This article covers ASRock Intel 第8世代&第9世代 CPU(Soket 1151)対応 Z390 チップセット搭載 ATX マザーボード Z390 Steel Legend.

Overview

The ASRock Z390 Steel Legend is an ATX motherboard built for Intel 8th and 9th Gen Core processors, featuring the Z390 chipset. It provides a solid foundation for overclocking with a 8-phase digital VRM and large heat sinks. The board supports up to 128GB of DDR4 memory at speeds up to 4266MHz (OC) and offers three M.2 slots, two of which can be used for NVMe SSDs.
With premium components like 60A power chokes and Nichicon 12K black capacitors, this motherboard is designed for durability and long-term stability. The Steel Legend series also includes ASRock's Polychrome Sync RGB lighting, allowing synchronization with other compatible components.

Compatibility Guide

Socket: LGA1151. Compatible CPUs include Intel 8th Gen (Coffee Lake) and 9th Gen (Coffee Lake Refresh) i3, i5, i7, i9, Pentium Gold, and Celeron. Overclocking is supported with K-series CPUs.
Memory: 4x DDR4 DIMM slots, dual channel, max 128GB (32GB per slot). Supports XMP 2.0. Overclocking speeds up to 4266 MHz.
Form factor: Standard ATX (305×244 mm). Fits in most mid-tower and full-tower cases.
Expansion slots: 2x PCIe 3.0 x16, 3x PCIe 3.0 x1. Supports 4-way CrossFireX.
Storage: 6x SATA3 ports, 3x M.2 slots (one is Key E for WiFi module). M.2 slots support PCIe Gen3 x4 and SATA modes. Note that SATA ports might be shared with some M.2 configurations.
Rear I/O: USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A & Type-C, USB 3.1 Gen1 x2, HDMI, DisplayPort, Intel I219V Gigabit LAN, 7.1ch HD audio (Realtek ALC1200).

Product Info

Released in early 2019, the ASRock Z390 Steel Legend sits in the mid-range segment of Z390 motherboards, offering a strong balance of features and price. It was originally priced around $150, and now can often be found for under $100. Warranty is standard 3 years.
Key specs: 8-phase digital VRM, high-quality capacitors, large aluminum alloy heatsinks, M.2 Armor, 2oz copper PCB. The board supports up to 4266MHz DDR4 memory and 3 M.2 slots.

Best Use Cases

  • Budget PC builders with 8th/9th Gen CPUs: If you already own a Core i5-8400 or i7-9700K and want a reliable board with modern features like USB Type-C and multiple M.2 slots, this is a great choice.
  • System refurbishers: For those upgrading an older LGA1151 system (e.g. from H310/B360) to gain overclocking capability and better VRM, without switching platforms.
  • RGB enthusiasts: Polychrome Sync allows you to control lighting across ASRock components, memory, and case fans. The motherboard itself has subtle onboard LEDs.
  • Not for latest platform seekers: If you need PCIe 4.0, DDR5, or compatibility with 12th Gen Intel or Ryzen 7000 series, look elsewhere.

Things to Consider

First, this motherboard only supports Intel 8th/9th Gen CPUs. It won't work with LGA1200 or LGA1700 processors.
Second, PCIe 3.0 only. While it's fine for current GPUs, future GPUs that might benefit from PCIe 4.0 x16 will be limited. In real-world gaming, the difference is negligible.
Third, the 8-phase VRM is adequate for most uses but may run warm with a heavily overclocked i9-9900K under prolonged all-core load. Ensure good case airflow if you plan to push it hard.
Fourth, M.2 slots: only two are for SSDs (the third is for WiFi). Also, if you fill the ultra M.2 slot with a SATA M.2 SSD, some SATA ports will be disabled. Check the manual.

FAQ

Q: Can I use an i9-9900K with this board?
A: Yes. For stock operation or mild overclocking it's fine. For extreme overclocks on the i9-9900K, consider a board with more VRM phases like the Z390 Taichi.
Q: Does it support PCIe 4.0 GPUs?
A: Yes, physically and functionally, but only at PCIe 3.0 speeds. Performance impact is minimal (1-3% in most games).
Q: Can I use four sticks of DDR4-3600 on this board?
A: It depends on the memory kit and CPU's memory controller. The board officially supports up to 4266MHz (OC). For 4 sticks at high speeds, you may need to reduce frequency or loosen timings for stability.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: ASRock
  • ASIN: B07QNVCJG3
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.