ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard Review: Specs, Pros and Cons

What stands out

• Supports 14th, 13th, and 12th Gen Intel Core Processors
• 4 x DDR5 DIMMs supporting dual channel up to 7200+ (OC) MHz
• PCIe 5.0 connectivity for next-generation expansion cards
• 2.5 GbE Ethernet port for improved network throughput

Who it fits

Key specs explained for ASRock Z790

Chipset: Z790

The Z790 chipset supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors. It allows you to overclock memory and CPU features. This makes it suitable for users who want maximum control over system performance. Choose this if you plan to push your hardware beyond standard speeds.

CPU Socket: LGA1700

This socket fits Intel’s 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Core CPUs. It ensures compatibility with recent high-performance processors. You can upgrade your CPU without changing the motherboard later. Check your processor compatibility before buying to ensure the physical pins match the socket type.

Memory Type: DDR5

DDR5 RAM offers higher bandwidth than older DDR4 standards. This board supports dual-channel configurations up to 7200+ MHz under overclocking. Faster memory improves data transfer rates for demanding tasks. Select DDR5 modules to match this board’s high-speed capabilities for better overall system responsiveness.

PCIe Version: PCIe 5.0

PCIe 5.0 provides faster data transfer speeds for compatible components like graphics cards and storage drives. It doubles the bandwidth of PCIe 4.0. This future-proofs your build for next-generation hardware. Ensure your GPU and SSD support PCIe 5.0 to take full advantage of these speeds.

Ethernet Speed: 2.5 GbE

The 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port offers faster network speeds than standard 1 GbE ports. It reduces bottlenecks when transferring large files or streaming data. This benefits users with high-speed internet plans or local network setups. Ensure your router supports 2.5 GbE to utilize this increased throughput effectively.

Design and Build Analysis

The ASRock Z790 LiveMixer measures 9.7 inches by 6.5 inches, which confirms its ATX form factor. This standard size ensures compatibility with most mid-tower and full-tower cases. You should verify your case dimensions before installation, as the board’s physical footprint requires adequate clearance for mounting screws and rear I/O access. The listing specifies a weight of 2.2 pounds, indicating a substantial build that relies on a rigid structure for stability. This mass helps dampen minor vibrations and supports heavier CPU coolers without flexing the board under load.

According to the listing, the PCB utilizes a 2oz copper construction. This thicker copper layer improves thermal dissipation for power delivery components. It allows the board to handle higher current loads more efficiently, which is critical when pairing the Z790 chipset with high-end 12th, 13th, or 14th Gen Intel Core processors. The black finish is standard for this segment, offering a neutral aesthetic that blends with most modern PC builds. The layout accommodates four DDR5 DIMM slots, supporting dual-channel memory configurations. This design choice prioritizes high bandwidth for demanding workloads, aligning with the board’s support for memory speeds up to 7200+ MHz under overclocking conditions. The physical design focuses on durability and thermal management rather than compactness.

Setup And Daily Use Guide

Setting up this motherboard begins with selecting a compatible processor. The LGA1700 socket supports 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core CPUs. You must ensure your chosen CPU fits this specific socket type before installation. The board uses DDR5 memory modules in a dual-channel configuration. You install four DIMMs to maximize bandwidth. The specifications list support for speeds up to 7200+ MHz when overclocking is enabled. This means you can achieve higher data transfer rates if your memory kit and CPU support such frequencies. The Z790 chipset provides the necessary features for this level of performance tuning. You have direct control over system parameters through the BIOS. This allows you to adjust voltages and timings for stability or speed. The ATX form factor ensures the board fits standard mid-tower and full-tower cases. Its 9.7 by 6.5 inch footprint is common, making case compatibility straightforward. You will likely connect storage drives via SATA3 ports, which offer 6.0 Gb/s speeds. Network connectivity is handled by a 2.5 GbE port. This provides faster local network transfers compared to standard 1 GbE connections. The PCIe 5.0 version support prepares your system for future high-bandwidth graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. Daily use involves managing these components through the motherboard’s firmware. The 2oz copper PCB helps with heat dissipation during sustained workloads. You benefit from reliable connectivity for peripherals and storage. The black color scheme keeps the internal build looking clean. Overall, the setup process is standard for modern ATX boards, focusing on CPU and memory compatibility.

Before you buy this motherboard

You need to verify that your case fits the ATX form factor before purchase. The board measures 9.7 by 6.5 inches, which is standard but requires adequate clearance. Ensure your power supply provides enough connectors for the motherboard and any additional components. You should also check that your RAM is DDR5, as this board does not support older types. The LGA1700 socket limits you to 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel processors. Verify your CPU compatibility list to avoid installation errors. This motherboard targets users who want high-speed memory support with a 2.5 GbE connection. It sits alongside other Z790 options by offering robust overclocking capabilities for DDR5 up to 7200+ MHz. Consider your cooling needs, as the 2oz copper PCB helps with heat dissipation during intensive tasks. Keep drivers updated for optimal performance with the latest Intel chips.

Check before you buy

• Verify your case supports ATX form factor dimensions.
• Confirm your CPU fits the LGA1700 socket.
• Ensure you have DDR5 memory modules ready.
• Check power supply connectors for motherboard requirements.

The product at a glance

1

ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard

Best for: Intel 13th/14th Gen builds with DDR5 RAM

CPU Socket

LGA1700

Chipset

Z790

Form Factor

ATX

Memory Type

DDR5

PCIe Version

PCIe 5.0

Ethernet Speed

2.5 GbE

View on Amazon: ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard Affiliate link

The ASRock Z790 LiveMixer is an ATX motherboard built for 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core processors. It uses the LGA1700 socket and supports DDR5 memory with speeds up to 7200+ MHz in overclocked configurations. The board features a 2oz copper PCB for stability and includes PCIe 5.0 lanes. You will get 2.5 GbE connectivity for faster network transfers. This setup suits builders who want high-speed memory support and modern expansion options.

Pros

• Supports DDR5 memory up to 7200+ (OC) MHz
• Compatible with 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen Intel Core CPUs
• Features PCIe 5.0 for next-generation expansion cards
• Includes 2.5 GbE Ethernet for improved network speeds

Cons

• Standard ATX size may not fit smaller cases
• Requires DDR5 memory which is more expensive than DDR4
• Overclocked memory speeds require compatible CPU and RAM

Good fit if

• You are building a desktop with 13th or 14th Gen Intel processors
• You want to use high-speed DDR5 memory for gaming or content creation
• You need 2.5 GbE networking for faster local file transfers

Skip if

• You are using older 11th Gen Intel processors that are not supported
• You prefer DDR4 memory to keep costs lower
• You need a smaller form factor like Micro-ATX or ITX

Verdict: ASRock Z790 LiveMixer ATX Motherboard provides a solid foundation for modern Intel builds with strong DDR5 support. It is ideal for users who prioritize high memory speeds and future-proof PCIe 5.0 connectivity.

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See also

• asrock z790 livemixer motherboard alternatives
• best ASRock ATX motherboards
• asrock radeon rx 7900 xtx review
• asrock pro 750g power supply review