NZXT N9 X870E specifications and in-depth review

NZXT N9 X870E

Manufacturer: NZXT

The NZXT N9 X870E is a feature-packed ATX motherboard designed for users seeking high compatibility and performance. With its AM5 CPU socket and support for a variety of Wi-Fi versions, including the latest Wi-Fi 7, this motherboard ensures fast connectivity. Its maximum memory capacity of 192GB allows for demanding workloads, making it an excellent choice for gamers and content creators alike.

Key technical features of the NZXT N9 X870E include four M.2 sockets for fast storage, as well as support for RAID 1, RAID 10, and RAID 0 configurations. It offers a wide range of ports, including USB 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4 support, alongside advanced audio with a 130 dB signal-to-noise ratio. With Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.4, it offers solid connectivity for modern devices and peripherals.

Pros
  • Supports up to 192GB of memory with a maximum RAM speed of 8200 MHz, offering ample capacity and high performance for demanding applications.
  • Includes both Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 support, providing future-proof wireless connectivity options.
  • Features RGB lighting for customization, allowing users to personalize their build's aesthetics.
  • Has a built-in Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless wireless device connections.
  • Supports multiple RAID configurations including RAID 1, RAID 10 (1+0), and RAID 0, allowing for flexible storage setups.
Cons
  • Lacks support for ECC memory, limiting its use in environments where data integrity is critical.
  • Does not support PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, potentially limiting future expansion for high-performance GPUs.
  • Missing HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA connectors, which could be limiting for users needing video output from the motherboard.
  • Does not support RAID 5 or RAID 0+1, reducing flexibility for certain data redundancy configurations.
  • Does not have U.2 or mSATA connectors, limiting options for certain types of storage devices.
Who is this for?

This motherboard is ideal for users who require a flexible, high-performance platform with ample expansion options. With support for up to 192GB of memory and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, it is suitable for gaming, content creation, and other demanding applications. Its multiple RAID configuration options, including RAID 1 and RAID 10, make it a solid choice for users who need data redundancy or high-speed storage setups. Additionally, the built-in Bluetooth 5.4 and customizable RGB lighting add value for users looking to enhance their overall user experience.

Who is this NOT for?

This motherboard may not be the best choice for users who prioritize advanced data integrity features, as it lacks support for ECC memory. Furthermore, users who need support for the latest, highest-performance GPUs may find its lack of PCIe 4.0 x16 slots limiting. It is also not suitable for those needing direct video output options, as it does not feature HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA connectors.

General info:

CPU socket AM5
chipset X870
form factor ATX
release date March 2025
supports Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be)
Has Bluetooth
Bluetooth version 5.4
Easy to overclock
has RGB lighting
Easy to reset BIOS
Has dual BIOS
has aptX
CPU sockets 1
Has integrated graphics
warranty period 3 years
height 244 mm
width 305 mm
Has integrated CPU

The NZXT N9 X870E motherboard is designed with an AM5 CPU socket and supports the X870 chipset, making it compatible with a wide range of modern processors. It features an ATX form factor, which provides ample space for expansion. The board supports multiple Wi-Fi versions, including Wi-Fi 7, and includes built-in Bluetooth 5.4 for seamless wireless connectivity. For customization, it comes with RGB lighting and offers an easy overclocking experience. Notably, the motherboard lacks dual BIOS support but provides an easy way to reset the BIOS through the clear CMOS function. It also carries a 3-year warranty for added peace of mind.

Memory:

maximum memory amount 192GB
RAM speed (max) 8200 MHz
memory slots 4
DDR memory version 5
memory channels 2
Supports ECC memory

The NZXT N9 X870E supports a maximum memory capacity of 192GB across four memory slots. It is compatible with DDR5 memory and operates with a dual-channel configuration for improved performance. The board also supports RAM speeds up to 8200 MHz, though it does not support ECC memory for error correction.

Ports:

USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (USB-A) 5
USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (USB-A) 3
USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (USB-C) 0
USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (USB-C) 0
USB 2.0 ports 2
USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 ports 0
USB 4 40Gbps ports 2
USB 4 20Gbps ports 0
Thunderbolt 4 ports 2
Thunderbolt 3 ports 0
has an HDMI output
DisplayPort outputs 0
RJ45 ports 1
Has USB Type-C
eSATA ports 0
DVI outputs 0
has a VGA connector
PS/2 ports 0

The NZXT N9 X870E motherboard offers a comprehensive selection of ports for various connectivity needs. It features five USB 3.2 Gen 2 (USB-A) ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 1 (USB-A) ports, and two USB 4.0 40Gbps ports, providing fast data transfer speeds. Additionally, it includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports and one RJ45 port for network connectivity. Notably, the motherboard includes USB Type-C support, but lacks HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA connectors.

Connectors:

USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports (through expansion) 4
USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (through expansion) 0
USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 ports (through expansion) 1
USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports (through expansion) 0
USB 2.0 ports (through expansion) 4
SATA 3 connectors 4
fan headers 4
USB 3.0 ports (through expansion) 4
M.2 sockets 4
Has TPM connector
U.2 sockets 0
Has mSATA connector
SATA 2 connectors 0

The NZXT N9 X870E motherboard provides a variety of connectors for expansion and customization. It offers four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports and four USB 3.0 ports through expansion, along with one USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 connector for high-speed data transfer. The board also includes four M.2 sockets for fast storage options and four fan headers to support optimal cooling. Additionally, it has four SATA 3 connectors for storage devices but lacks U.2 and mSATA connectors.

Expansion slots:

PCIe 4.0 x16 slots 0
PCIe 5.0 x16 slots 1
PCIe 3.0 x16 slots 1
PCIe x1 slots 0
PCI slots 0
PCIe 2.0 x16 slots 0
PCIe x4 slots 0
PCIe x8 slots 0

The NZXT N9 X870E motherboard provides a versatile selection of expansion slots for various add-on cards. It includes one PCIe 5.0 x16 slot and one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot for high-bandwidth devices. However, it lacks PCIe x1, PCIe x4, and PCIe x8 slots. The motherboard does not support PCIe 2.0 or legacy PCI slots, making it focused on modern expansion standards.

Audio:

Signal-to-Noise ratio (DAC) 130 dB
audio channels 7.1
Has S/PDIF Out port
audio connectors 2

The NZXT N9 X870E motherboard delivers high-quality audio performance with a 130 dB signal-to-noise ratio for clear sound output. It supports 7.1 audio channels for immersive surround sound and includes an S/PDIF Out port for digital audio connectivity. Additionally, it features two audio connectors for easy integration with external audio devices.

Storage:

Supports RAID 1
Supports RAID 10 (1+0)
Supports RAID 5
Supports RAID 0
Supports RAID 0+1

The NZXT N9 X870E motherboard supports several RAID configurations for flexible storage management. It is compatible with RAID 1, RAID 10 (1+0), and RAID 0, offering users the ability to configure their storage for redundancy or performance. However, it does not support RAID 5 or RAID 0+1.

Final Verdict

The product excels as a versatile and high-performance motherboard, particularly well-suited for demanding users who require extensive memory support and advanced RAID configurations. With its broad range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, it offers a comprehensive solution for modern gaming and content creation setups. However, it may not be ideal for those looking for ECC memory support or who need higher-tier GPU expansion options. Overall, this motherboard is a strong choice for enthusiasts seeking a reliable and flexible platform with robust expansion capabilities.

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