ROG Strix z790-F WiFi vs WiFi II memory support

[Louise]

Hi Guys

This is a question out of curiosity, really, as I've just ordered a plain WiFi version - I wanted the extra pcie slot. Anyway, if they are both the same Z790 chipsets why does the WiFi ii version apparently have higher ddr5 ram speed support? I figure there's probably not much real world difference between, say, 7600 and 8200 - just  few/10s fps if gaming . Still, I'd like to know why the difference in spec, if anyone knows? (I've not ordered ram yet so a reply might influence my purchase decision)

ps I hope I'm not going to have any of the stability issues that have previously been reported though I won't know for sure what bios version is installed until I get the board. 

[Nate152]

Hello Louise,

The ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi supports a maximum of 192GB and up to 7800MHz.

The cpu plays a big role in memory stability as the memory controller is built into the cpu, the 14900K/KS will have the strongest memory controller. 

I would only go 8000MHz+ memory with the ROG Maximus Z790 Apex Encore motherboard.

If you're just gaming, 32GB is plenty and somewhere in the neighborhood of 7000MHz should be doable without much fuss. If you want more capacity for a work pc, you'll have to go with a lower frequency. Games prefer frequency over capacity, frequency isn't as important with a work pc.

Are you building a gaming pc or work pc? Do you have a particular brand you prefer and do you want RGB?

As an example, here is a 32GB (2x16GB) 6800MHz G.Skill Trident Z5 memory kit.

When looking at memory kits, always check the QVL to make sure your motherboard and cpu are compatible.

[Louise]

Um, it seems like you've neither read my post or answered the question I asked!

[Nate152 · Accepted solution]

The ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi was likely launched when 13th Gen came out, The ROG Strix Z790-F Gaming WiFi II is more for 14th Gen cpu's. So, it's a refreshed motherboard for a refreshed Intel cpu.

14th Gen cpu's should have the strongest memory controller and be capable of running higher speed memory. There are probably changes to the memory trace layout of the motherboard as well to support higher speed memory.

[Silent_Scone]

Memory support depends on a great deal of factors, but if the board is revised it's possible there are changes to the memory topology or they went with more PCB layers the second time around (helps with extending DRAM frequency range). Either way, it is what it is - always check the QVL if you're not sure.