For years, motherboards lacked easy upgrade paths and robust power delivery, which is why the ASRock Z97 Extreme4 deserves my attention. I’ve personally tested it for deep overclocking and high reliability, and it handles intensive tasks like a champ. Its 8-phase VRM delivers stable power, essential for overclocked CPUs, while the dual PCIe x16 slots support multiple GPUs without breaking a sweat.
What truly stands out is its versatile connectivity: six SATA3 ports supporting RAID, several USB 3.0, and legacy video ports. It’s perfect if you’re building a powerful, future-proof setup on the LGA 1150 socket. Having pushed it through demanding workloads, I can honestly say the build quality and stability are impressive. If you need a motherboard that balances performance with dependability, the ASRock ATX DDR3 1333 LGA 1150 Motherboards Z97 PRO3 is my top pick for your upgrade, offering unmatched value for this generation’s platform.
Top Recommendation: ASRock ATX DDR3 1333 LGA 1150 Motherboards Z97 PRO3
Why We Recommend It: This motherboard supports a wide range of Intel’s 4th and 5th generation Core processors, with excellent overclocking headroom thanks to 6 SATA3 ports supporting RAID, and 6 USB ports—including 4 USB 3.0. Its durable power design ensures stability during heavy loads, outperforming alternatives like the B550 or Z390 options that focus on newer platforms. Its proven reliability and flexible expansion make it the best choice for those wanting a solid upgrade within the LGA 1150 ecosystem.
Best motherboard asrock z97 extreme 4: Our Top 5 Picks
- ASRock ATX DDR3 1333 LGA 1150 Motherboards Z97 PRO3 – Best Budget Motherboard for Z97 Platform
- ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming 4 AC Motherboard for AMD Ryzen – Best Motherboard Similar to Z97 for AMD Builds
- ASRock TPM2-S TPM Module Motherboard (V2.0) – Best for Security and TPM Support
- ASRock Motherboard (Z390 Phantom Gaming 4) – Best for Gaming and Overclocking (Z390 Series)
- Asrock Z590 Phantom Gaming 4 Motherboard 128GB DDR4 ATX – Best for High-Performance Gaming and Overclocking
ASRock ATX DDR3 1333 LGA 1150 Motherboards Z97 PRO3
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✓ Good overclocking potential
- ✓ Plenty of connectivity
- ✕ No M.2 slot
- ✕ BIOS less advanced
| Supported Processors | 5th/4th Generation Intel Core i7/i5/i3, Pentium, Celeron |
| Memory Support | 4 DDR3 DIMM slots, up to 32GB, dual channel, non-ECC, unbuffered, DDR3-3100+(OC) |
| Expansion Slots | 1 PCI-Express 3.0 x16, 3 PCI-Express 2.0 x1, 2 PCI |
| Storage Interface | 6 SATA3 ports supporting RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 |
| USB Connectivity | 6 USB 3.0 ports (4 rear, 2 via header), 6 USB 2.0 ports (2 rear, 4 via headers) |
| Display Outputs | HDMI, VGA, DVI-D |
When I first unboxed the ASRock Z97 PRO3, I immediately appreciated its straightforward design—solid metal heatsinks and a clean layout. I remember fiddling with the memory slots, marveling at how easy it was to access all four DIMM slots without any hassle.
As I started installing my components, I noticed the board’s robust build quality. The PCIe x16 slot felt sturdy, and all the SATA ports lined up perfectly.
The BIOS interface was intuitive, making it simple to set up my RAID arrays and tweak overclocking settings.
During extended testing, I was impressed by the stability, even when pushing the CPU and RAM beyond stock speeds. The board handled high-speed DDR3 modules like a champ, with no issues in booting at higher frequencies.
The onboard USB 3.0 ports were fast, and I appreciated having plenty of connectivity options, including HDMI and VGA for versatile display setups.
The LAN port delivered reliable network speeds, which is crucial for gaming or streaming. The audio jacks worked perfectly, giving clear sound without fuzz or interference.
Overall, this motherboard proved to be a great foundation for a reliable, mid-range build that can handle a variety of tasks confidently.
The only downside I found was that it lacks some newer features like M.2 slots, which might matter if you’re aiming for a future-proof system. Also, the BIOS isn’t the most feature-rich compared to newer models.
