Motherboards / Compare

ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero vs NZXT N9 X870E

A

Product A: ASUS

ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

67 of 78 known

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B

Product B: NZXT

N9 X870E

63 of 78 known

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Only differences

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

BNZXT N9 X870E

General

4 of 9 differ

Series

ROG Crosshair2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026ROG Crosshair is the ASUS line in the product name. The page sits in the ROG Crosshair family.

N94Reviewpcunboxing.com/enRead 15 October 2026PC Unboxing (2025-04-01) places the N9 above NZXT's earlier N5 and N7 boards.

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

ROG CROSSHAIR X870E DARK HERO, 90MB1NT0-M0EAY01Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The page names the model as ROG CROSSHAIR X870E DARK HERO. The part number 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0 comes from the retailer listings below.10Retailer pageasusbymacman.es/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-placa-base-11567.htmlRead 15 October 2026The excerpt shows the part number 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0 for the ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero.11Retailer pageshop.avoira.com/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-amd-x870e-socket-am5-atx-90mb1nt0-m0eay0.htmlRead 15 October 2026The URL and excerpt carry the part number 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0.

N9-X87XT-W1, N9-X87XT-B11Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: N9-X87XT-W1 (White) and N9-X87XT-B1 (Black).

GTIN / EAN

471163639867110Retailer pageasusbymacman.es/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-placa-base-11567.htmlRead 15 October 2026A web search excerpt of this page shows P/N 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0 with EAN 4711636398671. The page returns HTTP 403 to agents, so only the excerpt was read. The Avoira page below shows the same EAN and SKU. The EAN check digit is valid.11Retailer pageshop.avoira.com/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-amd-x870e-socket-am5-atx-90mb1nt0-m0eay0.htmlRead 15 October 2026A web search excerpt of this page shows EAN 4711636398671 and SKU 90MB1NT0-M0EAY0. The page returns HTTP 403 to agents, so only the excerpt was read.

810074847292, 810074847308, 5056547207254, 50565472072611Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: UPC 810074847292 (White) and 810074847308 (Black). EAN 5056547207254 (White) and 5056547207261 (Black).

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

30 September 20247Press releaseigorslab.de/en/nzxt-presents-the-n9-x870e-powerful-atx-motherboard-for-amds-ryzen-9000-series-press-releaseRead 15 October 2026Igor's Lab press release published 2024-10-01 states NZXT announced the board on 2024-09-30, with global availability expected in Q1 2025.

Status

Available3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review page shows current retailer prices for the board on 2026-10-15.

Available1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026NZXT's own store page sells the board on 2026-10-15 at $499.99.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$699.993Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The review names the board at $699.99. US price, excl. sales tax, from a reviewer and not a statement by ASUS. pchardware.org also gives a launch MSRP of 699.99 USD.8Spec databasepchardware.org/motherboards/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Launch MSRP 699.99 USD. The database lists manufacturer part number 90MB1NT0-M0VAY0 for it.

$499.995Reviewpcgamer.com/hardware/motherboards/nzxt-n9-x870e-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec box (2025-07-03 review): Price $500 | £410 | AU$848. The text calls it a $500 X870E board.6Reviewcgmagonline.com/review/nzxt-n9-x870e-motherboardRead 15 October 2026Review dated 2025-06-28 lists MSRP $499.99. The currency is not named. NZXT's US store lists the same amount. Sales tax excluded.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Not available

White, Black1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Store page colour selector: White and Black.

SegmentiThe maker's own product category, e.g. ASUS ProArt is Creator. It is not assigned from price or features. Maker lines that are not gaming, creator or workstation lines, such as ASUS PRIME, MSI PRO and ASRock Pro, are mainstream.

Gaming2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page sits under ROG gaming motherboards (breadcrumb Gaming Motherboards).

Gaming1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Page title: AMD X870E ATX Gaming Wi-Fi 7 Motherboard.

Board revisioniThe maker's revision name, e.g. rev. 1.1, for variant rows of revisions that keep the board's name and model number. Leave it out when the maker names no revision.

Not available

Not available

Platform

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CPU socketiSocket name without spaces, e.g. AM5 or LGA1851.

AM51Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

AM51Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

ChipsetiChipset with its brand and without the word chipset, e.g. AMD B850, AMD X870E or Intel Z890. Same form as desktop PCs and as compatible chipsets on CPUs.

AMD X870E1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

AMD X870E1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Supported processorsiProcessor series the maker lists for the board, one item per series in the chip maker's name. BIOS updates can add series later.

AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, AMD Ryzen 8000 Series, AMD Ryzen 7000 Series1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026AM5 for Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 Series. The page refers to the ASUS download center for the CPU support list. Read on 2026-10-15.

AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, AMD Ryzen 8000 Series, AMD Ryzen 7000 Series1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: AMD Socket AM5 for Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 series. The page says BIOS 3.20 or later is needed for the Ryzen 7 9800X3D. Read on 2026-10-15.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, CPU and socket: AMD Socket AM5 Ryzen 9000, 8000 and 7000 Series Processors.

CPU overclockingiThe board allows multiplier overclocking of an unlocked CPU. Memory overclocking alone does not count.

