Z690 Vs. Z790 Ddr4 Performance Comparison – Which One is Better?

With the recent launch of Intel’s 13th generation CPUs, the question of choosing between Z690 and Z790 motherboards has emerged. Are there substantial differences that make one a better choice over the other?

In this detailed comparison, we’ll delve into the key features, performance aspects, and considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Z690 vs. Z790 Overview

Z690 and Z790 are the latest motherboard chipsets introduced by Intel to accompany its 13th generation processors, also known as Alder Lake CPUs. While they may appear similar on the surface, let’s explore the nuances that set them apart.

PCI Express Lanes: Z790’s Slight Edge

• Z690: Offers a maximum of 16 PCIe Gen 5 lanes.
• Z790: Provides an additional 8 PCIe Gen 4 lanes, totaling 24 lanes.

Impact: Z790’s extra lanes allow for better connectivity options for high-speed peripherals, such as storage devices and network cards.

On paper, one of the notable differences between Z690 and Z790 lies in the PCI Express lanes configuration. Z690 provides a maximum of 16 PCIe Gen 5 lanes, whereas Z790 offers 8 PCIe Gen 4 lanes. This is crucial for connecting various peripherals, like additional storage devices, GPUs, and high-speed networking cards.

Memory Compatibility and Overclocking: Incremental Improvements

• Z690: Offers improved memory speed support for stable operation of high-speed memory modules.
• Z790: Offers similar support for enhanced memory speeds, providing better stability for high-performance applications.

Both Z690 and Z790 motherboards offer enhanced support for faster memory speeds. While Z690 allows for more stable operation of high-speed memory modules, the differences might be insignificant for everyday users.

These improved memory speeds’ primary advantage lies in scenarios involving high-performance applications or memory-intensive tasks.

USB Ports and Connectivity: A Slight Boost

• Z690: Offers standard USB connectivity options for various peripherals.
• Z790: Provides support for an extra 20-gigabit per second USB port switch, offering slightly faster USB connectivity for compatible devices.

Z790 supports an extra 20 gigabit per second USB port switch, granting a slight advantage in terms of connectivity. However, this might not drastically impact most users, as not all devices require such high-speed USB connectivity. Z690 still offers an array of USB ports to cater to various peripherals.

Price and Features

• Z690: Often available at a lower price point, making it a cost-effective choice for users with budget constraints.
• Z790: Offers a slight edge in connectivity and memory performance due to the additional PCIe lanes and memory support, making it suitable for users who prioritize performance.

Choosing between Z690 and Z790 ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget. Both motherboards support Intel’s 13th generation processors, so performance is mainly consistent across both platforms.

Their features, such as the number of PCIe lanes, memory overclocking capabilities, and USB connectivity, are what sets them apart.

If you’re primarily a gamer or casual user, the choice might boil down to aesthetics and price. Z690 and Z790 motherboards often have similar designs, and the prices vary. 

CPU Compatibility and BIOS Update

Both Z690 and Z790 motherboards support Intel’s 13th generation Alder Lake CPUs.

Ensure the chosen motherboard has BIOS update compatibility for the specific CPU model you intend to use.

Aesthetics and Design

Both Z690 and Z790 motherboards often share similar aesthetics and design features, ensuring a cohesive look in your system build.

Memory Module Binning

Depending on the motherboard manufacturer, certain motherboards may exhibit memory compatibility and stability variations. Some motherboards have better memory topology for high-speed memory modules.

Usage Scenarios

• Z690: Ideal for budget-conscious users looking for cost-effective solutions without sacrificing significant performance gains.
• Z790: Suited for users who require enhanced memory overclocking stability and additional PCIe lanes for demanding tasks like content creation, gaming, or professional work.

Video: Z690 VS Z790 DDR4 Memory Performance Comparison

Conclusion

The differences are nuanced in the Z690 vs. Z790 comparison and might not significantly impact the average user’s computing experience. Both platforms provide robust performance and support for Intel’s latest CPUs.

Consider your specific needs: if you’re looking for an affordable option with ample features, Z690 motherboards might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a slight edge in connectivity and memory performance, along with an extra 8 PCIe Gen 4 lanes, Z790 motherboards are worth considering.