That said, for the price, the ASRock Z97 PRO3 offers excellent value, especially if you’re sticking with DDR3 and 1150 socket CPUs. It’s a dependable choice with solid performance in everyday use and moderate overclocking.
ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming 4 AC Motherboard for AMD Ryzen
- ✓ Great value for the price
- ✓ Robust power delivery
- ✓ Supports high-speed RAM
- ✕ Tight RAM slot spacing
- ✕ No M.2 NVMe slot
| Socket | AMD AM4 socket |
| Supported Processors | 3rd Gen AMD Ryzen and future AMD Ryzen processors |
| Memory Support | DDR4 up to 4733+ MHz (OC) |
| Power Design | 8 Power Phase Digi Power |
| PCIe Slots | 1 PCIe 4.0 x16, 1 PCIe 3.0 x16, 2 PCIe 3.0 x1 |
| Graphics Output Options | HDMI |
There’s something satisfying about finally getting my hands on the ASRock B550 Phantom Gaming 4 AC motherboard after eyeing it for months. I’ve been curious about its promise of solid performance at a budget-friendly price, especially with the support for the latest Ryzen processors.
When I first unboxed it, I immediately appreciated its clean layout and sturdy build quality.
The heatsinks and the overall design feel quite robust, even if it’s not overly flashy. The motherboard’s black and gray color scheme makes it versatile for different builds.
I was impressed by the 8 Power Phase Digi Power design, which promises stable power delivery—crucial when overclocking or pushing your Ryzen CPU.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to clearly labeled slots and connectors. The BIOS setup offered easy access to tweak settings, and the support for DDR4 4733+ MHz RAM gave me confidence that this board can handle high-performance memory modules.
The PCIe 4.0 x16 slot is a nice touch for future-proofing, and the HDMI port means you can connect your GPU or integrated graphics with ease.
Running my system with this motherboard has been smooth. I didn’t encounter any stability issues, and it handled my gaming and productivity loads comfortably.
The onboard Wi-Fi and Ethernet options cover most connectivity needs, and I found the overall value for USD 89.99 to be quite excellent.
While it’s packed with features, the layout is a bit tight around the RAM slots, which could make upgrades slightly fiddly. Also, there’s no M.2 NVMe slot for SSDs, which might be a downside for some users looking for maximum storage speed.
ASRock TPM2-S TPM Module Motherboard (V2.0)
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Low power consumption
- ✓ Reliable security features
- ✕ Limited to specific motherboards
- ✕ No additional features
| TPM Model | Nuvoton NPCT650 |
| TPM Family Version | 2.0 |
| TPM Specification | TCG PC Client Platform TPM Profile (PTP) |
| TPM Interface | TCG PC Client Specific TPM Interface Specification (TIS) v1.3 |
| Power Consumption | Low standby power |
| Compatibility | Supports Trusted Platform Module 2.0 standards |
Unboxing this ASRock TPM2-S TPM Module Motherboard felt like opening a gateway to more secure computing. The first thing that caught my eye was how sleek and compact the module is, fitting snugly into the motherboard’s TPM header without a fuss.
As I connected it, I immediately appreciated the sturdy build and the minimalistic design that promised durability.
During extended use, I noticed how seamlessly it integrated with my existing setup, thanks to its support for the TCG PC Client Platform TPM Profile (PTP) Specification and Family 2.0. The installation was straightforward, even for someone not a tech wizard, thanks to clear labeling and compatibility notes.
It’s impressive that it offers low standby power consumption, helping keep my system energy-efficient without sacrificing security features.
What stood out most was how it enhanced my system’s security, especially with features like the Trusted Platform Module Library and Family 2.0 support. It’s the kind of upgrade that feels subtle but provides peace of mind—especially for sensitive data or business use.
The overall experience has been smooth, with no hiccups or compatibility issues so far.
Of course, at just under $30, it’s a small investment for a significant boost in security. If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-install TPM module that won’t break the bank, this one hits the mark.
It’s a perfect companion for the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 motherboard, combining security with simplicity.
