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ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula vs ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

Product Comparison: ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula vs ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

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ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 Z270 ATX

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ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard

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General Specifications

Brand

ASUS

Model

ROG Maximus IХ Formula

ROG Maximus IX Hero

Origin

China

About the Product

For more than a decade, Republic of Gamers has delivered exemplary design and performance to thrill the world's best players and PC enthusiasts. Our journey is a road without end. Now, it's time for competitors to be warned and for gamers and enthusiasts to push the limits: The packed and pumped ROG Maximus IX Formula motherboard is ready to defeat all challengers.

The ROG Maximus IX Hero strikes the perfect balance for gamers and enthusiasts alike with features they need, performance they crave, and easy-to-use interfaces that put complete control at their fingertips. Dynamic AURA Sync lighting and support for 3D printed accessories enable more personalization across your build than ever before.

Key Specs

Form Factor

ATX

Socket

Intel® Socket 1151

Chipset

Intel® Z270

Supported Processors

7th/6th Generation Core™ i7, 7th/6th Generation Core™ i5, 7th/6th Generation Core™ i3, 7th/6th Generation Core™ Pentium, 7th/6th Generation Core™ Celeron

7th/6th Generation Core™ i7 Processor, 7th/6th Core™ i5 Processor, 7th/6th Core™ i3 Processor, 7th/6th Pentium® Processor, 7th/6th Celeron® Processor

Memory Slot Type

288 pin

What customers say about "Key Specs"

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 Z270 ATX

Just be careful that choose the right Motherboard Z270 or Z370 for your Cpu.. Intel changed the Socket so i7-8700k will only work on the Z370.
Fully upgradeable with a z270 chipset, SupremeFX audio and definitely VR ready. Great mobo, especially for the price.
The shielding on this thing looks amazing, the RBG lighting brings my computer to life, and the new z270 chipset suites my new I7 7700k perfectly.
Never got the system to maintain stability. I recently took the system apart and noticed that there are bent pins on the CPU socket.
Upon opening the product box, and removing the CPU socket placeholder for the CPU, I immediately noticed that there were around 4-6 bent or broken CPU socket pins.

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard

Great Mobo! Working well on my VR rig, the only down side I had was the specs were wrong- the manual that comes with the model I got, Maximus IX HERO, says that both M.2 ports support 2280 devices.
I put a i7-7700K 4.2Ghz Kabby Lake CPU in the slot, and fired her up! AWESOME! The performance is mind blowing, especially with Win 10's Direct X 12! You will definitely be happy with this board!
The software for the fan speeds worked so well that I ended up hooking all the fans to the motherboard instead of using the case's special system.
I have this running my delidded i7-7700k at 5.0GHz on all cores with an NZXT Kraken x62, 32Gb of TridentZ RGB (3000), and a Strix GTX 1070 OC. The RGB is all synced with Asus Aura, including my Phanteks P400 TG, and it looks amazing. 100% happy with this purchase.
What a MB. I havent found one negative yet. Have it paired with i7-7700k processor , outstanding gaming, can wait for adding in VR. I am ready for it and all testing I can find shows my system is well above what is needed.
I've used Asus motherboards for my last 3 PCs. This time I ran into issues where everything runs fine but when it's shutdown long enough it would not boot and post code never changed from 00. It took a lot of testing, changed ram sticks, even changed the motherboard but no success.

Size & Weight

Height

12 in.

Width

9.6 in.

Depth

1 in.

Weight

4.26 lbs.

2.92 lbs.

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

Memory

Memory Type

DDR4

Maximum Speed

4133 MHz

Number Of Memory Slots

Max. Memory Supported

64 GB

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero

What customers say about "Memory"

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 Z270 ATX

Very good board only problem I had was when installing hyper 212 evo cooler. if tightened a little too much one memory bank will not register so if your having an issue with one of your dimm slots try loosening your cpu cooler after many frustrating hours that was my issue all along.
Nice layout, sturdy pcie slots, memory insertion is a snap. I'm very pleased with this motherboard.
Out of the box support for XMP based 3000Mhz (and beyond) DDR4 memory
Memory works amazing in this board. I have had 2 sets of 3000mhz memory in it and I can get them both to 3200mhz.
The first board delivered however from the get go I discovered a problem with the board recognizing all my memory slots.
The board seems good with good features, but it will not boot with RAM slot A1 occupied. I have tried both sticks in the other slot and they are fine. I have Corsair LPX DDR4 memory which is on the QVL, but it doesn't work.

