Words & Conclusion
This new line of processors and motherboards brings several enhancements, including faster processing speeds, better energy efficiency, and overall stronger performance due to a more optimized design rather than just increased frequency. The Ryzen 9000 series stands out in the market due to these improvements. A notable feature is the enhanced energy efficiency, which allows the processors to perform better while using less power. Additionally, the increased efficiency reduces cooling needs, leading to simpler and potentially more reliable systems. The top models of the Ryzen 9000 series, thanks to these design improvements, achieve higher speeds and significantly better performance compared to previous models, making them appealing for users needing robust computing power.
DDR5 memory
AMD recommends a memory frequency of 6000 MHz as optimal. However, we used two 16GB G.Skill modules rated at 6400 MHz. While this setup offers excellent speed, it costs about $125 for a 32GB kit. We tested the memory at 6000 MHz CL30 using the TridentZ5 NEO kit in Hynix-enabled mode. After updating to the latest BIOS, the system quickly proceeded to boot. The initial boot-up involves a memory training process by the BIOS, which may take a few minutes. If compatible, switching the BIOS to EXPO or Hynix mode, which optimizes the memory timings, requires another training session. The memory kit was stable throughout the testing.
Energy efficiency
Added chips, RGB, and BIOS configuration are a bothersome factor when testing stuff like this. The Ryzen 9 9950X processor has a rated power consumption of 170 Watts but can reach up to 200 Watts in high-power states. Similar to Intel's PL2 states, AMD sets a Package Power Tracking (PPT) limit of approximately 200 Watts. This allows the processor to utilize that wattage for a specific duration determined by the motherboard manufacturer's firmware. Overall, the processor maintains acceptable temperatures under load, ranging from to ~80 degrees Celsius with adequate PC cooling.
AI Tweaked
The ASUS motherboard has an AI overclocking function which we enabled. It yielded a little extra performance multi-threaded, but dropped a tiny bit on single-threaded load. A manual tweak likely will get you over that score of 18K depending on CPU its ASIC quality. Still if you want a save easy tweak, this certainly will help you out.
Final Words
unfortunately, the Ryzen 9000 that was recently reviewed is a bit dull. While there is a generational performance increase, people expect more. This is going to hurt the sales of the new X870E motherboards. ASUS has done an excellent job with this motherboard, which has been updated to include USB4 and additional PCIe Gen 5 support, as well as faster Ethernet. The AI functionality aligns with current trends, though the value of this feature will vary by user. Again, a bigger issue is with the Ryzen 9000 series processors, which may not offer enough improvements to entice PC gamers to upgrade. Known as Granite Ridge for desktops, the Ryzen 9000 series remains a solid step up from the Ryzen 7000 series, but the performance increase may not meet everyone's expectations. I guess everybody is on hold for Ryzen 9000 X3D processors. From a hardware perspective, this motherboard is excellent. We experienced no stability issues, and WIFI 7 offers extremely fast connectivity. The 2.5/5.0 Gigabit Ethernet LAN jack is noteworthy, and it features a strong VRM design with 105A power stages. It provides extensive connectivity options, including five M.2 slots (three of which are PCIe 5.0), SATA ports, and USB4. It could easily be one of my favourite motherboards if it weren't priced at 750-800 EUR. With numerous power phases for the CPU, there are no issues with processor support or the temperature of the power subsystem. Additionally, this motherboard is compatible with WIFI 6E and 7 on the 6 GHz band, making it future-proof. There are, of course, cheaper alternatives that share many of the X870E HERO's features. It is safe to say that this is not a product for the casual gamer or user; it is targeted squarely at affluent computer enthusiasts. Conservative spenders should consider other options. ASUS has equipped the X870E Crosshair HERO with extensive high-speed connectivity and a massive VRM that is overengineered in every way. In this regard, the motherboard is ahead of its competitors. This is an excellent choice for those who already appreciate ASUS ROG motherboards and want to treat themselves, but it comes at a very steep price premium
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