How to Guide                                                    

If you've been researching computers recently—whether you're building a PC or upgrading components—you've probably come across mysterious motherboard model names like “Z890,” “B760,” or “X870.” But what do these letters and numbers actually mean? And how can you make sure you're choosing the right one?

Don't worry—this article is written specifically for 

. It'll help you fully understand motherboard naming conventions, and also explain the differences between Intel and AMD boards.

What is Z890? How do you read a motherboard model number?

Let’s break down the naming logic using “Z890” as an example. It can be divided into two parts:

Intel vs AMD Motherboards: What’s the Difference?

While both Intel and AMD motherboards let you plug in a CPU, RAM, and graphics card to run a PC, their naming systems and specifications are different.

Different CPU generations use different sockets:

, meaning it offers enhanced features and expandability—like more PCIe lanes, USB ports, and stronger power delivery.

Here’s a quick summary of common usage scenarios:

(Only a selection of mainstream models is listed)

(for full motherboard support, please refer to each brand’s official website)

Quick Tip: Make Sure the CPU Matches the Socket!

You can’t install an Intel 13th Gen CPU (LGA1700) on a motherboard that only supports LGA1200. Similarly, you can’t use a Ryzen 7000 CPU on an AM4 motherboard.

Conclusion: Motherboard Model Numbers Aren’t That Hard!

Then motherboard model names won’t feel like a foreign language anymore. You’ll be able to confidently choose the right board without getting confused by spec sheets!





If you've been researching computers recently—whether you're building a PC or upgrading components—you've probably come across mysterious motherboard model names like “Z890,” “B760,” or “X870.” But what do these letters and numbers actually mean? And how can you make sure you're choosing the right one?



Don't worry—this article is written specifically for complete beginners. It'll help you fully understand motherboard naming conventions, and also explain the differences between Intel and AMD boards.



What is Z890? How do you read a motherboard model number?

Let’s break down the naming logic using “Z890” as an example. It can be divided into two parts:





Z: Represents the tier or level of the motherboard (higher-tier models have more features and cost more)



890: Indicates the CPU generation it supports (this number changes with each new CPU generation)



Intel vs AMD Motherboards: What’s the Difference?

While both Intel and AMD motherboards let you plug in a CPU, RAM, and graphics card to run a PC, their naming systems and specifications are different.





(ROG Z890, VIDEOCARDZ)



Intel Motherboards Overview

Intel models usually start with Z, B, or H to indicate tier:





Z Series: High-end; supports CPU and RAM overclocking; most feature-rich



B Series: Mid-range, good value and performance; ideal for most users



H Series: Entry-level, basic features, lowest cost

Different CPU generations use different sockets:





LGA1851: For the latest 15th Gen Core Ultra (e.g., Z890, B860)



LGA1700: For 12th to 14th Gen



LGA1200: For 10th and 11th Gen





(AORUS X870, VIDEOCARDZ)



AMD Motherboards Overview

AMD uses X, B, and A to represent tiers:





X Series: High-end, for enthusiasts and creators; supports the most PCIe and USB lanes



B Series: Mid-range, best value for performance



A Series: Entry-level, no flashy features, good for budget users

AMD supports two main socket types:





AM5: For the new Ryzen 7000 to 9000 series (e.g., X870E, B850)



AM4: Compatible with Ryzen 1000 to 5000 series

＊The "E" in AMD motherboard models stands for Extreme, meaning it offers enhanced features and expandability—like more PCIe lanes, USB ports, and stronger power delivery.



Which Motherboard Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary of common usage scenarios:





Gaming, streaming, video editing, or overclocking?
Choose Intel Z series or AMD X series



Gaming on a budget?
Go with Intel B series or AMD B series



Just browsing the web, writing reports, or watching videos?
Go with Intel H series or AMD A series



(Only a selection of mainstream models is listed)

(for full motherboard support, please refer to each brand’s official website)



Quick Tip: Make Sure the CPU Matches the Socket!


You can’t install an Intel 13th Gen CPU (LGA1700) on a motherboard that only supports LGA1200. Similarly, you can’t use a Ryzen 7000 CPU on an AM4 motherboard.

Before buying, always check:





The motherboard’s CPU socket (e.g., LGA1700, AM5)



The CPU generations it supports



Whether the memory type is compatible (most new boards are now shifting to DDR5)







Conclusion: Motherboard Model Numbers Aren’t That Hard!


Once you understand that:





Letters indicate tier/level



Numbers refer to CPU generation



And the CPU must match the socket

Then motherboard model names won’t feel like a foreign language anymore. You’ll be able to confidently choose the right board without getting confused by spec sheets!

What do motherboard model names mean? What should you pay attention to when choosing one?
Here’s everything you need to know!

