The next we have in the list of best motherboards for the i9 9900K in 2021 is the ASUS Prime Z490-A, which is the second ASUS motherboard present in the list. For a general overview, the device has the best design in the entire record, in our opinion.
It looks quite durable and compact for the outer edge and has a metallic finishing appearance. Plus, it’s the first motherboard in the list that supports the latest 10th Gen Intel® Core™ processors, so it clear that it will have Intel® LGA 1200 Socket. It couples up the 14 nm chipset of Z490 that works excellent in the processing and interacted system. The dimension of ASUS Prime Z490-A is 32.79 cm, 6.81 cm, 26.29 cm in length, breadth, and height.
Asus Prime Z490-A
- Well-rounded feature set
- Easy-to-use BIOS
- Flawless setup and install process in our test build
- Slightly high pricing for the feature set
As mentioned above, it has military-level durability like TUF, which makes the device more commendable.
The design is also superb and appropriately fits in the standard of gaming PC build-up. The device comes with the renowned Aura Sync DIY friendly and customizable RGB lighting setting that produces a high-quality LED lighting effect, enhancing the motherboard’s overall look.
The second most notable thing about this motherboard it Armory crate software that helps to personalize the usage of Aura Syn.
The plus point of the motherboard is that it has a solid foundation. Because of that, it elevates the performance in several folds at very ease.
It has the pro cooling connector that cools the 12+2 DRMOS power stage VRM system. Apart from this, it has the heatsink that provides additional cooling while overclocking. Another unique thing about the motherboard is its memory, which works on the ASUS OptiMem II with granular low memory latency at the equivalent voltage.
Thus, you will get better memory stabilization and a more considerable memory frequency margin. In terms of storage, it offers the Dual M.2 slot for speedy data transfer up to 32 GB/ s.
Pros
- Exceptional cooling via fan Xpert 4 and has next-level connectivity
- Five-way of optimization with AI-based overclocking system
- A sleek yet compact designed board
Cons
- Low expectation of features
- Lack of RGB configuration
On the other hand, there are numerous types of connectivity port attains in the configurated motherboard system. The noteworthy ports are the USB 3.2 Gen 2, Thunderbolt™ 3 Support, and Intel Ethernet Connection I225-V.
The cooling aspect of the ASUS Prime Z490-A cools the motherboard from head to toe, and it consists of M.2, VRM as well as SoC VRM heating that provides further cooling. So, it is quite apparent this motherboard is definitely a beast in overclocking with the best stat in cooling so far.
| Specifications | PRIME Z490-A |
| Socket | ATX |
| Dimensions | 32.79 cm x 6.81 cm x 26.29 cm |
| Chipset | Intel® Z490 |
| RAM Slots | 4 Slots with a maximum capacity of 128GB |
| Memory Technology | DDR4 |
| Socket | Intel® Socket 1200 |
| Ports | 1 x M.2_1 socket 3,1 x M.2_2, 6 x SATA 6Gb/s port(s), Rear USB Port ( Total 8 ) , 4 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 port(s)(3 x Type-A +1 x USB Type-C®), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 port(s)(2 x Type-A), 2 x USB 2.0 port(s)(2 x Type-A), Front USB Port ( Total 7 ) , 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 front panel connector port(s), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 port(s). 4 x USB 2.0 port(s), etc ports |
Plus, you will get the AI base overclocking system that design to squeeze every inch of performance while cooling factors are doing there work. Also, there will be a digital power control system inclined to generate more precise voltage regulation through its module.
Small things matter when you are a dedicated gamer, and the audio quality is a must. This motherboard, on the other hand, provides Realtek Codec couples up with a Premium Japanese capacitor and Integrated Amplifier with a De-Pop circuit that expands the reach of audio and presents exceptional sound quality in your ears.
Why should you buy ASUS Prime Z490-A?
If we have to shortlist motherboard in terms of best overclocking and cooling system, then this motherboard will reach at the top with its sibling ASUS ROG MAXIMUS XI HERO. And it’s appropriate to say its the best motherboard for i9 9900k in the mid-segment since it can manage performance-driven hardware without any problem.
ASUS Prime Z490-A is one of the best motherboards from Asus and one of the most purchased gaming motherboards.
After examining its exceptional features, no one can stop you from buying it. Plus, it a better choice if you want a better gaming sound experience as this motherboard is equipped with the Realtek S1220A sound codec.
It also has the 12+2 phase VRM system that enhances performance and provides better overclocking. To put it simply, it an all-rounder motherboard that comes in the fair price range.
Conclusion
While going through the research, we found out that it’s quite a good motherboard for i9. As it appears that the 10th gen present in the motherboard, which is the latest and greatest of modern technology. It means it is more efficient in terms of speed, power, and connectivity. On the other hand, we aren’t implying that ASUS Prime Z490-A is entirely flawless. It has its specialty as well as it has some minor flaws, which are ignorable. Also, it creates a different persona of this motherboard in the competition.
If you find this motherboard ample, buy it right away. But if you need more features on your motherboard, there are still several gaming motherboards in the list that you can choose from instead of Asus.
