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EVGA’s new Z170 Classified K is a more affordable version of its Classified motherboard

By Koh Wanzi - on 19 Jan 2016, 10:19am

EVGA’s new Z170 Classified K is a more affordable version of its Classified motherboard

EVGA Z170 Classified K

EVGA has announced the Z170 Classified K, a new motherboard that fits between the top-end Z170 Classified and mid-range Z170 FTW boards.

But as its name suggests, it shares similar DNA with the Z170 Classified. It features the same improved power design with two International Rectifier IR35201 6+2 digital PWM chips and a familiar all-black color scheme.

However, unlike the E-ATX Classified board that supports up to four-way NVIDIA SLI, the ATX Classified K board only supports two-way SLI. It’s clearly missing the PCIe lane switcher found on the former board, even if it does come with four PCIe 3.0 x16 physical slots.

And while the Z170 Classified utilizes a quad-core Creative Sound Core3D processor, not unlike that on the Gigabyte Z170X Gaming G1, the Classified K relies on the more common and affordable Realtek ALC1150 chipset. Another key area of difference is the boards’ use of different network interface controllers – the Classified uses dual Intel i219 and i210 Gigabit NICs whereas the Classified K swaps the Intel controller for a Killer E2400 NIC.

However, there are certain improvements in terms of storage connectivity options and rear I/O port layout. For instance, the Classified K has an additional M.2 socket (for a total of three) and two more SATA 6Gbps ports. The two USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports have also been shifted to the rear I/O panel, as opposed to being available through internal headers, thus making them somewhat more accessible.

The EVGA Z170 Classified K retails for US$289.99, US$100 cheaper than the Z170 Classified. To get a better sense of how other Intel Z170 motherboards stack up against one another, you can also refer to our reviews of various flagship and high-end boards.

Source: EVGA

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