ROG MAXIMUS Z890 APEX

The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex fully supports Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). Precision-engineered for supreme overclocking, it carries the legacy of the series forward into a new generation. With exceptional power delivery and a two-slot DDR5 memory layout, overclockers can meet and exceed their ambitions for record-breaking CPU and memory performance. For those who favor lighter colors for the aesthetics of their build, the ROG Maximus Z890 Apex features a cobble-gray surface, polished metallic accents, sleek contours and a predominantly silver palette.

• Intel Z890 LGA 1851 ATX motherboard
• Advanced AI PC-ready
• 22+1+2+2 power stages
• NPU Boost
• DDR5 slots with DIMM Fit
• DIMM Flex and AEMP III
• ROG Memory Fan Kit for DDR5 overclocking
• WiFi 7 with ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna
• Three PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and one PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot onboard with ROG M.2 Power Boost
• Two PCIe 4.0 slots on DIMM.2
• Two PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots with PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim
• Full support for next-gen graphics cards
• Two Thunderbolt 4 ports
• USB 20Gbps Type-C front-panel connector with Quick Charge 4+ up to 60W
• USB Wattage Watcher
• ASUS AI Advisor
• AI Overclocking
• AI Cooling II
• AI Networking II

Asus AI Intelligence

Asus AI Advisor – Using AI technology to understand natural-language questions or scenario descriptions, ASUS AI Advisor allows users to explore the functionality and advanced features of ASUS motherboards in a simple and straightforward way.

AI Overclocking – Tuning is now faster and smarter than ever before.

AI Cooling II – Balance the thermals and acoustics of any build with a single click.

AI Networking II – AI Networking II combines intelligent technologies to continuously optimize network performance, provide trustworthy and seamless connectivity, and unleash the full speed of WiFi 7

Overclocking

NPU Boost – The integrated NPU in Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2) efficiently accelerates AI workflows and NPU Boost lets you do more with it. This BIOS feature overclocks the NPU with just one click, increasing performance by up to 24%

Overclockers Toolkit – The ROG Overclockers Tooklit is a powerful set of hardware-level controls to enhance your overclocking experience. Some are quick and easy time savers, while others offer masterful functionality to help you smash benchmarks and break records

Differential Sensing – Conventional motherboards use single-ended sensing tapped from a location that isn’t ideal, leading to a large disparity between the actual voltage fed to the CPU and the value reported to software. The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex features a differential-sensing circuit and delicate IC that simplify overclocking and tuning by allowing you to track voltages more accurately

Condensation Detection – Specialized circuitry allows ROG Maximus Z890 Apex to detect when condensation occurs on the back of the board. Divided into three distinct sections CPU, DRAM, and PCIe the feature provides a useful warning when an area may be at risk of short-circuiting.

Memory

DDR5 Domination – Thanks to improved signal routing, now enthusiast-grade kits can be driven beyond the 9 GT/s mark on the ROG Maximus Z890 Apex.

DIMM FIT – DIMM Fit is an ASUS-exclusive BIOS feature that precisely analyzes individual memory modules to optimize performance and pinpoint potential issues.

AEMP III – ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile III (AEMP III) is an advanced firmware feature that empowers users to achieve unparalleled memory performance with cutting-edge CUDIMM memory.

DIMM FLEX – DIMM Flex employs specialized circuitry that can boost performance or address potential stability issues, depending on temperature readings.

ROG STRIX Ultimate Power Design

8 + 8-pin ProCool II power connectors – Dual ProCool connectors ensure a snug and reliable connection to the EPS 12V power lines.

22+1+2+2 power stages – The VRM features 22+1+2+2 power stages, each rated to handle up to 110 amps

SMD capacitors – Input and output filtering is provided by solid-polymer capacitors rated to last thousands of hours at high operating temperatures.

MicroFine alloy chokes – Each power stage is accompanied by a high-permeability alloy-core choke rated to handle 45 amps.

Cooling

VRM heatsink array – VRM heatsinks on the MOSFETs and chokes are connected by an embedded heatpipe to increase mass and surface area for dissipation.

High-conductivity thermal pads – Each thermal pad improves overall heat transfer from the system by bridging the heat generated by the power stages to the heatsink.

ROG DIMM.2 card heatsink – Two additional M.2 slots are kept cool with the DIMM.2 card’s hefty heatsinks.