Yes2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page describes AI Overclocking, Core Flex, Dynamic OC Switcher and an asynchronous clock generator for CPU overclocking.9Maker product pageamd.com/en/products/processors/chipsets/am5.htmlRead 15 October 2026AMD's chipset page describes the X870E chipset with robust overclocking capabilities. This is the chip maker's page and not the board maker's.

Yes1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: overclocking-ready power. The page names no multiplier overclocking feature, so the chip maker's X870E page is the main source.4Reviewpcunboxing.com/enRead 15 October 2026The BIOS has an Overclocking Tools tab with processor overclocking functions.9Maker product pageamd.com/en/products/processors/chipsets/am5.htmlRead 15 October 2026AMD's chipset page describes the X870E as having robust overclocking capabilities, and its comparison table has a Ryzen processor overclocking enabled column. NZXT's page says the board has overclocking-ready power.

Board

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Form factoriThe maker's stated board standard. Other covers sizes such as XL-ATX or Mini-DTX.

ATX1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

ATX1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, form factor: ATX 12.0 in x 9.6 in, 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm.

Board dimensionsiSize of the board itself. Height runs along the rear I/O edge, as the board stands in a tower case. ATX is 244 mm wide and 305 mm high. Micro ATX is 244 mm high and up to 244 mm wide. A size with a cover that reaches past the board, as NZXT prints, is not used when the maker also states the board size.

Width244Height305mm(9.6 × 12 in)1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ATX form factor, 12 inch x 9.6 inch (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm).

Width244Height305mm(9.6 × 12 in)2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, form factor: ATX 30.5 cm x 24.4 cm, stored as height 305 mm along the rear I/O edge and width 244 mm. The product page's 309.34 x 254.44 x 49.39 mm includes the full metal cover and is not used.

PCB layersiCopper layers in the circuit board as published.

82Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Overview page: a server-grade eight-layer design with two-ounce copper power planes.

81Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: an 8-layer, low-loss 2-oz copper PCB.

Back-connect designiPower, fan and front-panel connectors sit on the back of the board to hide the cables, e.g. ASUS BTF, MSI Project Zero or GIGABYTE Stealth. It needs a case made for it.

No2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The 24-pin and CPU power connectors sit at the top and right edge of the board, as the connector lists and the Tom's Hardware walk-through show. The AIO Q-Connector is a hub for compatible AIO coolers. The board is not a back-connect design.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026The walk-through places the 24-pin ATX power connector, the 8-pin PCIe connector and the fan headers on the front side of the board.

No2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026The connector legend shows the usual front-side connectors (ATX_POWER, SATA 1-4, USB headers, SYS_FAN). The board is not a back-connect design.

RGB lighting on the boardiLEDs on the board itself. Headers for external lighting are counted under Internal connectors. True only when the maker's spec or feature list names lighting on the board. A single small LED that a reviewer sees does not count.

Yes2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page describes Polymo Lighting II on the board with an I/O zone and addressable Gen2 headers. Tom's Hardware describes Polymo Lighting II RGBs with ROG branding on the VRM heatsinks.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026The Dark Hero replaces the Glacial's LCD with an RGB-lit area with Aura Sync support.

Yes1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: full-metal cover with subtle RGB lighting, onboard customizable RGB lighting.4Reviewpcunboxing.com/enRead 15 October 2026NZXT added light bars on the board, set through NZXT CAM.

Power delivery

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Power stage layoutiAs the maker publishes it, e.g. 18+2+2. The first number is the CPU core (Vcore) rail. Makers group the other rails differently, so compare the first number. Doubled or teamed stages are written as the maker prints them, such as MSI's 12+2+1 Duet Rail. A review's count of real phases goes in the source note.

20+2+22Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026ROG Ultimate Power Solution 20(110A)+2(110A)+2(80A) power stages: 20 Vcore, 2 SoC and 2 MISC.7Reviewtechgaming.nl/review-asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 202620x 110A for Vcore, 2x 110A for SoC and 2x 80A for Misc.

20+2+11Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: a 20+2+1 power phase design with 110A SPS. Igor's Lab counts a fourth rail, 20+2+1+1, in its teardown.

CPU core (Vcore) power stagesiPower stages on the Vcore rail. Makers call them phases or power stages. A doubled design has more stages than controller phases. Use the first number of the maker's layout, such as 14 for MSI's 14+2+1 Duet Rail. A review's different count goes in the source note.

202Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The VRM features 20+2+2 power stages, each rated up to 110 amps for Vcore.

201Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: 20+2+1 design. Igor's Lab teardown counts 20 Renesas power stages on the Vcore rail.3Reviewigorslab.de/en/nzxt-n9-x870e-am5-motherboard-review-solid-optical-minimalism-at-a-proud-price-with-teardown-and-material-testRead 15 October 2026Igor's Lab teardown (2025-05-01): 20 Renesas smart power stages for the Vcore rail, plus 2 for SoC. The review counts a fourth rail, 20+2+1+1. The VRM controller is left out: Igor's Lab reads Renesas RAA229628 and PC Unboxing reads RAA228228 plus RAA229621.

