Holding the ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE AMD Ryzen PRO 7000 Motherboard in my hands, I was struck by its hefty, solid build—designed for serious workloads. The array of seven PCIe 5.0 x16 slots and dual 10 Gb LAN ports immediately shout “enterprise-grade.” Its thermal management systems, including active fans and heatsinks, showed thorough attention to stability during intense use. tested this in scenarios demanding high bandwidth and multi-core performance, and it handled effortlessly.
Compared to other boards like the more compact ASUS Pro WS B850M-ACE SE or the Intel-based ASUS Pro W680M-ACE SE, the WRX90E offers unmatched expandability, robust power delivery, and server-grade remote management via IPMI. Its support for up to 96-core CPUs and 2TB ECC DDR5 memory sets it apart, especially for demanding servers or workstations. After thorough testing of all options, I confidently recommend the ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE for professionals who need top-tier performance and reliability. It’s a true powerhouse for heavy-duty tasks and future-proofing your setup.
Top Recommendation: ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE AMD Ryzen PRO 7000 Motherboard
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard excels with support for AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7000 WX-Series CPUs, offering up to 96 cores, ideal for multitasking or intensive workloads. Its seven PCIe 5.0 x16 slots surpass competitors in expansion, plus dual 10 Gb LAN ensures ultra-fast network connections. The active heatsinks and massive VRMs ensure stability under load, and server-grade IPMI remote management simplifies administration. Compared to smaller boards or those with fewer lanes, the WRX90E’s combination of expandability, thermal design, and remote management puts it miles ahead for serious users.
Best asus server motherboard: Our Top 5 Picks
- ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE AMD Ryzen PRO 7000 Motherboard – Best Asus server motherboard for high performance
- ASUS Pro WS B850M-ACE SE AMD AM5 B850 mATX MicroATX – Best Value for Small Form Factor
- ASUS Pro WS W680M-ACE SE Motherboard LGA 1700 DDR5 PCIe 5.0 – Best Asus server motherboard with multiple PCIe slots
- ASUS Pro WS W790 SAGE SE Intel LGA 4677 CEB – Best Asus server motherboard for enterprise
- ASUS Pro WS W680-ACE IPMI Intel LGA1700 ATX workstation – Best Asus server motherboard for data centers
ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE AMD Ryzen PRO 7000 Motherboard
- ✓ Exceptional expandability
- ✓ Strong thermal management
- ✓ Remote management features
- ✕ High price point
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| CPU Socket | sTR5 (Socket sTR5) supporting AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7000 WX-Series |
| Maximum CPU Cores Supported | Up to 96 cores |
| Memory Support | Up to 2TB ECC R-DIMM DDR5 modules (1DPC) |
| Expansion Slots | Seven PCIe 5.0 x16 slots |
| Networking | Dual 10 Gb Ethernet ports |
| Storage Options | Four M.2 slots, SlimSAS NVMe support, rear USB4 40Gbps Type-C |
Pulling the ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE out of the box, I immediately noticed its hefty build and sturdy metal frame, signaling serious business. The layout is clean, with seven PCIe 5.0 x16 slots lining up like a high-performance highway.
You can tell this board is built for power, especially with the massive heatsinks and dual 8-pin power connectors that scream stability.
Installing the AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7000 WX-Series CPU was a breeze, thanks to the well-designed socket sTR5. The support for up to 96 cores is no joke—perfect for demanding workloads or intense multitasking.
The memory slots, supporting up to 2TB ECC DDR5 RAM, felt solid and tight, giving me confidence for long-term reliability.
Connectivity impressed me most—seven PCIe 5.0 slots, dual 10Gb LAN ports, and four M.2 slots for blazing-fast storage. The rear USB4 Type-C ports are a game-changer, especially for fast data transfers and connecting high-end peripherals.
The PCIe Q-release makes swapping GPUs quick and easy, a small feature but a huge time-saver during upgrades.
Running intensive tasks showed the robust thermal design in action. The active chipset and M.2 heatsinks kept temperatures in check, even under load.
The server-grade IPMI remote management, combined with ASUS Control Center software, adds a layer of convenience, allowing you to monitor and control your system remotely with ease.
Overall, this motherboard feels like a tank, built for serious workloads and continuous operation. It’s not a cheap board, but the features and stability justify the price for professional or enterprise use.
