The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI is an ATX motherboard built on the X870 chipset, designed for use with AMD processors using the AM5 socket. This motherboard supports AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, AMD Ryzen 8000 Series, and AMD Ryzen 7000 Series processors.
Key features include support for up to 256 GB of memory, up to PCIe 5.0, 2 PCIe slots, 4 M.2 slots, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 7.
Specs Overview
| Chipset |
X870 — Learn more about AM5 socket chipsets
|
|---|---|
|
CPU Support
| AMD Ryzen 9000 Series, AMD Ryzen 8000 Series, AMD Ryzen 7000 Series (AM5 socket) |
|
Memory
| 256 GB max DDR5, up to 8000 MT/s, Dual Channel, 4 DIMM slots |
|
Storage
| 4 M.2 slots (PCIe 4.0 x4, PCIe 5.0 x4, PCIe 4.0 x4, PCIe 4.0 x4), 2 SATA ports |
|
PCIe Slots
|
2 PCIe slots (Ryzen 9000/ |
|
Ethernet
| 2.5Gb |
|
Wi-Fi
| Wi-Fi 7 |
|
Bluetooth
| 5.4 |
|
USB Ports
| 10 rear panel, 6 via internal headers (up to USB4) |
|
Audio
| Realtek ALC1220P (120dB SNR) |
|
Form Factor
| ATX |
Which CPUs Are Compatible?
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI uses an AM5 socket for AMD processors. A motherboard's chipset and socket type determine CPU compatibility and cannot be changed.
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI is compatible with the following processors:
- AMD Ryzen 9000 Series
- AMD Ryzen 8000 Series
- AMD Ryzen 7000 Series
Multi-Generation Support
Support for multiple CPU generations allows you to start with a more affordable processor and upgrade to a higher-performance model later without replacing the motherboard.
Ensure the CPU is on the compatibility list before purchasing. Some CPUs may additionally require a motherboard BIOS update for compatibility or full support.
CPU Upgrade Compatibility
A motherboard's chipset and socket type determine which CPUs it can support. If you plan to upgrade your CPU later, verify that the motherboard supports newer processors in the same socket family.
Is CPU Upgradeability Important?
The importance of CPU upgradeability depends on your use case:
- High-end builds: Purchasing a high-end CPU from the start means you likely won't need to upgrade for 5-7 years. Future CPU support is less critical.
- Mid-range builds: Starting with a mid-range CPU with plans to upgrade in 2-3 years makes CPU compatibility important. However, by upgrade time, new socket types may offer better value.
Most users keep their CPU until they replace the entire system. The motherboard's chipset features, connectivity, and current-gen CPU support often matter more than future CPU compatibility. Instead of buying a budget CPU with plans to upgrade, consider saving up for the CPU you want; the performance difference between budget and mid-range CPUs is significant.
Memory Specifications
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI supports up to 256 GB of DDR5 memory across 4 DIMM slots (RAM slots) in Dual Channel configuration. For best performance, install memory in matching pairs (identical speed, capacity, and timings) to enable dual-channel mode.
With a maximum capacity of 256 GB of RAM, the TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI is well-suited for memory-intensive workloads like content creation, video editing, 3D rendering, and virtualization. Most gaming and general-purpose users will find 32-64 GB more than sufficient.
A dual-channel memory configuration doubles memory bandwidth compared to single-channel. Install memory in matching pairs (2x or 4x modules of the same specification) to enable dual-channel mode. This significantly improves performance in gaming, content creation, and general system responsiveness.
- Memory Type: DDR5
- Maximum Capacity: 256 GB
- DIMM Slots: 4
- Channel Configuration: Dual Channel
Memory Speed Support
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI supports memory speeds up to 8000 MT/s (overclocked).
High-Performance Memory: 8000 MT/s is excellent for high-end gaming and professional applications. Faster memory provides better frame rates in CPU-bound gaming scenarios. It also improves performance in memory-intensive workloads. However, the real-world performance gains diminish beyond 6000 MT/s for most users.
