Overview

The GIGABYTE Z390 UD Motherboard is an ATX motherboard that supports Intel's 8th and 9th Gen processors via the LGA 1151 socket. Offering excellent compatibility with up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, it provides impressive memory speeds of up to 4400MHz. Designed with high-performance systems in mind, the Z390 UD board is particularly well-suited for tasks requiring heavy processing power, including cryptocurrency mining. With its robust feature set and solid build quality, this motherboard is an ideal option for users who demand a stable, efficient platform for their computing needs.

Features & Benefits

The Z390 UD motherboard delivers an impressive array of features aimed at maximizing system performance. It comes with 6 PCIe slots, including slots for multiple GPUs, making it a great choice for crypto miners and gamers alike. The board’s exclusive 8118 Gaming LAN ensures optimized bandwidth for smooth online gaming and data transfers. Additionally, the M.2 connector supports NVMe storage for faster read and write speeds. The PCIe armor enhances durability, protecting your components from heavy use and ensuring longevity, while the full RGB light strip support lets you customize your build's aesthetics.

Best For

This motherboard is ideal for crypto miners who need a reliable and efficient platform with support for multiple GPUs. Enthusiasts building high-performance Intel-based systems will also appreciate its impressive specifications, especially the ability to support up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM and high-speed storage options. If you are looking for a budget-friendly motherboard that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Z390 UD board is an excellent choice, offering advanced features like PCIe armor and NVMe support without breaking the bank.

User Feedback

Users have generally praised the Z390 UD motherboard for its stable performance, particularly in cryptocurrency mining environments where reliability is crucial. The solid construction and array of features have also earned it favorable reviews for gaming builds. However, some users noted a potential issue with the BIOS setup, with a few requiring updates to unlock optimal performance. Despite this, the board consistently receives high ratings for its value relative to similarly priced options, making it a strong contender in its category for both new and experienced builders.

Pros

  • This motherboard offers solid performance for cryptocurrency mining with stable multi-GPU support.
  • Users appreciate the support for up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, enabling smooth operation for demanding tasks.
  • Its six PCIe slots allow for flexible GPU configurations, making it a great choice for high-performance systems.
  • The exclusive 8118 Gaming LAN ensures optimized bandwidth for a better online gaming experience.
  • Many find the M.2 NVMe support an attractive feature for faster storage and quick system boot-ups.
  • This motherboard is praised for its durability, with PCIe armor protecting components from heavy loads.

Cons

  • Some users reported challenges with BIOS setup, requiring updates for optimal performance.
  • The ATX form factor may not fit in smaller cases, limiting compatibility for compact builds.
  • A few buyers noted the lack of additional M.2 slots, which could be a limitation for users with multiple high-speed storage needs.
  • Initial setup can be tricky for beginners, especially if updates and manual adjustments are needed.
  • The motherboard lacks built-in Wi-Fi, requiring a separate adapter for wireless connectivity.
  • Certain users experienced issues with compatibility for older or less common Intel processors.

Ratings

After analyzing verified reviews worldwide, across multiple languages and platforms, we've aggregated scores for the GIGABYTE Z390 UD Motherboard. We filtered out spam, bot-generated, and incentivized reviews to focus solely on high-quality feedback from genuine users. Both positive experiences and pain points have been reflected in the scores, providing a balanced view of this motherboard's performance and value for money.

