Asus ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE ATX - motherboard

The ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore boasts a sleek all-black design, robust appearance, upgraded power solution and an onboard PCIe® 5.0 M.2 slot for lightning-fast storage. Meanwhile, the ROG Memory Fan Kit offers active cooling to let tinkerers push DDR5 to the limit. And support for Intel® Core™ 14th generation processors lets users set new benchmarks for the wealth of activities that demand peak performance. This motherboard is the ultimate choice for enthusiasts and overclockers seeking style and power in their gaming setup.

ROG OVERCLOCKING TECHNOLOGIES
Tried and tested OC features offer extensive control over system performance for seasoned veterans and new recruits alike. Leverage onboard intelligence to automatically adapt CPU performance, or get a headstart on manual tuning and then utilize advanced tools and utilities to stay on the pulse and push boundaries.

AI OVERCLOCKING
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.

OVERCLOCKER'S TOOLKIT
The ROG Overclocker’s Toolkit is a powerful set of hardware-level controls to enhance your overclocking experience. Some are quick and easy time savers, while others offer masterful functionality to help you smash benchmarks and break records.

DIFFERENTIAL SENSING
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 Apex Encore features a differential-sensing circuit and delicate IC that simplify overclocking and tuning by allowing you to track voltages more accurately.

CONDENSATION DETECTION
Specialized circuitry allows ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore to detect when condensation occurs on the back of the board. Divided into three distinct sections — CPU, DRAM, and PCIe — the feature provides a useful warning when an area may be at risk of short-circuiting.

TEAMED POWER ARCHITECTURE
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.

A BRIEF HISTORY
ASUS became the first manufacturer to implement phase-doublers with the A8N32-SLI Deluxe motherboard, back in 2005. The board's VRM was lauded for elegantly overcoming the power handling capabilities of components that were available at the time while also reducing voltage ripple. Those benefits led to phase-doublers becoming universally accepted in the industry, and they are still used for similar purposes today.

A SHIFT IN CPU DEMANDS
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.

BUCKING THE TREND
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 Apex Encore utilizes teamed power stages to deliver higher burst current per phase, while maintaining the thermal performance of phase-doubled designs.

THERMAL PERFORMANCE
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.

MEMORY
Comprehensive memory tuning options are the cornerstone of ROG motherboards. With the ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore, 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.

DDR5 DOMINATION
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 as far as 8 GT/s on the Maximus Z790 Apex Encore, 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.
The ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore is also equipped with the ROG Memory Fan Kit – a cooling solution to solidify DDR5 stability and unleash memory overclocking. With the ROG Memory Fan Kit, your DDR5 modules can push the boundaries and reach overclocking speeds of 8400+ MT/s. Experience superior cooling performance and unlock the full potential of your memory with ease.

DIMM FLEX
DIMM Flex provides enthusiasts with a powerful new way to overclock their DDR5 memory modules. It employs specialized circuitry that can boost performance or address potential stability issues, depending on temperature readings. When temperatures are nominal, it can use the extra headroom to increase speeds and efficiency. And when temperatures increase, it can adjust memory behavior downward to maintain stability.

AEMP II
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.

Cooler by Design

VRM HEATSINK ARRAY
VRM heatsinks on the MOSFETs and chokes are connected by an embedded heatpipe to increase mass and surface area for dissipation.

M.2 HEATSINKS AND BACKPLATES
Three onboard M.2 slots are thoroughly cooled with heatsinks and backplates for maximum cooling performance.

ROG DIMM.2 CARD HEATSINK
Two additional M.2 slots are kept cool with the DIMM.2 card's hefty heatsinks.

EXTENDED VRM AND M.2 HEATSINK
An extended heatsink helps further cool the VRM along with an M.2 drive.

THERMAL MANAGEMENT

An extensive array of headers allows for precise cooling control and monitoring.

MULTIPLE TEMPERATURE SOURCES
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.

4-PIN FAN HEADERS
Every onboard header supports auto-detection of DC or PWM fans.

AIO PUMP HEADER
A dedicated PWM/DC header for self-contained water-cooling setups.

ROG WATER-COOLING ZONE
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.

Water pump+
A dedicated header can supply over 3 amps to a high-performance PWM or DC water pumps.

Water in/out
A dedicated header enables monitoring of temperatures at the input/output points of any component.

Water flow
A dedicated header enables constant monitoring of flow rate throughout the entire loop.

COOLER COMPATIBILITY
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.

WiFi 7
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.
Learn more about Multi-link Operation (MLO) and WiFi 7 technology.