How to Choose RAM Speed
For most users, having more RAM is more important than having faster RAM. Faster RAM provides measurable benefits in gaming and content creation, but the gains diminish at higher speeds.
| RAM Speed | Gaming Performance |
Productivity/ | Content Creation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5200-5600 MT/s DDR5 | Good: Solid performance for gaming | Excellent: Speed doesn't matter for office tasks | Good: Adequate for most workflows |
| 6000 MT/s DDR5 | Excellent: Noticeable improvement in CPU-bound games. Sweet spot for modern platforms. | Excellent: Speed doesn't matter for office tasks | Excellent: Noticeable improvement in rendering, compression, and video encoding |
| 7000+ MT/s DDR5 | Diminishing returns: Minimal gains over 6000 MT/s at significantly higher cost | Excellent: Speed doesn't matter for office tasks | Diminishing returns: Marginal improvement over 6000 MT/s, not worth the premium |
Overclocking Profiles
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI supports the following memory overclocking profiles: EXPO.
Memory Overclocking Explained: These profiles allow your RAM to run at its advertised speed (which is technically an overclock beyond standard JEDEC specifications). Simply enable the appropriate profile in your BIOS to unlock your memory's full performance. Without enabling these profiles, your high-speed RAM will run at much slower standard speeds. You can also manually overclock memory if you prefer fine-tuned control.
ASUS Enhanced Memory Profile (AEMP)
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI includes ASUS's proprietary memory tuning technology for optimized performance beyond standard profiles.
How Much RAM Do You Need?
Choose your memory capacity based on your specific use case:
| RAM Amount | Use Cases |
|---|---|
| 16 GB |
Gaming: Bare minimum for basic gaming Development: Web development, basic coding, office work |
| 32 GB |
Gaming: Sweet spot for gaming in 2025; handles any game, browser tabs, Discord, and background apps without issues Content Creation: Entry point for video editing, photo editing, and light 3D work Development: Running Docker containers, virtual machines, Android Studio, large IDEs |
| 64 GB |
Gaming: Only beneficial if you stream, record, or run heavy background applications Content Creation: Ideal for 4K+ video editing, large Photoshop projects, After Effects, and moderate 3D rendering Development: Multiple VMs simultaneously, large database work, extensive containerized development |
| 128 GB+ |
Content Creation: Professional workflows with 8K footage, complex 3D scenes, simulation work, or multiple virtual machines Development: Extensive virtualization and enterprise-scale development |
Storage
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI provides 4 M.2 NVMe slots for high-speed SSDs and 2 SATA 6 Gb/s ports for 2.5" SSDs and hard drives. With 2 SATA ports, you have limited connectivity for 2.5" SSDs and hard drives. Most users will rely primarily on M.2 storage, using SATA for secondary or backup drives as needed.
| M.2 Slot | Interface | Theoretical Bandwidth | Connection | Form Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 |
Ryzen 9000/ Ryzen 8000: PCIe 4.0 x4 |
Ryzen 9000/ Ryzen 8000: 8 GB/s | CPU | 2280 |
| #2 |
Ryzen 9000/ Ryzen 8000: Not Supported |
Ryzen 9000/ Ryzen 8000: - | CPU | 2280 |
| #3 | PCIe 4.0 x4 | 8 GB/s | Chipset | 2280 |
| #4 | PCIe 4.0 x4 | 8 GB/s | Chipset | 2242, 2260, 2280, 22110 |
M.2 Performance
M.2 NVMe SSDs are significantly faster than SATA drives and install without cables. The PCIe generation and lane count determine maximum transfer speeds. Actual speeds depend on both the slot and the drive; a PCIe 3.0 drive in a PCIe 5.0 slot runs at PCIe 3.0 speeds. PCIe is backward compatible: a PCIe 4.0 drive works in a PCIe 3.0 slot at PCIe 3.0 speeds.
| Interface | Theoretical Bandwidth | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| PCIe 5.0 x4 | 16 GB/s | Cutting-edge, future-proof |
| PCIe 4.0 x4 | 8 GB/s | Excellent for gaming and professional work |
| PCIe 3.0 x4 | 4 GB/s | Still very fast, suitable for most users |
| PCIe 3.0 x2 | 2 GB/s | Slower, avoid for primary drives |
For gaming, faster SSDs primarily improve load times rather than in-game performance. The exception is large open-world games that stream content as you play. PCIe 4.0 already provides fast load times, and while PCIe 5.0 can reduce load times further, the real-world difference is often negligible for most games.
