Unboxing: ASUS Z170 Pro Gaming VS ASUS Z170I Pro Gaming
It is easy to mistake ASUS Z170I Pro Gaming for ASUS Z170 Pro Gaming since the only difference is the 'I' in the name. As you will see in the gallery, the motherboards are not so similar like the naming scheme although they both feature the same theme. Both Z170 motherboards are ready for the latest Intel 6th Gen. Core i7 processors and DDR4 memory, while 5-Way optimization tuning makes overclocking or power-savings a cinch. Both feature flexible connectivity, including SATA Express, M.2 Socket 3 and SATA ports, Gigibit LAN with GameFirst Technology and Anti-Surge LANGuard, and USB 3.1. They also even feature SupremeFX Audio, so with these similarities let's take a look at why you would choose one over the other.
ASUS Z170 Pro Gaming
Obviously the first difference you would notice is the physical size of these two motherboards, Z170 Pro Gaming has an ATX form factor while Z170I Pro Gaming uses a much smaller package - MiniITX. The advantage of having a larger package is the spacing between components which means there is better airflow, so it can run cooler and with more options for cooling (such as waterblocks) you can achieve even better overclocks. Secondly, there is more space for ports so you can use multi-GPU setups whether Nvidia SLI or AMD CrossFire. More ports also allow you to connect to more storage devices and USB devices, even if you don't need them initially, you have the freedom to. Lastly, you can insert up to twice as much DDR4 memory as
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ASUS Z170I Pro Gaming
With a much more compact package, the possibilities for builds or mods have just increased tenfold. From an HTPC to a PC disguised as a trash can (if that's your thing), or maybe a portable powerhouse including a Strix GTX 980 Ti, it's possible. Not everyone needs loads of storage or USB ports, this still has plenty of speed and options on offer. Something the Z170I Pro Gaming has that the Z170 Pro Gaming doesn't is built-in wireless connectivity, with this board, you get Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac and also Bluetooth v4.1! This is so that you won't waste any USB ports.
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So which one will you go for?
