Did you know that the heart of every gaming PC is the motherboard? The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX Motherboard is such a central component, specially designed for gamers and PC enthusiasts. Equipped with the Intel LGA 1700 socket, this motherboard is ready for the latest 12th Generation Intel Core processors, and thanks to 14+1 DrMOS, a six-layer board, and robust capacitors, it offers improved and stable power supply.
The future of connectivity is ensured by PCIe 5.0, USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, and Thunderbolt 4 support, while Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet and TUF LANGuard provide an optimized online gaming experience. A special feature is the Two-Way AI Noise Cancellation, ensuring clear communication in games and video conferences.
In this review, we dive deep into user experiences to find out how the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 performs in practice. We examine the performance, functionality, and value for money of this motherboard, providing you with a comprehensive overview of its strengths and weaknesses based on real user feedback.
Read on to learn more about the design and material quality of this motherboard and how it stands out in the world of high-end gaming.
Aesthetics Meets Functionality: The Design of the ASUS TUF Z690-Plus D4
The ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX Motherboard boasts a durable and purpose-driven design, targeting gamers and PC builders alike. Its black base color paired with striking yellow accents, characteristic of the TUF series, conveys a modern and aggressive aesthetic. The board is equipped with subtle RGB lighting, enhancing its appeal without being intrusive. The military-inspired patterns on the heatsinks and TUF branding elements highlight the series’ identity, appealing particularly to users who value a consistent design theme.
Regarding materials, the motherboard impresses with high-quality craftsmanship. Users report a solid construction promised by the use of sturdy capacitors and a six-layer PCB, ensuring longevity. The heatsinks are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, contributing to effective heat dissipation.
The craftsmanship of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 is described by customers as excellent. There are no visible defects such as loose seams or uneven coatings. The components are neatly placed, and the quick-release mechanisms at the M.2 slots are highlighted as a practical innovation, making tiny screws obsolete and easing handling.
The functionality of the design is also praised. The layout of ports and integration of cooling are well-thought-out, supporting the motherboards efficient use. However, some users critique the placement of the ATX 12V power connector as hard to reach once the fan is mounted.
Compared to other products in the market, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 offers a balanced ratio of aesthetics, material quality, and functionality. It stands out with its thoughtful design elements and premium craftsmanship from the competition.
In summary, the design and material feel of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX Motherboard are convincing. It combines style and substance without compromising on quality or user experience.
Performance Check: Does the ASUS TUF Z690-Plus D4 Deliver on Its Promise
The performance of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX motherboard is a key factor in its overall rating. User experiences suggest that the motherboard functions essentially as it should. It offers reliability and consistent performance, which are crucial for gamers and PC enthusiasts.
In terms of speed and efficiency, the motherboard appears to execute tasks quickly and efficiently. The four M.2 slots allow for rapid data transfer, and support for PCIe 5.0 and Thunderbolt 4 provides a future-proof platform for high-speed components.
User experience is consistently described as positive. The BIOS is highly customizable, and the layout of the ports and components is designed to facilitate installation and configuration. However, some users reported initial difficulties, such as issues with hard drive recognition during the Windows installation process and missing pre-installed internet drivers. These challenges can be daunting for less experienced users, but are manageable with the right knowledge and a bit of patience.
Compared to its competitors, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX motherboard performs well, although it falls short in some areas, such as the pre-installation of drivers. Special features like two-way AI noise cancellation and extensive BIOS customization options contribute to an improvement in overall performance.
The long-term performance is reported to be stable, with high-quality capacitors and a six-layer PCB contributing to the durability of the product.
Issues or defects identified by users mainly relate to BIOS updates and compatibility with newer 13th Generation Intel Core processors, which require a previous update with a 12th Generation CPU.
The verdict on the performance of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX motherboard is that it delivers strong performance that meets the expectations of most users. Despite some initial hurdles and defects, it is a recommendable product for those willing to engage with the technical aspects.
Continue reading to discover how the price-performance ratio of this motherboard compares to the competition in terms of its performance and features.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: The ASUS TUF Z690-Plus D4 in Price Comparison
The price-performance ratio is a crucial factor when choosing a new motherboard. The current price of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX motherboard is 228.54 euros. This price information is always up-to-date at the time of creating this report.
In the performance overview, the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 has already impressed in several categories. It offers four M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 support, Thunderbolt 4, and relies on DDR4 memory, making it an attractive option for users who do not want to switch to the newer, but more expensive DDR5 technology. The dual-way AI noise cancellation and the extensive BIOS customization options are other highlights.
In comparison with market prices of similar products, the motherboard is in the average range. There are both more expensive alternatives with comparable specifications and cheaper options that, however, may not offer the same performance or quality.
The analysis of the price-performance ratio shows that the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 can indeed compete with more expensive models. In particular, the high-quality workmanship, the stable performance, and the future-proof features justify the price. User feedback highlights that the motherboard offers added value, especially for those who do not need the latest and most expensive storage medium.
Regarding the long-term value, the product seems to be a good investment in the long run due to its robust build and high-quality components. Information on the warranty and customer service supports this impression, although some users point out the need for BIOS updates to ensure compatibility with newer processors.
The target audience for this motherboard are primarily gamers and PC enthusiasts who value a good price-performance ratio and durability. It is less suitable for users looking for a plug-and-play solution without technical fine-tuning.
The conclusion on the price-performance ratio of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 is positive. It is a good deal for the target audience looking for a reliable, powerful, and well-equipped motherboard. Those seeking the cutting edge of technology and are willing to pay more might, however, want to look for alternatives.
Continue reading to learn how the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 fares in other aspects, such as usability and support.
Final Verdict: ASUS TUF Z690-Plus D4 – A Motherboard That Impresses
Our Conclusion: After a thorough analysis of user experiences and technical specs, we form a positive overall impression of the ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus D4 ATX motherboard. It stands out with excellent build quality, powerful performance, and future-proof features. Despite minor criticisms, such as the placement of certain ports and the need for BIOS updates, the motherboard offers an outstanding value for money and is a recommendable choice for gamers and PC enthusiasts who value quality and durability.