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard

I was able to overclock my 7700K to 5.2 GHz with only 1.33 volts with my Trident Z RGB RAM overclocked to 3733 MHz with timings of 14-14-14-34 @1.35 volts.
Up and running after spending a couple days guessing the poorly documented tower cables that were identified partially. I started with one simple OS drive and am adding a couple drives at a time. Bios discovered my Cpu,memory and os drive easily.
This is a great motherboard. Easy to setup and the options are easy and effective. Also like the extra usb ports available which most don't have. The reset bios boton is the back and inside make its easy when you need it.
Definitely an amazing motherboard. I have an i7 7700k attached and 16gb ddr4 along with my gtx1080 it really does put in work.
Couldn't be happier with my choice, performs like a champ. Only sub par about this board is lack of usb ports from other asus boards I've had, very cheap and easy fix with an internal usb strip.
Had to return a defective motherboard. RAM slots A1 A2 were not working PERIOD. Apparently this is a common issue, so I returned it

Connectivity

PCI-E

2 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 (x16 or dual x8, gray), 1 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 (x4 mode, black), 3 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1

2 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 (x16 or dual x8), 1 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x16 (x4 mode), 3 x PCIe 3.0/2.0 x1

HDMI

USB

1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 (red)Type-A, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 (black)USB Type-C, 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 (blue), 4 x USB 2.0, 1 x USB BIOS Flashback Button(s), 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 connector(s) support(s) additional 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 port(s), 1 x USB 2.0 connector(s) support(s) additional 2 USB 2.0 port(s), 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 front panel connector

1 x USB 3.1 front panel connector port(s), 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 port(s) (2 at back panel, , Type-A + USB Type-CTM), 6 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 port(s) (4 at back panel, blue, 2 at mid-board), 6 x USB 2.0 port(s) (4 at back panel, black, 2 at mid-board)

SATA

Other Interfaces

1 x Optical S/PDIF out, 5 x Audio jack(s), 1 x Clear CMOS button(s), 2 x Wi-Fi antenna port(s), 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x LAN (RJ45) port(s), 2 x Aura RGB Strip Headers, 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (SATA mode & X4 PCIE mode), 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M Key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support (PCIE mode only), 1 x TPM connector(s), 1 x CPU Fan connector(s) (1 x 4 -pin), 1 x CPU OPT Fan connector(s) (1 x 4 -pin), 3 x Chassis Fan connector(s) (3 x 4 -pin), 1 x H_AMP fan connector, 1 x W_PUMP+ connector (1 x 4 -pin), 1 x AIO_PUMP connector (1 x 4 -pin), 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V Power connector(s), 1 x Front panel audio connector(s) (AAFP), 1 x System panel(s) (Q-Connector), 1 x MemOK! button(s), 1 x Slow Mode switch(es), 1 x Reset button(s), 1 x LN2 Mode jumper(s), 1 x ROG extension (ROG_EXT) header(s), 1 x Safe Boot button, 1 x ReTry button, 1 x EXT_Fan header, 1 x W_IN header, 1 x W_OUT header, 1 x W_FLOW header, 1 x Thermal sensor connector(s), 1 x Start button