M.2 heatsinks and backplates – Large aluminum heatsinks provide extensive surface area to cool mounted M.2 drives, and four onboard M.2 slots have dedicated backplates for additional heat dissipation.

Chipset heatsink – A dedicated heatsink draws heat away from the chipset to maintain optimum operating temperature.

Thermal Management – Multiple temperature sources, 4-pin fan headers, AIO pump header

Cooler Compatibility – ASUS AIO coolers offer robust performance, high overclocking potential, bold aesthetics and customizable functionality for new Z890 motherboards, empowering you to build your dream gaming rig.

Leading Connectivity

M.2 Slots with ROG M.2 PowerBoost – The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex features three PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and one PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot onboard, all of which support ROG M.2 PowerBoost to help ensure that every onboard M.2 device can operate simultaneously at optimal performance.

PCIe 5.0 Expansion Slots – Both PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlots with PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim fully support next-gen graphics cards.

WIFI 7 – The revolutionary WiFi 7 is up to 4.8X times faster than standard WiFi 6, thanks to tech like 320MHz channels on the 6GHz band and 4K QAM. Multi-Link Operation (MLO) provides a more stable WiFi connection and lower latency, unlocking the realms of the unknown in gaming, streaming and industrial IoT.

Asus WiFi Q-Antenna – Dual transceivers support the 2.4, 5 and 6GHz bands to enable faster throughput, with directional sensitivity to improve signal quality and cover greater distances.

5Gb Ethernet – Low-latency gaming, speedy file transfers, and high-resolution video streaming are among the many perks of onboard Realtek 5Gbps Ethernet.

Two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C Ports – Each port delivers up to 40 Gbps of bidirectional bandwidth for the latest super-speed devices and drives. The Thunderbolt Display function supports up to 8K with DSC. Please see specifications for more details.

One USB 20Gbps & One USB 10Gbps Type-C Front Panel Connectors – The USB 20Gbps front-panel connector features Quick Charge 4+ technology that can rapidly charge devices up to 60W.

SupremeFX – ROG SupremeFX is a unique blend of hardware and software that provides superior audio. The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex’s SupremeFX implementation features the ALC4080 codec with up to 32-bit/384 kHz playback. The front-panel output is streamed through a highly integrated Savitech amplifier that is capable of driving a wide variety of gaming headsets and high-fidelity headphones.

Dolby Atmos – Dolby Atmos expands on traditional surround sound systems by adding height channels, allowing sounds to be interpreted as three-dimensional objects. This creates an immersive audio experience, giving the sensation of sound coming from above, below, and around the listener.

EZ PC DIY

PCIE SLOT Q-Release Slim – With PCIe Slot Q-Release Slim, simply tilt the card toward the latching mechanism to automatically unlock it from the PCIe slot. This makes upgrades and maintenance easier than ever before. Users will no longer need to fiddle with a tricky latch or even press a button to release their graphics card from the slot.

M.2 Q-Release – The M.2 heatsink features a convenient switch* to quickly remove it, eliminating the need for tiny screws during SSD installation. Its strong locking mechanism also provides a snug contact surface, helping to ensure reliable heat dissipation for your SSD.

M.2 Q-Slide – This new sliding M.2 latch design supports sizes 2242, 2260 and 2280 for easy device installation.

New M.2 Q-Latch – The new Q-Latch design allows for tool-free installation or removal of M.2 SSDs with just one press.

Q-Antenna – With Q-Antenna, attaching a WiFi antenna to your PC is now easy and fast. Instead of slowly rotating two fasteners until they finally lock in, they just snap into place. Less hassle, and more consistent performance.

Q-Code – The on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes, providing a valuable reference for troubleshooting common boot problems and hardware issues.

Start Button – This convenient button removes the need to manually jump hard-to-reach pins during testing and troubleshooting.

Q-LED – The on-board Q-LED troubleshooting lights give PC builders a quick indicator to confirm that key components CPU, RAM, graphics card, storage devices are functioning normally during startup. Builders can use the Q-LED feature to correct power delivery issues affecting their motherboard, and it can also alert them when memory modules have not been properly installed–even before attempting to boot a newly built PC.

Clear CMOS & BIOS Flashback – The Clear CMOS button quickly resets BIOS settings to factory default. It can also be used to reboot the PC if incorrect BIOS settings have been selected. BIOS FlashBack is a safe and simple way to update BIOS. Just drop the (UEFI) BIOS file onto a FAT32-formatted USB stick, plug it into the USB BIOS FlashBack port, and press the button. Updates can even be performed without having memory or a CPU installed.

