The Asus TUF Gaming Z790-Plus Wi-Fi ($229.99) is an affordable Intel Z790 motherboard that promises game-ready features and proven durability. Asus boasts that it's engineered with military-grade components and a comprehensive cooling system intended for extended-use scenarios. Its lengthy feature list includes four M.2 sockets, capable power delivery, a premium (last-gen) audio solution, fast networking including Wi-Fi 6E, and several USB ports including a 20Gbps USB-C port on the rear I/O panel. It falls short of an Editors' Choice recommendation, but it's a tempting budget choice with Intel's current top chipset aboard.The Design: Industrial Value Chic The TUF Gaming Z790-Plus has a basic aesthetic (as you'd expect in this price range), but one that fits with most build themes. It features an embossed nameplate along with geometric design elements Asus says reflect the dependability and stability that define the TUF series. Shrouds and heatsinks cover only what's necessary on t...
Asus' TUF Gaming Z790-Plus Wi-Fi is a well-rounded budget Intel Z790 motherboard, with attractive specifications and ESD protection. It's not as dazzling as some TUF boards of yesteryear, but still a good deal.
Four M.2 sockets; Premium (albeit previous-generation) audio; Two USB-C ports on rear I/O; Network and USB electrostatic discharge guards
No PCI Express 5.0 M.2 socket; Only eight total USB ports at rear