Introduction

Every new CPU and chipset generation is accompanied by a variety of motherboards for every consumer type. With the release of Intel's 12th Gen Core processors in late 2021 came a new socket as well. LGA 1700 is supported by the Z690 chipset, which also holds the privilege of being the first to bring PCIe Gen 5.0 and DDR5 to the consumer market. Like clockwork, Gigabyte has released a number of Z690 based motherboards from entry level to ultra-premium. From the flagship AORUS Xtreme to Gigabyte's budget GAMING X series, there is a motherboard that will be satisfactory at every price point.

While we wait for AMD to release the next generation of Ryzen CPUs and a new CPU socket of its own, AMD processors continue to offer welcome competition even as the AM4 platform starts to reach end of life. For now, however, Intel's 12th Gen Core processors are the only ones currently offering native PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support, giving the company a head start. The Intel Z690 chipset has also been given a connection speed boost with the change to DMI 4.0 at 16 GT/s, a doubling over DMI 3.0 found on the previous LGA 1200. The next-biggest change is dual support for either DDR4 or DDR5 memory modules by the CPU, which has motherboard manufacturers offering a variety of configurations.


In today's review, we will be looking at the Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Xtreme WaterForce. By combining the flagship Xtreme motherboard with Gigabyte's WaterForce line, we get a limited edition product of only 200 ever produced! Gigabyte uses the AORUS naming convention to serve as the company's gaming-orientated line of Intel and AMD motherboards. These AORUS Z690 branded motherboards come in multiple models comprising of the Pro, Ultra, Elite, Tachyon, Master, and Xtreme, some of which overlap in features and suggested price points.

The Z690 AORUS Xtreme WaterForce is in the ultra-high-end stratosphere made for those who are not concerned with cost and want a product that does not compromise. In many ways, the long list of features is overkill for any type of setup. However, this flagship motherboard is marketed and designed for those who command excellence and will not settle for anything less. It certainly has the looks to become that centerpiece of a gaming room. There is a lot to cover in this review, so let's take a closer look!

Specifications