Overview

The ASRock Z890 LiveMixer WiFi 7 DDR5 ATX Motherboard is designed for high-performance systems, catering to users who require cutting-edge features. This motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra processors through the LGA 1851 socket, making it compatible with the latest chips. Users will appreciate the WiFi 7 for ultra-fast wireless connectivity and the PCIe 5.0 support for next-gen storage devices. With its advanced connectivity options, including dual M.2 slots and Thunderbolt 4, this high-performance motherboard ensures reliable expansion for demanding builds.

Features & Benefits

The ASRock Z890 LiveMixer offers several standout features that enhance its performance. It supports DDR5 memory up to 9066 MHz (OC), ensuring faster speeds and greater bandwidth for resource-heavy tasks. Its robust power phase design, featuring 18+1+1 stages, provides stability, even under heavy loads and during overclocking. Additionally, the extensive I/O options, including 23 USB ports and dual Thunderbolt 4, allow for exceptional connectivity and future-proofing. Users also benefit from superior data transfer rates, making it an excellent choice for creators and power users.

Best For

This motherboard is ideal for PC enthusiasts and gamers looking to build a future-proof system with high-end components. Its support for Intel Core Ultra processors and cutting-edge memory technology makes it well-suited for users seeking maximum performance in both gaming and content creation. Those assembling workstations or high-performance rigs will find the board’s capabilities especially beneficial. Furthermore, the extensive connectivity options make it a top choice for anyone needing robust I/O support and fast data transfer speeds in a single package.

User Feedback

User reviews highlight the ASRock Z890 LiveMixer's excellent overclocking potential and stable performance, even under demanding conditions. Many users appreciate the motherboard’s fast WiFi 7 and the versatility provided by its array of USB ports. However, some have noted that the price is slightly higher than other options, though they find it justifiable due to the robust feature set. Additionally, installation is reported to be straightforward, with minimal issues during setup. Overall, this motherboard delivers on performance but comes at a premium price point.

Pros

  • WiFi 7 offers lightning-fast wireless speeds and exceptional connectivity.
  • DDR5 memory support with speeds up to 9066 MHz ensures smooth performance, even with demanding tasks.
  • Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports provide high-speed data transfer and support for advanced peripherals.
  • 23 USB ports allow for extensive connectivity options, ideal for users with multiple devices.
  • The 18+1+1 power phase design helps maintain stability and efficiency, even during overclocking.
  • Installation is straightforward, with users reporting a hassle-free setup experience.

Cons

  • The price point is relatively high, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Not ideal for compact PC builds, as the ATX form factor may require larger cases.
  • Some users noted the board’s advanced features might be overkill for basic computing needs.
  • The size and complexity may intimidate first-time PC builders or those with limited technical knowledge.
  • While performance is strong, the motherboard's high-end features may not be fully utilized by casual users.
  • A few users have reported that it takes time to fine-tune settings for optimal performance.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide, across multiple platforms and languages, we’ve compiled ratings for the ASRock Z890 LiveMixer WiFi 7 DDR5 ATX Motherboard. Spam, bot/incentivized, and low-quality reviews were excluded to ensure that only authentic and helpful feedback informed the results. The following scores reflect the overall performance, with both strengths and pain points considered, based on real-world user experiences.