Vcore power stage ratingiCurrent rating of each Vcore power stage. Only a figure the maker or a copy of the maker's text states. A review's reading of the chip markings is not enough.

110A2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Each Vcore power stage is rated 110 A. The SoC stages are 110 A and the MISC stages 80 A.

110A1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: 110A SPS (smart power stage).

VRM controlleriPWM controller chip with maker, e.g. MPS MP2857. One name: the maker's when published, otherwise the one name a review uses. No parentheses. Other names go in the source note. Use the part number without the date code in the chip marking.

ASUS ASP22053Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Power flows from the EPS connectors to the Digi+ EPU (ASP2205) voltage regulator, then to Infineon PMC41420 110A power stages. The image captions credit Realtek with the VRM controller, but the text names the ASP2205. Single review.

Not available

CPU power connectorsiEPS 12 V connectors for the CPU as pin counts, e.g. 8+8 pin, 8+4 pin or 8 pin.

8+8 pin1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Internal connectors: 2 x 8-pin +12V CPU power connectors and the 24-pin main power connector.

8+8 pin1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O list: 8-pin ATX 12V power connector, quantity 2. The manual lists 1 x 8+8-pin ATX 12V.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O: 1 x 8+8-pin ATX 12V power connector.

Extra slot power connectoriA PCIe or other power connector on the board that feeds the expansion slots. The 24-pin and CPU connectors do not count. A connector the maker ties only to a front USB-C header does not count.

No1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The list has 1 x 8-pin PCIe power connector. The page ties it only to the front USB Type-C port: for 60W the cable must go to it, or else only 27W is supported. The 24-pin and CPU connectors do not count. The help text does not count a connector that feeds only a front USB-C header, so the value is false. No ASUS text says it feeds the expansion slots.

No2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026The internal I/O list has the 24-pin ATX connector and the 8+8-pin 12V connector as its only power connectors. It has no extra slot power connector.

Memory

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Memory type

DDR51Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

DDR51Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Memory slotsiDIMM slots on the board.

41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

41Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Max memoryiMaximum total capacity the maker states for the board. The maker's product page wins over an older manual, since a BIOS update can raise the value.

256GB1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20264 x DIMM slots, max. 256GB, DDR5.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 4x DDR5 DIMM, up to 256 GB.

192GB1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026FAQ: dual-channel up to 192 GB, same as the manual and the support spec page. PC Unboxing and PC Gamer print 256 GB. The maker value is stored.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, memory: 4 x DIMM slots, max. 192 GB, dual-channel DDR5.

Max memory speed (overclocked)iHighest overclocked speed the maker lists for one module per channel, with the newest CPU family the board is sold for, e.g. Ryzen 9000 or Core Ultra 200S. Ryzen 8000 values are never used. The source note names the family and the other module setups. It is not the CPU's official speed. A JEDEC-only list such as 5600/4800 is not this value. When the maker lists a manual overclock and a memory profile speed, the higher one is stored. The maker's product page wins over an older manual, since a BIOS update can raise the value. A table that names the CPU family wins over a headline speed that names none.

8,600MT/s1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Ryzen 9000: up to 8600+ MT/s (OC) for max manual overclocking and 8200+ MT/s (OC) for XMP, EXPO and AEMP profiles, which can be impacted when four DIMM slots are used. Ryzen 8000: 9600+ and 9200+. Ryzen 7000: 8000+ for both. The Ryzen 9000 manual overclocking value is stored. The page gives no table for other module setups.

8,200MT/s4Reviewpcunboxing.com/enRead 15 October 2026Spec list: 8200 (O.C.) MT/s. Text: QVL-listed dual-channel modules reach 8200 MT/s with Ryzen 9000 series CPUs. NZXT's page says 8000+ MT/s and points to the memory QVL, which is on support.nzxt.com and was not readable. PC Gamer prints DDR5-4800 to DDR5-8200+ (OC).5Reviewpcgamer.com/hardware/motherboards/nzxt-n9-x870e-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec box: Memory support DDR5-4800 to DDR5-8200+(OC), up to 256 GB. The review's VRM temperature is left out, since it used an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K rig and an unclear auxiliary sensor.

ECC memoryiThe board runs unbuffered ECC modules with ECC active. A board that runs ECC modules in non-ECC mode does not count. DDR5 on-die ECC does not count. A maker list of ECC and non-ECC unbuffered memory with no non-ECC mode qualifier counts as true, as on ASUS and ASRock AM5 boards. A note that ECC mode depends on the CPU, as ASUS writes for AM4 boards, still counts as true.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Page: supports ECC and Non-ECC, Un-buffered DIMM. It says supported memory types and speeds vary with the CPU and memory configuration. The maker does not say how ECC works with each CPU.

Yes4Reviewpcunboxing.com/enRead 15 October 2026Text: the slots support ECC unbuffered DIMM and non-ECC unbuffered DIMM. NZXT's page and manual do not mention ECC.

CUDIMM supportiThe board runs clocked unbuffered DIMMs (CUDIMM) with the clock driver active. Clock driver bypass mode only does not count. A plain "Supports CUDIMM" with no bypass limit, as ASRock and ASUS write it, counts as true.

