ASRock’s Z790I Lightning Wi-Fi is an economical and potent Mini-ITX motherboard. Constructed on the Z790 platform and a recent addition to the market, it is compatible with 12th, 13th, and 14th-generation processors straight out of the box. Priced at less than $280, you receive a majority of the platform’s features. These include a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, two M.2 sockets (both PCIe 4.0), a cost-effective audio codec, 2.5 GbE and Wi-Fi 6E Realtek, Intel-based networking, and a remarkably sturdy (considering its size) power delivery. Being a Mini-ITX board, there is limited space for aesthetic enhancements, but the all-black, RGB-free design will seamlessly blend in with most chassis and build themes.
ASRock’s Z790 series has remained relatively consistent since the introduction of the chipset, but with numerous updates and refreshed models, the total count has now reached 20. The lineup includes a variety of standard sizes and prices, featuring well-known names such as Taichi, Steel Legend, Riptide, Pro, and the unique purple LiveMixer SKU. Prices range from $389.99 (Taichi Carrara – previously $499.99) to the ASRock Z790M PG Lightning / D4 at $169.99 (initially $179.99). Additionally, the PG-ITX/TB4, the larger sibling we previously reviewed and admired, should not be overlooked. With the latest additions, the Z790 series offers a wide range of choices to cater to different types of users.
In terms of performance, the Z790I Lightning performed at an average to below average level in most tests. It didn’t excel in any particular area nor did it lag behind significantly. However, it showed good results in the Procyon Office and Video editing tests and performed well in gaming. We opted to keep the cooler type on “auto” in the BIOS, allowing the processor to operate at a constant 255W or until it reaches thermal throttling. Even during stress tests, we didn’t observe much throttling with our 3x140mm AIO setup. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary.
1. Prior to delving into our testing and board specifics, we will first outline the specifications sourced from ASRock’s website.
Specifications: ASRock Z790I Lightning Wi-Fi
| Socket | LGA1700 |
| Chipset | Z790 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX |
| Voltage Regulator | 16-Phase (14x 110A SPS MOSFETs for Vcore) |
| Video Ports | (1) HDMI (v2.1) |
| Row 5 – Cell 0 | (1) DisplayPort (v1.4) |
| USB Ports | (1) USB 3.2 Gen 2, Type-C (10 Gbps) |
| Row 7 – Cell 0 | (1) USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
| Row 8 – Cell 0 | (4) USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) |
| Network Jacks | (1) 2.5 GbE |
| Audio Jacks | (2) Analog + SPDIF |
| Legacy Ports/Jacks | ✗ |
| Other Ports/Jack | ✗ |
| PCIe x16 | (1) v5.0 (x16) |
| PCIe x8 | ✗ |
| PCIe x4 | ✗ |
| PCIe x1 | ✗ |
| CrossFire/SLI | ✗ |
| DIMM Slots | (2) DDR5 8600+(OC)*, 96GB Capacity |
| Row 19 – Cell 0 | *1DPC 1R Up to 8600+ MHz (OC), 5600 MHz Natively. |
| Row 20 – Cell 0 | 1DPC 2R Up to 7000+ MHz (OC), 5200 MHz Natively. |
| M.2 Sockets | (2) PCIe 4.0 x4 (64 Gbps) / PCIe (up to 80mm) |
| Row 22 – Cell 0 | Supports RAID 0/1/5 |
| SATA Ports | (3) SATA3 6 Gbps (Supports RAID 0/1/5) |
| USB Headers | (1) USB v3.2 Gen 1, Type-C (5 Gbps) |
| Row 25 – Cell 0 | (1) USB v3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) |
| Row 26 – Cell 0 | (1) USB v2.0 (480 Mbps) |
| Fan/Pump Headers | (3) 4-Pin (CPU, CPU/Water Pump, Chassis) |
| RGB Headers | (2) 3-pin ARGB |
| Diagnostics Panel | ✗ |
| Internal Button/Switch | ✗ |
| SATA Controllers | ✗ |
| Ethernet Controller(s) | (1) Realtek Dragon RTL8125BG (2.5 GbE) |
| Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | Intel AX210 Wi-Fi 6E (BT 5.3, 160 MHz, etc.) |
| USB Controllers | Asmedia ASM1074 |
| HD Audio Codec | Realtek ALC897 |
| DDL/DTS | ✗ / ✗ |
| Warranty | 3 Years |
Following are three SATA3 ports mounted vertically along with the front panel header. Directly beneath them lies the second 3-pin ARGB header, the 2-pin reset CMOS header, and the last front panel USB header, which is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) Type-C. Given that there are only five USB Type-A ports on the rear IO, it is possible that all of these onboard headers will be necessary.
