Intel Z790 LGA 1700 ATX motherboard with 20+1+2 power stages, DDR5 support with AEMP II and DIMM Flex, Intel Wi-Fi 7 with ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna, five M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD slot onboard, PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots with PCIe Slot Q-Release, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB 20Gbps Type-C front-panel connector with Quick Charge 4+ up to 60W, AI Overclocking, AI Cooling II, AI Networking, Two-way AI Noise Cancelation, and Aura Sync RGB lighting.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Formula is the ultimate motherboard to feature our head-turning Moonlight White aesthetic. Beneath this bold expression lies a powerhouse arsenal of features, including the exclusive HybridChill VRM cooling system ready to elevate 14th-gen Intel processors, advanced DDR5 settings, a multitude of PCIe 5.0 slots for both graphics cards and storage, blistering Intel Wi-Fi 7 networking and a full slate of customizable ARGB lightning to make your premium build truly stand out from the crowd.
Maximize your CPU’s performance potential with intuitive tools that offer advanced control and monitoring.
Tuning is now faster and smarter than ever before. ASUS AI Overclocking profiles the CPU and cooling to predict the optimal configuration and push the system to its limits. Predicted values can be engaged automatically or used as a launching ground for further experimentation.
Conventional motherboards use single-ended sensing tapped from a location that isn’t ideal, leading to a large disparity between the actual voltage fed to the CPU and the value reported to software. The ROG Maximus Z790 Formula features a differential-sensing circuit and delicate IC that simplify overclocking and tuning by allowing you to track voltages more accurately.
Today’s CPU architectures place incredible demands on motherboard power design by transitioning from deep power-saving modes, going from lower-power mode to full load in an instant. The latest ROG VRM architecture rises to the challenge by utilizing teamed power stages to rapidly swing current, while maintaining exemplary thermal performance.
Modern CPUs pack more cores than their predecessors, and the latest instruction sets allow them to crunch computationally dense workloads at an incredible pace. In addition, they consume less power at idle and can transition between load states much more quickly. These improvements necessitate a re-evaluation of power-design priorities because phase-doublers add a propagation delay that hampers transient response.
Fortunately, the latest integrated power components can handle higher currents than the devices of yesteryear, making it possible to implement a simple circuit topology that isn’t hamstrung by the processing lag of phase-doublers. That’s why the ROG Maximus Z790 Formula utilizes teamed power stages to deliver higher burst current per phase, while maintaining the thermal performance of phase-doubled designs.
Each VRM component serves a specific purpose. PWM controllers and phase-doublers control the circuit, and the power stages do the heavy lifting from an electrical and thermal standpoint. The power stages feature low RDSON to reduce switching and conduction losses, helping to improve overall thermal headroom.
Comprehensive memory tuning options are the cornerstone of ROG motherboards. With the ROG Maximus Z790 Formula, you can extract all of the potential out of your DDR5 modules, regardless of if they’re from an extreme-speed kit or an entry-level set that would otherwise be locked.
ROG has a long legacy of flexing the fastest memory performance, and DDR5 is no outlier. Thanks to improved signal routing, now enthusiast-grade kits have been driven far beyond the 8 GT/s mark on the Maximus Z790 Formula, and who knows how far future DIMMs can go? Seasoned veterans can test their mettle by tinkering with the extensive array of tuning options in the UEFI.
DIMM Flex provides enthusiasts a powerful new way to overclock their memory by employing specialized hardware circuitry to address the stability issues in DDR5 memory caused by temperature sensitivity. When temperatures permit, it can maximize memory performance and efficiency, and when temperatures increase, it can adjust memory performance downward to maintain stability.
ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile II (AEMP II) is an exclusive firmware feature that allows users to achieve supreme memory performance and compatibility with optimized clock speeds, even when they're using PMIC-restricted memory modules that do not provide an XMP or EXPO profile. Developed through a flexible training method, AEMP II simplifies the process of fine-tuning memory settings beyond the baseline configuration, all while ensuring system stability. This applies whether you are maximizing the potential of an entry-level module or preparing a high-speed kit for ultimate performance.
Now, AEMP II offers even more flexibility. With the latest firmware update, AEMP II allows users to optimize the performance of a four-DIMM DDR5 RAM configuration, even with a mixture of different brands and dies. Increasing the memory capacity of your build by adding additional DIMMs has never been easier — with AEMP II, you can get optimized memory performance even when all four memory modules are not an exact match, provided that all four DIMMs have the same capacity.
ASUS AIO coolers offer robust performance, high overclocking potential, bold aesthetics and customizable functionality for new Z790 motherboards, empowering you to build your dream gaming rig.
The ASUS HybridChill water block leverages a fusion of passive and liquid cooling to achieve highly efficient VRM operation. Its copper water channels resist corrosion and offer excellent heat dissipation, while its threaded fittings use the G1/4” industry standard to ensure compatibility with a wide variety of custom cooling setups.
Engineered with full copper design, 10 μm thick electroless nickel to provide highly effective and superior heat dissipation.
