Biostar Announces Gaming Z97X and Z97W Commander Motherboards

Remember a few months ago when Biostar announced plans for a gaming motherboard line? They are keeping to that promise early in 2015 with the release of two new motherboards using the Intel Z97 chipset and they look very good. The Biostar Gaming Z97X and Z97W Commander motherboards are standard ATX form factor boards but are bundled with a front panel Gaming Commander console that includes controls for audio, CPU temperature monitoring and quick LED diagnosis. The Gaming Z97X features a 12-phase CPU power VRM while the Gaming Z97W has a 10-phase CPU VRM cooled by a substantial sized heatsinks.

Both motherboards have dual Gigabit LAN capability outfitted with a Killer E2201 controller paired with an Intel i218V (Z97X) or a Realtek 8111GR (Z97W). Advanced storage capabilities include M.2 and SATA Express as well as USB 3.1 support. The audio solution involves a Realtek ALC898 HD audio codec with gold-plated rear audio connectors. Since Biostar is known for affordable motherboard offerings, the most interesting aspect is of course going to be the price but unfortunately that information is not available yet but we will keep you posted.