| Slot Count | Assessment | Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 M.2 slot | Minimum viable | Works if you only need one NVMe and will use SATA for additional storage |
| 2 M.2 slots | Ideal for most users |
One NVMe boot drive + one games/ |
| 3+ M.2 slots |
Enthusiast/ | Useful for separating OS, games, and work files |
Bandwidth Sharing Considerations
Some M.2 slots share bandwidth with other expansion slots. Review these important notes:
| Condition | Affected Slots | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| M.2_2 populated |
| PCIEX16(G5) reduced from x16 to x8 |
| M.2_4 populated |
| PCIEX16(G4) disabled |
When SATA Still Makes Sense
Despite being older technology, SATA remains relevant for specific use cases:
- Bulk storage: 4TB-20 TB mechanical hard drives for media libraries, backups, and archival storage ($10-$25/TB vs $50-$100/TB for NVMe)
- Budget SSDs: 2.5" SATA SSDs are sometimes cheaper than equivalent NVMe drives (though this gap is closing in 2025)
- Repurposing old drives: If you're upgrading from an older system, SATA ports let you reuse existing drives
- Optical drives: Blu-ray and DVD drives still use SATA connections
RAID Support
RAID Technology: AMD RAIDXpert2
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI supports RAID configurations. Supported RAID levels vary depending on your specific CPU model. Check the motherboard manual or manufacturer specifications for details.
PCIe Slots
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI offers 2 PCIe expansion slots for graphics cards, network adapters, sound cards, or other expansion devices.
| Slot | Physical Size | Specification | Theoretical Bandwidth | Lane Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCIEX16(G5) | x16 |
Ryzen 9000/ Ryzen 8000: PCIe 4.0 x8 |
Ryzen 9000/ Ryzen 8000: 16 GB/s | CPU |
| PCIEX16(G4) | x16 | PCIe 4.0 x4 | 8 GB/s | Chipset |
PCIe Bandwidth
The PCIe generation and lane count determine bandwidth for expansion cards. Higher bandwidth enables better performance for graphics cards, storage controllers, and network adapters. A slot's physical size (x16, x4, x1) doesn't always match its electrical lanes; a physically x16 slot might only provide x4 electrical lanes. Check the "Specification" column in the table above for actual lane counts.
| PCIe Configuration | Theoretical Bandwidth | Ideal Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| PCIe 5.0 x16 | 64 GB/s | Latest generation GPUs, future-proof for next-gen graphics cards and high-bandwidth accelerators |
| PCIe 4.0 x16 | 32 GB/s | Current high-end GPUs, professional graphics cards |
| PCIe 3.0 x16 | 16 GB/s | Mid-range and older GPUs, most graphics cards won't saturate this bandwidth |
| PCIe 4.0 x4 | 8 GB/s | High-speed NVMe SSDs, sound cards, 10GbE network adapters |
| PCIe 3.0 x4 | 4 GB/s | Standard NVMe SSDs, sound cards, network adapters |
| PCIe 3.0 x1 | 1 GB/s | Basic expansion cards (USB controllers, low-speed network adapters) |
PCIe Generation for GPUs
PCIe 4.0 x16 is fully adequate for all current graphics cards. PCIe 5.0 GPU support provides minimal real-world benefits as no current GPUs saturate PCIe 4.0 bandwidth. PCIe 3.0 x16 works well for mid-range GPUs but can cause noticeable performance loss on high-end cards. All PCIe generations are backward compatible, so newer GPUs will work in older slots and vice versa.
Planning Your PCIe Expansion Slots
| Build Type | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Gaming | 1x PCIe x16 slot for GPU. Most gaming motherboards include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth onboard, so typically only the GPU slot gets used. |
| Content Creation | 1-2x PCIe x16 slots for GPU(s). Multi-GPU is obsolete for gaming but useful for rendering. May also need 1x PCIe x4 slot for sound card, 10GbE network card, or additional M.2 slots via adapter cards. |
| Workstation | Multiple GPUs for compute, professional sound cards, RAID controllers, or high-speed networking cards. Count your devices carefully as workstation builds use multiple slots. |
Multi-GPU: SLI/CrossFire for gaming is obsolete; games don't support it anymore. For gaming, you only need one PCIe x16 slot for the GPU (though you may need additional slots for other cards like Wi-Fi or sound cards). Multiple GPUs only make sense for professional rendering, AI/ML workloads, or specific compute tasks.