Large aluminum heatsinks provide extensive surface area to cool mounted M.2 drives, and each of the three onboard slots has a dedicated backplate for additional heat dissipation.
Each thermal pad improves overall heat transfer from the system by bridging the heat generated by the power stages to the heatsink. For future maintenance, a replacement thermal pad can also be found in the package.
A plate of electro-galvanized metal strengthens the spine of the ROG Maximus Z790 Formula to prevent bending.
A dedicated heatsink draws heat away from the chipset to maintain optimum operating temperature.
An extensive array of headers line the ROG Maximus Z790 Formula for precise cooling control and monitoring.
Each header can be set to monitor and react to three user-configurable thermal sensors for workload-based cooling, and all settings can be easily managed by Fan Xpert 4 or UEFI.
In addition to the pair of CPU fan headers, the Maximus Z790 Formula features four chassis headers, and each supports auto-detection of PWM or DC fans.
An additional PWM/DC fan header offers dedicated control of self-contained water-cooling setups.
Dual water-temperature headers and a flow-rate header feed information straight into Armoury Crate, allowing you to track coolant temperatures and the flow rate of the entire loop.
A dedicated header can supply over 3 amps to a high-performance PWM or DC water pumps.
A dedicated header enables monitoring of temperatures at the input/output points of any component.
A dedicated header enables constant monitoring of flow rate throughout the entire loop.
ASUS AIO coolers offer robust performance, high overclocking potential, bold aesthetics and customizable functionality for new Z790 motherboards, empowering you to build your dream gaming rig.
Next-gen WiFi 7 chipset introduces all-new ultrawide 320 MHz channel bandwidth in the 6 GHz band and 4096 QAM, delivering up to 2.4X ultra-fast WiFi speeds. The revolutionary Multi-Link Operation (MLO) provides a more stable WiFi connection and lower latency, unlocking the realms of the unknown in gaming, streaming, and industrial IoT.
Low-latency gaming, speedy file transfers, and high-resolution video streaming are among the many perks of onboard Realtek 5 Gbps Ethernet.
Fully embracing the new standard, the ROG Maximus Z790 Formula offers abundant Gen 5 support to give unfettered bandwidth to the fastest SSDs and graphics cards available.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Formula features five onboard M.2 slots, one of which is PCIe 5.0-ready to offer blistering 16 GB/s speeds, while the others offer still-impressive 8 GB/s over PCIe 4.0 interfaces.
Both of the x16 expansion slots have the PCIe 5.0 treatment to offer incredible speeds up to 64 GB/s for compatible devices. To bear the brunt of massive graphics cards, they are also protected with SafeSlot retention brackets, and the top slot can be released easily thanks to the Q-Release button.
Each port delivers up to 40 Gbps of bidirectional bandwidth for the latest super-speed devices and drives. Both ports can be employed for up to two external 4K displays, and PCIe bandwidth extends to up to 32 Gbps.
USB 20 Gbps Type-C front-panel connector features Quick Charge 4+ technology that can rapidly charge devices at up to 60 watts.
ROG SupremeFX audio technology delivers an exceptional 110 dB signal-to-noise ratio on the line-in connection to provide exceptional recording quality. There’s also a low-dropout regulator for cleaner power delivery to the SupremeFX ALC4082 codec, and an integrated ESS ES9218 QUAD DAC capable of reaching -115dB THD+N for superior front-panel output. The combined solution allows for end-to-end 32-bit 384 kHz resolution playback that conveys all the subtlety and nuances of each audio track.
Blocks electromagnetic interference from the motherboard or add-ons to provide cleaner audio.
The ESS ES9218 integrated QUAD DAC amplifier is capable of providing -114 dB total harmonic distortion (THD+N) for standard audio devices, and can ramp up to 2Vrms on supported audiophile hardware. In addition, the 121 dB dynamic range (DNR) provides an extremely low noise-floor, further accentuating dynamics and punch.
Instead of the conventional high definition audio (HDA) interface, the ALC4082 codec uses a USB interface to deliver studio-level sound reaching up to 32-bit 384 kHz audio resolution.
Unique design allows the codec's impedance-sensing function to be ported with either the front or rear headphone outputs.
Fine-quality components that produce a warmer, natural sound with exceptional clarity and fidelity.
A physical button unlocks the first PCIe slot’s security latch with one tap, greatly simplifying the process of detaching a PCIe card from the motherboard when it’s time to upgrade to a new GPU or other compatible device.
The innovative Q-Latch makes it easy to install or remove an M.2 SSD without the need for specific tools. The design employs a simple locking mechanism to secure the drive and neatly eliminate traditional screws.
With Q-Antenna, attaching a WiFi antenna to your PC is now easy and fast. Instead of slowly rotating two fasteners until they finally lock in, they just snap into place. Less hassle, and more consistent performance.
The on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes, providing a valuable reference for troubleshooting common boot problems and hardware issues.
On-board Q-LED troubleshooting lights give PC builders a quick indicator to confirm that key components ― CPU, RAM, graphics card, storage devices ― are functioning normally during startup. Builders can use the Q-LED feature to correct power delivery issues affecting their motherboard, and it can also alert them when memory modules have not been properly installed--even before attempting to boot a newly built PC.
