Asus Maximus VIII Hero (Z170) Motherboard Review

Rating: 9.0.

The launch of Intel's Skylake CPUs sees the introduction of a whole new platform based around the LGA 1151 socket. Making use of Intel's feature-healthy Z170 chipset, Asus is targeting gamers who value premium aesthetics and enhanced gaming-grade features with the Maximus VIII Hero. Will the Republic of Gamers (ROG) features and branding tempt gamers to part with the Hero's £171.99 asking price?

You can read our review of the Skylake processors HERE.

Offering support for a pair of graphics cards in addition to high-speed storage, Asus is clear in its targeting of gamers who are willing to spend a little more on a motherboard that comes equipped with a solid supply of features. Forming the aforementioned set of features are Asus' enhanced – SupremeFX – audio solution, an Intel NIC with network prioritisation software, a diverse range of gaming-centric software applications, and a customisable lighting scheme for the chipset heatsink LED.

Other noteworthy features include USB 3.1 Type-A and Type-C ports, a PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 connector, and support for up to 64GB of DDR4 memory with 4000MHz+ operating speeds. With its gaming-orientated styling and focus on overclocking capabilities, how does Asus' Maximus VIII Hero fair in our test suite?

Features:

• Intel Ethernet with LANGuard and GameFirst III
• SupremeFX 2015 Audio.
• Lighting Control.
• Extreme Engine Digi+.
• USB 3.1 Type-A and Type-C.
• PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2.

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