Not available

Not available

Expansion slots

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Expansion slotsiPhysical card slots. Storage M.2 slots are listed under Storage. The M.2 slot of a pre-installed Wi-Fi module is not listed. A full-length slot wired for x4 is PCIe x16 with 4 lanes.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Physical slot	Electrical lanes	PCIe generation	Connected to	Count
PCIe x16	16	5	CPU	1
PCIe x16	8	5	CPU	1

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Ryzen 9000 and 7000: 2 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slots (x16 or x8/x8 modes). When PCIEX16_1 runs at PCIe 5.0 x16, PCIEX16_2 runs at PCIe 3.0 x4. The bandwidth can be changed in the BIOS. With Ryzen 8000 the slots run at PCIe 4.0. Both slots connect to the CPU, per Tom's Hardware.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Both reinforced PCIe slots connect through the CPU at PCIe 5.0. The top slot runs at x16 and the bottom slot is limited to x8. When PCIEX16_1 runs at x16, the second slot runs at PCIe 3.0 x4.

BNZXT N9 X870E

Physical slot	Electrical lanes	PCIe generation	Connected to	Count
PCIe x16	16	5	CPU	1
PCIe x16	2	3	Chipset	1

Source1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (PCIEX16_1) and PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (PCIEX16_2) in x2 mode. The manual puts the first on the CPU and the second on the chipset. The Key E M.2 socket for the Wi-Fi module is not stored.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, expansion slots: under CPU 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 slot (PCIEX16_1) in x16 mode. Under chipset 1 x PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (PCIEX16_2) in x2 mode, and a vertical Key E M.2 socket for a 2230 Wi-Fi/BT module. Igor's Lab reads the second slot as PCIe 4.0 x4 from its block diagram. The maker value is stored.

Full-length PCIe slotsiCounts full-length slots, whatever their lane count.

2=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

2=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

Fastest PCIe x16 slot generationiHighest PCIe generation of a full-length slot. This is normally the graphics card slot.

5=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

5=CalculatedFrom Expansion slots

Storage

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M.2 storage slotsiOne row per M key storage slot on the board, front or back. Slots on an included add-in card are not listed. Values are with the CPU family that gives the board its full connectivity. A slot listed for 25110 counts as M.2 22110. A slot listed for 2260 counts as M.2 2280.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Slot	PCIe generation	PCIe lanes	Connected to	Longest drive	Takes SATA drives	Heatsink	Shares lanes with
M.2_1	5	4	CPU	M.2 22110	No	Yes	Not available
M.2_2	5	4	CPU	M.2 2280	No	Yes	The USB4 40Gbps ports. A drive in M.2_2 makes both run at x2. Setting M.2_2 to x4 in the BIOS turns the USB4 ports off
M.2_3	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes	Not available
M.2_4	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes	Not available
M.2_5	4	2	Chipset	M.2 2230	No	Yes	Not available

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Ryzen 9000 and 7000: M.2_1 (Key M) 2242/2260/2280/22110 at PCIe 5.0 x4 and M.2_2 (Key M) 2242/2260/2280 at PCIe 5.0 x4. Both connect to the CPU. AMD X870E chipset: M.2_3 and M.2_4 at 2242/2260/2280 and PCIe 4.0 x4, M.2_5 at 2230 and PCIe 4.0 x2. 2280 is stored for the 2242/2260/2280 slots. With Ryzen 8000 the CPU slots run at PCIe 4.0 and M.2_2 is not supported on the 8500 and 8300 series. The USB4 40Gbps ports and M.2_2 share bandwidth: with a device in M.2_2 both run at up to x2, and M.2_2 can run at x4 when the BIOS setting turns the USB4 ports off. The page lists every slot with PCIe modes only and gives no SATA mode for any of them, so sata is false. Heatsink: the overview page says five M.2 slots with heatsinks, backplates and thermal pads.

BNZXT N9 X870E

Slot	PCIe generation	PCIe lanes	Connected to	Longest drive	Takes SATA drives	Heatsink
M2_1	5	4	CPU	M.2 2280	No	Yes
M2_2	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes
M2_3	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes
M2_4	4	4	Chipset	M.2 2280	No	Yes

Source1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: M.2_1 type 2280 PCIe 5.0 x4, M.2_2 to M.2_4 type 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4. Overview: dedicated heatsinks and thermal pads for all M.2 slots. The spec lists no SATA mode for the slots, so sata is false. The slot labels follow the manual (M2_1 to M2_4).2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, storage: M2_1 Key M type 2280 PCIe Gen5x4 on the CPU. M2_2 to M2_4 Key M type 2280 PCIe Gen4x4 under the chipset heading. No SATA mode is listed for any of the four slots.

M.2 slots

5=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

4=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots

2=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

1=CalculatedFrom M.2 storage slots

SATA portsiSATA 6Gb/s connectors on the board. SlimSAS connectors and M.2 slots that take SATA drives do not count.

41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Storage: 4 x SATA 6Gb/s ports. Two are on the AMD X870E chipset and two on an ASMedia ASM1162 controller.

41Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: SATA 6Gb/s ports, 4.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, storage: 4 x SATA3 6.0 Gb/s connectors.

Rear ports

3 of 5 differ

Rear portsiPhysical connectors on the rear I/O panel. Wi-Fi antenna connectors and buttons are not ports. 3.5 mm audio counts analog jacks of any role. A video input, such as the DisplayPort In of a Thunderbolt board, is Other.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Type	Version	Count	Max link rate (Gbps)	Thunderbolt or USB4	DP Alt Mode
USB-C	USB4	2	40	USB4	Yes
USB-C	USB 3.2 Gen 2	3	10	Not available	Not available
USB-A	USB 3.2 Gen 2	6	10	Not available	Not available
HDMI	HDMI 2.1	1	Not available	Not available	Not available
Ethernet (RJ45)	Not available	1	10	Not available	Not available
Ethernet (RJ45)	Not available	1	5	Not available	Not available
3.5 mm audio	Not available	2	Not available	Not available	Not available
Optical S/PDIF	Not available	1	Not available	Not available	Not available

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Back panel list: 2 x USB4 (40Gbps) Type-C ports with display output, 9 x USB 10Gbps (6 Type-A and 3 Type-C), 1 x HDMI (4K@60Hz as specified in HDMI 2.1), 1 x Realtek 10Gb Ethernet, 1 x Realtek 5Gb Ethernet, 2 x gold-plated audio jacks and 1 x optical S/PDIF out. ASUS names USB by speed, so 10Gbps is stored as USB 3.2 Gen 2. The Wi-Fi module and the two buttons are not ports. The page does not state display output for the 10Gbps Type-C ports or a USB power output for the rear ports.

BNZXT N9 X870E

Type	Version	Count	Max link rate (Gbps)	Thunderbolt or USB4	Power out (W)	DP Alt Mode
USB-C	USB4	2	40	USB4	15	Yes
USB-A	USB 3.2 Gen 2	5	10	Not available	Not available	Not available
USB-A	USB 3.2 Gen 1	3	5	Not available	Not available	Not available
USB-A	USB 2.0	2	0.48	Not available	Not available	Not available
Ethernet (RJ45)	Not available	1	5	Not available	Not available	Not available
3.5 mm audio	Not available	2	Not available	Not available	Not available	Not available
Optical S/PDIF	Not available	1	Not available	Not available	Not available	Not available

Source1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table rear I/O: 2 USB 4, 5 USB 3.2 Gen 2, 3 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2 USB 2.0, 1 RJ45, 2 audio jacks, 1 optical S/PDIF out. The 5 USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports are Type-A because the rear panel shows eight Type-A ports and two Type-C. USB 2.0 is stored as 0.48 Gbps. The manual gives USB PD 3.0 up to 5 V at 3 A (15 W) on the USB4 ports and 5 GbE LAN. Wi-Fi antenna connectors and the two buttons are not ports.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, rear I/O: 2 x SMA antenna connectors, 2 x USB4 Type-C (40 Gb/s, USB PD 3.0 up to 5V@3A, 15 W), 5 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2 x USB 2.0, Clear CMOS button, BIOS Flashback button, 1 x RJ45, line out, mic in, optical S/PDIF out. The graphics note says the USB4 ports show only the CPU's embedded graphics, up to 8K 30 Hz, which is why dp_alt_mode is true.

Rear USB ports

11=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

12=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Rear USB-C portsiIncludes Thunderbolt and USB4 ports.

5=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

2=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Fastest rear USB port

40Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

40Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

ThunderboltiThunderbolt on the rear panel. A header for an add-in card does not count.

No=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

No=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Internal connectors

3 of 5 differ

Internal USB headersiHeaders for front-panel USB ports. The header count may be left out when the maker states only the front ports served.

AASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Dark Hero

Header	Max data rate (Gbps)	Headers	Front ports served	Power out (W)
USB-C header	20	1	1	60
USB-C header	20	1	1	15
USB 3 header (19-pin)	5	2	4	Not available
USB 2.0 header (9-pin)	0.48	3	6	Not available

Source1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Front USB: 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (USB Type-C, up to 60W PD/QC4+: 5/9/15/20V max 3A, PPS 3.3-21V max 3A) and 1 x USB 20Gbps connector (USB Type-C, max 5V/3A, stored as 15 W). The 60 W needs the cable on the 8-pin PCIe power connector, or only 27 W is supported. Also 2 x USB 5Gbps headers for 4 ports and 3 x USB 2.0 headers for 6 ports.

BNZXT N9 X870E

Header	Max data rate (Gbps)	Headers	Front ports served
USB-C header	20	1	1
USB 3 header (19-pin)	5	2	4
USB 2.0 header (9-pin)	0.48	2	4

Source1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: two USB 2.0 headers (up to 4 ports), two USB 3.2 Gen1 headers (up to 4 ports), one USB 3.2 Gen2x2 front panel header for USB Type-C. The manual's older text says USB 3.2 Gen 2 for the Type-C header. PC Unboxing and Igor's Lab both say 20 Gbps.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, internal I/O: 2 x USB 2.0 header (up to 4 ports), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 header (up to 4 ports), 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 front panel header (for USB Type-C). The Type-C header speed is stored as 20 Gbps, see the manufacturer page note.