BIOS

BIOS Q-Dashboard – Simplify your motherboard configuration with BIOS Q-Dashboard. Its intuitive visual representation of hardware connections and corresponding BIOS settings takes the complexity out of setting up your system. Upgrade now, and discover the power of BIOS Q-Dashboard to easily and efficiently enhance your computing setup.

Advanced Mode – When youre ready for a deeper dive, delve into the UEFIs Advanced mode and take complete control. Advanced mode enables full control over every aspect of the motherboard, and a built-in search function helps you quickly find the setting you need.

Software Utilities

ASUS DriverHub

ASUS DriverHub streamlines the installation and management of ASUS drivers and utilities to keep your hardware up-to-date and performing optimally. This standalone application automatically detects current driver versions and presents available updates in a list view. By default, it supports ASUS motherboards, and users are invited to install ASUS DriverHub after OS installation. Additionally, ASUS DriverHub offers one-click installation and update checks, making it easier for users to keep their systems running smoothly and efficiently.

TurboV Core

Intuitive overclocking within Windows. No BIOS interface, no reboots. Simple and swift performance tuning at your fingertips.

Seamless Dual-PC Sharing with Thunderbolt Share

Experience a revolutionary way to interact with two PCs using Thunderbolt Sharethe ultrafast connectivity solution that transforms your dual-PC setup. Seamlessly share screens, keyboards, mice, storage and files between two computers, with the unparalleled speed of Thunderbolt technology.

Dolby Atmos

Dolby Atmos expands on traditional surround sound systems by adding height channels, allowing sounds to be interpreted as three-dimensional objects. This creates an immersive audio experience, giving the sensation of sound coming from above, below, and around the listener.

ASUS GlideX

ASUS GlideX is a cross-device, cross-platform screen-sharing, screen-control and operation solution for enhanced productivity across PCs, tablets, and smartphones via USB or WiFi. Features include screen mirroring, screen extension, unified control with one keyboard and mouse, easy file transfers, and using mobile cameras as PC webcams. It’s compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

HWiNFO

HWiNFO and ROG have collaborated on this comprehensive system information and diagnostic tool that provides detailed information about hardware components and real-time monitoring of system performance in ROG style. It supports a wide range of hardware devices, and it is regularly updated to include the latest technologies.

AIDA64 Extreme

The ROG Maximus Z890 Apex includes a one-year AIDA64 Extreme subscription, a tool that provides detailed information about hardware and software, as well as benchmarks to measure the performance of the entire system or individual components. AIDA64 Extreme includes a monitoring and diagnostics feature to detect and prevent hardware issues. All vital system sensors can be tracked in real time, allowing voltage readings, fan speeds, and temperature information to be displayed on the desktop or sent to dedicated displays or to the LCD panels of ROG AIO liquid coolers*.

Armoury Crate

Armoury Crate is a software utility designed to give you centralized control of supported gaming products, making it easy to tune the look and feel of your system. From a single intuitive interface, Armoury Crate helps you customize RGB lighting and effects for compatible devices and synchronize them with Aura Sync to create a unified lighting scheme across your system. In addition, Armoury Crates Fan Xpert4 tool provides comprehensive control over fans, water pumps, and all-in-one (AIO) coolers.

Glow your gaming world with aura sync

Up your game with complementary Aura Sync enhanced aesthetics, featuring preset lighting effects that can be easily synchronized across compatible ROG graphics cards, monitors, keyboards, and mice to give your setup a unified look.

Specifications:

