Intel has officially launched its highly anticipated Core Ultra 200S series desktop CPUs, which require the new LGA1851 socket. This means users will need to upgrade to motherboards that feature the latest Intel 800 series chipset to take full advantage of these processors.
In this article, we’ll shift our focus away from the CPUs themselves and delve into the Z890 Pro RS WiFi, one of ASRock’s offerings within the Z890 chipset lineup. This motherboard is designed to provide robust features and performance, catering to users looking for a solid platform for their Intel Core Ultra 200S series CPUs.
Unboxing
In terms of packaging, ASRock has done a commendable job with the design, making it visually appealing. The back of the box highlights the motherboard’s key features, along with its specifications and details about the rear I/O. From the specifications table, it’s clear that the Z890 Pro RS WiFi offers the essential features typical of an entry-level Z890 motherboard, which aligns with expectations for this category.
The Z890 Pro RS WiFi features a significantly more minimalistic design compared to its predecessors, with the ASRock logo on the chipset heatsink being almost unnoticeable unless viewed up close. In addition to this aesthetic change, the layout has also been adjusted. The remaining PCIe expansion slots, which include 2 x PCIe x4 and 1 x PCIe x1, have been moved to the bottom of the board. Notably, there is now about a two-slot clearance between the PCIe x16 slot and the PCIe x1 slot.
ASRock has implemented a noteworthy power design in the Z890 Pro RS WiFi, featuring a 16+1+1+1 phase setup. This upgrade from the 14+1+1 phase design found in the previous Z790 Pro RS WiFi model is expected to better accommodate the Intel Core Ultra 200S series desktop CPUs.
That aside, users can also anticipate enhanced performance for DDR5 memory, with DDR5-8000+ speeds expected for Z890 chipset motherboards. The Z890 Pro RS WiFi supports up to 256GB of memory when all four DIMM slots are filled. However, what stands out is the innovative Memory OC Shield positioned between the DIMM slots and the CPU socket. ASRock asserts that this shield helps absorb EMI noise, thereby boosting memory performance.
The ASRock Z890 Pro RS WiFi motherboard offers impressive storage options, particularly for M.2 slots. It comes with four M.2 slots in total, with the first one (M.2_1) supporting PCIe Gen5 x4 speeds, making it ideal for high-performance NVMe SSDs. The remaining three slots (M.2_2, M.2_3, and M.2_4) run at PCIe Gen4 x4 speeds, offering fast data transfer capabilities that are great for additional storage needs.
The rear I/O layout of the ASRock Z890 Pro RS WiFi strikes a balance between convenience and performance. While it may leave some users wishing for more USB ports, ASRock has done a good job grouping the USB ports by bandwidth, making it easier to access and use high-speed devices efficiently. This thoughtful arrangement adds convenience to the user experience.
ASRock has grouped USB 3.2 Gen2, Gen1, and USB 2.0 ports on the rear I/O, ensuring that bandwidth-critical devices are positioned logically. This organization simplifies the setup for those connecting peripherals with varied data transfer requirements.
For network connectivity, ASRock has equipped the Z890 Pro RS WiFi White with Wi-Fi 6E and 2.5GbE LAN. While these are considered standard for the Z890 chipset, they still provide reliable, fast networking for both wired and wireless connections. However, some users might feel that additional options could have been included, given the potential for even higher-end features with the Z890 chipset.
The positioning of the WiFi connector might appear slightly unconventional at first, but considering that the included antennas are basic and lack any extra cabling, it works well. This design choice avoids clutter and makes installation straightforward for most users.
With the growing demand for white-themed PC builds, ASRock has introduced the Z890 Pro RS WiFi White, which is identical to its standard counterpart, the Z890 Pro RS WiFi, except for its striking white PCB. This variant is designed to appeal to users who want a cohesive, clean look for their setup without sacrificing functionality or performance.
The Z890 Pro RS WiFi White maintains the same 16+1+1 phase power design, offering solid power delivery for Intel’s latest processors. It also supports DDR5 memory and features multiple M.2 slots, including one that supports PCIe Gen5 speeds, making it an excellent option for high-performance builds.
First Impression
That concludes our first look at the ASRock Z890 Pro RS WiFi. Although we can’t provide performance insights just yet due to the ongoing embargo, we anticipate more detailed testing soon. So far, based on its design and feature set, ASRock has delivered a solid motherboard, even though it opts for more fundamental features considering the Z890 chipset’s potential. We’ll be back with a performance review in a couple of weeks, so stay tuned for that!