Next up are three SATA3 ports that are vertically mounted, as well as the front panel header. Positioned below them is the second 3-pin ARGB header, the 2-pin reset CMOS header, and the final front panel USB header – a USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) Type-C. With just five USB Type-A ports available on the rear IO, it is likely that all of these onboard headers will be utilized.
The Z790I Lightning boasts a power delivery system consisting of 16 phases, out of which 14 are specifically dedicated to Vcore. The power is initially directed from the 8-pin EPS connector to a Renesas RAA229131 PWM controller. It then proceeds to the 14 Renesas RAA2209004 SPS MOSFETs, each capable of handling 110A. With a total available power of 1,540A, this ITX board sets a new benchmark and is more than capable of efficiently supporting Intel’s flagship-class processors, even during overclocking with sub-ambient cooling.
We will proceed with our counterclockwise journey starting from the bottom of the board. At this point, we can observe the sole expansion slot available: a full-length PCIe 5.0 x16 slot. This slot is also compatible with PCIe riser cards, allowing for the extension of one x16 slot to two x8 slots if necessary. Positioned above that, beneath the heatsink, is the initial M.2 socket (the second one can be found on the back of the board). Each M.2 socket operates at PCIe 4.0 x4 (64 Gbps) speeds and can accommodate up to 80mm modules. While none of the sockets support SATA-based devices, they do support RAID0/1/10 modes, just like the SATA ports. Fortunately, there is no lane or bandwidth sharing, enabling you to utilize all storage simultaneously without any performance degradation.
1. Located adjacent to the PCIe slot is the Realtek ALC897 audio codec, accompanied by several specialized audio capacitors. While this setup is satisfactory and suitable for the majority of users, it is considered a cost-effective choice. Additionally, the front panel audio header can be found in this vicinity.
The Z790I Lightning motherboard comes with the rear IO plate already installed. It features a black and gray design with the Phantom Gaming branding in one corner. The plate also has ample venting to accommodate the hidden VRM fan. In terms of connectivity, there are a total of five USB Type-A ports, with four of them being USB 3.2 Gen 1. The USB port located below the Realtek 2.5 GbE port operates at faster USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) speeds. Additionally, there is a USB Type-C port that also supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) speeds. For video output, the motherboard offers DisplayPort and HDMI ports, while the Wi-Fi 6E antenna connections are positioned just above them. Lastly, on the far right side, you will find the audio stack, which includes two 3.5mm jacks for microphone input and line output, as well as the SPDIF output.
There is nothing extraordinary present in this scenario; however, it would have been preferable to have a 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20 Gbps) port on this board and additional Type-A ports, as the current five ports can be restrictive.
Firmware
Similar to the rest of the ASRock boards, the ITX Lightning initiates in Easy Mode, which primarily serves as an informative interface. However, it also allows users to modify a few options such as XMP, profiles, boot order, Fan-Tastic Tuning, and more. The black background and red accent colors perfectly complement the Phantom Gaming theme and ensure easy readability. On the other hand, Advanced mode showcases headings at the top, accompanied by detailed information below.