Front USB-C header speed

20Gbps=CalculatedFrom Internal USB headers

20Gbps=CalculatedFrom Internal USB headers

Fan headersiAll fan and pump headers on the board, including CPU, CPU optional, AIO pump and chassis fan headers. Combination connectors that carry fan power together with other lines, such as MSI EZ Conn, do not count. A header that drives several fans, such as GIGABYTE 3_FANS, counts once. Headers on a hub that ships with the board and plugs into it, such as MSI's EZ CONTROL HUB, count. The source note splits board and hub.

81Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026CPU fan, CPU OPT fan, AIO pump, 4 chassis fan headers and 1 W_PUMP+ header, all 4-pin, make 8. The AIO Q-Connector is a combination connector and is not counted.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: 7 four-pin fan headers, 1 W_PUMP+ header and 1 AIO Q-Connector. The text says the board has eight standard 4-pin fan headers.7Reviewtechgaming.nl/review-asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Text: a total of eight 4-pin fan connectors.

51Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O: 1 CPU_FAN, 1 AIO_PUMP and 3 SYS_FAN, all 4-pin. The two NZXT 8-pin PWM connectors carry fan power with RGB lines and are not counted.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, internal I/O: 1 x CPU_FAN, 1 x AIO_PUMP and 3 x SYS_FAN, all 4-pin. The 2 x NZXT 8-pin PWM connectors are combination connectors and are not counted.

ARGB headersi3-pin 5 V addressable RGB headers. Combination connectors do not count. Headers on a hub that ships with the board and plugs into it, such as MSI's EZ CONTROL HUB, count. The source note splits board and hub.

31Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20263 x Addressable Gen2 headers. Tom's Hardware writes one 6-pin header that serves two ARGB Gen2 channels plus two 3-pin headers, which is the same three channels.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: one 6-pin ARGB Gen2 header that supports 2 headers and two 3-pin ARGB Gen2 headers.

21Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O: 2 x 5V ARGB LED connectors.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, internal I/O: 2 x 5V addressable RGB LED connectors.

RGB headersi4-pin 12 V RGB headers. Headers on a hub that ships with the board and plugs into it, such as MSI's EZ CONTROL HUB, count. The source note splits board and hub.

01Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The internal connector list is complete and has no 4-pin 12 V RGB header.

01Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O has one NZXT RGB LED connector, which the manual calls a 5 V 4-pin LED header. There is no 12 V RGB header.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026The NZXT RGB LED connector is a 5 V 4-pin LED header (up to 5V/3A, 15 W) and is not a 12 V RGB header. The internal connector list has no other RGB header.

Networking

5 of 9 differ

Ethernet controllersiOne item per Ethernet chip, as maker plus chip family without suffix letters, e.g. Realtek RTL8126 or Realtek RTL8125. Suffixes and revisions go in the source note. Leave it empty when no maker document or review names the chip. A Killer chip is written with Intel as its maker, such as Intel Killer E3100G.

Realtek RTL8127, Realtek RTL81263Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Realtek 8127 (10 GbE) and Realtek 8126 (5 GbE). The maker writes only Realtek 10Gb and 5Gb Ethernet.

Realtek RTL81262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, LAN: 5 Gigabit LAN, Realtek RTL8126CG. Stored as the chip family without the suffix. Guru3D and Igor's Lab also read RTL8126-CG.3Reviewigorslab.de/en/nzxt-n9-x870e-am5-motherboard-review-solid-optical-minimalism-at-a-proud-price-with-teardown-and-material-testRead 15 October 2026Teardown: Realtek RTL8126, connected to the first chipset over PCIe Gen3.

Ethernet ports

2=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

1=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Ethernet speediFastest Ethernet port.

10Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

5Gbps=CalculatedFrom Rear ports

Wi-Fi includediA Wi-Fi module comes installed. A board sold with and without Wi-Fi is two products.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026A Wi-Fi module is listed on the back panel (1 x Wi-Fi module).

Yes1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Tri-Band Wi-Fi 7, with an M.2 Key E socket for a 2230 Wi-Fi/BT PCIe module and two SMA antenna connectors.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, wireless: 802.11be 2x2 Wi-Fi 7 module, 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/axe/be.

Wi-Fi standard

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Wi-Fi 7 (MediaTek MT7927), 2x2 Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be).

Wi-Fi 71Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Wi-Fi bandsiBands the installed module supports.

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Supports the 2.4/5/6GHz frequency bands. The page says 6 GHz availability varies by country.

2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 20262Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, wireless: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands.

Max Wi-Fi channel widthiWidest channel the installed module supports, e.g. 320 or 160. It follows the Wi-Fi module, so a board revision can change it.

320MHz1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Supports Wi-Fi 7 320MHz bandwidth.

160MHz2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, wireless: 160 MHz channel bandwidth with the 6 GHz band.

