Z77 - Asrock vs Asus vs Gigabyte?
In a few weeks I will be upgrading my aging X38 E8500 system to a Z77 platform. Initially I'll be using a 2550K and will upgrade later to an IB processor when the process has matured. Cooling will be done via a TR Silver Arrow. Dual-band wi-fi is important but I suppose I could always get an external router. So far I have these motherboards in mind:
AsRock Z77 Pro (Fata1ity series)
Asus P8Z77-V DELUXE
Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD5H-WB
Here's a comparison of the three at Newegg:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...^13-157-299-TS
The AsRock seems to offer a lot for the money but I'm concerned about their long-term BIOS support. According to their web site it comes with military-grade components (like the Asus ROG boards). Both the GB & Asus boards have db wi-fi. The Asus provides DLNA which for home networking. Not sure of the GB does.
I will not be stressing the board via LN2 cooling. I may go with a custom water loop down the road but for now it's air. I thought about the Sabertooth Z77 but I guess I'm not convinced about the added value of the Thermal Armor.
Recommendations?