Intel has now officially launched their newest Core processors – the Intel Core Ultra (previously known as Arrow Lake). With that launch comes a new motherboard chipset and socket, Z890. Obviously the new motherboards are designed for the new processors, but how do they compare in terms of features to the previous Z790 boards? Read on to learn more on Z890 vs Z790.
What is Z890 (…and what’s a chipset)?
A chipset is a component on a motherboard that’s designed by Intel or AMD to work exclusively with their specific processors and essentially facilitates communication between the CPU, storage, RAM, GPU, and I/O. Certain chipsets only support certain features such as PCIe Gen 5, DDR5 RAM, USB 3.2 Gen 2, etc. Specific chipsets also only support specific processors, so when choosing a motherboard, make sure that the included chipset supports your processor of choice.
Z890 is the Intel chipset that supports the newest Intel Core Ultra (15th Gen) processors (ie. Core Ultra 5 245k, Core Ultra 9 285k, etc). Now, on to features.
ASUS ROG Maximus z890 Motherboard, image via ASUS
Z890 vs Z790 – How do Features Compare?
We’ve outlined the key feature differences between these two chipsets below, but the most important difference here is the socket. Whereas the Z790 had an LGA 1700 socket (named in reference to the number of pins connecting socket to CPU), the Z890 boards use a newer LGA 1851 socket. This means in order to upgrade to the new Intel Core Ultra processors, you’ll need a new motherboard. The two are not interchangeable.
Additionally, you’ll see a few other notable spec changes outline below, specifically in terms of stock RAM speed, RAM capacity, and PCIe lanes. What’s not listed in this chart are a few networking and I/O differences like Wifi 7 and USB4 because while they’re officially supported by both, they’re each more likely to be found on a Z890 motherboard.
| Z890 | Z790 | |
| Intel Socket | LGA 1851 | LGA 1700 |
| Processor Support | Intel Core Ultra (15th Gen/Arrow Lake) | 12th/13th/14th Gen Intel Core i9/i7/i5 |
| Stock RAM speed | 6400 | 5600 |
| Max RAM Capacity | 256GB | 192GB |
| Total PCIe Lanes | 48 | 44 |
| PCIe Gen 5 Lanes | 20 | 16 |
Which to choose?
The best option for you obviously depends on your CPU of choice. Though Intel Core Ultra does not set performance records, its efficiency with its newer architecture does make it the ideal choice for most users. The newness of the socket creates a positive upgrade path vs the 1700, which will now be trending toward obsolescence.
Configure a custom gaming PC or workstation PC with Z790 or Z890 motherboard here!
Josh Covington
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