1x Q-Flash Plus button

1x DisplayPort

1x HDMI port

1x LAN (RJ45) port

1x USB 3.2 (Gen2) Type-C port

4x USB 3.2 (Gen1) ports

1x USB 3.2 (Gen2) Type-A ports

2x USB 2.0 ports

3x 3.5 mm audio jacks
Audio: 1x Realtek ALC1220 Codec
Fan Headers: 4x 4-pin
Form Factor: ATX Form Factor: 6.7 in x 6.7 in, 17.0 cm x 17.0 cm
Exclusive Features:
  • APP Center
  • @BIOS
  • EasyTune
  • Fast Boot
  • Game Boost
  • RGB Fusion
  • Smart Backup
  • System Information Viewer
  • USB TurboCharger
  • Support for Q-Flash Plus
  • Support for Q-Flash
  • Support for Xpress Install
Read the full article at Tech Power Up

brands: AMD  AORUS  Dual  Elite  Extreme  Gigabyte  Intel  Pro  
media: Tech Power Up  
keywords: App  ATX  Audio  Core i9  Gaming  LAN  Memory  Motherboard  Review  Ryzen  

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