At this location, you have the ability to adjust any aspect that is adjustable, as ASRock provides all conceivable options. Overclocking is a straightforward process, with the majority of options conveniently located on a single page, although a few power options are found in a separate section. The arrangement is well-organized and intuitive. The navigation is seamless and the content is easily comprehensible. We do not have any major grievances regarding the ASRock firmware.
Software
ASRock offers a variety of software choices to cater to different needs. It includes the App Shop, which allows users to conveniently install drivers and software. Additionally, there is the Nahimic 3 audio control panel, which enhances the audio experience. The A-Tuning/PG-Tuning application is also available, enabling users to overclock their system, control fans, and optimize performance. Furthermore, the Polychrome RGB software allows users to customize their system’s lighting effects. ASRock even provides a pop-up prompt during the initial system boot to facilitate the installation of drivers. With ASRock’s comprehensive software suite, users have all the necessary tools to effectively manage and fine-tune their system.
Test System / Comparison Products
Our test system has been upgraded to the 64-bit version of Windows 11 operating system, with all the necessary updates installed as of mid-October 2023. While we have retained the Asus TUF RTX 3070 video card from our previous testing platforms, we have updated its driver to the latest version. Our games, F1 22 and Far Cry 6, remain unchanged. Unless specified otherwise, we have utilized the most recent non-beta motherboard BIOS available to the public, using ‘optimized default’ settings, except for the memory (XMP). The hardware and drivers employed in our testing are as follows:
Test System Components
| CPU | Intel Core i9-14900K |
| Memory | Kingston Fury Beast DDR5-6000 CL36 (KF560C36BBEAK2-32) |
| Row 2 – Cell 0 | Teamgroup T-Force Delta RGB DDR5- 7200 CL34 (FF3D516G7200HC34ABK) |
| Row 3 – Cell 0 | Klevv CRAS XR5 RGB (KD5AGUA80-80R380S) |
| GPU | Asus TUF RTX 3070 |
| Cooling | Coolermaster MasterLiquid PL360 Flux |
| PSU | EVGA Supernova 850W P6 |
| Software | Windows 11 64-bit (23H2) |
| Graphics Driver | NVIDIA Driver 537.42 |
| Sound | Integrated HD audio |
| Network | Integrated Networking (GbE or 2.5 GbE) |
Benchmark Settings
| Synthetic Benchmarks and Settings | Row 0 – Cell 1 |
| Procyon | Version 2.6.848 64 |
| Row 2 – Cell 0 | Office Suite (Office 365), Video Editing (Premiere Pro 23.6), Photo Editing (Photoshop 25.0, Lightroom Classic 12.5) |
| 3DMark | Version 2.27.8177 64 |
| Row 4 – Cell 0 | Firestrike Extreme (v1.1) and Time Spy (v1.2) Default Presets |
| Cinebench R24 | Version ‘build unknown’ |
| Row 6 – Cell 0 | Open GL Benchmark – Single and Multi-threaded |
| Blender | Full benchmark (all 3 tests) |
| Application Tests and Settings | Row 8 – Cell 1 |
| LAME MP3 | Version SSE2_2019 |
| Row 10 – Cell 0 | Mixed 271MB WAV to mp3: Command: -b 160 –nores (160Kb/s) |
| HandBrake CLI | Version: 1.2.2 |
| Row 12 – Cell 0 | Sintel Open Movie Project: 4.19GB 4K mkv to x264 (light AVX) and x265 (heavy AVX) |
| Corona 1.4 | Version 1.4 |
| Row 14 – Cell 0 | Custom benchmark |
| 7-Zip | Version 21.03-beta |
| Row 16 – Cell 0 | Integrated benchmark (Command Line) |
| Game Tests and Settings | Row 17 – Cell 1 |
| Far Cry 6 | Ultra Preset – 1920 x 1080, HD Textures ON |
| F1 2022 | Ultra Preset – 1920 x 1080, Ultra High (default) Bahrain (Clear/Dry), FPS Counter ON |
Overclocking
Over the years, the capacity for overclocking has gradually diminished in Intel and AMD processors, prompting motherboard manufacturers to strive for uniqueness amidst the abundance of choices for consumers. As the headroom for overclocking diminishes, we have decided to maintain the stock settings for the processor cores, but focus on pushing the Integrated Memory Controller (IMC) to achieve faster RAM speeds. It is important to note that for 14th-gen CPUs, the maximum specification for stock memory is DDR5-5600. However, we possess DDR5-7200 and DDR5-8000 kits in our possession to conduct tests on these higher speeds.