Performance for Mining
88%
Many users highlight how well this motherboard handles cryptocurrency mining, offering stable and consistent performance even with multiple GPUs installed. Its support for up to 64GB of high-speed DDR4 RAM ensures that even demanding mining tasks are handled without issue, making it an excellent choice for miners.
Not all buyers were satisfied with the motherboard's long-term performance, with a few reporting occasional issues with GPU stability when running at full load for extended periods. Some users noted that the motherboard's performance could dip under extreme mining conditions without additional cooling solutions.
PCIe Slot Performance
85%
The motherboard’s six PCIe slots offer great flexibility, allowing users to install multiple GPUs for mining or gaming setups. The slots work well with a range of high-performance graphics cards, ensuring smooth performance in multitasking environments, especially for power users who need lots of bandwidth.
A few users experienced difficulty in fully utilizing all six PCIe slots with certain GPUs, particularly when pushing the motherboard to its limits with high-demand workloads. Some buyers felt the slots could benefit from better spacing to accommodate larger or more advanced GPUs.
RAM Compatibility & Speed
90%
The motherboard's support for up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM with speeds reaching up to 4400MHz is a major selling point. Users appreciate the ability to use high-speed memory for both gaming and heavy-duty applications, with many commenting on the system’s responsiveness and smooth multitasking performance.
Some users found that achieving the advertised RAM speeds required adjustments in BIOS, with a few reporting issues during initial setup. Additionally, compatibility with certain RAM modules was inconsistent, leading to occasional boot failures until settings were manually adjusted.
Value for Money
92%
This motherboard provides a strong balance between affordability and high-end features, making it a great value for buyers looking to build a high-performance Intel-based system without breaking the bank. Many users consider it an excellent option for those who want premium specs like PCIe slots and NVMe support at a competitive price.
While it offers great value, a few buyers felt that there were slightly cheaper alternatives with similar performance. Some also wished for more advanced features such as additional USB ports or enhanced cooling solutions, which are available in higher-end models.
Build Quality
87%
The motherboard features a solid build quality, with reinforced PCIe slots and durable components that can withstand heavy usage. Buyers appreciate the high-quality materials used, which contribute to a sturdy overall feel and make it a reliable choice for building long-lasting systems.
Some users felt that the overall design could be a bit more compact, as the motherboard takes up more space in smaller cases. A few also mentioned that the build felt slightly less premium compared to other high-end motherboards, especially when it comes to the heatsinks and power delivery components.
BIOS Setup & Updates
75%
25%
Several users found that the BIOS setup was relatively straightforward and user-friendly, especially for those familiar with motherboard configurations. The ability to tweak settings for optimal performance is a bonus, and the BIOS interface itself is clear and responsive.
However, many users reported issues with the initial BIOS setup, including difficulties getting the system to boot correctly. A few buyers mentioned that BIOS updates were necessary for optimal performance, which was frustrating for those who expected a smoother out-of-the-box experience.
M.2 NVMe Storage Support
83%
The inclusion of an M.2 slot with NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 support allows for fast storage options, making it ideal for those who need quick access to data for gaming or work-related tasks. This feature is a big plus for users looking to maximize their system's speed with modern storage solutions.
A small number of users experienced issues with M.2 drives not being detected immediately, which required additional troubleshooting. Some also noted that there is only one M.2 slot, limiting expansion options for users who need more storage options.
Durability & Longevity
89%
Users appreciate the motherboard’s durability, especially its PCIe armor, which protects the slots from heavy loads and physical damage. The overall construction is built to last, making it a good choice for users who require a reliable component for long-term use.
However, a few users expressed concerns that the motherboard's longevity could be affected by prolonged heavy use, such as continuous gaming or mining. Some mentioned that additional cooling solutions might be necessary for sustained high-load tasks to maintain longevity.
Ease of Installation
80%
20%
Many users find the installation process of this motherboard relatively simple, with intuitive connectors and a clear layout that makes setting up a new system straightforward. The well-labeled ports and sockets further ease the process for both novice and experienced builders.
While installation is generally easy, a few users reported some challenges when installing larger GPUs or certain aftermarket components, which led to fitment issues in smaller cases. Additionally, some users mentioned that the manual could be clearer when it comes to specific installation instructions for advanced components.
Gaming Performance
86%
The motherboard offers solid gaming performance, with excellent stability and smooth gameplay in a variety of titles. The multiple PCIe slots and fast RAM support ensure that even demanding games run well, providing an enjoyable experience for gamers looking to build a powerful system.
However, a few users mentioned that the motherboard could struggle with more resource-intensive games or settings at higher resolutions, especially when paired with budget GPUs. A couple of users also reported occasional system slowdowns during long gaming sessions.
Customer Support
78%
22%
Some users had positive experiences with customer support, finding the team responsive and helpful when addressing technical issues or product inquiries. Support staff were able to resolve many common setup and compatibility problems efficiently.
On the flip side, other buyers reported less satisfactory interactions with customer service, particularly regarding delayed responses and difficulty getting issues resolved. Some felt that the support team could have been more proactive in offering troubleshooting guidance for certain issues.
Compatibility with Intel CPUs
91%
The motherboard's compatibility with Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors is a key strength, allowing users to build a high-performance system with well-established CPU options. Buyers have praised the stability and performance of the motherboard when paired with these processors, making it a reliable choice for Intel-based systems.
A few users experienced compatibility issues with specific Intel CPUs, requiring BIOS updates before achieving optimal performance. While the board works well for most 8th and 9th Gen CPUs, some buyers reported minor issues with less common models during the setup process.