• Motherboard Type: Desktop
• Form Factor: ATX
• Socket: Intel 1851
• Chipset: Intel Z890
• CPU Support: Supports Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2)
• RAM:
  • Technology: DDR5 (Dual Channel), Non-ECC, Un-buffered, Clocked Unbuffered DIMM (CUDIMM), with On-Die ECC
  • Features: Supports Intel XMP, DIMM Flex, ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile III
  • Slots: 2 x DIMM
  • Speeds (OC): Up to 9000+ MT/s
  • Maximum Memory: 96 GB
• Graphics:
  • Integrated Graphics: Varies by CPU type
  • Ports: 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (DisplayPort and Thunderbolt video output)
• Expansion Slots:
  • Intel Core Ultra CPUs (Series 2): 2 x PCIe 5.0 x16 (x16, x8/x8, or x8/x4/x4 modes)
  • Intel Z890 Chipset: 2 x PCIe 4.0 x4
  • Bandwidth Sharing: M.2_3 & M.2_4 share bandwidth with PCIEX16(G5)_2
• Storage:
  • SATA: 4 x SATA III
  • M.2 Slots: 6 x M.2
    • Intel Core Ultra CPUs (Series 2):
      • M.2_1 – PCIe 5.0 x4
      • M.2_2 – PCIe 4.0 x4
      • M.2_3 & M.2_4 – PCIe 5.0 x4
    • Intel Z890 Chipset (via ROG DIMM.2):
      • DIMM.2_1 & DIMM.2_2 – PCIe 4.0 x4
• RAID Support: Intel Rapid Storage Technology (PCIe RAID 0/1/5/10, SATA RAID 0/1/5/10, M.2 slots support RAID 0/1/5)
• Wireless:
  • Wi-Fi 7: 2×2 Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), supports 2.4/5/6 GHz bands, 320 MHz bandwidth, up to 5.8 Gbps
  • Bluetooth: Version 5.4
• LAN:
  • Ethernet: Realtek 5GB LAN
• Audio: ROG SupremeFX 7.1 Surround Sound, High Definition Audio CODEC ALC4080
• USB Ports:
  • Rear:
    • 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C)
    • 1 x USB 20Gbps Type-C
    • 4 x USB 10Gbps Type-A
    • 4 x USB 5Gbps Type-A
  • Front:
    • 1 x USB 20Gbps Type-C (60W PD/QC4+)
    • 1 x USB 10Gbps Type-C
    • 4 x USB 5Gbps
    • 4 x USB 2.0
• Back Panel I/O Ports:
  • 2 x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C)
  • 1 x USB 20Gbps Type-C
  • 4 x USB 10Gbps Type-A
  • 4 x USB 5Gbps Type-A
  • 1 x Wi-Fi Module
  • 1 x Realtek 5Gb Ethernet
  • 2 x Gold-plated audio jacks
  • 1 x Optical S/PDIF out
  • 1 x BIOS FlashBack button
  • 1 x Clear CMOS button
  • 1 x PS/2 keyboard/mouse combo
• Internal I/O Connectors:
  • 1 x 4-pin CPU Fan
  • 1 x 4-pin CPU OPT Fan
  • 1 x 4-pin AIO Pump
  • 2 x 4-pin Chassis Fan
  • 2 x 4-pin Full Speed Fan
  • 1 x W_PUMP+
  • 1 x Extra Flow Fan
  • 1 x 24-pin Main
  • 2 x 8-pin +12V
  • 1 x 8-pin PCIe
  • 4 x M.2 (Key M)
  • 1 x DIMM.2 slot (supports 2 x M.2)
  • 4 x SATA 6Gb/s
  • 1 x USB 20Gbps Type-C
  • 1 x USB 10Gbps Type-C
  • 2 x USB 5Gbps
  • 2 x USB 2.0
  • 1 x 80 Light Bar jumper
  • 3 x Addressable Gen2
  • 1 x Alteration PCIe mode switch
  • 4 x BCLK buttons
  • 1 x BIOS Switch button
  • 1 x FlexKey button
  • 1 x Front Panel Audio
  • 1 x LN2 Mode jumper
  • 1 x Pause switch
  • 18 x ProbeIt Measurement Points
  • 1 x ReTry button
  • 2 x RSVD switches
  • 1 x RSVD header
  • 1 x Safe Boot button
  • 1 x Slow Mode switch
  • 1 x Start button
  • 1 x 10-1 pin System Panel
  • 1 x Thermal Sensor
  • 1 x Thunderbolt (USB4)
• Accessories:
  • 1 x ROG DIMM.2 with heatsink
  • 1 x M.2 pad for ROG DIMM.2
  • 2 x M.2 screw package for ROG DIMM.2
  • 1 x Thermal pad for M.2 22110
  • 1 x ROG Memory Fan Kit
  • 1 x ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna
  • 1 x Q-connector
  • 1 x ROG VIP card
  • 3 x M.2 Q-Slide package
  • 5 x M.2 backplate rubber packages
  • 1 x ROG Bottle Opener
  • 1 x USB drive with utilities and drivers
  • 1 x Quick start guide
• Warranty: 3 Years