ASUS Z170 Maximus VIII Gene Review
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Published: 7th October 2015 | Source: ASUS | Price: £169.99 @ OCUK |
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The packaging for the Maximus VIII Gene follows the well-trodden ASUS RoG path of all-red-everything. The headline features are writ large on the box, Windows 10 and 4K support indicate the modernity of the Gene.
If you were expecting the regular combination of red and black then the Gene might come as somewhat of a shock. Its looks fall into the category of "better in the flesh", which is always problematic when reviewing something. In pictures it looks greyer than an October day in England, whereas in reality it has a level of class and eye-catching capabilities that bely its unphotogenic appearance.
The chipset heatsink is a great demonstration of the deceitful nature of the photographs. It would appear to be so silver and shiny that you're almost forced to return to the silver cases of yore. Whereas it's actually chameleonesque, matching whatever you choose to throw at it. Or, in this case, throw it in.
Usually with mATX motherboards, or models that aren't sitting at the top of a manufacturers range, the first thing to be reduced is the power phase heatsink. It's such a visually dominating feature that they are relying upon you not wishing to have something that is obviously "weedy" in your rig that you'll buy the better model. The Gene has no such qualms, coming with a seriously sturdy heatsink, supporting many fins guaranteed to keep things cool under pressure.
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