PCIe x16: 3 (Single - PCIe_1: Gen 5 x16 mode / Dual - PCIe_1: Gen 5 x16; PCIe_3: Gen 4 x4 / Triple - PCIe_1: Gen 5 x16; PCIe_3: Gen 4 x4; PCIe_5: Gen 3 x1) NZXT utilizes good VRM passive cooling for better stability. (Image credit: Rich Edmonds / Windows Central) You should buy if

Amp up your build with our N5 and N7 series motherboards, now supporting Intel’s newest chipset: the Z690. This long-awaited update allows compatibility with Intel’s newest 12th gen Alder Lake CPUs. (Go do some homework on the 12th gen Intel stuff, they are seriously sweet for gaming, streaming, editing, and multitasking.) They feature hybrid architecture combining large high-performance cores with smaller high-efficiency cores, for smooth gaming and multitasking. In other words: run a stream, chat on discord, and run it on ultra.But for real, we’ve been busy cranking out some sweet components that we’re stoked to share with you. The N series motherboards include WiFi 6E connectivity and utilize all PCI express lanes available from the CPU and chipset. The N7 and N5’s layout streamlines installation with an integrated rear I/O shield and optimally placed headers for easier setup.

On the top left of the board, we get a close look at the shroud covering the IO bits as well as the VRM heatsinks. The plastic shroud sports NZXT branding stamped on top. To the right, the VRM heatsinks cover both VRM banks. There’s a fair amount of mass here, but not a lot of surface area. VRM temperatures ran hot, so I would like to see higher-speced MOSFETs or larger/more surface-happy heatsinks for the existing configuration. On top of the heatsinks is an accent piece with small holes cut out for a visual contrast to the sharp angles.

The N Series Motherboards include key features from our RGB and Fan Controller, allowing intuitive control of four RGB lighting channels and seven fan channels through NZXT CAM. Lighting accessories from all manufacturers are supported. With the N-series of motherboards, NZXT wants to keep you within its ecosystem. All NZXT motherboards support the company's CAM software, allowing one to manage different aspects of not only the mainboard but all other connected smart NZXT devices. There’s plenty of PCIe connectivity in the middle of the board, including three full-length slots and two x1 slots. The top slot connects through the CPU and runs at PCIe 5.0 x16. The bottom two full-length slots attach through the chipset, with the top running at a maximum of PCIe 4.0 x4 and the bottom slot PCIe 3.0 x1. This setup supports 2-Way AMD Crossfire.