Performance
94%
Users are highly satisfied with the overall performance of this motherboard. Many mention the smooth operation of demanding applications and heavy workloads, with little to no lag. The combination of DDR5 memory support and PCIe 5.0 provides an excellent experience for high-end gaming and content creation.
While the performance is generally praised, some users note that the motherboard can be slightly overkill for casual or budget builds. A few have pointed out that it might not be necessary for those who don’t need cutting-edge features like WiFi 7 or extreme overclocking potential.
WiFi Connectivity
92%
The WiFi 7 capabilities of this motherboard are a standout feature for many buyers. Users rave about the ultra-fast wireless speeds and reliable connections, particularly for gaming or streaming. The improved stability over previous WiFi generations makes a noticeable difference in day-to-day use.
However, not all users were impressed with the WiFi performance. A few reported intermittent connectivity issues, especially in environments with high network traffic or interference. Some feel that WiFi 6 would have sufficed for their needs, making the higher cost for WiFi 7 feel unnecessary.
Build Quality
88%
Many users appreciate the solid build quality of this motherboard. Its sturdy construction and premium feel make it a durable option for building a high-performance PC. The components are well-organized, and the overall design is clean and professional.
However, a handful of users reported that the motherboard is quite bulky and may not fit in smaller cases. Some also mentioned that the layout could be more user-friendly, especially for first-time builders. Additionally, the weight of the board is sometimes seen as a downside for those focused on minimizing system weight.
Overclocking Potential
89%
Overclocking enthusiasts have highlighted the motherboard’s exceptional stability and power phase design (18+1+1). This setup allows for smooth overclocking, even with demanding processors and extreme memory speeds. Several users reported impressive gains in both gaming and productivity tasks after overclocking.
On the downside, some users felt that the motherboard’s overclocking features were not as intuitive or easily accessible as they expected. The learning curve can be steep for beginners, and a few experienced instability when pushing the system too far without proper cooling or adjustments.
I/O and Port Availability
91%
The wide variety of ports, including 23 USB ports, is a major plus for users with many devices to connect. Several users noted the convenience of having plenty of connectivity options without the need for extra hubs. Dual Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports are also a notable bonus for high-speed data transfers.
Despite the abundance of ports, some users mentioned that the layout of the I/O panel could be improved for easier access. A few found the positioning of some ports to be awkward when installing other components, especially in tight cases.
Ease of Installation
84%
The installation process is straightforward for most users, especially those familiar with building PCs. The clear labeling and organized layout of the board made installation relatively simple, with no significant issues reported during setup.
For first-time builders, some users did find the installation process a bit tricky. The manual was noted as lacking detailed instructions for some specific configurations, leading to confusion for those who needed extra guidance.
Power Efficiency
85%
Users have mentioned that the power efficiency of this motherboard is excellent, particularly when paired with the Intel Core Ultra processors. The advanced power phase design ensures that the board runs efficiently even under heavy loads, keeping temperatures in check.
On the flip side, a few users noted that power efficiency could still be improved further, especially when using high-end GPUs and running demanding tasks. Some also mentioned that the motherboard’s power consumption could be higher than expected for more basic builds.
Thunderbolt 4 Support
90%
Thunderbolt 4 support is a key highlight, with users reporting seamless high-speed data transfer. Whether it's for fast external storage or high-resolution displays, this feature adds significant value for those who rely on Thunderbolt devices.
However, some users felt that Thunderbolt 4 support might not be fully utilized by all users. For those without Thunderbolt-compatible devices, this feature might not justify the extra cost of the motherboard. Additionally, a few users encountered compatibility issues with some older Thunderbolt accessories.
Software/BIOS Support
82%
18%
The BIOS and software provided with this motherboard are generally stable and functional. Many users appreciate the ease of updating the BIOS and the basic utilities included for system monitoring and tweaking.
Some users felt that the software could use a more modern design and more advanced features. A few also reported occasional crashes when using the built-in system optimization tools or felt that some settings were unintuitive.
Compatibility with Intel Core Ultra Processors
93%
This motherboard is highly praised for its compatibility with Intel Core Ultra processors. Users who are building high-end PCs for gaming or content creation report a smooth and powerful experience when pairing it with the latest Intel chips.
A small group of users mentioned compatibility concerns with older processors or non-Intel parts. For those not using Intel Core Ultra processors, the features of this motherboard might be underutilized, making it less of a value for their build.
Value for Money
78%
22%
Despite being on the pricier side, many users feel that the motherboard’s feature set justifies the cost. The support for WiFi 7, DDR5, PCIe 5.0, and Thunderbolt 4 make it a future-proof investment for high-performance builds.
However, some users consider the price too steep compared to other motherboards with similar features. They feel that they are paying for high-end specs that they may not need for their builds, making it less cost-effective for casual users.
Price vs Features
75%
25%
The combination of features like WiFi 7 and DDR5 memory support is appreciated by users who require cutting-edge technology. Those building high-end systems value the performance boost offered by the motherboard’s premium components.
However, the price point may feel unjustified for some users, especially those who don't need all of the high-end features. A few buyers noted that similar performance could be achieved with less expensive motherboards, leading them to question the value of certain features in relation to the price.

Suitable for:

The ASRock Z890 LiveMixer WiFi 7 DDR5 ATX Motherboard is ideal for high-performance users, such as gamers and PC enthusiasts who demand cutting-edge features like WiFi 7 and DDR5 memory support. This motherboard is also a great choice for content creators working with resource-heavy applications, as it offers fast data transfer speeds, dual M.2 slots, and robust overclocking potential. With its extensive connectivity options, including 23 USB ports and dual Thunderbolt 4 Type-C, it caters well to users building future-proof workstations or high-end gaming rigs, needing the best possible performance and expandability.