1 x DisplayPort, 1 x LAN (RJ45) port(s), 1 x Optical S/PDIF out, 1 x Clear CMOS button(s), 1 x USB BIOS Flashback Button(s), 2 x RGB Header(s), 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M key, type 2242/2260/2280 storage devices support (SATA & PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode), 1 x M.2 Socket 3 with M key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode), 1 x TPM connector(s), 1 x CPU Fan connector(s), 1 x CPU OPT Fan connector(s), 3 x Chassis Fan connector(s) (3 x 4 -pin), 1 x H_AMP fan connector, 1 x W_PUMP+ connector, 1 x AIO_PUMP connector, 1 x Thunderbolt header(s), 1 x Front panel audio connector(s) (AAFP), 1 x MemOK! button(s), 1 x Thermal sensor connector(s), 1 x Reset button(s), 1 x LN2 Mode switch(es)

What customers say about "Connectivity"

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 Z270 ATX

If you use an M.2 PCIe SSD in the M.2_2 socket be sure to go into BIOS (the advanced mode BIOS, under the "advanced" tab of that BIOS, under onboard device configuration) and make sure that socket is set to X4 rather than X2.
The USB item does bring up my only complaint, but it was easily solved. There is ONE other USB header on the board. It is USB3.0. It is the old / standard style connector. It is backward compatible to USB2.0. I needed to connect the front case USB and also my NZXT Kraken liquid cooler.
Great motherboard! The connections, options, and overall capabilities are great. I do wish this board came with 2-4 more USB 3.0 ports.
A very awesome, rock solid board. I bought this for gaming and gaming. It is great choice for someone looking for a gaming board with tweaking options. It has two NVMe places and plenty Sata 3 connections.
I was making the connections on my board and when I got to the USB 2.0 connector I tried to plug it into the port labeled USB1314. On the motherboard the top right pin is missing and on the connector the bottom right pin is missing.

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard

The board itself is nice. I was easily able to overclock my RAM, adjust fan speeds, overclock my i7 7700k to 4.5GHz, all from the BIOS. I love the 8 USB ports on the back (4x 2.0/ 4x 3.0).
If your looking at this motherboard, then your most likely a gamer that builds their own rigs... so I'm sure you know the specs. I paired this with the ASUS GeForce GTX 1060 6GB ROG STRIX OC Edition GPU. It has AURA RGB as well, and pairs nicely with this motherboard.
The sound quality is also amazingly good for on-board sound. It honestly sounds better than my external DAC/amp which is a Schiit Fulla 2 that's worth $100.
I love Asus for GPU and MOBO's... I have 16 GB rams 3000Mhz ASUS Strix 1080 Intel 7700K Samsung SSD Everything runs smooth and solid.
I am having to edit my review to lower it a bit. The front audio does not work correctly. I have all the most recent BIOS/drivers etc, and have used multiple hardware devices. I simply can't get the correct audio to come from the front audio inputs.
I have never had a problem with any of Asus' motherboards and this one continues that. The only thing I wish this board included was another internal USB 2.0 connector as it only has 1.

Features

Native Audio

ROG SupremeFX 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC S1220

ROG SupremeFX 8-Channel High Definition Audio CODEC

Additional Accessories Included

User's manual, 3 x SATA 6Gb/s cable(s), 1 x M.2 Screw Package, 1 x CPU installation tool, 1 x Supporting DVD, 1 x ASUS 2T2R dual band Wi-Fi moving antennas (Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac compliant), 1 x SLI HB BRIDGE(2-WAY-M), 1 x ROG big sticker, 1 x Q-connector(s) (2 in 1), 1 x 10-in-1 ROG cable label, 1 x M.2 bracket, 1 x Extension Cable for RGB strips (80 cm), 1 x ROG coasters

User's manual, I/O Shield, 4 x SATA 6Gb/s cable(s), 1 x M.2 Screw Package, 1 x CPU installation tool, 1 x Supporting DVD, 1 x SLI HB BRIDGE(2-WAY-M), 1 x ROG big sticker, 1 x Q-connector(s) (2 in 1), 1 x 10-in-1 ROG cable label, 1 x 3D printing mount package, 1 x ROG coasters

Extras

One-Click Overclocking and Cooling, Expertly Tooled. Totally Cooled, Sleek Anti-Static Connection Protection, ASUS Aura Sync technology, ROG's awesome SupremeFX audio technology, ROG's Sonic Studio III, App-specific profiles, Noise filter, Sonic radar III, ASUS pro clock technology, Strong abs top cover, Solid steel backplate