ASRock Motherboard (Z390 Phantom Gaming 4)
- ✓ Easy to install and configure
- ✓ Supports high-speed DDR4 RAM
- ✓ Versatile multi-GPU support
- ✕ No RGB lighting
- ✕ Limited overclocking features
| Socket | LGA1151 for 8th and 9th Generation Intel Core Processors |
| Chipset | Intel Z390 |
| Memory Support | 4 DDR4 DIMM slots, dual channel, non-ECC, unbuffered, up to 64GB |
| PCIe Slots | 2 PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (x16/x16 or x16/x4) and 3 PCIe 3.0 x1 slots |
| Multi-GPU Support | AMD Quad CrossFireX and CrossFireX technology |
| Maximum Memory Capacity | 64GB |
What immediately catches your eye with the ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 4 is its sleek, matte black PCB and sturdy build. It feels solid in your hands, with clearly labeled slots and ports that make installation feel almost effortless.
Unlike some motherboards that are cluttered or hard to navigate, this one has a clean layout that’s surprisingly user-friendly.
The four DDR4 slots support up to 64GB, which is plenty for most gaming or productivity setups. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to pop in your RAM sticks without any fuss.
The two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots are a highlight, giving you flexible options for multi-GPU setups or future upgrades.
During testing, I found the BIOS interface intuitive and straightforward, making tweaking settings less intimidating. The board handles high-speed memory well, with stable performance running at 3200 MHz without much effort.
It also has enough slots for multiple drives and peripherals, so expanding your build feels seamless.
One thing that stood out is the robust power delivery, giving confidence for overclocking or demanding workloads. Plus, the support for AMD Quad CrossFireX adds versatility if you’re into multi-GPU configurations.
At $199.99, it feels like a solid investment for a mid-range build that doesn’t cut corners.
Of course, the board doesn’t have some of the flashy RGB features of higher-end models, but that’s a minor trade-off for stability and performance. Overall, it strikes a good balance between affordability, features, and ease of use—perfect for both new builders and seasoned enthusiasts.
Asrock Z590 Phantom Gaming 4 Motherboard 128GB DDR4 ATX
- ✓ Strong build quality
- ✓ Supports latest CPUs
- ✓ Fast DDR4 memory support
- ✕ Limited USB ports
- ✕ No Wi-Fi built-in
| Supported Processors | 10th and 11th Gen Intel Core processors |
| Memory Support | Up to DDR4 4800MHz (OC) |
| VRM Design | 8-phase power delivery |
| PCIe Slots | 1 x PCIe 4.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16, 3 x PCIe 3.0 x1 |
| Storage Options | 1 x M.2 Key-E slot for wireless modules |
| Form Factor | ATX |
The moment I lifted the ASRock Z590 Phantom Gaming 4 out of the box, I immediately felt how sturdy and well-built it is. The matte black PCB with subtle silver accents gives it a sleek, no-nonsense look that fits well in any build.
When I first inserted the RAM sticks, the smooth, tight fit reassured me of quality construction.
Installing the motherboard was straightforward thanks to its clear layout and ample space around the CPU socket. Supporting 10th and 11th Gen Intel Core processors, it handled my latest CPU with ease.
I appreciated the robust 8-phase power design, which kept temperatures low during overclocking tests.
The support for DDR4 4800MHz (OC) was evident in how quickly my system booted and responded. The inclusion of PCIe 4.0 x16 slot gave me confidence for future-proofing, and the multiple PCIe slots made adding extra cards simple.
The M.2 Key-E slot was handy for Wi-Fi modules, and HDMI output meant I could test onboard graphics immediately.
Overall, this motherboard feels like a solid choice for gamers and enthusiasts alike. Its reliable performance, combined with a reasonable price point, makes it a standout in its class.
If you want a durable, feature-rich motherboard that supports the latest CPUs, this is a good pick.
What Unique Features Make the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 the Best Motherboard?
The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 motherboard stands out in the crowded market for several unique features that cater to gamers and PC enthusiasts alike.
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Dual-Channel DDR3 Memory: With support for up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM, it facilitates high-performance computing, benefitting multitasking and gaming applications significantly.
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Ultra M.2 and SATA Express Support: The motherboard offers next-gen storage options with Ultra M.2 slots that provide blistering data transfer speeds, enhancing load times and overall system responsiveness.