We encountered no problems achieving stable RAM performance in our test setup by utilizing the most recent non-beta BIOS version available at the time of this report (v2.04 dated 4/22/2024). Surprisingly, our Klevv DDR5-8000 kit functioned flawlessly with XMP enabled on this particular motherboard, without the need for any adjustments to System Agent voltage or other settings. As previously mentioned, this board has proven itself capable of breaking multiple overclocking records, showcasing its potential to maximize the performance of your components despite its small size.
Power Consumption / VRM Temperatures
1. We conducted power testing by running AIDA64’s System Stability Test with Stress CPU, FPU, Cache, and Memory enabled, and recorded the peak power consumption value. The wattage reading was taken from the wall using a Kill-A-Watt meter to measure the entire PC setup (excluding the monitor). The only variable that was changed during testing was the motherboard; all other components remained constant. It is important to mention that we have now transitioned to utilizing only the stock power use/VRM temperature charts. Given that the system operates at maximum temperatures, unless a sub-ambient cooling solution is employed, default settings will result in higher power consumption and heat generation.
The power usage of this board was notably low compared to previous records. While idle power consumption fell in the middle range at approximately 57W, the load wattage reached a peak of 340W (keeping in mind that the CPU was automatically limited to 255W), making it the second lowest recorded. It is worth noting that modifying the cooling settings and power limits could potentially alter these results, but this analysis is based on the default settings.
Bottom Line
ASrock’s third Z790-based Mini-ITX motherboard offers a more budget-friendly alternative to the PG-ITX/TB4. Although lacking Thunderbolt4/USB4 40 Gbps ports, high-end audio features, and three M.2 sockets, it provides enhanced power delivery and overclocking capabilities, increased memory support, and a visually appealing design. Priced at $279.99, it is more affordable compared to other Mini-ITX Z790 boards. This motherboard includes two M.2 sockets (both PCIe 4.0) and three SATA ports for ample storage, along with fast networking options such as 2.5 GbE and Wi-Fi 6E. Additionally, its sleek all-black aesthetic ensures seamless integration with your build theme.
In the current stage of the platform lifecycle, each board partner provides a Mini-ITX option. Gigabyte offers the Z790I Aorus Ultra for $299.99, MSI has the Z790I Edge Wi-Fi priced at $303.99, and the most expensive choice is Asus’ ROG Strix Z790-I Gaming Wi-Fi at $434.99. Among these options, Asus stands out as the only one with a PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 socket and 40 Gbps TB4/USB4 ports, similar to our ASRock. Unique features of the Asus board include a built-in DAC for audio, AI tools, and distinct aesthetics. On the other hand, MSI provides four SATA ports and three M.2 sockets, while Gigabyte offers two M.2 sockets like our Z790I Lightning. The best choice for you will depend on your specific requirements and budget constraints.
Ultimately, our admiration lies with the Z790I Lightning. Although it may not possess the most lavish features or come at the lowest price among Mini-ITX options, it is reasonably priced, boasts the highest listed memory support, and offers significant overclocking potential, particularly for memory. If you can do without a PCIe 5.0 M.2 socket and are not bothered by the budget audio, ASRock’s Z790I Lightning Wi-Fi deserves a spot on your list of preferred Mini-ITX motherboards.