Z890? X870? What Do Motherboard Model Names Mean?

Recently, Intel launched the next generation of processors, the Intel Core Ultra 200S series. Unlike previous generations, Intel has chosen to drop the traditional numerical naming system and replace it with the "Ultra" label, signaling a new era for Intel. In this guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about the Intel Core Ultra 200S processors.

Which 14th Gen Processors Correspond to the Core Ultra 200S?

The Intel Core Ultra 200S series corresponds to the following 14th Gen models:

What Upgrades Does the Intel Core Ultra Offer?

1. Addition of Neural Processing Unit (NPU)

To enhance AI processing capabilities, Intel has integrated a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) into the CPU for the first time. This addition allows PCs to handle a certain degree of AI computations locally, reducing reliance on cloud processing. An NPU is specialized hardware designed to accelerate neural network operations and AI tasks. Unlike traditional CPUs and GPUs, the NPU focuses on complex mathematical computations, particularly those related to artificial neural networks.

The Core Ultra processors feature a new hybrid architecture with a combination of P-Cores (Performance Cores) and E-Cores (Efficiency Cores). This allows for smart resource allocation during multitasking, boosting multi-threading performance and ensuring fast processing of high-performance workloads.

Intel has continued to improve the built-in graphics capabilities of its CPUs, now equipped with an upgraded Intel Arc GPU. This significantly boosts integrated graphics performance, making it ideal for gamers or creators who need efficient graphics processing.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying the Intel Core Ultra 200S

Due to the new architecture and socket design, the Intel Core Ultra 200S series is not compatible with older Z790 or B760 motherboards. Currently, only Z890 motherboards support the Core Ultra 200S series processors.

The Z890 motherboards that support the Core Ultra 200S processors no longer support DDR4 RAM. Be sure to check that you’re purchasing DDR5 RAM to match your motherboard and CPU.

Cooling Recommendations for Intel Core Ultra 200S CPUs

Core Ultra 5 245K Cooling Recommendations

The Ultra 5 processor has a relatively lower number of cores, meaning it doesn’t generate excessive heat. Therefore, a standard air cooler or a 240mm water cooler will be sufficient.

Core Ultra 7 265K / Core Ultra 9 285K Cooling Recommendations

The Ultra 7 and Ultra 9 models come with high performance and higher heat output. For these, we recommend using a 360mm water cooler to manage the heat efficiently.

When choosing an Intel Core Ultra 200S CPU, consider your workload, budget, and expansion needs. This will help you select the most suitable model to take full advantage of its AI acceleration, performance, and graphics processing capabilities.





Recently, Intel launched the next generation of processors, the Intel Core Ultra 200S series. Unlike previous generations, Intel has chosen to drop the traditional numerical naming system and replace it with the "Ultra" label, signaling a new era for Intel. In this guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about the Intel Core Ultra 200S processors.



Which 14th Gen Processors Correspond to the Core Ultra 200S?

The Intel Core Ultra 200S series corresponds to the following 14th Gen models:





Core Ultra 9 285K corresponds to Core i9-14900K



Core Ultra 7 265K corresponds to Core i7-14700K



Core Ultra 5 245K corresponds to Core i5-14600K



What Upgrades Does the Intel Core Ultra Offer?

1. Addition of Neural Processing Unit (NPU)

To enhance AI processing capabilities, Intel has integrated a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) into the CPU for the first time. This addition allows PCs to handle a certain degree of AI computations locally, reducing reliance on cloud processing. An NPU is specialized hardware designed to accelerate neural network operations and AI tasks. Unlike traditional CPUs and GPUs, the NPU focuses on complex mathematical computations, particularly those related to artificial neural networks.







2. Architectural Improvements

The Core Ultra processors feature a new hybrid architecture with a combination of P-Cores (Performance Cores) and E-Cores (Efficiency Cores). This allows for smart resource allocation during multitasking, boosting multi-threading performance and ensuring fast processing of high-performance workloads.



3. Enhanced Graphics Processing Power

Intel has continued to improve the built-in graphics capabilities of its CPUs, now equipped with an upgraded Intel Arc GPU. This significantly boosts integrated graphics performance, making it ideal for gamers or creators who need efficient graphics processing.



Things to Keep in Mind When Buying the Intel Core Ultra 200S

1. Motherboard Compatibility

Due to the new architecture and socket design, the Intel Core Ultra 200S series is not compatible with older Z790 or B760 motherboards. Currently, only Z890 motherboards support the Core Ultra 200S series processors.



2. RAM Support

The Z890 motherboards that support the Core Ultra 200S processors no longer support DDR4 RAM. Be sure to check that you’re purchasing DDR5 RAM to match your motherboard and CPU.