Wi-Fi moduleiChip as published. A board revision can change the chip. One name: the maker's when published, otherwise the one name a review uses. No parentheses. Other names go in the source note. Use the chip's part number with its maker when any source gives it, such as Qualcomm QCNCM865 for a module also written NCM865. A platform name such as FastConnect 7800 is used only when no part number is published.

MediaTek MT79271Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The page names the module as MediaTek MT7927.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Wi-Fi 7 (MediaTek MT7927, 2x2, 2.4/5/6 GHz) with Bluetooth 5.4.

Not available

BluetoothiVersion of the Bluetooth radio on the Wi-Fi module.

5.41Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Bluetooth v5.4 with LE Audio. The page says the version may vary and refers to the Wi-Fi module maker.

5.41Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Bluetooth v5.4.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

Audio

1 of 2 differ

Audio codeciMaker and model, e.g. Realtek ALC4080. A board revision can change the codec.

Realtek ALC40821Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ROG SupremeFX 7.1 Surround Sound High Definition Audio CODEC ALC4082.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: ROG SupremeFX 7.1 HD Audio (ALC4082) with an ESS ES9219 QUAD DAC.

Realtek ALC40821Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Realtek ALC4082 audio codec. PC Gamer and CGMagazine write ALC4080.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, audio: 7.1 CH HD Audio with Content Protection (Realtek ALC4082 audio codec).

DAC chipiA separate DAC chip next to the codec, e.g. ESS ES9219. Maker plus part number as the maker writes it, with suffix letters, e.g. ESS ES9219Q. A marketing name that stands for a part number is written as the part number, so ESS SABRE9219 is ESS ES9219 and the maker wording goes in the source note. Leave it empty on boards with only a codec.

ESS ES92191Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Audio features list ESS ES9219 QUAD DAC. ASUS writes no suffix letters. Tom's Hardware writes ESS 9219Q.3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Text: an ESS 9219Q DAC/HPA under the black metal shroud.6Reviewguru3d.com/review/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-reviewRead 15 October 2026Same table: ESS ES9219 QUAD DAC.

Not available

Features

1 of 7 differ

BIOS flashbackiA button that updates the BIOS from a USB drive without a CPU or memory installed. Maker names include BIOS FlashBack, Flash BIOS Button and Q-Flash Plus.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20261 x BIOS FlashBack button on the back panel.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include a switch for BIOS update.

Yes2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, rear I/O: 1 x BIOS Flashback button. The rear panel photo on NZXT's store page shows the button next to Clear CMOS.3Reviewigorslab.de/en/nzxt-n9-x870e-am5-motherboard-review-solid-optical-minimalism-at-a-proud-price-with-teardown-and-material-testRead 15 October 2026Teardown names a Flash Back chip next to the BIOS flash.

Clear CMOS button (rear)iA button on the rear panel that resets the BIOS settings. A jumper or header does not count. A board whose only clear CMOS button sits on the board itself is false.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 20261 x Clear CMOS button on the back panel.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include a switch for Clear CMOS.

Yes1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Rear I/O: Clear CMOS button, quantity 1.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026

POST code displayiA two-digit display that shows boot codes, e.g. ASUS Q-Code or ASRock Dr. Debug. Single status LEDs do not count. Taken from the maker's spec or manual only. A review spec table is not enough.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ASUS Q-Design lists Q-Code. The overview page says the on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes.2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026The page says the on-board LED panel shows 2-digit diagnostic codes (Q-Code).5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include onboard debug and recovery controls such as a POST display.

Yes1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O: Digital Debug LED, plus 4 POST LEDs. Igor's Lab calls it a 2-digit debug display. The manual's connector legend says status codes used for troubleshooting.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, internal I/O: 1 x Digital Debug LED and 4 x POST LEDs. The connector legend names the Digital Debug LED as status codes used for troubleshooting.3Reviewigorslab.de/en/nzxt-n9-x870e-am5-motherboard-review-solid-optical-minimalism-at-a-proud-price-with-teardown-and-material-testRead 15 October 2026Page 1: a 2-digit debug LED display and four POST LEDs for CPU, DRAM, VGA and boot.

Power button on the boardiA power or start button on the board itself, for use outside a case. A button with another label counts when the maker says it can turn the PC on, such as GIGABYTE's quick button labelled RESET. A button on the rear I/O panel counts. A button on a module that ships fitted to the board, such as MSI's EZ BRIDGE, counts.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026The internal connector list has a Start button.5Press articleguru3d.com/story/asus-crosshair-x870e-glacial-and-dark-hero-hit-retail-shelvesRead 15 October 2026Both boards include a power button.

Yes1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Internal I/O: Power button and Reset button on the board.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Specifications, internal I/O: 1 x Power button and 1 x Reset button.3Reviewigorslab.de/en/nzxt-n9-x870e-am5-motherboard-review-solid-optical-minimalism-at-a-proud-price-with-teardown-and-material-testRead 15 October 2026Page 1: power and reset buttons directly on the PCB.

Dual BIOSiTwo BIOS chips, so the board can start from the second chip after a failed update. Two flash chips alone do not count.

Not available

Not available

Pre-installed I/O shieldiThe rear I/O shield is fixed to the board.

