Introduction

Ten months ago, AMD released the Ryzen 3000 series desktop processors in one of the most monumental hardware launches of the modern era. This final step completed the Red brand's ascent back into the forefront of the desktop processor market that began with the launch of the first generation of Ryzen CPUs. Now, Intel is finally firing back with the launch of the 10th Generation Intel Core processors, along with a new motherboard standard to drive them.

As should be no surprise, the focus will remain on the new motherboards. While the 10th Gen Intel Core processors will not support PCIe 4.0 connectivity due to signal integrity issues, many of the Z490 motherboards are designed to support the PCIe 4.0 specification. This is accomplished by adding clock generators to help clean up the signal. Generally speaking, when it comes to long-term platform support, AMD has been the trendsetter. Has AMD's long support of the AM4 socket on its newer generation processors inspired Intel to take similar steps?

So what is Z490 offering right now? For starters, there has been a large focus on VRM and VRM cooling design. With the top-level Intel Core i9-10900K featuring 10 cores along with HyperThreading, the ability to deliver clean, continuous power is going to be one of the primary factors that separates a good Z490 board from the competition. With the introduction of HyperThreading on Intel's mid-range line-up, power delivery is going to be vital in all segments.



The AORUS line from Gigabyte spans a broad range of products; Laptops, peripherals, and core components. Across the enthusiast spectrum, the AORUS name denotes Gigabyte's gaming-focused products. The AORUS motherboard range features a consistent naming scheme that includes the Pro, Elite, Ultra, Master, and Extreme motherboards. Within this line up, the Master serves as the high-end mainstream option offering prime features at a high, but attainable price point.

The Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master features a robust VRM utilizing 90 A power stages and Gigabyte's signature finned cooling solution. Both Q-Flash and a dual BIOS have been included, providing a redundant safety net for ambitious overclocking. The Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master also offers a full coverage aluminium backplate for added rigidity and additional VRM cooling. All of the features are in order, so let's see how the Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master stacks up against the competition.

Specifications

Packaging and Contents

The front of the Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master box features a dark background dominated by the AORUS logo. "Z490 AORUS Master gaming motherboard" is printed in white and orange on the left side, with the brand badging on the right.

The back of the box has all the highlights: a top-down shot of the board, several panels detailing prominent features, a shot of the rear I/O, and the specifications list. The box design is well executed and matches the board perfectly.


The accessories are above standard and include extras like RGB extension cables, thermistors, and even a noise sensor. Notably absent is any kind of rear I/O shield because the shield is integrated into the board.

The full list of accessories includes:

• Manual and support DVD
• AORUS sticker sheet
• 4x SATA 6 Gb/s cables
• Thermistor cable pack
• 2x RGB extension cables
• G-Connector
• Noise detection cable
• Wi-Fi antenna

Board Layout

The Z490 AORUS Master features a black PCB matched with a black and gray I/O cover and heatsinks. There is a large aluminium backplate that adds rigidity to the board and offers an added element of cooling to the back of the VRM.


The CPU socket is open enough for most air coolers. The VRM features a finned heatsink design to maximize the surface area.


There are three M.2 slots on the Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master. All three slots feature double-sided full coverage heatsinks.


The Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master offers three steel-reinforced PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots. The board has a total of six SATA 6 Gb/s ports on the side, angled 90 degrees from the board.

The top M.2 slots as well as the top two PCIe x16 slots are PCIe 4.0 ready.


The Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master has a good I/O offering that includes an optical S/PDIF out port, Wi-Fi 6, and lots of USB connectivity.

• 2x Antenna ports
• HDMI port
• Clear CMOS button
• 4x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports
• Q-Flash Plus button
• 4x USB 2.0 ports
• 3x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A port
• USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port
• RJ-45 LAN port
• Optical SPDIF out port
• 5x 3.5 mm audio jacks

Networking on the Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Master is handled by Intel's new 2.5 Gb/s controller. For wireless connectivity, there is an AX201 Wi-Fi 6 module.