ASRock Z97 Extreme6 Motherboard Review (w/ Samsung XP941 M.2 SSD)

1. Introduction2. ASRock Z97 Extreme6: Packaging and Bundle3. ASRock Z97 Extreme6: Board Layout and Features4. ASRock Z97 BIOS5. ASRock Z97 Software6. Testing Methodology7. Tests: System-related8. Tests: Processor-related9. Tests: Gaming-related10. Tests: Motherboard-related11. Overclocking: Frequencies12. Overclocking: Performance13. Technical: PCIe Performance w/ Ultra M.214. Technical: Power Consumption15. Closing Thoughts16. View All Pages

From additional connectivity and LAN controllers, to an enhanced audio system and the commendable 32Gbps Ultra M.2 connection, ASRock's Z97 Extreme6 is packed with worthwhile features.

Starting out with overclocking performance, ASRock's Z97 Extreme6 was able to take our 4790K to its limit. And with its twelve phase power delivery system, efficiency of the motherboard was positive.

Storage options and connectivity are where the Z97 Extreme6 shines. Ten SATA 6Gbps ports, Z97-fed 10Gbps SATA Express and M.2 connections, and up to ten USB 3.0 ports provide users with plenty of flexibility to expand their storage needs.

ASRock's 32Gbps Ultra M.2 connection is the Z97 Extreme6's shining feature. Using four PCIe 3.0 lanes from the CPU and offering theoretical transfer rates of up to 4GBps, the connection was a bold move by ASRock, but it clearly asserts its dominance over current, chipset-fed alternatives which are limited to 10Gbps.

It is only a matter of time before more motherboard vendors employ a similar storage tactic with their future products, and that's a big compliment to ASRock. Currently-available SSDs, such as Samsung's XP941, are bottlenecked by the 9-series chipset's 10Gbps storage connections but ASRock's Ultra M.2 gives them the high-speed link they need to flex their muscles.

Layout and aesthetics are positives for the Z97 Extreme6. ASRock's newly-adopted black and blue colour scheme is likeable and easy to match with other components. Layout is sensible and convenient for single- or multi-VGA users.

Priced at £137.99 from OverclockersUK, ASRock's Z97 Extreme6 finds itself in a competitive segment of the market where unique features can mean the difference between a sale. And to that point, ASRock's Z97 Extreme6 has its unique feature in the ‘future-proof' Ultra M.2 interface.

ASRock opted for a feature-heavy approach with its Z97 Extreme6 motherboard. Storage options (including the unique Ultra M.2 connection) are packed to the brim, connectivity is positive, overclocking potential is strong, and the UEFI is of a high quality.

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Pros:

• 32Gbps Ultra M.2 connection is a bold move that pays off.
• Plenty of storage connectivity and expansion options.
• Strong and efficient power delivery system.
• Smart layout choices.
• Aesthetically pleasing design.
• High quality BIOS interface.

Cons:

• Limitations with SLI and Ultra M.2 usage (although this is an LGA 1150 limitation).

KitGuru says: The well-balanced ASRock Z97 Extreme6 is a Must Have to mid-range users who demand a motherboard that does it all and provides expandability for the future.

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