Newer AMD 800 series motherboards from ASUS bring robust features for incredibly easier upgradability, thanks to the newer PCIe lane layouts.
ASUS Unveils 800 Series Neo Motherboards With Optimized Lane Layouts, NitroPath DRAM and Exclusive AI Technologies; Brings Wire-Free AIO Q-Connector
ASUS has unveiled its latest 800 series refreshed motherboard lineup called NEO (and non-NEO models too), which brings improved features and specs, enabling easier PC building and better upgradeability. The NEO lineup works not just on the core features, but also brings enhanced compatibility and connectivity functionality for enthusiast gamers, pc builders, and professionals. ASUS previously teased the NEO series motherboards in a short video, revealing that the new models will be launched in the ROG Crosshair, ROG Strix, ProArt, and TUF Gaming families. At CES, ASUS has unveiled two of these models.
These offer the latest AMD X870E chipset, but with improved PCIe lane layouts to enhance compatibility with the components, making upgrading easier. The new ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi7 NEO brings an optimized lane layout to allow installing two PCIe 5.0 M.2 SSDs and three PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSDs simultaneously while the GPU runs in the PCIe 5.0 x16 mode. ASUS says this was possible by allowing bandwidth sharing between the USB4 ports and the second M.2 slot.
Similarly, the CES 2026 innovation award winner, ROG Crosshair X870E Glacial, gives users full PCIe 5.0 x16 bandwidth while two PCIe 5.0 M.2 SSDs can also work at their full speed. At the same time, the second PCIe slot can work at Gen 3.0 x4 mode. The third model, ProArt B850-Creator WiFi NEO, also brings a better lane layout that allows two GPUs to work in X8/X8 configuration for multi-GPU setups.
The NEO motherboards will also bring the ASUS-exclusive NitroPath DRAM technology for better DDR5 performance, and also AI technologies such as AI Cache Boost, ASUS-exclusive AI OC, AI cooling II, etc. Aesthetics, on-board troubleshooting features, and connectivity are top-notch as well. And now users will also get a new feature for a cleaner AIO cooler setup on select 800 series motherboards. The Crosshair X870E Glacial is provided with a wire-free AIO Q-Connector, which reduces cable clutter, and more models with this feature will arrive soon.
That said, ASUS has launched a new AIO series alongside the NEO motherboard series called ROG Strix LC IV. These CPU coolers will feature a 5.08-inch full-color display and will be available in both standard-tubing and short-tubing variants. To take advantage of the AIO Q-Connector, this AIO series will be compatible with select motherboards and will eliminate individual connections like pump, fans, or LCD, and will utilize a simple interface for all.
In the near future, we are going to see more NEO models such as ROG Strix X870E-A Gaming WiFi7 NEO, ROG Strix B850-F Gaming WiFi7 NEO, and also a model in the TUF series.
About the author: Sarfraz Khan is a hardware reporter with a focus on PC components and the builder community. With years of experience writing about PC hardware and laptops, his work has been featured on several reputable technology publications. Sarfraz's hands-on experience is demonstrated through his first-person accounts of using and comparing different hardware configurations, providing practical and relatable insights for everyday users. His technical analysis is respected by peers in the enthusiast community and has been cited by specialized hardware sites such as Germany's Igor's Lab.
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