ROG RAMCache II, ROG CPU-Z, ROG CloneDrive, MemOK! Button, Overwolf, ReTry Button, Safe Boot Button, Start Button, Reset Button, LN2 Mode, GameFirst IV, ROG Aura, Extreme Engine Digi+, Mem TweakIt, KeyBot II, UEFI BIOS features, ROG RAMDisk, Loadline Calibration, ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 5-Way Optimization by Dual Intelligent Processors 5, TPU, Gamer's Guardian:, ASUS EZ DIY, ASUS Q-Design

What customers say about "Features"

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 Z270 ATX

The lights make this a cool looking MB especially if you couple in RGB memory. I put in an Intel Kaby Lake 7700K and instructions made installation a snap.
This is a quality motherboard, all functions work flawlessly. Fit perfectly in my Corsair 300D case. Adequate clearance for Corsair Vengenace memory and Noctua Air Cooler.
Love this board. So many options. Looks awesome. Only con would be the software to control the RGB lighting is sketchy and is incompatible with my LED memory I bought Corsair Vengeance LED. Hopefully they will update it soon.
Overall it's a nice mobo. With lots of possibilites and with the latest technologies in it.
Let's start by first saying that this motherboard is definitely overkill for me. I don't do any watercooling, so it's Crosschill technology is a waste on me. I mainly got this board because I was in the mood for shiny things and also because of its durable design.

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard

I'm not big on overclocking. Well the Dual Intelligent Processors 5 program on this thing blew me away. I didn't even have to relearn how to overclock (it has been 5 years - I forget these things). If you fire up that program and pick 5-way optimization it will do everything for you.
In terms of functionality, this thing is a beast. The VRM heatsinks are massive and makes the board feel very premium with that extra weight.
The BIOS is very user friendly and has descriptions for every option in it and the options in this BIOS are absolutely crazy, it's like they never end.
For the price you can't go wrong with this entry level ROG motherboard. It performs like a top of the line board and looks amazing while having tons of functionality and customization. 10/10 good job Asus.
I've been using this MOBO for about a month! I loved it. it has good finished and quality. The Aura is nice with the lights. It's up to date with all the modern features on demand: M.2 SSD, USB 3.1 etc... I know that there are others good brand out there, but I just so happy with this purchase.
My only complaint thus far are those stupid RGB lights. I turned them off permanently because they'll stay on even though the computer is off. If you want a nice board for OC, get this.

Power

Power Connectors

1 x 24-pin EATX Power connector(s)

1 x 24-pin EATX 1 x 8-pin ATX 12V 1 x 4-pin ATX 12V

What customers say about "Power"

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 Z270 ATX

The build power/ reset buttons makes it easy for first time builders, it is super easy and they look nice.
They provide a jumper to test out the power supply (which was recommended) before you put the supply in the PC chasis and the power supply came on as expected, with all voltages present.
Power supply is critical with overclocking (recommend 750 watt modular or better) - this board is ROG - if you dare.
My motherboard failed (it no longer went to post when providing power) just barely outside of the return window with Amazon - a little over 30 days of moderate use.

ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero LGA1151 DDR4 DP HDMI M.2 USB 3.1 ATX Motherboard

The RGB lighting is beautiful and compliments the black and gray monotone color scheme of the board very well.
I'm not using water but still getting decent OC performance on everything except at the highest settings, and that's understandable. Flawless install, one expected BIOS upgrade made simple by the built-in utility, and you're off and running.
Hands down the best Z270 board. Zero issues in 2 months. Only gripe would be the RGB color range is not as great as the LED strips I installed. Not a major problem at all. Lots of USB connections versus the Prime and Strix line of ASUS boards. Great hinksink for the VRM.
The main gripe was the RGB lighting. I only had an option to disable it or turn it on. Nothing in the bios for turning it off while the PC was off. When powering it on, they should have started working then.

Warranty / Certifications

Manufacturer Warranty

3 year(s)

Certifications

FCC, CE