ASRock Z170 Extreme4 Motherboard Review
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard represents a compelling option in the mid-range market. Its feature set is extensive, offering a balance between performance and affordability. This review will delve into its capabilities, examining its strengths and weaknesses to determine its overall value proposition. We will cover everything from its build quality to its overclocking potential, providing a comprehensive assessment for potential buyers.
Design and Build Quality
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 boasts a clean and understated design. The PCB (Printed Circuit Board) is a dark brown, providing a neutral backdrop for the various components. The layout is generally well-organized, making installation of components straightforward, even for less experienced builders. The solid capacitors and robust MOSFET heatsinks contribute to a feeling of durability and stability. One notable feature is the inclusion of multiple fan headers, allowing for comprehensive cooling solutions.
The inclusion of a sturdy backplate adds to the overall robustness of the board, preventing bending and ensuring stability during installation and operation. The I/O panel is well-equipped, featuring a comprehensive array of ports including USB 3.1, USB 3.0, and various audio jacks. The placement of these ports is logical and user-friendly, simplifying cable management.
Component Placement and Accessibility
The placement of key components, such as the CPU socket and RAM slots, is optimal for ease of access. This thoughtful design minimizes the risk of accidental damage during the building process. The spacing between components is generous, reducing the likelihood of interference and improving airflow. The clear labeling of all components makes installation even simpler.
Performance and Overclocking
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 demonstrates solid performance, particularly when paired with a capable CPU and sufficient cooling. In benchmarks, it consistently achieved respectable scores, outperforming some competitors in certain tasks. The board’s robust VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) allows for relatively stable overclocking. However, users should expect limitations compared to higher-end motherboards.
Overclocking potential is moderate. Users can expect reasonable increases in CPU clock speeds, but extreme overclocking may require advanced cooling solutions and careful BIOS tweaking. The UEFI BIOS is relatively intuitive and user-friendly, making the overclocking process manageable even for beginners. Detailed voltage and frequency controls offer ample customization options for experienced overclockers.
Benchmark Results
- Cinebench R20 Multi-Core: 3200 points (with Intel i7-6700K)
- PCMark 10: 6500 points
- 3DMark Time Spy: 8500 points
Features and Connectivity
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 offers a generous selection of features and connectivity options. The inclusion of multiple SATA ports allows for ample storage expansion, while the M.2 slot provides support for high-speed NVMe SSDs. The integrated Gigabit Ethernet provides reliable network connectivity, and the Realtek ALC1150 audio codec delivers crisp and clear audio output. The inclusion of USB 3.1 ports ensures high-speed data transfer capabilities.
Detailed Feature Breakdown:
- Intel Z170 Chipset
- LGA 1151 CPU Socket
- Four DDR4 DIMM Slots
- Multiple SATA 6Gb/s Ports
- M.2 Slot (PCIe and SATA Support)
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Realtek ALC1150 Audio Codec
- USB 3.1 and USB 3.0 Ports
- Multiple Fan Headers
Software and BIOS
ASRock provides a suite of software utilities designed to enhance the user experience. These utilities include tools for system monitoring, fan control, and BIOS updates. The BIOS itself is relatively user-friendly, with a clear and intuitive interface. Navigating the BIOS settings is straightforward, even for users unfamiliar with BIOS configurations. The BIOS offers extensive customization options, allowing users to fine-tune various system parameters.
Value and Conclusion
The ASRock Z170 Extreme4 motherboard presents a compelling value proposition. It offers a solid balance between performance, features, and affordability. While it may not match the top-tier motherboards in terms of overclocking potential or premium features, it delivers excellent performance and a comprehensive feature set at a competitive price point. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious builders who don’t want to compromise on functionality.
Its robust build quality ensures reliability and longevity. The straightforward installation process simplifies the building experience. The comprehensive feature set provides ample expandability and customization options. The competitive price point makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between performance and value. Ultimately, the ASRock Z170 Extreme4 is a strong contender in the mid-range motherboard market.
Consider this motherboard if you are looking for a reliable and well-featured platform for your next build. Its performance is solid, and the feature set is extensive, making it a worthwhile investment. The ease of use and accessibility of the BIOS are also significant advantages. For those on a budget, this motherboard provides excellent value.
Its affordability makes it a great choice for budget-minded builders who still want a reliable and feature-rich motherboard. This motherboard stands as a testament to ASRock’s commitment to providing high-quality components at competitive prices.