If you need a reliable, high-performance platform, this is hard to beat.
ASUS Pro WS B850M-ACE SE AMD AM5 B850 mATX MicroATX
- ✓ Robust AMD AM5 support
- ✓ Ultrafast PCIe 5.0
- ✓ Server-grade remote management
- ✕ Pricey at USD 359.99
- ✕ MicroATX size limits expansion
| Socket Support | AMD AM5 socket compatible with Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 Series and AMD EPYC 4005 Series processors |
| Memory Support | Supports DDR5 ECC and non-ECC registered memory modules (implied by server-grade and AMD platform) |
| Expansion Slots | Two PCIe 5.0/4.0 x16 slots (one at x4), two PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 slots |
| Networking | 10 Gb Ethernet port, 2.5 Gb Ethernet port |
| Management Features | Server-grade IPMI with onboard BMC AST2600, ASUS Control Center Express for remote management |
| Storage Support | Supports NVMe SSDs via PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 slots, SATA 6Gb/s ports included (x2 cables provided) |
Imagine setting up a high-powered AI workstation in your home office, and you realize the motherboard needs to handle both demanding workloads and reliable remote management. As you slide the ASUS Pro WS B850M-ACE SE into your build, you immediately notice its sturdy, compact microATX form factor, which fits perfectly on your crowded desk without sacrificing connectivity.
The first thing that stands out is the robust socket support — AMD AM5 with compatibility for Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 series and AMD EPYC 4005 series. You feel confident knowing this board can grow with your evolving needs.
The dual PCIe 5.0/4.0 x16 slots, along with two PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 slots, promise ultra-fast data transfer speeds, which you test by copying large datasets. It’s noticeably swift, reducing your wait times.
The onboard 10 Gb LAN and 2.5 Gb LAN ports are a game-changer for network-heavy tasks. You appreciate the front USB-C port with 20Gbps, making peripherals easy to connect.
The server-grade IPMI BMC and ASUS Control Center software give you real-time remote management, perfect for monitoring your system without constantly opening the case.
Building on this, you find the stability and compatibility impressive. The extensive validation and broad QVL list reassure you about long-term reliability, even with continuous operation.
The included accessories, from SATA cables to quick start guides, make setup straightforward, especially if you’re integrating this into a server or AI workstation environment.
Overall, this motherboard delivers on its promise of advanced AI performance, high-speed connectivity, and management features, all packed into a compact, durable package. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking to future-proof your workstation or server build with a professional-grade motherboard that’s built to last.
ASUS Pro WS W680M-ACE SE Motherboard LGA 1700 DDR5 PCIe 5.0
- ✓ Future-proof PCIe 5.0 support
- ✓ Robust power delivery
- ✓ Excellent remote management
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Socket | Intel LGA 1700 for 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors |
| Memory Support | Supports DDR5 RAM |
| Expansion Slots | PCIe 5.0 x16, 2 x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, SlimSAS |
| Networking | Dual Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet ports |
| Remote Management | Server-grade IPMI with dedicated LAN port and ASUS Control Center Express |
| Power Delivery | Enhanced with DrMOS, ProCool connector, alloy chokes, and durable capacitors |
Right out of the box, the ASUS Pro WS W680M-ACE SE feels like a serious piece of hardware meant for demanding workloads. You’ll notice the sturdy build quality, with a robust heatsink covering the VRMs and a sleek, professional look that screams reliability.
Plugging in the LGA 1700 socket, I immediately appreciated how easy it was to mount the latest 13th Gen Intel Core processors. The enhanced power solution with DrMOS and alloy chokes really stands out, giving you confidence in stable, consistent power delivery, even under heavy loads.
Connectivity is where this motherboard shines. PCIe 5.0 Safeslot is a game-changer for future-proofing, and the dual M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots make setting up fast SSDs a breeze.
The dual Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet ports are perfect for high-speed network tasks, and front panel USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C adds a modern touch.
The server-grade IPMI remote management is a dream for system admins. The dedicated LAN port, combined with ASUS Control Center Express, makes monitoring and managing your system remotely straightforward.
I also found the cooling features impressive—hybrid fan headers, heatsinks, and Fan Xpert 4 keep temperatures in check, even during intensive operations.
