This article covers GIGABYTE ギガバイト Z390 DESIGNARE ATX ゲーミングマザーボード [Intel Z390 チップセット搭載] MB4685.

Overview

The GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE is an ATX motherboard built around the Intel Z390 chipset. It uses the LGA1151 socket and supports 9th and 8th generation Intel Core processors (Coffee Lake Refresh). Its standout feature is the integrated Thunderbolt 3 port (USB Type-C), enabling high-speed data transfers and display connectivity. The board offers four DDR4 memory slots capable of up to 64 GB at 2666 MHz, and three PCIe x16 slots for multi-GPU setups. Targeted at creative professionals and workstation builders, the Z390 DESIGNARE excels in scenarios where Thunderbolt 3 attached storage or docks are essential. While it can handle gaming duties, its focus remains on stability and connectivity rather than extreme overclocking. Build quality is solid, with Intel Gigabit LAN, Bluetooth, and premium onboard audio rounding out the feature set. This is a mid-to-high-end board from 2018, now available at a premium due to limited supply.

Compatibility Guide

The LGA1151 socket is compatible with Intel Core i9-9900K, i7-9700K, i5-9600K, and other Coffee Lake Refresh CPUs. Memory must be non-ECC DDR4 at 2666/2400/2133 MHz, with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across four slots. The ATX form factor fits standard PC cases. Expansion includes three PCIe 3.0 x16 slots (operating at x16/x8/x4), two PCIe x1 slots, and one additional M.2 PCIe slot. Storage connectivity features six SATA 6 Gb/s ports and two M.2 slots (supporting both SATA and NVMe SSDs). Front panel headers include USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C and USB 2.0, ensuring compatibility with modern cases. Power is supplied via a standard 24-pin ATX connector and a single 8-pin EPS connector; a quality 650W PSU is recommended for a typical build. Note that Thunderbolt 3 devices require proper cables and driver support.

Product Info

Released in late 2018, the GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE is a mid-to-high-end motherboard that originally retailed around ¥28,000–¥35,000. Today, lists it at ¥146,999—a significant markup due to its niche appeal and limited availability. It comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty through Japanese authorized distributors. The Z390 chipset provides PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1 Gen2, and Intel Optane Memory support. Its market position is workstation-oriented, with Thunderbolt 3 being the key differentiator from gaming-focused Z390 boards.

Best Use Cases

Content creators (video editing, 3D rendering): The built-in Thunderbolt 3 port allows connection of high-speed external storage arrays or docking stations, streamlining large file transfers and multi-monitor setups. Pair with a Core i9-9900K and an NVIDIA RTX GPU for a capable workstation. Multi-GPU configurations: With three PCIe x16 slots (though limited to x16/x8/x4), the board supports NVIDIA SLI or AMD CrossFire for compute tasks. Ideal for machine learning or rendering farms on a budget. * Silent office or home server builds: Combine with a low-power Core i5-9400 or i7-9700 and a quiet CPU cooler. The board’s stable design and absence of aggressive RGB lighting suit a professional environment. ## Alternatives
Direct competitors include the ASUS ROG STRIX Z390-E GAMING and MSI MPG Z390 GAMING PRO CARBON. The ASUS board offers integrated Wi-Fi, better overclocking capabilities, and a more extensive RGB ecosystem, but lacks Thunderbolt. MSI’s offering provides high-quality audio and a robust feature set for gamers. Both are generally more affordable than the Z390 DESIGNARE today. The GIGABYTE board’s unique advantage is Thunderbolt 3, which is absent on most Z390 rivals. For pure gaming, the ASUS or MSI alternatives deliver better value. However, if TB3 connectivity is mandatory, the DESIGNARE remains a viable, albeit dated, choice.

Things to Consider

The Z390 platform is obsolete for new builds; it does not support Intel 10th gen or newer CPUs, limiting upgrade potential. The current ¥146,999 price tag is exorbitant—you can buy a modern Z790 or B760 board with similar or better features for significantly less. PCIe 3.0 only is a bottleneck for high-end GPUs like the RTX 4090 or PCIe 4.0 SSDs. Memory speed is capped at DDR4-2666, which restricts performance with fast RAM kits. If you absolutely need Thunderbolt 3, consider integrated solutions on current-gen boards (e.g., ASUS ProArt series) or an add-in Thunderbolt card when available. The Z390 DESIGNARE is only recommended for users who already own compatible CPUs and require Thunderbolt, or for collectors of legacy hardware. For new builds, investing in a modern platform is far more sensible.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: GIGABYTE
  • ASIN: B07K8RJZRG
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.