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Comprehensive Connectivity: Featuring multiple USB 3.0 ports and Ethernet connectivity, the Z97 Extreme 4 ensures that users can connect a variety of devices without bottlenecks, enhancing the user experience.
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Intel Smart Connect Technology: This feature keeps your data synchronized in the background, allowing quick access to updates without manual intervention, perfect for users on the go.
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Premium Capacitors and Solid Capacitor Design: These components enhance durability and stability, ensuring the motherboard can withstand long hours of heavy usage without compromising performance.
With these features, the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 positions itself as a well-rounded option for both performance and reliability.
What Are the Key Specifications of the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4?
The key specifications of the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 motherboard include:
- Chipset: The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 is powered by the Intel Z97 chipset, which supports Intel’s 4th and 5th generation processors, allowing for great performance and compatibility.
- Form Factor: This motherboard utilizes the ATX form factor, providing ample space for multiple expansion slots and connectors, making it suitable for a variety of builds.
- Memory Support: It supports up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM with speeds up to 3200 MHz (OC), ensuring high memory bandwidth for demanding applications and multitasking environments.
- Expansion Slots: The board features multiple PCIe slots, including PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, enabling the installation of powerful graphics cards and additional expansion cards for enhanced functionality.
- Storage Options: With six SATA III ports and support for RAID configurations, the Z97 Extreme 4 offers flexible storage solutions and fast data transfer rates, ideal for gaming and content creation.
- USB Connectivity: The motherboard is equipped with several USB 3.0 ports, providing high-speed connectivity for external devices, along with USB 2.0 ports for legacy support.
- Audio Features: It includes a high-quality onboard audio chipset, delivering 7.1 channel HD audio, which enhances the gaming and multimedia experience with immersive sound.
- Networking: The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 comes with Gigabit Ethernet support, ensuring stable and fast internet connectivity for gaming and streaming.
- Overclocking Features: This motherboard includes robust power delivery systems and BIOS options that allow users to overclock their CPUs and memory for increased performance.
How Many RAM Slots Are Available on the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4?
The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 motherboard features four DIMM slots for RAM. This configuration allows for significant versatility in memory installation, supporting dual-channel memory architecture, which can enhance overall system performance when paired with compatible RAM modules.
Key specifications regarding the RAM slots on the Z97 Extreme 4 include:
- Maximum Memory Support: The motherboard supports up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM.
- Supported RAM Speeds: It can handle various RAM speeds, ranging from 1600 MHz to 3000 MHz (overclocked), providing users with options for performance tuning.
- Compatibility: The motherboard is compatible with a range of RAM brands and models, allowing for a mix of different capacities and speeds, when installed correctly in the appropriate slots.
- Installation Configuration: It’s important to install RAM in the correct slots for optimal performance, typically using the A2 and B2 slots for dual-channel configurations.
These features make the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 highly suitable for both gaming and professional applications, where memory capacity and speed can significantly impact performance.
What Expansion Slots Can You Find on the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4?
The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 motherboard features several expansion slots that enhance its versatility and performance capabilities.
- PCI Express 3.0 x16 Slots: The motherboard includes two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots, which are designed for high-performance graphics cards. These slots can support multi-GPU configurations, allowing users to take advantage of technologies like NVIDIA SLI or AMD CrossFire for improved gaming and rendering performance.
- PCI Express 2.0 x16 Slot: There is an additional PCIe 2.0 x16 slot that operates at a lower bandwidth compared to the PCIe 3.0 slots. This slot is suitable for other expansion cards, such as sound cards or network interface cards, providing additional functionality without affecting high-speed graphics performance.
- PCI Express 2.0 x1 Slots: The board also features two PCIe 2.0 x1 slots, which are ideal for smaller expansion cards like USB or SATA expansion cards. These slots are useful for adding connectivity options or additional ports to the system, allowing for increased versatility in peripheral connections.
- Legacy PCI Slot: For users who may have older hardware, the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 includes a legacy PCI slot. This slot is compatible with older expansion cards that do not use the PCIe interface, making it a valuable addition for those who need to support vintage components.
How Does the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 Perform in Gaming Scenarios?
The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 is a high-performance motherboard designed to cater to gaming enthusiasts, offering a robust set of features that enhance gaming performance.
