ASUS ROG Maximus VIII Formula (Intel Z170) Motherboard Review

Here are key points about the ASUS Maximus VIII Formula.

What's Hot

RGB LEDs Done Right: The Maximus VIII Formula is perfect for users who want to choose the color of their motherboard. With the RGB LEDs illuminating translucent plastic beneath the shield, ASUS helps avoid the glare from LEDs and does a decent job of diffusing and evenly spreading the light through some parts of the shield. The addition of the RGB header is also a nice move, and allows for independent control over both sets of LEDs is a nice touch. The Maximus VIII Formula's other aesthetics don't interfere with the LEDs, meaning you can finally choose the color scheme for your motherboard!

EK Waterblock on the VRM: The water block on this motherboard is no slouch. It's the real deal. Built specifically for the Maximus VIII Formula by EKWB, the VRM water block cools the VRM well even without water flowing through it.

High-Quality Audio: ASUS's audio implementation on the Maximus VIII Formula is top of the line. The ESS Sabre DAC, Texas Instruments amplifier, sense amp, and even the Nichicon capacitors greatly improve upon the Realtek ALC1150 found on most motherboards. Don't be afraid of the tick from the NEC relay, it's used to remove the popping sound that might occur through your speakers on startup.

Intel USB 3.1 and NIC: Intel's latest USB 3.1 controller and NIC are both top of the line parts. If you want the latest and greatest in connectivity, going with Intel controllers is a safe move.

MU-MIMO Wireless AC: ASUS provides their own 2x2 (867Mb/s) Wireless AC solution with Bluetooth. The MU-MIMO support allows for much better Wireless AC connectivity when dealing with multiple devices, but you need a router which supports the new technology.

What's Not

Pricey: The Maximus VIII Formula does offer unique features, but they will cost you. At $399, it is one of the most expensive Z170 motherboards, and you don't get a PEX8747 or external dongles or brackets.

Final Thoughts

ASUS's Maximus VIII Formula is perhaps one of the most versatile motherboards when it comes to modding. ASUS's design team hit the nail right on the head when it comes to delivering customizability to consumers. Users want to choose their motherboard color theme, and by using RGBs behind translucent plastic, ASUS has provided just that. The addition of the RGB LED header is a great extra that modders will appreciate since they can now sync up case and motherboard RGBs.

The Maximus VIII Formula isn't just about RGBs, it's also about gaming, offering a myriad of other features such as an EKWB VRM block, Wireless AC, and high-quality audio. However, all of this will cost you close to $400.

The Maximus VIII Formula is a heavily modified Maximus VIII Hero, armored up and ready to go into battle. As we all know, glamor isn't cheap, but the ability to choose your color theme is priceless.

Product Summary Breakdown

Performance (including Overclocking)	93%
Quality including Design and Build	95%
General Features	95%
Bundle and Packaging	93%
Value for Money	87%

Overall TweakTown Rating

93%

The Bottom Line: With a fully customizable color theme, the ASUS ROG Maximus VIII Formula is every modder's dream motherboard. It also comes with a host of other rather solid features, but it will cost you.

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