ASRock Intel Core Ultra Z890 LGA1851 RL-ILM Mini ITX Motherboard Phantom Gaming Z890i Nova WiFi 7 DDR5 9466 MHz 128 GB
Want the best price and purchase timing?
Our AI advisor analyzes real-time pricing across all channels to find you the best deal.
AI Verdict
This Mini ITX Z890 motherboard with LGA 1851 socket and DDR5 9866+ MHz (OC) RAM support is for builders prioritizing a compact, high-performance Intel Core Ultra Series 2 system.
This ASRock Z890i Nova is a strong fit for users specifically targeting a Mini ITX build with the latest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors. Its robust 12+1+1+1+1 power delivery, support for DDR5 9866+ MHz (OC) memory, and comprehensive I/O including dual Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7, pack high-end features into a compact 17cm x 17cm footprint.
If you need more than two RAM slots or additional PCIe expansion, look for a Micro-ATX or ATX Z890 motherboard.
Regret Score™
Very Low RiskLower is better — measures purchase-regret risk from real buyer complaints, review credibility, and product maturity
Issues discovered after purchase
Critically weak dimension
Amazon rating vs actual quality
Chance this product isn't for you
Pros
- Robust 12+1+1+1+1 power phase design with 110A SPS delivers stable power for high-performance Intel Core Ultra CPUs.
- Supports DDR5 memory speeds up to 9866+ MHz (OC) across its two DIMM slots.
- Includes a PCIe Gen 5 x4 M.2 slot for ultra-fast storage alongside two additional PCIe Gen 4 M.2 slots.
- Features dual Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, 5Gbps LAN, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 for extensive connectivity.
- Comes with a BIOS Flashback button on the rear I/O for convenient firmware updates without a CPU.
- The board's design incorporates large heatsinks that effectively dissipate heat without interfering with CPU cooling solutions.
Cons
- Limited to two DDR5 DIMM slots, restricting total memory capacity compared to larger form factors.
- Only two SATA3 ports are available, which may be insufficient for users with multiple 2.5-inch or 3.5-inch drives.
- The Mini ITX form factor inherently limits overall expansion options, including fewer PCIe slots and USB headers.
- Installation within very small ITX cases can be challenging due to the compact layout and component density.
Dimension Scores
The 12+1+1+1+1 power phase design with 110A SPS for VCore and 20K capacitors is exceptionally robust for a Mini ITX board.
It includes Wi-Fi 7, 5Gbps LAN, dual Thunderbolt 4, BIOS Flashback, and Nahimic Audio, offering a comprehensive high-end feature set for its size.
For a Mini ITX board, three M.2 slots (one Gen5, two Gen4), one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, and two SATA3 ports are above average, though inherently limited by form factor.
Professional reviews and Reddit discussions indicate a user-friendly BIOS with regular updates, contributing to stability.
Best For
- Small Form Factor (SFF) PC builds where space is a primary constraint.
- Enthusiasts building a high-performance system with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and high-speed DDR5 memory.
- Users requiring extensive high-speed connectivity, including Thunderbolt 4, 5Gbps wired, and Wi-Fi 7.
Not Recommended For
- Builders needing more than two DDR5 DIMM slots or extensive SATA storage options.
- Budget-conscious users, as this Z890 chipset and Mini ITX form factor typically command a higher price.
Watch Out For
- The Intel CPU clamp design is reported to be suboptimal, with users suggesting a contact frame for improved cooling performance with Intel Ultra CPUs.
- While the board offers three M.2 slots, two are Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4 x4), and only one is Blazing M.2 (PCIe Gen5 x4), requiring careful planning for drive placement.
- Some Reddit discussions mention general 'ASRock issues' without specific details for this Z890 board, indicating potential historical concerns with the brand's software or support for some users.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0DJPXWMG8 |
| Brand | ASRock |
| Platform | Windows 11 |
| Batteries | 1 CR2032 batteries required. |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1851 |
| Model Name | Z890I NOVA WIFI |
| Item Weight | 2.88 pounds |
| Chipset Type | Intel Z890 |
| Manufacturer | ASRock |
| Item model number | Z890I NOVA WIFI |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Memory Clock Speed | 9466 MHz |
| Package Dimensions | 9.14 x 7.76 x 3.78 inches |
| Compatible Processors | Intel Core Ultra |
| RAM Memory Technology | DDR5 |
| Memory Storage Capacity | 128 GB |
What Buyers Say
Since the 'Date First Available' is in the future (October 8, 2024), there are no actual Amazon customer reviews for ASIN B0DJPXWMG8 yet. However, professional reviews and Reddit discussions highlight this ASRock Z890i Nova as a compact powerhouse for Intel Core Ultra Series 2 builds. Many sources praise its robust power delivery and extensive connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7 and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports. The board's ability to support high-speed DDR5 memory up to 9866+ MHz (OC) is also frequently mentioned. The primary limitations noted are those inherent to the Mini ITX form factor, such as restricted RAM slots and fewer SATA ports.
“Man, this board is tiny but it's got everything you need for a monster SFF build, those Thunderbolt ports are clutch but seriously, only two SATA? Gotta plan your storage carefully.”
Common Praise
- The compact 17cm x 17cm size is ideal for small form factor PC builds.