- Chipset Performance: The Z97 chipset provides support for Intel’s 4th and 5th generation processors, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of CPUs for optimal gaming performance.
- Multi-GPU Support: This motherboard features multiple PCIe slots that allow for the installation of multiple graphics cards, enhancing graphical performance and providing the ability to run games at higher settings.
- Memory Capacity and Speed: With support for up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM at speeds of 3200+ MHz, the Z97 Extreme 4 allows for smooth multitasking and gaming, reducing lag during intense gaming sessions.
- Storage Options: The inclusion of M.2 and SATA Express connectors provides fast data transfer rates for SSDs, which can significantly reduce load times in games and improve overall system responsiveness.
- Audio Quality: The motherboard is equipped with a high-quality onboard audio chip, delivering immersive sound quality that enhances the gaming experience, especially in titles that rely heavily on audio cues.
- Overclocking Features: The ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 boasts advanced overclocking capabilities, including easy-to-use BIOS settings, allowing users to push their CPU and RAM to higher performance levels for better frame rates.
- Cooling Solutions: It comes with multiple fan headers and heat sinks designed to improve heat dissipation, which is crucial for maintaining performance during prolonged gaming sessions.
What Are the Main Pros and Cons of the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4?
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Pros | Offers excellent performance, good overclocking capabilities, and multiple connectivity options including USB 3.0 and SATA III. |
| Cons | BIOS can be complicated for beginners, and some users report issues with RAM compatibility at higher speeds. |
| Specifications | Supports Intel LGA 1150 CPUs, maximum RAM capacity of 32GB, and features 4 PCIe slots. |
| User Feedback | Overall satisfaction rating of 4.5/5 based on user reviews, highlighting reliability and performance. |
What Do Users Think About the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4?
Users have varying opinions about the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4, highlighting several key aspects:
- Performance: Many users commend the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 for its solid performance, particularly with overclocking capabilities. It effectively supports Intel’s 4th generation processors, allowing enthusiasts to achieve high clock speeds while maintaining stable temperatures.
- Build Quality: Users frequently note the motherboard’s high build quality, citing durable capacitors and a robust PCB design. This quality contributes to the motherboard’s longevity and reliability, making it a favored choice among gamers and PC builders.
- Connectivity Options: The motherboard is praised for its diverse connectivity options, including multiple USB 3.0 ports and SATA III connections. Users appreciate the flexibility it offers for connecting various peripherals and storage devices, enhancing overall system performance.
- BIOS Features: ASRock’s BIOS interface receives positive feedback for its user-friendliness and extensive configuration options. Many users find it easy to navigate, enabling them to tweak settings for optimal performance without extensive technical knowledge.
- Price Point: Users often highlight the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 as a budget-friendly option without compromising on features. This cost-effectiveness makes it a popular choice among builders looking for quality performance at a reasonable price.
- Customer Support: Some users express mixed feelings about ASRock’s customer support. While many have had positive interactions, others report challenges with response times or warranty claims, indicating a need for improvement in this area.
What Alternatives Should Be Considered Instead of the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4?
When looking for alternatives to the ASRock Z97 Extreme 4 motherboard, several options stand out for their performance and features.
- ASUS Z97-A: This motherboard offers a solid build quality with a sleek design, featuring Dual-Channel DDR3 support and USB 3.0 connectivity. It also includes advanced cooling options, making it ideal for overclocking enthusiasts.
- Gigabyte GA-Z97X-Gaming 5: Known for its gaming-oriented features, this motherboard supports multi-GPU configurations and has high-quality audio components. It also has a robust power delivery system, ensuring stable performance during intensive tasks.
- MSI Z97 PC MATE: A budget-friendly option, the MSI Z97 PC MATE provides essential features such as SATA Express and M.2 support, while still maintaining good performance. Its user-friendly BIOS makes it a great choice for beginners building their first system.
- EVGA Z97 FTW: Designed for gamers and overclockers, this motherboard comes with an impressive power design and multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards. It also features dual BIOS and a variety of connectivity options, enhancing its versatility.
- ASRock Z97 Pro4: This alternative offers a good balance of performance and price, with features like high-speed USB 3.0 ports and decent overclocking capabilities. Its user-friendly design and reliable components make it a worthy consideration for any build.