ASUS ROG Maximus Z890 Apex

ASUS ROG Maximus Z890 Apex

Motherboard • ASUS • $ 399.00

Share This Component

Overview

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z890 Apex is a flagship ATX motherboard engineered for Intel Core Ultra processors (LGA 1851) and the Intel Z890 chipset. Designed for extreme overclocking and high-performance builds, it combines cutting-edge connectivity with robust power delivery to push your system to its limits.

Unleash Maximum Performance

With a 20+1+2 power stage design and premium alloy chokes, the Z890 Apex delivers clean, stable power to the CPU, enabling enthusiasts to achieve record-breaking overclocks. The dual-channel DDR5 memory architecture supports speeds up to 8400+ MT/s (OC) via two reinforced DIMM slots, maximizing memory bandwidth for gaming and productivity.

Next-Gen Connectivity

  • PCIe 5.0: Two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (from CPU) support multi-GPU configurations (x16/x0 or x8/x8).
  • Storage: One PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot (CPU) and four PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots (chipset, two via DIMM.2 card) for lightning-fast NVMe SSDs.
  • Networking: Intel 2.5 GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure lag-free online gaming and fast file transfers.
  • Thunderbolt 4 / USB4: Onboard header and dedicated controller provide 40 Gbps connectivity for external devices.
  • USB Ports: Back panel includes USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, five USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A.

Built for Enthusiasts

The Apex series is renowned for its overclocking-friendly design. Features include BIOS FlashBack, Clear CMOS button, and extensive voltage control. The board also includes comprehensive cooling options: multiple fan headers, water cooling headers, and dedicated VRM and M.2 heatsinks to keep temperatures in check.

Target Audience

Ideal for hardcore gamers, PC enthusiasts, and competitive overclockers who demand the absolute best performance and features from their platform. Whether you're chasing world records or building a no-compromise gaming rig, the ROG Maximus Z890 Apex delivers.

Key Specifications

Form Factor: ATX
Socket: LGA 1851
RAM Type: DDR5 8400+ OC (dual-channel, non-ECC unbuffered, XMP supported)
Max. RAM: 128GB
RAM Slots: 2
Chipset: Intel Z890
Connectivity
2X PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (from CPU, support x16/x0 or x8/x8 mode), 1X M.2 slot (Key M, PCIe 5.0 x4, from CPU), 4X M.2 slots (Key M, PCIe 4.0 x4, from chipset, typically 2 via DIMM.2 card and 2 onboard), 6X SATA 6 Gb/s ports, 1X Intel 2.5 GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 support (via onboard header or dedicated controller), VRM heatsinks, M.2 heatsinks, multiple fan headers, water cooling headers
Back Panel IO
1X USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, 5X USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 4X USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1X Intel 2.5 GbE LAN port, 2X Wi-Fi antenna connectors, 5X Audio jacks, 1X Optical S/PDIF out, 1X BIOS FlashBack button, 1X Clear CMOS button
Onboard USB Headers: 1X USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 front-panel Type-C connector 1X USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (supports 2 ports) 2X USB 2.0 headers (support 4 ports total)

Detailed Parameters

Platform:
Intel
Socket:
LGA 1851
RAM Type:
DDR5
Number of RAM Slots:
2
Maximum RAM/slot:
64
Maximum RAM Capacity in GB:
128
PCI Express Version:
5
Form Factor:
ATX
Maximum RAM Speed in MHz:
8400

Where to Buy

Pros

  • Exceptional overclocking capability with robust VRM and BIOS
  • Supports ultra-fast DDR5 memory up to 8400+ MT/s
  • Multiple PCIe 5.0 and M.2 slots for future-proof storage and GPU
  • Premium networking: Wi-Fi 7, 2.5 GbE, and Thunderbolt 4
  • Comprehensive cooling and fan control options

Cons

  • Only 2 DIMM slots limit maximum capacity (128GB) and upgrade path
  • High price point may be overkill for average users
  • Requires latest Intel Core Ultra CPUs (LGA 1851), not backward compatible

Frequently Asked Questions

What CPU socket does the ASUS ROG Maximus Z890 Apex use?

It uses the LGA 1851 socket, designed for Intel Core Ultra processors (Arrow Lake-S).

How many RAM slots does it have and what is the maximum capacity?

It has 2 DDR5 DIMM slots, supporting up to 128GB total (64GB per module) with speeds up to 8400+ MT/s (OC).

Does the motherboard support PCIe 5.0?

Yes, it features two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (from CPU) and one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot for the fastest GPUs and SSDs.

What wireless connectivity does it offer?

It includes Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring high-speed, low-latency wireless networking.

Is Thunderbolt 4 supported?

Yes, it has Thunderbolt 4/USB4 support via an onboard header and dedicated controller, providing 40 Gbps data transfer.

You cannot copy content from this page

Scroll to Top