ASRock Intel W790 E-ATX Motherboard Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
This asrock w790 ws gaming desktop motherboard review covers the ASRock Intel W790 E-ATX Motherboard. It targets professional workstations using the LGA-4677 socket. The board supports 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-series processors. It features a 20+2 phase power design for stability. You get eight DDR5 DIMM slots for massive memory capacity. This setup delivers workstation-class performance for demanding applications. The extended ATX form factor requires a large chassis. It is built for users who need extensive expansion options. The specifications focus on server-grade reliability and high-speed connectivity for complex tasks.
What stands out
- Supports 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-3400 and W-2400 processors on the LGA4677 platform
- Eight DDR5 DIMM slots supporting quad-channel ECC RDIMM memory up to 2048GB
- Four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots with reinforced steel construction for multi-GPU setups
- Triple LAN configuration with dual 10GbE and one 2.5GbE port
- 20+2 phase 90A SPS Dr.MOS power delivery on a 14-layer PCB
Who it fits
Good fit for
You should consider this board if you build professional workstations. It suits users running Intel Xeon W-series processors for rendering or simulation. The eight DDR5 slots and ECC support help those handling large datasets. Multi-GPU builders will appreciate the four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots. Professionals needing fast networking will value the dual 10GbE ports. The Thunderbolt 4 ports also benefit users connecting high-speed peripherals. This motherboard fits large cases and requires compatible server-grade components.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you use standard consumer CPUs. This board requires LGA-4677 sockets, so Intel Core processors will not work. The E-ATX size is too large for most standard mid-tower cases. You need a chassis with adequate clearance for the four PCIe slots. If you do not need ECC memory or 10GbE networking, this is overkill. The focus on workstation stability means it lacks typical gaming features. Standard gamers should choose a board with consumer chipsets and smaller footprints.
Verdict: This motherboard delivers serious workstation power for Intel Xeon users. It is a solid choice for professional builds requiring massive memory and expansion.
Key specs explained for you
CPU Socket: LGA-4677
This socket accepts 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-3400 and W-2400 processors. It is not compatible with standard consumer Core or Ryzen chips. You need a workstation CPU to use this board. This limits your upgrade path to server-grade parts. Verify your processor model matches this socket before buying.
Memory Type: DDR5
The board uses DDR5 RAM in eight DIMM slots. It supports quad-channel ECC Registered memory for high stability. You can install up to 2048GB of RAM. Speeds reach 6800+ MHz. ECC memory corrects data errors, which is vital for professional workloads and large datasets that require constant accuracy.
PCIe Version: PCIe 5.0
You get four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for graphics cards. This standard doubles the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0. It supports multi-GPU setups for deep learning or rendering. The slots are reinforced with steel. This ensures your heavy graphics cards stay secure and stable under high loads.
Ethernet Speed: 10GbE, 2.5GbE
The board includes dual 10GbE and one 2.5GbE LAN ports. This allows ultra-fast data transfer between servers or storage devices. It supports triple LAN configurations. This is useful for virtualization or high-throughput network tasks. Standard boards usually offer only 1GbE, making this a significant performance boost.
Power Phases: 20+2
This design uses 20+2 phases with 90A Dr.MOS components. It delivers stable power to the CPU under heavy loads. The 14-layer PCB ensures signal integrity. This setup supports demanding professional workloads without throttling. It provides better stability than basic consumer motherboards with fewer power phases.
Design and build details
The ASRock Intel W790 E-ATX Motherboard measures 12.2 inches by 8.27 inches. It weighs 2.16 pounds. This extended ATX form factor requires a chassis with ample clearance. You must verify that your case fits the four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots. The board uses a 14-layer server-grade ultra-low-loss PCB. This design supports stable signal integrity for demanding workloads.
According to the listing, the power delivery system includes a 20+2 phase 90A SPS Dr.MOS setup. This configuration ensures stable power for professional applications. The board features reinforced steel slots for the PCIe connections. This construction supports multi-GPU configurations for tasks like deep learning and simulation. You also get four PCIe Gen5x4 M.2 slots. These provide extensive high-speed storage flexibility alongside the U.2 connector and SATA ports.
Networking options include dual Marvell AQUANTIA 10GbE LAN ports and one Intel i225LM 2.5GbE port. Two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports offer 40 Gbps data transfer. The listing notes Wi-Fi 6E support. These connectivity choices suit users needing fast data movement. The heavy PCB and robust power stages indicate a focus on mission-critical stability. You should plan your build around these physical and electrical requirements.
Setup and everyday use
Setting up this motherboard requires careful planning. You must pair it with a 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-3400 or W-2400 processor. Standard consumer CPUs will not fit the LGA-4677 socket. Your case needs enough room for the 12 by 13 inch E-ATX board. You also need clearance for the four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots. The board uses a 20+2 phase power design. This 90A SPS Dr.MOS setup delivers stable power to demanding workloads. You get eight DDR5 DIMM slots. These support quad-channel ECC Registered memory. You can install up to 2048GB of RAM. The memory supports speeds up to 6800+ MHz. This capacity suits large datasets and mission-critical tasks. Storage options are extensive. You have four PCIe Gen5x4 M.2 slots. There is also one U.2 mini-SAS connector and eight SATA3 ports. Networking is handled by dual 10GbE ports and one 2.5GbE port. Two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports offer 40 Gbps data transfer. Wi-Fi 6E is included for wireless connectivity. Daily use involves running professional workloads. The server-grade PCB ensures signal integrity. You can configure multi-GPU setups for deep learning or rendering. The system is built for stability over casual gaming. You rely on the ECC memory to prevent data errors during long sessions. The robust power delivery keeps the Xeon processor running smoothly under heavy loads. This setup is not for simple office work. It is for users who need workstation-class performance. You verify all component compatibility before purchase. The board requires a chassis with adequate clearance. You must ensure your power supply can handle the 20+2 phase design. This is a specialized tool for specific professional needs.
