EVGA X58 3X SLI Core i7 Motherboard

Performance Summary: The EVGA X58 3X SLI performed on-par with the other X58 Express motherboards we tested and with less than a 5% variance faster or slower, depending on the tests we ran.  As a platform, Intel's Core i7 processor, coupled with this new motherboard from EVGA, offers a healthy performance gain (sometimes in excess of 25% or more) over legacy Core 2 processors and previous generation chipset platforms.

The EVGA X58 3X SLI is a solid example of the new round of motherboards for Intel's new Core i7 processor based on the X58 Express chipset.  Though we have at least one major gripe with the board's awkward 8-pin ATX power connector location, the rest of our experience with the board was first class.  One pleasant surprise was EVGA's re-branded ELEET tuning software with CPUID technology driving the interface.  We were able to dial in an impressive overclock at 4GHz on standard air cooling with the ELEET tuning utility and were able to get their quickly with its intuitive control panel menu screens, all on the fly on a Vista desktop.

In terms of integrated features, the X58 3X SLI has just about all you could want in a new X58 board, including both internal reset and power button switches, and a highly appreciated external clear CMOS switch peeking through its back IO panel.  At $299 currently, the X58 3X SLI is right in the middle of the pack price-wise, as X58 boards go, which is still of course a little lofty due its recent introduction.  As a total package however, with EVGA's cable and connector assortment that includes both 2-way and 3-way SLI connectors, the X58 3X SLI is definitely worth your short list consideration, if you're considering a migration to the Core i7 platform.

•  Solid Core i7/X58 performance •  ELEET Tuning software •  Great overclocking •  Good features and bundle •  External Clear CMOS switch	•  Poor 8-pin ATX power connector location •  Still pricey at this point