Here we have the Sabertooth 990FX R2.0. The motherboard is a full ATX layout featuring large heatsinks and a desert camo color scheme. The PCB is of a gloss-black finish. We’d have appreciated a matte PCB here as we think it’ll go great with the heatsinks and seeing as the ROG line features semi-gloss PCBs.
Going over the rear I/O, we have the following: a legacy PS/2 combo port for older keyboards and something certainly preferred by some people particularly overclockers. Alongside the PS/2 port are 2 USB2.0 ports followed by an optical SPDIF output port followed by 2 USB3.0 ports and 2 eSATA ports. Four USB2.0 ports follow along with another pair of USB3.0 ports, a BIOS Reset button which is very handy, then finally an ethernet port with a pair of USB2.0 ports. Capping of the rear I/O is an 8-channel audio output powered by Realtek ALC892.
The ASUS Sabertooth 990FX R2.0 features the TUF series’ signature desert camo styling sans the thermal armor. If you’re familiar with the Sabertooth family, one of the distinct features which occasionally makes an appearance is a the Thermal Armor, a shroud which covers the entire motherboard. This feature has yet to debut on any AMD Sabertooth board so we’re treated to the board’s beauty. Another signature of the TUF line is the Ceram!x coating on the heatsinks which sees the aluminum heatsinks get a nice coat of ceramix which is designed to help increase surface area thus helping dissipation.
The Sabertooth 990FX R2.0 features 8-SATA ports all of which are SATA3 with the 2 white ones powered off the ASMedia controller.
Removing the heatsinks gives us a clearer view of the choice chokes and VRM ASUS has went with in their TUF line. These are highly screened and heavily tested components and are the key to ASUS’ TUF line having a 5-year warranty.
Here is a closer look at ASUS’ Ceram!x coated heatsink on the 990FX Sabertooth.
The ASUS TUF line features a distinctive packaging design akin to the ROG line. Nothing fancy really, just the product name on the front with a couple of highlights. The back enumerates specs and a couple more features. The front cover itself is a flap that opens up to reveal further marketing fluff. No box handles here. The box itself is average size so it’s fine.
The package isn’t that extravagant but knowing the TUF’s position in the market the bundle of SATA cables, Q-connectors, Crossfire cable, installation disc and manual is understandable. ASUS also includes a certificate highlighting the numerous military compliance tests their components have went through.