Gigabyte X99-UD4 Motherboard Review

1. Introduction2. Gigabyte X99-UD4: Packaging and Bundle3. Gigabyte X99-UD4: Board Layout and Features4. Gigabyte X99 UEFI5. Gigabyte X99 Software6. Testing Methodology7. Tests: System-related8. Tests: Processor-related9. Tests: Gaming-related10. Tests: Motherboard-related11. Overclocking: Frequencies12. Overclocking: Performance13. Technical: Power Consumption14. Closing Thoughts15. View All Pages

While the Haswell-E CPUs and X99-based motherboards of Intel's newest HEDT platform put a considerable dent in the pocket of any enthusiast, there are ways to lighten the cost burden. We recently reviewed the six-core 5820K and found it to be an excellent choice for users who value compute performance and want Haswell-E at the lowest possible cost. Another way to achieve an aggressive budget target is to buy a low cost X99 motherboard. 

That's where Gigabyte's X99-UD4 fits in. Do the features and performance make the sub-£170 board an interesting value option?

Despite its entry-level pricing for the X99 chipset, Gigabyte still manages to squeeze 4-way SLI/CrossFire support, an enhanced audio solution, server-grade power components, and dual M.2 sockets onto the X99-UD4.

Add those features to the eye-catching black colour scheme and a price point that makes it one of the cheapest X99 boards available, and Gigabyte could be onto a winner with the X99-UD4.

Features:

• Genuine All Digital Power Design with IR Digital PWM & IR PowIRstage® ICs
• 4-Way Graphics with Premium PCIe Lane
• Dual M.2 Technology for SSD Drive and WIFI card
• 6x(30µ) Gold Plating for CPU socket, Memory DIMMs and PCIe slots
• Realtek ALC1150 115dB SNR HD audio with built-in Rear Audio Amplifier
• LED lighting for the audio guard light path and the back panel LED
• SATA Express support for up to 10 Gb/s data transfer
• Long lifespan Durable Black™ Solid caps
• APP Center including EasyTune™ and Cloud Station™ utilities
• GIGABYTE UEFI DualBIOS™ with Q-Flash Plus USB port

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