GIGABYTE X99-Phoenix SLI (Intel X99) Motherboard Review

Introduction

With the introduction of Intel's Broadwell-E processors, motherboard vendors have launched a new series of X99 motherboards targeted at the new generation of high-performance CPUs. GIGABYTE's newest models carry some untraditional names, such as the Phoenix and Designare, and they also sport radical new designs both inside and out. With their new X99 motherboards, GIGABYTE has also launched their new BIOS, retrofitted with new features as well as a new look.

To be clear, GIGABYTE has launched three new X99 SKUs. At the top is the X99-Designare EX, followed by the X99-Phoenix SLI, and finally the X99-Ultra Gaming. The X99-Phoenix SLI is part of the G1 Gaming series of motherboards. The deviation from the typical G1 Gaming naming scheme is appropriate since it's the first G1 Gaming motherboard to have an orange color scheme, something many have responded positively to.

Almost all of GIGABYTE's past orange and black motherboards have been overclocking-centric models. GIGABYTE's departure from the rigidity of their "orange equals overclocking" dogma represents a shift in strategy to a market demand based approach where the gamer has become king. Let's begin our review of the X99-Phoenix SLI.

Specifications

The GIGABYTE X99-Phoenix SLI is loaded with features that were missing from their first set of X99 motherboards. The motherboard has 32Gb/s M.2, U.2, USB 3.1 (type-C and type-A), two Intel Gbit NICs, Intel WirelessAC/BT4.2, and even improved fan control.

Pricing

The X99-Phoenix SLI is available from many large retailers for $339.