Suitable for:

The GIGABYTE Z390 UD Motherboard is an excellent choice for users looking to build a high-performance system, especially those involved in cryptocurrency mining or gaming. Its ability to support up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM at speeds of up to 4400MHz, paired with six PCIe slots for multiple GPUs, makes it an ideal option for mining rigs that require robust performance and stability. Additionally, its NVMe support and PCIe armor make it a reliable motherboard for PC enthusiasts building Intel-based systems with cutting-edge storage options. Users seeking a motherboard that balances cost and performance will appreciate the value this model offers compared to others in the same price range, making it an excellent choice for those building affordable, high-performance systems for demanding tasks like gaming or mining.

Not suitable for:

This motherboard may not be the best fit for users with limited space in their cases, as its ATX form factor can be too large for some compact builds. Additionally, those who prioritize a plug-and-play experience may find the BIOS setup and updates frustrating, as several users have reported issues with initial setup requiring manual adjustments. While the motherboard works well for most Intel 8th and 9th Gen CPUs, users with less common models or older processors may encounter compatibility issues. Furthermore, the lack of additional M.2 slots might be a limitation for users looking for more storage expansion options. Overall, if you're building a compact or low-maintenance system, this motherboard may not be the ideal choice.

Specifications

  • Form Factor: The motherboard uses an ATX form factor, suitable for standard ATX cases.
  • Socket: It supports the LGA 1151 socket, compatible with Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors.
  • CPU Compatibility: Supports Intel Core processors from the 8th and 9th generations.
  • Memory Support: The motherboard supports up to 64GB of DDR4 memory.
  • RAM Speed: It supports memory speeds up to 4400MHz, providing high-performance capabilities.
  • PCIe Slots: The board includes 6 PCIe slots, allowing for multiple expansion cards.
  • M.2 Slots: It features one M.2 slot with NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 support for fast storage.
  • LAN Connectivity: The motherboard is equipped with an 8118 Gaming LAN for optimized bandwidth and low latency.
  • Chipset: Powered by the Intel Z390 chipset, providing stable and fast communication between components.
  • Expansion Slots: Includes 1 PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and 1 PCIe 3.0 x8 slot for high-performance GPU setups.
  • Durability: Features PCIe armor to protect the motherboard from heavy loads, ensuring long-term durability.
  • Storage Support: Supports NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 storage devices, ensuring fast data transfer speeds.
  • Platform Support: The motherboard is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10, providing flexibility for different operating systems.
  • RGB Compatibility: It supports full RGB light strips, allowing for custom lighting effects.
  • USB Ports: The motherboard includes multiple USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports for fast data transfer and peripheral connectivity.
  • Audio: Features a Realtek ALC887 audio codec for clear, high-quality sound output.
  • Power Supply: Supports a 24-pin ATX power connector and an 8-pin CPU power connector for stable power delivery.
  • Warranty: The motherboard comes with a 3-year limited warranty, ensuring reliable customer support.

FAQ

The GIGABYTE Z390 UD Motherboard supports Intel 8th and 9th Gen processors, utilizing the LGA 1151 socket. This makes it compatible with popular Intel CPUs such as the i7-9700K or i5-8600K.

This motherboard has four DDR4 RAM slots and supports up to 64GB of memory. It also supports RAM speeds of up to 4400MHz when overclocked.

Yes, the Z390 UD board offers six PCIe slots, which include support for multiple GPUs. This makes it a great option for cryptocurrency mining or building high-performance gaming rigs.

Yes, it has an M.2 connector that supports NVMe PCIe Gen3 x4 storage, providing faster data transfer speeds and better overall performance for your system's storage.

The 8118 Gaming LAN is designed to optimize bandwidth management, ensuring low latency and stable internet speeds. This is especially beneficial for online gaming and high-performance computing tasks.

Yes, this motherboard is well-suited for cryptocurrency mining due to its multiple PCIe slots and stable performance. It allows you to run several GPUs simultaneously, which is crucial for mining efficiency.

Some users have reported that the initial BIOS setup requires updates for optimal performance, especially when using high-end components. It's recommended to check for BIOS updates and ensure all settings are properly configured.

The Z390 UD board does not come with built-in Wi-Fi, but it does have expansion slots available. You can easily add a Wi-Fi card using one of the PCIe slots if wireless connectivity is needed.

The motherboard is designed with durability in mind, featuring PCIe armor to protect against heavy loads and ensure the longevity of your components. It is built to handle demanding workloads, making it a reliable choice for high-performance builds.

Yes, the Z390 UD motherboard supports full RGB light strip compatibility, allowing you to customize your system's aesthetics with vibrant lighting effects.