*WiFi 7 features require onboard WiFi chipset, WiFi AP, and WiFi 7-supported operating systems to support the corresponding features. The 320 Mhz in the 6 GHz band may be unavailable in some regions / countries due to regulatory restrictions. Expected support for Multi-Link Operation (MLO) will be available later this year (October 2023). Please visit the ASUS support page for more information.
**Compared to WiFi 6E

2.5Gb ETHERNET
Low-latency gaming, speedy file transfers, and high-resolution video streaming are among the many perks of onboard Intel® 2.5 Gbps Ethernet.

ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna
Dual transceivers support the 2.4, 5 and 6 GHz bands to enable faster throughput, with directional sensitivity to improve signal quality and cover greater distances.

Wireless Signal Reception Improvement
Versus previous-generation antenna

Fast Check
Armoury Crate’s Fast Check empowers users to rapidly detect WiFi signal strength.

Direction Finder
Armoury Crate’s Direction Finder* helps users detect the optimal antenna orientation for achieving the best WiFi signal strength.
*The Direction Finder is only compatible with connections in the 5GHz and 6GHz bands

PCIE 5.0
Fully embracing the new standard, the ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore offers abundant Gen 5 support to give unfettered bandwidth to the fastest SSDs and graphics cards available.

USB 20Gbps TYPE-C
ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore comes loaded with two USB 20Gbps Type-C® connectors. One is a port on the rear I/O; the other can be attached to the chassis front panel and it also features Quick Charge 4+ technology to quickly charge devices at up to 60W*.
* Requires a PCIe power supply cable to be plugged into the nearby 8-pin connector.

SUPREMEFX
ROG SupremeFX is a unique blend of hardware and software that provides superior audio. The ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore's SupremeFX implementation features the ALC4080 codec with up to 32-bit/384 kHz playback. The front-panel output is streamed through a highly integrated Savitech amplifier that is capable of driving a wide variety of gaming headsets and high-fidelity headphones.

AUDIO LINE SHIELDING
Blocks electromagnetic interference from the motherboard or add-ons to provide cleaner audio.

SAVITECH SV3H712 AMPLIFIER
The integrated Hi-Fi Savitech amplifier holds up its end of the signal path with -89dB THD+N and a signal-to-noise ratio of 114dB, bringing pristine audio to gaming headsets and premium cans.

ALC4080 CODEC
Instead of the conventional high-definition audio (HDA) interface, the ALC4080 codec uses a USB interface to deliver studio-level sound reaching up to 32-bit 384 kHz audio resolution.

SWITCHING MOSFETS
Unique design allows the codec's impedance-sensing function to be ported with either the front or rear headphone outputs.

CAPACITORS
Fine-quality components that produce a warmer, natural sound with exceptional clarity and fidelity.

DIY-FRIENDLY FEATURES

PCIE® SLOT Q-RELEASE
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.

M.2 Q-LATCH
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.

Q-ANTENNA
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.

Q-CODE
The on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes, providing a valuable reference for troubleshooting common boot problems and hardware issues.

Q-LED
The 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™
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.

CLEAR CMOS
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.

AI COOLING II
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.

TWO-WAY AI NOISE CANCELATION
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.

AI NETWORKING
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.

AI SUITE 3
The AI Suite 3 dashboard contains a set of intuitive controls that boost CPU performance while maintaining system stability.

UEFI BIOS
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.

GROW YOUR GAMING WORLD WITH AURA SYNC
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.

Sonic Studio
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.

DTS SOUND UNBOUND
Through the pre-loaded DTS® Sound Unbound™ app, the ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore 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.
* DTS Sound Unbound requires in-game support. Check with developers for supported titles.

Armoury Crate
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.
*Windows 10 or 11 required for full Aura Sync functionality within Armoury Crate. For Windows 8 and earlier versions, standalone Aura Sync software is available for free download from the product support site.

AIDA64 EXTREME
The ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore 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*.
*Support available for ROG Ryujin II and later models.

Dare to Be Green
We at the Republic of Gamers are on a mission to create a sustainable future where all gamers can flourish on the planet we call home.

Every step counts, and as part of ROG’s commitment to creating a more sustainable future, ROG has begun to utilize post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic and paper materials certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC™) in the packaging of motherboard.

Intel® Unison™
Our latest ROG and ROG Strix Z790 WiFi 7 motherboards help you unify your tech life with a free 9-month subscription to Intel Unison.

Intel Unison lets you use a compatible tablet as a second display, wirelessly transfer content between your phone, computer and tablet, and to do thing like accessing your smartphone’s picture photos while you’re working from on your PC. You can also keep an eye on your text messages and notifications while you’re working on your PC to stay connected without losing your flow, and you can even make phone calls without touching your phone.

Note: Certain functions are expected to be operational in Q4 2023; however, the actual support will be contingent upon Intel's preparedness.