Ethernet
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI includes 2.5Gb Ethernet for wired networking.
- 2.5Gb Ethernet (Realtek)
Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps) handles most home internet connections and gaming. 2.5 Gigabit or faster Ethernet benefits multi-gigabit internet plans and large file transfers to network storage.
Wi-Fi
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI includes Wi-Fi 7 wireless connectivity. Built-in Wi-Fi allows PC placement without running Ethernet cables. Wired Ethernet offers more consistent performance for competitive gaming, but modern Wi-Fi 6E/7 works well for most users. If your motherboard lacks Wi-Fi, you can add a PCIe Wi-Fi card later.
- Antenna Configuration: 2x2
- Frequency Bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz
Wi-Fi Speed Comparison
| Wi-Fi Version | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Latest standard with 320 MHz channels, 4K-QAM, Multi-Link Operation (MLO). Backward compatible with older devices; Wi-Fi 7 client devices needed for full performance. Ideal for 8K streaming, VR/AR, and ultra-low latency applications. |
| Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) | Adds 6 GHz band support for less congestion and interference. Excellent for gaming, 4K streaming, and high-bandwidth applications. Best choice for current high-performance builds. |
| Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Improved efficiency in crowded environments, better battery life for devices, lower latency. Current mainstream standard, great for most users. |
| Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Previous generation, 5 GHz only. Still capable for basic needs but lacks efficiency improvements of Wi-Fi 6/6E/7. |
Bluetooth
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI includes Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless keyboards, mice, headphones, and game controllers without USB dongles. Modern Bluetooth versions provide improved audio quality, range, and power efficiency.
USB Ports
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI provides 10 rear panel USB ports with the following connector types, plus internal headers for front-panel connections.
Rear Panel USB Ports
| Count | Standard | Speed | Connector |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2x | USB4 | 40 Gbps | Type-C |
| 3x | USB 10Gbps | 10 Gbps | Type-A |
| 4x | USB 5Gbps | 5 Gbps | Type-A |
| 1x | USB 2.0 | 480 Mbps | Type-A |
Internal USB Headers
Internal USB headers are connectors on the motherboard that allow you to connect front-panel USB ports on your case, USB hubs, or other internal devices.
| Header Count | Ports per Header | Standard | Speed | Header Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1x |
| USB 20Gbps | 20 Gbps | Type-C |
| 1x | 2x | USB 5Gbps | 5 Gbps | 19-pin |
| 2x | 2x | USB 2.0 | 480 Mbps | 9-pin |
USB Speed Standards
| USB Standard | Max Speed | Best Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| USB4 40Gbps / Thunderbolt 3/4 | 40 Gbps | High-end docking stations, external GPUs, ultra-fast NVMe SSDs, professional video capture, multi-display setups |
| USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 / USB4 20Gbps | 20 Gbps | High-speed external NVMe SSDs, 4K/8K video capture, fast file transfers |
| USB 3.2 Gen 2 | 10 Gbps | External SSDs, fast flash drives, high-resolution webcams, VR headsets |
| USB 3.2 Gen 1 | 5 Gbps | External hard drives, standard flash drives, hubs, general peripherals |
| USB 2.0 | 480 Mbps | Keyboards, mice, printers, older devices. Perfectly adequate for low-bandwidth peripherals. |
USB-C is a connector type, not a speed standard. A USB-C port can support anything from 480 Mbps to 80 Gbps+ depending on the implementation. Always check the port's actual specification.
Video Outputs
Motherboard video outputs require a CPU with integrated graphics. The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI provides the following display outputs:
- 1x HDMI 2.1 (up to 4K@60Hz)
- 2x USB-C with DisplayPort Alt Mode (DisplayPort 1.4a) up to 4K@60Hz
Requires CPU with integrated graphics
Motherboards with video outputs enable troubleshooting even if you plan to use a dedicated GPU. If you're deciding between two similar motherboards and have a CPU with integrated graphics, prefer the one with video outputs; they add minimal cost.
