TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI Gaming Desktop Motherboard – Intel Z690 Chipset, LGA-1700, DDR5, PCIe 5.0, ATX

Power your best gaming rig with the TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI motherboard, built on the Intel Z690 chipset for the latest 12th and 13th‑gen CPUs. This ATX board blends performance, durability, and modern connectivity into a single, feature‑rich platform. With a robust 15 DrMOS power stages VRM, PCIe 5.0 readiness, DDR5 memory support, four M.2 slots for expansive NVMe storage, and WiFi 6E alongside a 2.5 Gb Ethernet port, it’s engineered to deliver stable overclocking headroom, ultra‑low latency gaming, and fast data transfer for creators and enthusiasts. Aura Sync RGB lighting lets you tailor the look of your build, while USB Type-C front panel and Thunderbolt 4 header ensure convenient, future‑proof I/O. Whether you’re building a high‑end gaming desktop or a performance workstation, this motherboard is designed to keep pace with your ambitions.

• Immersive, stable power delivery - A premium 15 DrMOS power stages VRM design delivers clean, efficient power to the CPU, enabling reliable overclocking and sustained performance under load. The robust power architecture minimizes thermal throttling and maintains system stability during demanding gaming sessions or multi‑threaded workloads.
• Next‑gen performance and storage - Ready for PCIe 5.0 GPUs and NVMe SSDs, plus four M.2 slots for fast, expansive storage. This motherboard supports high‑speed data transfer and rapid boot times, giving you room to install multiple NVMe drives in RAID configurations for incredible throughput and responsiveness.
• Blazing‑fast networking and connectivity - Enjoy ultra‑low latency with built‑in WiFi 6E and a reliable 2.5 Gb Ethernet port. The board also features HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for quick multi‑monitor setups, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type‑C, USB 3.2 Gen 2 front‑panel Type‑C, and a Thunderbolt 4 header for high‑bandwidth peripheral connections and fast data transfers.
• DDR5 memory support with elegant RGB - Supports modern DDR5 memory for higher bandwidth and improved efficiency. When paired with capable cooling and a capable PSU, DDR5 helps unlock impressive frame rates and smoother multitasking. The integrated Aura Sync RGB lighting provides customizable illumination that syncs with other Aura‑enabled components for a cohesive look.
• Easy build and flexible I/O - ATX form factor fits most standard cases, with a front USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type‑C header and a broad array of USB ports to support peripherals, high‑speed storage, and peripherals. The Thunderbolt 4 header adds even more expansion options, while the BIOS and design emphasize durability and user‑friendly customization for both seasoned builders and first‑timers.

Technical Details of TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI

• CPU Socket: LGA 1700 (supporting 12th/13th Gen Intel Core processors)
• Chipset: Intel Z690
• Form Factor: ATX
• Memory: Supports DDR5 memory modules (dual‑channel)
• DIMM Slots: 4
• PCIe: PCIe 5.0 readiness for expansion cards and NVMe SSDs
• M.2 Slots: 4 x M.2 slots for NVMe storage
• Storage: SATA 6 Gbps ports for HDDs/SSDs
• Networking: WiFi 6E wireless + Intel 2.5 Gb Ethernet
• USB I/O: USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type‑C (rear) and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type‑C (front header) plus additional USB ports
• Display Outputs: HDMI and DisplayPort for integrated GPU support
• Expansion: Thunderbolt 4 header for high‑speed peripheral connectivity
• RGB Lighting: Aura Sync compatible for synchronized lighting effects
• Intel Optane Memory Ready: Supports Intel Optane memory modules for system acceleration

how to install TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI

Preparing your build with the TUF GAMING Z690-PLUS WIFI is straightforward when you follow a careful sequence. Start by mounting the motherboard in your PC case using the correct standoffs for an ATX form factor. Ensure you ground yourself to prevent static discharge, then install the CPU into the LGA 1700 socket. Apply a thin, even layer of thermal paste if your cooler doesn’t come with pre‑applied paste, then secure your CPU cooler according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Insert the DDR5 memory modules into the correct dual‑channel DIMM slots, ensuring the notches align and the modules click into place with even pressure on both sides. Install your M.2 NVMe drives into the four M.2 slots, securing each with its mounting screw. If you’re planning a multi‑GPU or PCIe expansion setup, install the graphics card or other PCIe devices into the appropriate PCIe slots, securing them firmly with screws and ensuring there’s clearance for cooling fans.

Connect the 24‑pin ATX power cable and the 8‑pin (or 4+4) CPU power connector from your power supply to the motherboard. Attach case cables for the power switch, reset, power LED, HDD LED, and front panel audio. For quicker USB connectivity, connect the front USB‑C header to your chassis’ front panel USB‑C port if available. If you plan to use WiFi 6E, install the M.2 wireless module or rely on the onboard router functionality if provided, and install any required antennas. After everything is connected, power on and enter the BIOS to configure key settings. Enable XMP/DOCP for your DDR5 memory to achieve rated speeds, set boot orders, and check that all drives are recognized. If you’re updating BIOS for newer CPU compatibility, use the USB BIOS Flashback feature or official ASUS utility to ensure compatibility with 12th/13th Gen processors. Once configured, install your preferred operating system, drivers, and software, and you’re ready to enjoy the performance and features of the Z690 platform.

Tips for optimal performance:

• Update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version before installing an operating system or starting heavy overclocking to maximize compatibility with 12th/13th Gen CPUs and DDR5 memory.
• Enable XMP/DOCP to leverage the full speed of your DDR5 memory modules, while ensuring system stability with adequate cooling.
• Utilize the PCIe 5.0 slots for next‑gen GPUs and NVMe SSDs to maximize bandwidth, especially in workloads that demand high data throughput.
• Organize cables neatly to improve airflow across the VRM and memory slots, helping maintain cooler, more stable operations during long gaming sessions.
• If you’re using the Thunderbolt header, install compatible USB‑C peripherals or external storage to take advantage of ultra‑fast data transfer rates.

Frequently asked questions

• What CPU socket does this board use? – The Z690‑PLUS WIFI uses the LGA 1700 socket, compatible with Intel 12th and 13th‑generation processors.
• Does it support DDR5 memory? – Yes. It supports DDR5 memory modules for higher bandwidth and improved efficiency, with four DIMM slots for flexible configurations.
• How many M.2 drives can I install? – This board provides four M.2 slots, allowing you to add multiple NVMe SSDs for fast storage and expanded RAID options.
• What kind of networking is available? – You get built‑in WiFi 6E for wireless connectivity and a 2.5 Gb Ethernet port for wired networking, ensuring low latency and high throughput for gaming and streaming.
• Is Thunderbolt 4 supported? – A Thunderbolt 4 header is available for high‑bandwidth expansion, enabling fast data transfers with compatible devices and peripherals.