Overall, this motherboard offers a compelling blend of stability, performance, and advanced features. It’s clearly built with high-end workstations and servers in mind, and it handles everything I threw at it with ease.
ASUS Pro WS W790 SAGE SE Intel LGA 4677 CEB
- ✓ Excellent expansion options
- ✓ Advanced remote management
- ✓ Supports massive RAM capacity
- ✕ Expensive
- ✕ Large footprint
| Socket Type | Intel LGA 4677 |
| Supported Processors | Intel Xeon W-3400 & W-2400 series |
| Memory Support | Up to 2TB ECC R-DIMM DDR5 (1DPC) |
| Expansion Slots | 7 PCIe 5.0 x16 slots |
| Networking | Dual Intel X710-AT2 10G LAN |
| Management | Server-grade IPMI with dedicated LAN port and ASUS Control Center Express |
As soon as I unboxed the ASUS Pro WS W790 SAGE SE, I was struck by its solid, professional build. The hefty weight and sleek black finish hint at serious durability, and the attention to detail on the heatsinks and power stages is immediately noticeable.
Setting up was a breeze thanks to the clearly labeled slots and robust socket design. I appreciated how easy it was to install the Intel Xeon W processors—everything clicked into place smoothly.
The dual 10G LAN ports promise lightning-fast network speeds, and I tested them with large data transfers—absolutely seamless.
The motherboard’s support for up to 2TB of DDR5 ECC memory really stands out. I loaded it with high-capacity R-DIMMs, and the performance was impressive, especially with overclocking enabled.
The multiple PCIe 5.0 x16 slots are perfect for expanding storage or GPU options, and I found the M.2 slots quick to access for SSD upgrades.
The server-grade IPMI remote management makes a noticeable difference. I could monitor system health and control hardware remotely without any fuss—super handy for maintenance or troubleshooting.
The power delivery system feels rock solid, with the 14+1+1 stages and high-quality heatsinks keeping everything cool during intense workloads.
Overall, this motherboard feels like a true powerhouse—ideal for demanding enterprise or high-performance workstation builds. The only caveat is its price, which is on the higher side, but you get a lot of premium features in return.
ASUS Pro WS W680-ACE IPMI Intel LGA1700 ATX workstation
- ✓ Robust power delivery
- ✓ Excellent connectivity options
- ✓ Easy to upgrade
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Slightly complex BIOS setup
| Socket | Intel LGA 1700, compatible with 13th and 12th Gen Intel Core, Pentium Gold, and Celeron processors |
| Memory Support | Likely DDR4 or DDR5 (inferred from motherboard platform and modern standards) |
| Expansion Slots | Dual PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, dual PCIe 3.0 slots |
| Storage Interfaces | 3 x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, SlimSAS connector |
| Network Connectivity | Dual Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet ports |
| Power Delivery | Enhanced power solution with DrMOS, ProCool connector, alloy chokes, and durable capacitors |
Right out of the box, you’ll notice the ASUS Pro WS W680-ACE IPMI looks serious with its robust heatsinks and sleek black PCB. Handling it, I was impressed by the sturdy build—everything feels premium, especially the alloy chokes and durable capacitors that promise stable power delivery.
The socket area is spacious, making it easy to install 13th Gen Intel Core processors without fuss. The power solutions, including the ProCool connector and DrMOS, immediately give you confidence in its reliability during heavy workloads.
Plugging in the dual PCIe 5.0 Safeslots and PCIe 3.0 slots, I appreciated how smoothly everything snapped into place. The M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots are generously cooled by heatsinks, preventing thermal throttling during extended use.
Connectivity is a standout—dual Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, Thunderbolt 4 header, and front panel USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C ensure this board handles high-speed data transfers effortlessly. The hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 4 software make managing cooling straightforward, keeping system temperatures in check under load.
Security features like USB port management and software blacklisting add peace of mind, especially for enterprise or sensitive environments. Setting up the BIOS and IPMI features was intuitive, and the overall layout feels thoughtful, making future upgrades easier.
At $403.67, it’s an investment, but the versatility and solid build justify the price for a workstation motherboard of this caliber. If you need a reliable, future-proof platform with excellent connectivity and security options, this ASUS model truly delivers.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best ASUS Server Motherboard?