Cooling Recommendations for Intel Core Ultra 200S CPUs

Core Ultra 5 245K Cooling Recommendations

The Ultra 5 processor has a relatively lower number of cores, meaning it doesn’t generate excessive heat. Therefore, a standard air cooler or a 240mm water cooler will be sufficient.



Cooling Recommendations:





Z4 Pro Mist Tower CPU Cooler



DN240S Liquid CPU Cooler







Core Ultra 7 265K / Core Ultra 9 285K Cooling Recommendations

The Ultra 7 and Ultra 9 models come with high performance and higher heat output. For these, we recommend using a 360mm water cooler to manage the heat efficiently.



Cooling Recommendations:





DN360 Liquid CPU Cooler



DN360S Liquid CPU Cooler











When choosing an Intel Core Ultra 200S CPU, consider your workload, budget, and expansion needs. This will help you select the most suitable model to take full advantage of its AI acceleration, performance, and graphics processing capabilities.

The all-new Intel Core Ultra 200S CPU has arrived, and understanding it better will help gamers make informed decisions when selecting and upgrading their systems.

Intel Core Ultra 200S CPU Buying Guide

A back-insertion motherboard is designed to move the CPU, graphics card, and power connectors and ports to the back of the motherboard. This design makes the interior of the PC case look cleaner and significantly improves cable management. But what other features does it offer?

| Features of Back-Insertion Motherboards |

With all cables relocated to the back of the motherboard, the interior of the case no longer shows tangled wires, creating a much tidier overall look.

When installing power cables for the CPU, it's often challenging due to interference from top-mounted water coolers. However, with power connectors moved to the back, these installation difficulties are eliminated, significantly enhancing the building process's efficiency.

| Which Motherboard Manufacturers Have Released Back-Insertion Motherboards? |

ASUS has named their back-insertion motherboards under the BTF series. So if you see "BTF" in the model name, it indicates that it's a back-insertion motherboard.

The "Project Zero" label represents MSI's back-insertion motherboards. Currently, only a silver version is available, and these motherboards are clearly marked with the Project Zero branding, making them easily recognizable.

The B650E AORUS STEALTH ICE is currently the only back-insertion motherboard model offered by Gigabyte, and it only supports AMD processors. Be sure to pay attention to this if you're considering purchasing this motherboard.

| What Should You Consider When Buying a Back-Insertion Motherboard? |

Does Your Case Support Back-Insertion Motherboards?

If you opt for a back-insertion motherboard, you’ll need to ensure that your case supports this type of motherboard. You can check the case’s manual or look for visible cutouts in the case’s interior to determine if it's compatible with back-insertion designs.

Is There Enough Rear Cable Management Space?

Since all the cables are routed to the back of the motherboard, the rear cable management space must be deep enough to ensure that the cables can be properly organized and the rear panel can still close without any issues.

| Will Back-Insertion Motherboards Become Mainstream? |

Although motherboard manufacturers have been slow to release these designs, back-insertion motherboards offer both aesthetic advantages and improved building efficiency. Whether from a visual standpoint or a DIY enthusiast's perspective, it’s a promising development. We look forward to motherboard manufacturers continuing to offer more cost-effective back-insertion motherboards, helping to make this design more widespread.

| Recommended Cases for Back-Insertion Motherboards |

darkFlash has launched the first case that supports back-insertion motherboards – the DY470. In addition to supporting back-insertion motherboards, it features an eye-catching design with ultra-transparent glass panels on three sides and irregularly cut angles, making it look like a piece of art on your desk. To cater to DIY enthusiasts, the case comes with a streamlined, wave-pattern cable management rear panel that allows users to neatly hide their cables. It also comes with four high-performance ARGB fans, designed for optimal cooling.





A back-insertion motherboard is designed to move the CPU, graphics card, and power connectors and ports to the back of the motherboard. This design makes the interior of the PC case look cleaner and significantly improves cable management. But what other features does it offer?



| Features of Back-Insertion Motherboards |

Aesthetically Pleasing Interior

With all cables relocated to the back of the motherboard, the interior of the case no longer shows tangled wires, creating a much tidier overall look.







Simplified Cable Connections

When installing power cables for the CPU, it's often challenging due to interference from top-mounted water coolers. However, with power connectors moved to the back, these installation difficulties are eliminated, significantly enhancing the building process's efficiency.







| Which Motherboard Manufacturers Have Released Back-Insertion Motherboards? |

ASUS BTF Series

ASUS has named their back-insertion motherboards under the BTF series. So if you see "BTF" in the model name, it indicates that it's a back-insertion motherboard.



