Designed for extreme performance, the ROG Maximus IX APEX shatters world records with a full suite of onboard overclocking features, including dual BIOS chips and an LN2 mode switch. The innovative DIMM.2 vertically mounts M.2 drives for direct cooling, while AURA Sync RGB lighting and 3D-printing mounts provide unlimited personalization.1 At a GlanceDesigned for 7th generation Intelｮ Core・processors to maximize connectivity and speed with USB 3.1 Type A and Type C connections, vertically mounted dual M.2 (via the DIMM.2 adapter) and Intelｮ Optane・Memory compatibilityRecord-shattering overclocking design with a full suite of onboard features like dual BIOS chips, LN2 mode switch, water cooling system headers, thermal sensor connectors and probelt measurement points25-Way Optimization with Auto-Tuning and FanXpert 4 automatically tailors overclocking profiles to your unique build for maximum OC performance and dynamic system coolingThree patent-pending SafeSlots feature an injection molding process that integrates metal framing for stronger, firmly anchored PCIe slots built for heavyweight GPUsUnmatched personalization with ASUS exclusive AURA Sync RGB lighting, two additional RGB headers and a 3D-printing friendly designFEATURESREDEFINING LIMITSWith its 2-DIMM DRAM design, Apex has already surpassed the performance peak by setting multiple world records and global first places to break several long-standing records. These include the best Intelｩ Core・CPU-frequency since the X58 platform-based motherboards, with a record of 7.383GHz on a single core and one thread and 7.328GHz on four cores and eight threads. It also set a reference clock (BCLK) at 584MHz and a memory frequency surpassing the 5GHz, with 5041MHz. In total, Maximus IX Apex has broken 8 WRs and 13 GFPs.2ONE-CLICK OVERCLOCKING AND COOLING5-Way Optimization sorts all the complex settings with a click, for instant, highly controllable performance boosts. Exclusive ROG technology dynamically optimizes essential aspects of your system, based on real-time use ・so you get superb CPU performance, cool and quiet fans, everyday energy savings, ultra-stable digital power, and networking settings that are tailored for the apps that you are using.OUTSHINE THE COMPETITIONASUS Aura Sync technology makes ROG Maximus IX Apex the control hub for your illumination ambitions ・so it's easy to synchronize incredible lighting effects between compatible components, including RGB LED strips, graphics cards, keyboards and even mice! Change all LEDs in unison or employ dynamic modes to flow the illumination effects smoothly across all synchronized devices.DIMM.2The DIMM.2 module has an exclusive design that accepts two M.2 drives vertically-mounted on a DDR4 interface. This allows a DRAM fan cooler to direct air towards the M.2 drives to prevent throttling.REVOLUTIONARY DESIGNAn asymmetrical X-shaped PCB gives the Maximus IX Apex a radical appearance while the stealth-fighter-inspired heatsink features sharp, chiseled edges and flat surfaces for visual impact. Lastly, use the bundled DIY kit to customize your own name plate with Aura RGB lighting.WHAT'S IN THE BOXUser's manualI/O Shield4 x SATA 6Gb/s cable(s)1 x M.2 Screw Package1 x Supporting DVD1 x SLI HB BRIDGE(2-WAY-L)1 x Q-Connector1 x 10-in-1 ROG cable label1 x DIMM.2 extension card with 2 x M key, type 2242/2260/2280/22110 storage devices support (SATA & PCIE 3.0 x 4 mode)1 x 3D printing mount package1 x ROG coasters