Not suitable for:

However, the ASRock Z890 LiveMixer may not be the best fit for casual users or those on a tight budget. The price point is relatively high, and users who don't require top-tier features like WiFi 7, DDR5, or advanced overclocking might find it unnecessary. Additionally, those with smaller cases or limited space may struggle with the motherboard's size and complexity, making it less ideal for basic builds. First-time PC builders may also face challenges during installation, as the setup process can be tricky without prior experience, particularly with advanced BIOS settings and component configurations.

Specifications

  • Form Factor: ATX form factor compatible with most standard PC cases.
  • Socket: Supports Intel Core Ultra processors with LGA 1851 socket.
  • Chipset: Built on the Intel Z890 chipset for stable performance and compatibility.
  • WiFi: Equipped with WiFi 7 for faster wireless connectivity and better range.
  • Memory Support: Supports DDR5 memory up to 9066 MHz (overclocked).
  • Memory Capacity: Maximum memory capacity of 256 GB for handling demanding applications.
  • PCIe Support: Features PCIe 5.0 for high-speed data transfer to GPUs and storage devices.
  • Thunderbolt: Dual Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports for high-speed data and peripheral connections.
  • USB Ports: Includes 23 total USB ports, offering ample connectivity options.
  • M.2 Slots: Two M.2 slots for fast SSD storage expansion.
  • Power Phase Design: 18+1+1 power phase design for stable power delivery and enhanced overclocking potential.
  • Dimensions: Measures 7.87 x 1.18 x 5.91 inches in size.
  • Weight: Weighs 4.4 pounds for a sturdy build.
  • Processor Compatibility: Compatible with Intel Core Ultra processors for top-tier performance.
  • Platform: Supports Windows 11 for optimal software compatibility.
  • Expansion Slots: Includes multiple PCIe slots for GPU and other expansion cards.
  • Audio: Supports high-quality audio output for immersive sound experiences.
  • Storage Expansion: Supports external storage expansion via M.2 and PCIe slots.
  • Cooling: Designed with multiple fan headers to ensure efficient cooling during intense workloads.

FAQ

The ASRock Z890 LiveMixer motherboard supports the latest Intel Core Ultra processors and features WiFi 7 for high-speed connectivity, DDR5 memory up to 9066 MHz, and PCIe 5.0 for fast data transfers. Its advanced power phase design ensures stable overclocking and handling of intensive workloads, making it ideal for gamers and content creators.

No, this motherboard is designed specifically for Intel Core Ultra processors with an LGA 1851 socket, so it is not compatible with older Intel processor models. Make sure to choose an Intel Core Ultra CPU for optimal compatibility.

The ASRock Z890 motherboard is straightforward to install if you have some experience with PC building. The ATX form factor is compatible with most standard cases, and the layout is clean, making cable management easier. Ensure your case supports the ATX size and has adequate airflow for optimal performance.

The ASRock Z890 motherboard supports PCIe 5.0, which offers faster data transfer speeds compared to PCIe 4.0. This makes it an excellent choice for future-proofing your build and ensuring compatibility with the latest GPUs, storage devices, and other peripherals.

Yes, this motherboard is designed with an 18+1+1 power phase for stable and efficient power delivery, making it well-suited for overclocking. Users report that it handles both CPU and memory overclocking reliably, ensuring good performance under heavy workloads.

The ASRock Z890 motherboard offers a total of 23 USB ports, which includes a mix of USB 3.2 Gen 2, Gen 1, and USB 2.0, providing ample connectivity for a gaming setup. This includes front-panel headers and rear I/O ports, so you can easily connect multiple devices like a mouse, keyboard, external storage, and VR equipment.

Yes, WiFi 7 is backward compatible with older WiFi standards such as WiFi 6, 5, and 4. However, to fully utilize the speeds and benefits of WiFi 7, both your router and devices must also support WiFi 7. Otherwise, it will function at the speeds allowed by your existing router.

The ASRock Z890 motherboard supports up to 256GB of DDR5 memory, which is more than enough for most high-performance tasks, including gaming, content creation, and scientific computing. This large capacity helps ensure that the motherboard can handle memory-intensive applications.

No, like most motherboards, the ASRock Z890 LiveMixer does not include a built-in graphics card. You will need to install a discrete GPU for gaming or high-performance graphical tasks. The motherboard does, however, support the latest graphics card interfaces like PCIe 5.0 for faster data transfer to a GPU.

While there are no unusual power supply requirements, it is recommended to use a high-quality PSU with at least 650W of power for a typical gaming or workstation build. If you're planning on overclocking or adding multiple GPUs, you may want to consider a higher wattage PSU for optimal stability and performance.