Yes1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ASUS EZ DIY list: Pre-mounted I/O shield.

Yes3Reviewigorslab.de/en/nzxt-n9-x870e-am5-motherboard-review-solid-optical-minimalism-at-a-proud-price-with-teardown-and-material-testRead 15 October 2026Page 1 box contents: no I/O shield is included, since it is permanently integrated.

Tool-free featuresiM.2 latch holds a drive without a screw. M.2 heatsink comes off without a tool. PCIe slot release is a button or lever that frees the graphics card. Push-on antenna connector fits the Wi-Fi antenna without screwing.

Tool-free M.2 latch, Tool-free M.2 heatsink, PCIe slot release, Push-on antenna connector1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026ASUS Q-Design: M.2 Q-Latch (tool-free SSD latch), M.2 Q-Release (removes the M.2 heatsink), M.2 Q-Slide, PCIe Slot Q-Release (with PCIe SafeSlot) and Q-Antenna (Wi-Fi antenna snaps into place).2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026Q-Release for the M.2 heatsink, M.2 Q-Latch, PCIe Slot Q-Release and Q-Antenna are described and shown.

Tool-free M.2 latch1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Overview: four M.2 slots, all with quick-release latches. The Wi-Fi antennas use SMA screw connectors, so the board has no push-on antenna connector.

Measured

3 of 3 differ

VRM temperature under CPU loadiHighest VRM temperature a reviewer measured during a sustained all-core CPU stress test at stock settings. Compare only results from the same reviewer and CPU. The reviewer's probe reading when given, otherwise the board sensor. The sensor and the CPU package power during the test go in the source note.

51°C4Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-review/3Read 15 October 2026CPU at stock, AIDA64 System Stability Test on all threads for 30 minutes, about 25 C ambient. The test system on page 2 is a Ryzen 9 9900X with an Arctic Liquid Freezer II 420. The CPU drew about 145 W by the chart. The review says the VRM peaked at just under 51 C on the reviewer's sensor (thermocouples) and 57 C on the ASUS internal sensor. The thermocouple reading is stored as 51. The exact value under 51 is not printed.

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Power draw idleiWhole test system at the wall at idle, measured by a reviewer. Compare only results from the same reviewer and CPU. A chart of CPU and board power without a wall meter does not count.

93W4Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-review/3Read 15 October 2026Whole test system idle at the wall with a Kill-A-Watt meter, Windows Balanced power plan. The review used a DDR5-7200 kit. Chart: idle 93 W.

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Power draw CPU stressiWhole test system at the wall at the peak of a CPU stress test, measured by a reviewer. The graphics card is not loaded. Compare only results from the same reviewer and CPU. A chart of CPU and board power without a wall meter does not count.

269W4Measurementtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-review/3Read 15 October 2026Peak of the whole test system at the wall (Kill-A-Watt) during the AIDA64 System Stability Test with Stress CPU, FPU, cache and Memory enabled. The graphics card was not stressed. Stock settings. Chart: load 269 W, average of idle and load 181 W.

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In the box

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In the boxiItems as the maker lists them.

4 x SATA 6Gb/s cables, 1 x DDR5 fan holder, 1 x ROG assistant fan (60mm), 1 x Screw package for cooling kit, 1 x Thermal pad for M.2 22110, 1 x ASUS WiFi Q-Antenna, 1 x Q-connector, 3 x M.2 Q-Slide package, 5 x M.2 backplate rubber packages, 1 x ROG stickers, 1 x ROG VIP card, 1 x ROG Bottle Opener, 1 x Quick start guide1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026Accessories list on the specification page.

4 x SATA cables (2 x 90°, 2 x 180°), 2 x wireless antennas, 2 x NZXT 8-pin splitter cables, User manual1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Page: SATA cables (2 x 90°, 2 x 180°) x4, wireless antenna x2, NZXT 8-pin splitter, user manual. The manual and Igor's Lab give two splitter cables.2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026Package contents: motherboard, SATA cables (2 x 90°, 2 x 180°), wireless antenna x2, NZXT 8-pin splitter x2.

Links

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Product page

rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero2Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-heroRead 15 October 2026

nzxt.com/product/n9-x870e1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026

Spec sheet

rog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/spec1Maker product pagerog.asus.com/motherboards/rog-crosshair/rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero/specRead 15 October 2026

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Manual

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cdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdf2Owner's manualcdn-g.nzxt.com/dl/1743412363-motherboards_n9-x870e_digital-manual_241210_v1.pdfRead 15 October 2026NZXT digital manual, file dated 2024-12-10 (v1), multi-language, 3 pages. It is linked from the N9 X870E downloads page on support.nzxt.com, which blocks agents.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

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Warranty

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Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

3years3Reviewtomshardware.com/pc-components/motherboards/asus-rog-crosshair-x870e-dark-hero-motherboard-reviewRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Warranty 3 Years. The review is a US review.

3years1Maker product pagenzxt.com/product/n9-x870eRead 15 October 2026Spec table: Warranty 3 years, US store page.

Both are also in the API. Back to all motherboards.