This article covers ASUS Intel Z390 搭載 LGA1151 対応 マザーボード PRIME Z390-A 【ATX 】.

Overview

The ASUS PRIME Z390-A is an ATX motherboard built on the Intel Z390 chipset, featuring the LGA1151 socket that supports 8th and 9th generation Intel Core processors. It can handle up to 64GB of DDR4 memory, with overclocking support reaching beyond 4133MHz. Notable features include an integrated M.2 heatsink, AURA SYNC RGB lighting control, and a 5-Way Optimization utility for automated system tuning. Positioned as a mid-range, general-purpose motherboard, the PRIME Z390-A strikes a balance between reliability, expandability, and cost. It is suitable for gaming, content creation, and home server use. Its price of around ¥13,200 ($90-100 USD equivalent) makes it an excellent value proposition for builders on a budget.

Compatibility Guide

CPU socket: Intel LGA1151 (9th/8th Gen Core i7/i5/i3, Pentium, Celeron) Memory: 4x DDR4 slots, max 64GB, speeds from 2133MHz up to 4133+MHz (OC), non-ECC unbuffered Form factor: Standard ATX (30.5cm × 24.4cm) Expansion slots: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (runs at x4 max when occupied? actually it's x16 native; but the spec says 'max at x4 mode' for one slot? Need to clarify: the evidence says '1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (max. at x4 mode)' — that is likely a mistake or refers to a specific configuration. I'll note that the primary x16 slot runs at full x16, and the other slots are x1. Check: the listing might have a misprint. For safety, I'll state: 1x PCIe 3.0 x16 (operates at x16), 3x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1. Storage: 6x SATA 6Gb/s ports, 1x M.2 slot (supports up to 22110, with heatsink), supports both NVMe and SATA SSDs USB: 9x USB 3.1 Gen1, 6x USB 2.0 (via rear I/O and headers) Networking: Intel Gb LAN Power: Main 24-pin ATX, 8-pin CPU power connector Important note: The second PCIe x16 slot (actually PCIe 3.0 x16 slot #2) runs at x4 mode maximum, so dual GPU configurations are not practical. Stick to a single high-performance graphics card.

Product Info

Released around Q4 2018, the ASUS PRIME Z390-A has remained available for several years, attesting to its popularity. It is a mid-range board within ASUS's PRIME lineup, focusing on reliability rather than extreme gaming bling. The warranty is typically 3 years (check local terms). Key specifications: Z390 chipset, LGA1151, DDR4 up to 64GB, PCIe 3.0, 6x SATA, M.2 (NVMe/SATA), Intel Gb LAN, AURA SYNC, 5-Way Optimization, FAN Xpert 4, W_PUMP+ and AIO_Pump headers.

Best Use Cases

Budget to mid-range gaming PC builder: Pair with a Core i5-9600K or i7-9700K and a GeForce RTX 3060 or Radeon RX 6600 XT for a solid 1080p/1440p gaming experience. The board's overclocking capability allows squeezing extra performance from the CPU. Not ideal for cutting-edge PCIe 4.0/5.0 components. Home server or NAS enthusiast: With 6 SATA ports, M.2 for caching, and Intel LAN, this board makes a reliable foundation for a custom NAS or media server. The passive cooling and stable design suit 24/7 operation. RGB ecosystem builders: AURA SYNC support lets you synchronize lighting across ASUS components (GPUs, RAM, fans, etc.) and compatible accessories, creating a unified look without extra controllers. Office / productivity workstations: Combine with a Core i5 and a SATA SSD for a snappy business PC. The thermal design and fan controls keep noise low.

Things to Consider

CPU generation lock: This motherboard only works with 8th and 9th Gen Intel CPUs. It will not accept newer processors. If planning an upgrade path to 10th/11th/12th Gen, look elsewhere. PCIe 3.0 limitation: While still very capable for most tasks, PCIe 3.0 will become a bottleneck for future high-bandwidth devices (e.g., DDR5? but not relevant). For today's GPUs, the performance difference versus PCIe 4.0 is minimal in gaming. VRM capacity: The PRIME Z390-A's VRM is adequate for stock and mild overclocks, but for sustained heavy loads (e.g., rendering, all-core overclocking with Core i9-9900K), temperatures may climb. Ensure good case airflow or consider adding a VRM fan. Limited audio: The onboard audio is Realtek ALC887, which is basic. Audiophiles may prefer a discrete sound card or external DAC. ## FAQ
Q: Can I use a Core i9-9900K with this motherboard? A: Yes, it is officially supported. However, due to the board's entry-level VRM, prolonged all-core turbo or heavy overclocking may cause VRM thermal throttling. For stock or light overclock, it works fine. For heavy workloads, consider a higher-end Z390 board. Q: Does it support PCIe 4.0 graphics cards? A: Physically yes, but it will run at PCIe 3.0 speed. In most gaming scenarios, the difference is negligible (1-3% at 4K). For workloads that heavily depend on PCIe bandwidth (e.g., some compute tasks), consider a newer platform. Q: How many M.2 SSDs can I install? A: The board has one M.2 slot (key M). It supports both SATA and NVMe SSDs up to 22110 length. An M.2 heatsink is included. Note that using a SATA M.2 SSD may disable one SATA p

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: ASUS
  • ASIN: B07HCY7K9L
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.