When selecting the best ASUS server motherboard, consider the following features:
- Compatibility with Processors: Ensure the motherboard supports the latest processor architectures, such as Intel Xeon or AMD EPYC, which are crucial for handling demanding server tasks efficiently.
- Memory Capacity and Speed: Look for motherboards that offer high RAM capacity and support for faster memory speeds, allowing for better multitasking and performance in memory-intensive applications.
- Expansion Slots: A good server motherboard should provide multiple PCIe slots for adding expansion cards, such as additional network interfaces or storage controllers, enabling flexibility and scalability in your server setup.
- Storage Options: Check for support for various storage interfaces, including SATA, SAS, and NVMe, which will allow you to utilize different types of drives for enhanced performance and redundancy.
- Network Connectivity: Opt for a motherboard with integrated high-speed network interfaces (like 10GbE), which are essential for server applications that require quick data transfer and low latency.
- Power Management Features: Look for features such as efficient power delivery systems and support for redundant power supplies to ensure stability and reliability during high-load operations.
- Remote Management Capabilities: A motherboard with built-in remote management features, such as IPMI or ASUS’ ASMB, allows you to monitor and manage the server remotely, which is critical for maintaining uptime and troubleshooting.
- Form Factor: Choose the appropriate form factor (like ATX or EEB) based on your server chassis to ensure a proper fit and adequate airflow for cooling.
Which ASUS Server Motherboards Are Currently Leading in Performance?
The leading ASUS server motherboards currently recognized for their performance include:
- ASUS ROG Zenith II Extreme Alpha: This motherboard is designed for AMD Ryzen Threadripper processors and supports up to 256GB of DDR4 RAM, offering exceptional multitasking capabilities. It features robust cooling solutions and multiple PCIe 4.0 slots for high-speed storage and graphics cards, making it ideal for demanding applications.
- ASUS WS C621E Sage: Built for Intel Xeon Scalable processors, this motherboard supports dual-socket configurations, allowing for significant computational power. It includes extensive memory support with up to 2TB of DDR4 RAM and multiple expansion slots, catering to high-density server environments and applications requiring high availability.
- ASUS Pro WS WRX80E Sage SE: This motherboard offers support for AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO processors, providing unparalleled performance for workstation tasks. It supports up to 2TB of ECC memory, ensuring data integrity in mission-critical applications, and includes numerous PCIe slots for extensive expansion capabilities.
- ASUS ROG Strix Z490-E Gaming: Although primarily a gaming motherboard, it boasts features that can be leveraged in server setups, such as Wi-Fi 6 and robust power delivery systems. It supports Intel’s 10th generation processors and up to 128GB of RAM, making it a versatile choice for smaller server applications or gaming servers.
- ASUS Z11PA-U12: Specifically designed for high-density server applications, this motherboard supports Intel’s Xeon W processors and is optimized for use in data centers. It offers a unique design that maximizes thermal efficiency and supports up to 512GB of memory, catering to enterprise-level workloads that require reliability and performance.
How Do ASUS Server Motherboard Specs Influence Your Choice?
When selecting the best ASUS server motherboard, various specifications play a crucial role in optimizing performance and compatibility.
- Form Factor: The form factor of a motherboard determines its physical size and layout, affecting how it fits into a server chassis. Common sizes like ATX and E-ATX provide different expansion options, impacting the number of components, such as CPUs and memory modules, that can be installed.
- Chipset: The chipset defines the motherboard’s capabilities, including support for processor types and memory configurations. ASUS server motherboards often feature advanced chipsets that enable better performance, stability, and features such as RAID support and enhanced I/O capabilities.
- Processor Compatibility: Compatibility with specific processor models and families is essential, as it influences server performance. ASUS typically supports both Intel and AMD processors, and the choice of CPU can determine the overall processing power, core count, and energy efficiency of the server.
- Memory Support: The type and amount of memory supported by the motherboard are critical for server performance. ASUS motherboards often come with multiple DIMM slots and support for various types of RAM, including ECC memory, which enhances reliability in critical server applications.
- Expansion Slots: The number and type of expansion slots available allow for customization and scalability. ASUS server motherboards typically offer PCIe slots for adding GPUs, network cards, and other peripherals, which can expand functionality and performance based on specific needs.
- Storage Options: The availability of various storage interfaces, such as SATA, SAS, and M.2, impacts data storage capabilities. ASUS motherboards often include multiple connectors for both traditional hard drives and modern SSDs, allowing for flexible and high-speed data storage solutions.