Before you buy this board
You must verify that your chassis accommodates the 12.2 by 8.27 inch extended ATX form factor. The four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots require significant depth and width. Standard consumer cases often lack this clearance. You need a compatible 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-3400 or W-2400 processor. These are not standard desktop CPUs. You also need ECC RDIMM memory. Standard non-ECC RAM will not work with this platform. The board supports up to 2048GB of memory. You should check your power supply for adequate wattage to handle the 20+2 phase power design. This motherboard is designed for workstation-class performance. It suits users running large datasets or simulation software. It does not fit typical gaming builds without specific high-end components. Ensure your cooling solution fits the LGA-4677 socket. You must also consider the triple LAN setup. Dual 10GbE and one 2.5GbE port require compatible network infrastructure. This board sits alongside other workstation options but demands specific server-grade parts. Plan your build around these strict compatibility requirements.
Check before you buy
- Verify your case fits the 12 by 13 inch E-ATX size.
- Confirm you have a compatible 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-series CPU.
- Check that you have ECC RDIMM DDR5 memory modules.
- Ensure your power supply handles the high power draw of the CPU.
The product at a glance
ASRock Intel W790 E-ATX Motherboard
Best for: heavy workstation tasks and multi-GPU setups
- CPU Socket
- LGA-4677
- Chipset
- Intel W790
- Form Factor
- Extended ATX
- Memory Type
- DDR5
- PCIe Version
- PCIe 5.0
- M.2 Slots
- 4
View on Amazon: ASRock Intel W790 E-ATX Motherboard Affiliate link
This ASRock W790 WS motherboard targets professional workstations using the LGA4677 socket. It supports 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-Series processors and offers 8 DDR5 DIMM slots for up to 2048GB of ECC RDIMM memory. The board features a 20+2 phase power design and four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for multi-GPU setups. You get triple LAN connectivity, including dual 10GbE ports, plus Thunderbolt 4 support. It is built for heavy data processing and simulation tasks.
Pros
- Supports 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-3400/W-2400 CPUs on LGA4677 socket
- 8x DDR5 DIMM slots with quad-channel ECC RDIMM support up to 2048GB
- 4x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for multi-GPU configurations
- 20+2 phase 90A SPS Dr.MOS power delivery system
- Dual 10GbE and 2.5GbE LAN with Thunderbolt 4 ports
Cons
- E-ATX form factor requires a large chassis with adequate clearance
- Heavy build at 2.16 pounds
- Requires specific workstation-grade ECC memory and compatible processors
Good fit if
- You need massive ECC memory capacity for large datasets
- You plan to use multiple GPUs for deep learning or rendering
- You require high-speed 10GbE networking for professional workloads
Skip if
- You use standard consumer Intel Core processors
- You prefer a compact ATX or micro-ATX case
- You do not need ECC registered memory support
Verdict: ASRock W790 WS E-ATX Workstation Board is a specialized platform for users requiring extensive memory and multi-GPU capabilities. It fits professionals running simulation or rendering tasks that demand workstation-class stability and speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ASRock Intel W790 E-ATX Motherboard |
|---|---|
| CPU Socket | LGA-4677 |
| Chipset | Intel W790 |
| Form Factor | Extended ATX |
| Memory Type | DDR5 |
| PCIe Version | PCIe 5.0 |
| M.2 Slots | 4 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Ethernet Speed | 10GbE, 2.5GbE |
| Power Phases | 20+2 |
| Use Case | Gaming |
| Dimensions | 12.2 × 8.27 × 1.97 inches |
| Weight | 2.16 pounds |
| Model | W790WS |
Frequently asked questions
Is the ASRock Intel W790 suitable for gaming?
The product data lists the use case as gaming, but the board is designed for heavy workstation tasks. It supports 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-series processors. This makes it ideal for simulation or rendering. You should consider this if you need multi-GPU capabilities and extensive memory for professional workloads rather than pure entertainment.
What form factor does this motherboard use?
This motherboard uses an E-ATX form factor. It measures 12.2 inches in length and 8.27 inches in width. The board weighs 2.16 pounds. You must ensure your computer case can accommodate this large size. Standard mid-tower cases often lack the necessary clearance for these dimensions.
Which processors are compatible with this board?
The ASRock W790 WS supports 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-series processors. It uses the LGA-4677 socket. This includes the W-3400 and W-2400 series chips. Standard consumer Core or Ryzen processors will not fit this socket. You need a workstation-class CPU to use this platform effectively.
How many PCIe slots does the board have?
The design features four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots. This configuration supports multi-GPU setups for professional workloads. You need a chassis with ample depth and width to fit these cards. This layout is optimized for heavy workstation tasks and extensive memory requirements rather than standard consumer gaming builds.
What is the power delivery design of this motherboard?
The board features a 20+2 phase power design. This configuration provides stability for demanding workstation tasks. It supports the high power requirements of 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-series processors. This robust power delivery helps maintain performance during intensive simulation or rendering tasks that require consistent speed and reliability.
Does this motherboard support DDR5 memory?
Yes, the board supports DDR5 memory. It features eight DDR5 DIMM slots. This allows for extensive memory capacity needed for professional workloads. You can run simulation or rendering tasks that demand high bandwidth and large memory pools. This setup ensures stability and speed for heavy workstation usage scenarios.
What is the weight of the ASRock W790 WS?
The motherboard weighs 2.16 pounds. This weight reflects its robust construction and E-ATX form factor. You should handle it with care during installation. The substantial build quality supports the 20+2 phase power design. This ensures stability for 4th Gen Intel Xeon W-series processors in professional workstation environments.