This article covers GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER [intel Z790 チップセット搭載 ​E-ATX マザーボード] MB5926.

Overview

GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER is a high-end E-ATX motherboard built on the Intel Z790 chipset. It supports 12th and 13th Gen Intel Core processors (LGA1700) and brings PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support, making it an ideal foundation for a cutting-edge performance PC. The board features a robust 20+1+2 phase power design with SPS and an FinsArray heatsink to keep thermals under control during heavy loads. Dual networking options (10GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E) ensure blazing-fast connectivity for both wired and wireless setups. Positioned at the premium tier of the Z790 lineup, the AORUS MASTER targets enthusiasts who demand top-tier build quality, expansion, and network performance. With a street price around ¥100,000, it competes directly with flagship models from ASUS and MSI.

Compatibility Guide

The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER uses the LGA1700 socket, compatible with Intel 12th Gen (Alder Lake) and 13th Gen (Raptor Lake) Core processors. It supports dual-channel DDR5 memory up to 192 GB (4×48 GB) with XMP 3.0 profiles. The board is E-ATX (305×260 mm), so check your case clearance carefully; many mid-tower ATX cases will not fit. Expansion includes one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, one PCIe 3.0 x4, and one PCIe 3.0 x1. Storage connectivity is generous: one M.2 Gen5 slot, four M.2 Gen4 slots, and four SATA 3 ports. Front-panel USB offers one USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, four USB 3.2 Gen1, and four USB 2.0 headers.

Product Info

Launched in October 2022, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER is a flagship Z790 motherboard. It sits in the high-end tier, distinguished by its 20+1+2 phase SPS VRM, advanced FinsArray heatsink, and premium networking (10GbE + Wi-Fi 6E). The board also sports a high-quality audio solution featuring Realtek ALC1220 codec and ESS 9118 DAC. It comes with a 2-year warranty through the official Japanese distributor. Key specifications include PCIe 5.0 support for future GPUs and SSDs, DDR5 memory up to very high frequencies, and extensive connectivity options.

Best Use Cases

High-End Gaming Rig Ideal for pairing with an Intel Core i9-13900K or i7-13700K and the latest GeForce RTX 40-series or Radeon RX 7000 graphics cards. PCIe 5.0 future-proofs for next-gen GPUs, while DDR5 memory reduces load times and improves frame rates. If you're building a budget gaming PC or targeting 1080p gaming, a B760 or lower-tier Z790 board would be more cost-effective. ### Creative Workstation Video editing, 3D rendering, and data analysis benefit from the high core-count CPUs and generous memory bandwidth. The PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot offers blazing-fast SSD speeds, and 10GbE LAN accelerates large file transfers to NAS. However, if budget is tight, consider a mid-range Z790 or an AMD platform instead. ### Overclocking Enthusiasts With 20+1+2 power phases and high-quality components, the AORUS MASTER provides stable voltage delivery for CPU and memory overclocking. The BIOS offers comprehensive tuning options for fine-grained control. ## Alternatives

Direct rivals include the ASUS ROG STRIX Z790-E GAMING WIFI and MSI MPG Z790 CARBON WIFI. The ASUS board is similarly specced but lacks 10GbE LAN, while the MSI Carbon is slightly more affordable and strikes a better price-performance balance. The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS MASTER stands out with its integrated 10GbE and a very comprehensive storage layout, making it a strong choice for network-centric builds.

Things to Consider

First, the E-ATX form factor requires a case that officially supports E-ATX motherboards; many standard ATX cases lack the necessary width. Second, the price (~¥100,000) may be overkill when paired with a mid-range CPU like an Intel Core i5—consider a B760 or lower Z790 board for better value. Third, DDR4 memory is not supported; you must invest in DDR5 sticks. Finally, while the board supports PCIe 5.0 GPUs, current generation cards rarely saturate that bandwidth, but it's a forward-looking feature. ## FAQ Q: Can I use 14th Gen Intel Core (Raptor Lake Refresh) processors? A: Yes, after a BIOS update the board supports 14th Gen CPUs. Check the official GIGABYTE website for the latest BIOS and update before installation. Q: How many PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots are there, and are there lane limitations? A: There is one PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot. When the PCIe 5.0 x16 slot is populated with a graphics card, the M.2 slot may share lanes with it; consult the motherboard manual for detailed configuration. Q: What accessories come in the box? A: The package includes a manual, driver DVD, SATA cables, Wi-Fi antenna, G-connector for front-panel headers, and RGB extension cables.