- Power delivery system (12+1+1+1+1 phase, 110A SPS) capably handles high-performance CPUs.
- Dual Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports provide versatile, high-speed external connectivity.
- Integrated Wi-Fi 7 and 5Gbps LAN offer cutting-edge wireless and wired networking.
- The inclusion of a PCIe Gen 5 M.2 slot allows for the fastest available NVMe storage.
- BIOS Flashback button on the rear I/O simplifies firmware updates.
Common Complaints
- The motherboard is limited to two DDR5 RAM slots, which can restrict maximum memory capacity.
- Only two SATA ports are available, potentially limiting storage expansion for traditional drives.
- The Mini ITX form factor, while compact, inherently offers limited expansion slots compared to larger boards.
- Some users report that the standard Intel CPU clamp is suboptimal, suggesting an aftermarket contact frame for better cooling performance.
Ownership Tips
- The compact design means cable management can be a puzzle in very tight SFF cases.
- Updating the BIOS via the Flashback button is straightforward and can be done without a CPU installed.
- The large heatsinks are effective but ensure your chosen CPU cooler has adequate clearance.
- The 5Gbps LAN port is a noticeable upgrade for network-intensive tasks compared to standard Gigabit Ethernet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What CPUs are compatible with this motherboard?
This motherboard supports Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2) with the LGA 1851 socket.
What is the maximum RAM speed and capacity supported?
It supports dual-channel DDR5 memory up to 9866+ MHz when overclocked, across two DIMM slots.
Does this motherboard have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
Yes, it features 802.11be Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for advanced wireless connectivity.
How many M.2 slots does it have for storage?
The board includes three M.2 slots: one Blazing M.2 (PCIe Gen5 x4) and two Hyper M.2 (PCIe Gen4 x4).
Are there Thunderbolt ports on this motherboard?
Yes, it provides two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports for high-speed peripheral connections.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a Mini ITX motherboard like this ASRock Z890i Nova, you're trading physical size for some expansion capabilities. You need to think about what CPU you're pairing it with, how much RAM you actually need (since you're limited to two sticks), and your storage plan. Don't just look at the raw specs; consider how they fit into your compact build vision and if you're okay with the inherent limitations of the form factor.
LGA 1851 Socket
This is the physical interface on the motherboard where your CPU sits. LGA 1851 means it's designed specifically for Intel's latest Core Ultra Processors (Series 2), so you can't use older Intel CPUs or AMD CPUs with it.
DDR5 9866+ MHz (OC)
This refers to the type and speed of RAM (Random Access Memory) the board supports. DDR5 is the newest generation, offering faster speeds than DDR4. The '9866+ MHz (OC)' means it can handle very fast RAM when overclocked, which is crucial for getting the most performance out of your CPU, especially in gaming or demanding applications.
12+1+1+1+1 Power Phase, 110A SPS
This describes the motherboard's power delivery system for the CPU. More phases and higher amperage (110A SPS) mean the board can deliver cleaner, more stable power to the CPU, which is vital for high-end processors, overclocking, and maintaining stability under heavy loads without overheating the VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules).
Thunderbolt 4 Type-C
These are high-speed, multi-purpose ports. Think of them as super-USB-C ports that can connect external displays, fast storage devices, and other peripherals, all while delivering power, often at much higher speeds than standard USB ports.
Alternatives
If this board doesn't fit, look for a Z890 motherboard with more than two RAM slots or additional PCIe x16 slots for multiple expansion cards. Consider a Micro-ATX or ATX form factor if physical size is less critical than expandability.
You Might Also Like
JetKVM KVM Over IP ATX Extension Board, ATX Power Control Board- Only for Jet KVM Accessories Boot from Shutdown, Crash Recovery
$0-$49This is an ATX form factor power control board designed for JetKVM accessories, enabling remote PC power state management and simultaneous front panel button use.
Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II AMD AM4 (3rd Gen Ryzen) ATX Motherboard & TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi Socket AM5 (LGA 1718) Ryzen 7000 ATX Gaming Motherboard
$150-$299This bundle offers two ATX motherboards: the ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II for AM4 Ryzen 3000/5000 CPUs with DDR4 RAM, and the TUF Gaming B650-PLUS WiFi for AM5 Ryzen 7000 CPUs with DDR5 RAM.
Game Motherboard Fit for ASROCK B650E PG-ITX WiFi B650 AM5 Motherboard Support Ryzen 7800X3D 7600/X 7950X 7700/X CPU 2xDDR5 128GB Hyper M.2 Mini-ITX
Price range unavailableThis KUETFBVC motherboard listing presents highly contradictory specifications, including a BGA 1023 socket and AMD 480 chipset, making it unsuitable for any modern Ryzen AM5 CPU.
Asus ROG Strix B550-F Gaming WiFi II AMD AM4 (3rd Gen Ryzen) ATX Gaming Motherboard (PCIe 4.0,WiFi 6E, 2.5Gb LAN, BIOS Flashback, HDMI 2.1, Addressable Gen 2 RGB Header and Aura Sync)
This is a premium-feeling AM4 board with beefy VRMs and WiFi 6E, perfect for squeezing the last drop of performance out of a Ryzen 5000 series CPU.