MSI Project Zero Series

The "Project Zero" label represents MSI's back-insertion motherboards. Currently, only a silver version is available, and these motherboards are clearly marked with the Project Zero branding, making them easily recognizable.



Gigabyte B650E AORUS STEALTH ICE

The B650E AORUS STEALTH ICE is currently the only back-insertion motherboard model offered by Gigabyte, and it only supports AMD processors. Be sure to pay attention to this if you're considering purchasing this motherboard.





| What Should You Consider When Buying a Back-Insertion Motherboard? |

Does Your Case Support Back-Insertion Motherboards?

If you opt for a back-insertion motherboard, you’ll need to ensure that your case supports this type of motherboard. You can check the case’s manual or look for visible cutouts in the case’s interior to determine if it's compatible with back-insertion designs.



Is There Enough Rear Cable Management Space?

Since all the cables are routed to the back of the motherboard, the rear cable management space must be deep enough to ensure that the cables can be properly organized and the rear panel can still close without any issues.





| Will Back-Insertion Motherboards Become Mainstream? |

Although motherboard manufacturers have been slow to release these designs, back-insertion motherboards offer both aesthetic advantages and improved building efficiency. Whether from a visual standpoint or a DIY enthusiast's perspective, it’s a promising development. We look forward to motherboard manufacturers continuing to offer more cost-effective back-insertion motherboards, helping to make this design more widespread.




| Recommended Cases for Back-Insertion Motherboards |

darkFlash has launched the first case that supports back-insertion motherboards – the DY470. In addition to supporting back-insertion motherboards, it features an eye-catching design with ultra-transparent glass panels on three sides and irregularly cut angles, making it look like a piece of art on your desk. To cater to DIY enthusiasts, the case comes with a streamlined, wave-pattern cable management rear panel that allows users to neatly hide their cables. It also comes with four high-performance ARGB fans, designed for optimal cooling.













Back-insertion motherboards have become a hot topic recently, and there are several reasons why they may become the mainstream choice in the future.

What is a Back-Insertion Motherboard? Will It Become the Future Mainstream?

Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a Motherboard

Before selecting a motherboard, it's crucial to first choose your CPU. This is because Intel and AMD processors are compatible with different motherboards. For DIY PC beginners, this distinction is important to keep in mind. Below is a breakdown of motherboards into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end categories to help you find the right fit.

When choosing a motherboard, consider your specific needs, budget, and usage scenarios to find the most suitable model and category for your build.



Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a Motherboard

Before selecting a motherboard, it's crucial to first choose your CPU. This is because Intel and AMD processors are compatible with different motherboards. For DIY PC beginners, this distinction is important to keep in mind. Below is a breakdown of motherboards into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end categories to help you find the right fit.

Entry-Level Motherboards

Target Audience:





Basic home PCs



Office PCs

Key Features:





Basic expansion options, typically with 2 RAM slots and a single PCIe slot.



No heat sinks on the I/O section, exposing the chips on the PCB.

Recommended Processors:





Intel: i3 series, i5 series



AMD: R3 series, R5 series

Recommended Motherboard Models:





Intel: H series, some entry-level B series, e.g., H610



AMD: A series, e.g., A520, A620







Mid-Range Motherboards

Target Audience:





Casual gamers



Content creators with moderate workloads

Key Features:





Better expansion options, typically with 4 RAM slots and multiple PCIe slots.



Improved thermal management compared to the H series, with some models featuring ARGB lighting.

Recommended Processors:





Intel: i5 series, i7 series



AMD: R5 series, R7 series

Recommended Motherboard Models:





Intel: B series, e.g., B660, B760



AMD: B series, e.g., B550, B650





High-End Motherboards

Target Audience:





Hardcore gamers



Professional content creators



High-performance PC enthusiasts

Key Features:





Maximum expansion with full heat sinks, multiple PCIe slots, and USB Type-C ports.



Supports overclocking, allowing you to unlock the full potential of your CPU.

Recommended Processors:





Intel: i7 series, i9 series, and all K-series CPUs



AMD: R7 series, R9 series

Recommended Motherboard Models:





Intel: Z series, e.g., Z790



AMD: X series, e.g., X670, X670E





When choosing a motherboard, consider your specific needs, budget, and usage scenarios to find the most suitable model and category for your build.

Motherboards can be categorized into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end options. By identifying which category best suits your needs, you can more quickly select the right motherboard for your setup.

Beginner Guide of Choosing Motherboard

As an enthusiast of games and computer DIY in this age, we, darkFlash, feel proud and grateful for keep thinking how to develop impressive and extraordinary products with high-end facilities by assembling and using the PC cases, CPU coolers, case fans, and even gaming chairs and tables in person.

Our goal is to create products that could extremely exert its effect by every user.