The next generation of motherboards will make swapping SSDs and GPUs easier.
Next-gen motherboards from Asus and MSI simplify SSD and GPU swapping with new mechanisms, demonstrated at Gamescom 2024.
Asus and MSI introduced advanced methods to simplify the process of swapping SSDs and GPUs at Gamescom 2024. MSI’s upcoming Intel 800 series motherboards offer a new lock button at the rear of SSDs and a GPU slot release button for easier GPU access. Asus, moving on from its 2021 Z690 design, now features the Q-release mechanism in its X870 boards, designed for AMD's Zen 5 Ryzen 9000 processors. This mechanism requires users to pull the GPU from the rear for removal.
Additionally, Asus has revised its M.2 connectors by adding a release hatch and an adjustable slider for varying SSD sizes. These quality-of-life improvements accompany more substantial features in motherboards engineered for AMD Ryzen 9000 and Intel Core Ultra 200 processors. The new motherboards are expected to start shipping in October, with lower-tier models delayed to early 2025.
Spec sheets for Asus and Gigabyte motherboards are now available, providing detailed insights into the functionality and structure of the new designs. Intel plans to fully reveal its Z890 motherboards and Arrow Lake CPUs later this year. However, specific details about the lower 800 series Intel motherboards remain undisclosed.