Audio
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI features a Realtek ALC1220P audio codec. Modern motherboard audio is sufficient for most users, including gaming and music listening. Consider a dedicated sound card or external DAC/amp for high-impedance headphones (250+ ohms), virtual surround sound processing for competitive gaming, or professional audio work requiring hardware DSP and ultra-low latency recording. For audiophile setups, external DAC/amps often provide better isolation from electrical interference than internal sound cards.
Audio Specifications
- Codec: Realtek ALC1220P
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 120dB
- Excellent audio quality with minimal background noise, suitable for audiophiles and content creators.
Fan and RGB Headers
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI provides 6 total fan headers (2 CPU, 4 chassis).
- CPU Fan Headers: 2
- Chassis Fan Headers: 4
- AIO Pump Header: Yes
- 5V Addressable RGB Headers: 3
Compatible CPU Coolers
Best AM5 All-in-One Liquid Coolers
CORSAIR iCUE H150i ELITE LCD
CORSAIR iCUE H150i ELITE LCD Supports AM5: YES Max TDP: 350 watt Type: Liquid Cooler Check the latest price of the CORSAIR iCUE H150i ELITE LCD on Amazon
This cooler is designed to fit Intel and AMD sockets, including the following models: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2066 and AMD AM5, AM4, sTRX4, sTR4 (Intel LGA 1700 is supported with CW-8960091 or CW-8960093 kits).
350-watt TDP (Thermal Design Power).
It provides powerful low-noise cooling and RGB lighting with a customizable LCD display that can display your CPU temperature or other graphics. As I explored the world of LED displays on CPU coolers, I discovered their captivating appeal. These displays have transformed my systems' visual aesthetics.
It has 120mm CORSAIR ML RGB ELITE magnetic levitation fans for great CPU cooling performance.
Make sure your computer case dimensions support this, as it will take up a decent amount of space!
Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID 360 ARGB Sync
Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID 360 ARGB Sync Supports AM5: YES Max TDP: 250 watt Type: Liquid Cooler Check the latest price of the Thermaltake TOUGHLIQUID 360 ARGB Sync on Amazon
TOUGHLIQUID Series is designed to fit Intel and AMD sockets, including the following models: Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 1156, 1366, 2011, 2011-v3, 2066 and AMD AM5, AM4, AM3+, AM3, AM2+, AM2, FM2, FM1.
We estimate that this supports roughly a 250-watt TDP (Thermal Design Power).
This Liquid cooler supports 5V RGB compatible motherboards.
Equipped with a TOUGHFAN 12 2000-RPM fan and supports ARGB lighting on the waterblock. Even without a full LED display, ARGB lighting creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle when I use it in my builds.
Make sure your computer case dimensions support this, as it will take up a decent amount of space. There is a smaller version available, if needed.
Best AM5 Dual-Fan Air CPU Cooler
Noctua NH-D15 CPU Cooler
Noctua NH-D15 CPU Cooler Supports AM5: YES Max TDP: 220 watt Type: Heatsink & Fans Check the latest price of the Noctua NH-D15 on Amazon
Dual 140 mm fans provide 220-watt TDP (183 NSPR) of cooling capability.
Supports a variety of CPU sockets, including Intel LGA 1700, 1200, 1156, 1155, 1151, 1150, 2011, 2066 and AMD AM5, AM4, AM3, AM3+, AM2, AM2+, FM2, FM2+.
Quiet operation at 24.6 dBA.
Always evaluate cooler compatibility with your specific motherboard model, as some boards have components near the CPU socket that may interfere with larger coolers.
Form Factor and Physical Specifications
The TUF Gaming X870-PLUS WIFI uses the ATX form factor.
- Size: Standard ATX (305mm × 244mm / 12" × 9.6")
- Case Compatibility: Fits most mid-tower and full-tower cases
- Expansion: Maximum expansion slot availability (typically 7 slots)
- Best For: Full-featured builds with multiple GPUs or expansion cards
ATX is the most common motherboard size. It provides space for cooling, multiple GPUs, and extensive connectivity.
Verify your PC case supports the ATX form factor before purchasing.
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