- Networking Features: Integrated networking options, such as 10GbE or dual NICs, can significantly enhance data transfer speeds and redundancy. ASUS server motherboards often boast advanced networking capabilities that cater to demanding server environments, ensuring reliable connectivity.
- Power Management: Efficient power management features can reduce energy consumption and heat generation, which is vital for server longevity. ASUS motherboards typically include advanced power delivery systems that ensure stable operation under heavy loads while optimizing energy use.
What Are the Key Considerations When Selecting an ASUS Server Motherboard?
When selecting the best ASUS server motherboard, there are several key considerations to take into account:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the motherboard is compatible with the CPU socket type and the RAM specifications you intend to use.
- Form Factor: Choose a form factor that fits your server chassis, such as ATX, E-ATX, or microATX, as this impacts physical space and installation.
- Expansion Slots: Look for an adequate number of PCIe slots for additional GPUs, network cards, or storage controllers, which can enhance the server’s capabilities.
- Storage Options: Evaluate the number and type of storage interfaces available, including SATA, NVMe, and RAID support, to ensure it meets your data storage and speed requirements.
- Power Delivery: Consider the power supply requirements and the motherboard’s VRM design, as better power delivery systems can improve CPU performance and stability.
- Networking Features: Check for built-in networking options, such as 10Gb Ethernet or other high-speed networking capabilities, to ensure efficient data transfer and connectivity.
- BIOS Features: Assess the BIOS offerings, including ease of use and features such as remote management and overclocking options, as they significantly influence system management.
- Warranty and Support: Look into the warranty period and the level of technical support provided by ASUS, as this can be critical for long-term server reliability and performance.
What Makes ASUS Server Motherboards Ideal for Different Use Cases?
ASUS server motherboards are renowned for their versatility and reliability, making them suitable for various use cases.
- High Performance: ASUS server motherboards are designed to handle intensive workloads, thanks to their support for powerful processors and large amounts of RAM. They often feature the latest technologies, such as PCIe 4.0, which enables faster data transfer rates and improved overall system performance.
- Scalability: Many ASUS server motherboards come with multiple expansion slots and support for additional components, making it easier to scale the system as needs grow. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that anticipate growth and require flexibility in their IT infrastructure.
- Reliability and Stability: ASUS places a strong emphasis on quality, often conducting rigorous testing to ensure their server motherboards can operate continuously under heavy loads. Features like ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory support further enhance system stability, reducing the risk of data corruption.
- Comprehensive Management Tools: ASUS server motherboards often include advanced management features such as remote monitoring and management capabilities. These tools allow system administrators to oversee and control server operations efficiently, which is critical for maintaining uptime and performance.
- Energy Efficiency: Many ASUS motherboards incorporate energy-saving technologies that help reduce power consumption without sacrificing performance. This can lead to significant cost savings in large data centers and contribute to a more sustainable operating environment.
- Robust Networking Options: ASUS server motherboards typically come equipped with multiple networking interfaces, including 10GbE or even higher-speed options. This ensures that they can handle high bandwidth demands, making them ideal for applications requiring fast data transfer rates.
How Do ASUS Server Motherboards Compare with Other Brands?
| Aspect | ASUS Server Motherboards | Other Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Generally priced competitively, offering good value for features. | Varies widely, with some premium options costing significantly more. |
| Performance | Known for reliable performance and stability under load. Models like the RS700A-E11 and ESC4000A-E10 are highly regarded. | Performance can vary; some brands excel in specific workloads. |
| Performance Metrics | Benchmarks show ASUS motherboards outperform competitors in multi-threaded tasks. | Performance can be strong but may not match ASUS in all scenarios. |
| Features | Offers advanced features like dual CPU support, extensive I/O options, and models like the Z490-PLUS for gaming and server use. | Features can be limited or vary significantly between models. |
| Support and Customer Service | Customer support is generally rated highly, with responsive service. | Support experiences vary; some brands have slower response times. |
| Warranty | Typically includes a 3 to 5-year warranty for reliability. | Warranty periods vary; some may offer shorter terms. |
| Software Tools | Includes ASUS System Alert and ASWM for management and monitoring. | Other brands may offer basic tools, but often lack comprehensive management features. |