- Advanced support for Intel Core i7 processors via LGA2011 socket and Quad-Channel memory.
- Maximum RAM capacity of up to 64 GB DDR3 with speeds reaching 2400 MHz.
- Versatile expansion with multiple PCI-Express 3.0 slots for multi-GPU configurations.
- Robust connectivity including USB 3.0, dual Gigabit Ethernet ports and SATA 6 Gbps storage.
If you're looking to build a high-performance PC, motherboards based on the Intel X79 chipset are the way to go, although nowadays they're mostly reserved for enthusiasts who They seek maximum performance Regardless of budget. Within this ecosystem, ASUS has deployed a series of models that stand out for adding very interesting extras to differentiate their products from the competition.
To talk about the P9X79 family is to talk about an architecture designed for heavy-duty work and extreme gaming. From versions focused on general consumer use to models specifically for workstations, these motherboards... They are designed to withstand high-end processors, ensuring a constant and bottleneck-free data flow.
ASUS P9X79 Deluxe Review
Visually, the Deluxe version is a spectacle, combining a black PCB with light blue, dark blue, and white accents on its connectors and heatsinks. Structurally, it follows the standard LGA2011 socket layout, placing the memory slots on either side of the processor to optimize space and cooling.
One of its strengths is its thermal system. It features four passive heat sinks The heatsinks are independent; the larger one handles the main chip and is connected to another heatsink located next to the socket via a heatpipe. In addition, there are two dedicated heatsinks for the power phases, designed with a grooved finish for more efficient heat dissipation.
As for memory, it has eight slots that allow it to reach the 64GB DDR3, supporting frequencies up to 2.400 MHz and being fully compatible with Intel's quad-channel technology and XMP profiles.
Expansion and Connectivity Capabilities
For those who need graphics power, the Deluxe offers four PCI-Express x16 slots. Depending on the configuration, two of them can operate at either x16 or x8 simultaneously, while the fourth remains at x8. It also includes two PCI-Express x1 ports, having opted to eliminate the older, conventional PCI slots to modernize the design.
The rear panel is an absolute madhouse of connections. We found 10 USB ports, of which 6 are 3.0, a physical button for easy BIOS reset, dual Gigabit Ethernet ports and two eSATA combo USB ports, plus optical audio output and standard analog connectors.
The Professional Approach: ASUS P9X79-E WS
If you need a work tool, the P9X79-E WS is specifically designed for workstations. While it works perfectly well for a home PC, its crown jewel is its seven PCI-Express 16x 3.0 portsThis allows for the installation of up to seven single-slot graphics cards for high-level GPGPU computing.
If you decide to set up an SLI or Crossfire system with up to four cards, the ports will operate at x16 simultaneously, preventing the bandwidth degradation that often occurs on other motherboards. To optimize power, it incorporates DIGI+ and EPU technologies, which help to control voltage and consumption to gain stability.
In terms of storage, it shines thanks to support for SATA 6 Gbps and ASUS SSD Catching II technology, which allows SSDs to be used as a cache to accelerate the system. Its price is usually high, generally ranging from [price range missing in original text]. between 300 and 400 euros due to its professional nature.
General Technical Specifications
- Socket: LGA 2011 (Socket R) designed for Intel Core i7.
- Memory: Support for 1066, 1333, 1600, 1866, 2133 and 2400 MHz.
- Feeding: 24-pin ATX connector to ensure electrical stability.
- Extras: COM connector for legacy peripherals and digital S/PDIF output.
For those looking to purchase one of these pieces today, platforms like AliExpress offer a variety of options, from brand new units to more affordable selections. It's advisable to check the opinions of other buyers and take advantage of discount coupons to get a more competitive price in the second-hand or refurbished market.
This series of motherboards represents the pinnacle of performance for the LGA2011 socket, offering massive memory management of up to 64GB, unprecedented graphics expansion capabilities in the WS version, and an advanced cooling system that ensures the durability of the most demanding electronic components.