BIOS FlashBack is a safe and simple way to update BIOS. Just drop the (UEFI) BIOS file onto a FAT32-formatted USB stick, plug it into the USB BIOS FlashBack port, and press the button. Updates can even be performed without having memory or a CPU installed.
The Clear CMOS button quickly resets BIOS settings to factory default. It can also be used to reboot the PC if incorrect BIOS settings have been selected.
Balance the thermals and acoustics of any build with a single click. A proprietary ASUS algorithm slashes unnecessary noise while running a quick stress test, and then monitors CPU temperatures to dynamically adjust fans to optimal speeds.
This utility leverages a massive deep-learning database to reduce over 5 million types of background noise from incoming or outgoing audio, helping ensure crystal-clear communication in games or calls.
GameFirst is now integrated into Armoury Crate for an even better user experience. GameFirst optimizes networking performance by allocating bandwidth in real time, based on intelligent algorithms designed for various application customizable usage scenarios and corresponding learning algorithms. The latest update includes dedicated support for NVIDIA GeForce NOW to ensure the lowest latency possible during intense game streaming cloud gaming sessions. To provide a better user’s experience, GameFirst is now integrated into Armoury Crate.
The AI Suite 3 dashboard contains a set of intuitive controls that boost CPU performance while maintaining system stability.
The TurboV Processing Unit (TPU) is an intelligent onboard micro- controller that provides an array of system-tuning features, including the ability to fine-tune voltages, monitor system stats and adjust overclocking parameters.
The Digi+ voltage-regulator module (VRM) delivers real-time control over voltage droop, switching frequency, and power-efficiency settings allowing you to fine-tune CPU voltage regulation for ultimate stability and performance.
Modern processors feature per-core tuning, and the ASUS Turbo app makes use of this feature by letting you assign applications to specific processor cores, prioritizing computing power where it's needed most.
The renowned ROG UEFI (BIOS) provides everything you need to configure, tweak, and tune your rig. It offers intelligently simplified options for newcomers to PC DIY, as well as more comprehensive features for seasoned veterans.
Quickly locate tuning options and add preferred tools to your favcrites list.
Flash the latest BIOS via the internet from within the BIOS.
Check your storage device Self-Monitoring Analysis, and Reporting Technology, (S.M.A.R.T.) logs to gauge reliability or to identify potential failures.
Automatically detect selected ASUS graphics cards to view detailed information
Fine-tune individual fans simply by dragging a curve with the mouse.
View SATA port details for easy device recognition.
Click on the settings icon to quickly change time and date settings.
For diagnostic convenience, MemTest86 has been pre-installed into the ROG UEFI. Run the test to pinpoint memory issues without the need to start up the OS or attach a USB drive. Memory test results are stored in the BIOS archives for later reference.
Up your game with complementary Aura Sync enhanced aesthetics, featuring preset lighting effects that can be easily synchronized across compatible ROG graphics cards, monitors, keyboards, and mice to give your setup a unified look.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Formula includes LiveDash, a built-in 2-inch OLED panel that shows useful information and features customizable graphics. During the power-on, self-test (POST) phase, the OLED shows key stats in simple language using traditional POST codes. In normal operation, the panel can be programmed to show CPU frequency, device temperatures, fan speeds or water-cooling information. You can also personalize the default OLED GIF with a preferred image or animation.
Sonic Studio supports HRTF-based (head-related transfer function) virtual surround for headsets, casting an immersive aural landscape that draws you deeper into the action. The intuitive Sonic Studio interface also offers a range of EQ options and one-click presets, allowing you to tailor acoustics to suit personal preferences or the characteristics of your headset.
Through the pre-loaded DTS Sound Unbound app, the ROG Maximus Z790 Formula envelops you in rich audio, conjuring whole new levels of immersion for extraordinary gaming and entertainment experiences. By exploiting Microsoft spatial sound technology, DTS Sound Unbound creates an audial 3D space — putting you right in the middle of the soundscape, where you can sense the location and direction of every gunshot, footstep, or other sound in your virtual environment.
Armoury Crate is a software utility designed to give you centralized control of supported gaming products, making it easy to tune the look and feel of your system. From a single intuitive interface, Armoury Crate helps you customize RGB lighting and effects for compatible devices and synchronize them with Aura Sync to create a unified lighting scheme across your system. In addition, Armoury Crate’s Fan Xpert4 tool provides comprehensive control over fans, water pumps, and all-in-one (AIO) coolers.
You can use Armoury Crate to download drivers, tools, and user manuals, and to register products. It also taps into a special news feed that connects you to the global ASUS gaming community.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Formula includes a one-year AIDA64 Extreme subscription, a tool that provides detailed information about hardware and software, as well as benchmarks to measure the performance of the entire system or individual components. AIDA64 Extreme includes a monitoring and diagnostics feature to detect and prevent hardware issues. All vital system sensors can be tracked in real time, allowing voltage readings, fan speeds, and temperature information to be displayed on the desktop or sent to dedicated displays or to the LCD panels of ROG AIO liquid coolers.