- Mar 8, 2014
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Hello all - I am in the process of buying a new Z97 motherboard to pair with a 4690K and think I have narrowed it down to an ASUS Z97-A or Sabertooth Z97 Mark 2. These both seem to be highly regarded, have plenty of features, and use digital power in the VRMs. Does anyone have experience with either board? The Mark2 seems like it has more "enthusiast" features on it as well as a better audio chip. The one odd thing is that it says the RAM speed limit is 1866 - I have 2133 RAM, so will it just downclock it?
I also see that Newegg has different boards "open-box" - is this a safe avenue to buy from? I'm concerned I will get something with bent pins - and I have read the Egg likes to get crappy even if it comes out of the box like that. Also - the Sabertooth MK2 is available for $99 refurbished which seems to be a great deal... I am assuming this is no different than what you'd receive when you get an RMA board correct?
I also see that Newegg has different boards "open-box" - is this a safe avenue to buy from? I'm concerned I will get something with bent pins - and I have read the Egg likes to get crappy even if it comes out of the box like that. Also - the Sabertooth MK2 is available for $99 refurbished which seems to be a great deal... I am assuming this is no different than what you'd receive when you get an RMA board correct?