ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II
Intel Core 14th-gen CPUs ( Amazon ) are the latest production by the legendary manufacturer Intel. These long-awaited Raptor Lake-S Refresh line-up CPUs are based on Intel’s hybrid architecture and are rocking in full swing and the gamers are picking it like hotcakes since launching in October 2023
We added every top-end motherboard for Intel CPUs and each product is worth wearing the crown of the best motherboard for Intel 14th-gen CPUs for gaming. All CPUs from Intel Core i9-14900K to Intel Core i5-14600K are packed with the maximum blessing of PC technology and have more than enough potential for gaming, streaming, and multitasking.
At A Glance:
Best pick
Best Premium Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs
GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master X
✓ RGB FUSION 2.0
✓ M.2 EZ-Latch Click
✓ 10GbE LAN & Wi-Fi 7
✓ iTE I/O Controller Chip
✓ Ultra-high Gain Antenna
✓ VRM Thermal Armor Fins-Array
✓ 4 x DIMMs with XMP 3.0 support
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Staff Pick
Best ATX Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II
✓ AI COOLING II
✓ DisplayPort 1.4
✓ Supports WiFi 7
✓ 192GB memory storage
✓ 5X M.2 Slots & PCIe 5.0 x16
✓ Massive heatsinks with integrated I/O cover
✓ Front panel connector with PD 3.0 up to 30W
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Budget Pick
Best Budget Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi
✓ M.2 Shield Frozr
✓ AUDIO BOOST 5
✓ Lightning Gen 5 M.2
✓ Depop Buyer Protection
✓ Wi-Fi 7 solution availability
✓ Heavy plated VRM heatsink
✓ DDR5 Memory Up To 7800+(OC) MHz
View on AmazonOur Recommendations
| Award | Modal | Design | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Premium Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master X |
|
View on amazon |
| Best ATX Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Flagship Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Networking Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Memory Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Budget Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi |
|
View on amazon |
GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master X
Best pick
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Key Specs:
Brand: Gigabyte | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 192GB | Compatible Processors: Intel 14th gen, 13th gen & 12th gen | Chipset Type: Z790 | Memory Speed: 3200MHz | Form Factor: E-ATX | Windows: Windows 10 & 11
What is best about the motherboard?
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master X is a top-of-the-line motherboard for Intel’s 14th-generation CPUs. It outperforms its competitors by offering all the latest and greatest features and functionalities. Let’s take a closer look at this motherboard to see if it meets your needs.
M.2 EZ-Latch Click Feature: It is a new feature on some motherboards that makes it easier to install and remove M.2 storage devices. It is a physical latch that secures the M.2 device in place without the need for screws.
10GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 7: It offers a number of benefits over previous networking technologies. They are faster, have lower latency, can support more devices and traffic, and are more reliable. If you are looking for the best possible networking performance, 10GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 7 are the way to go.
iTE I/O Controller Chips: It offer a number of benefits for a variety of users. They are versatile, high-performing, reliable, and affordable.
Ultra-high Gain Antenna: It offers a number of benefits for a variety of users. They can increase range, improve performance, and reduce interference. If you are looking for a way to improve the performance of your wireless devices, an ultra-high gain antenna is a good option to consider.
VRM Thermal Armor Fins-Array: It is a feature that is designed to improve the cooling of the voltage regulator module (VRM) on a motherboard. When the VRM is under heavy load, it can generate a lot of heat. If the VRM is not properly cooled, it can overheat and throttle the CPU, which can reduce performance.
What is bad about the motherboard?
After elaborating on the positive aspects of the motherboard we should also discuss the negative areas here.
No USB 4 Ports: There can be a disadvantage for users who need or want the performance and compatibility that USB 4 offers. If you are considering purchasing a motherboard, it is recommended that you choose one with USB 4 ports, especially if you are planning on using high-performance external storage devices or future devices that require USB 4.
Only 4 SATA Ports: This can be a limitation for users who need to connect multiple SATA devices or who want to upgrade their storage in the future. If you need to connect multiple SATA devices or want to upgrade your storage in the future, it is recommended that you choose a motherboard with more SATA ports.
What is our opinion about the motherboard?
The GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master X a high-end motherboard with powerful features and technologies that can support demanding gaming and productivity workloads.
It is not a budget-friendly option, but it offers excellent value for the money. There are some minor issues, but they do not significantly impact the motherboard’s performance or overclocking capabilities.
The Pros
✓ RGB FUSION 2.0
✓ M.2 EZ-Latch Click
✓ 10GbE LAN & Wi-Fi 7
✓ iTE I/O Controller Chip
✓ Ultra-high Gain Antenna
✓ VRM Thermal Armor Fins-Array
✓ 4 x DIMMs with XMP 3.0 support
The Cons
✗ No USB4 ports
✗ Only 4 SATA ports
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II
Staff Pick
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Key Specs:
Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 192GB | Compatible Processors: Intel 14th gen, 13th gen , 12th gen, Pentium Gold & Celeron Processors | Chipset Type: Z790 | Memory Speed: 7800MHz | Form Factor: ATX | Windows: Windows 10 & 11
What is best about the motherboard?
The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II is the brand new motherboard packed with all the top-notch specs and features possible so far. Let’s see what ASUS has blessed us with.
AI COOLING II: AI Cooling II is a promising new technology that offers a number of benefits over traditional cooling methods. If you are looking for a way to improve the performance, noise levels, lifespan, and efficiency of your computer, AI Cooling II is a great option to consider.
Supports WiFi 7: WiFi 7 offers a number of significant benefits over previous WiFi standards. It is a future-proof technology that can support a wide range of applications and meet the growing demands of users and businesses.
Front Panel Connector With PD 3.0 Up To 30W: PD 3.0 is also more efficient than previous charging standards, which means that it can charge devices faster without generating as much heat. This is important for devices that have large batteries, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This is significantly faster than the standard 5-watt charging that is used by many devices.
192GB Memory Storage: Having a motherboard that supports 192GB memory storage can be overkill if you only plan on using the computer for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and office applications. In these cases, you may be able to get away with a motherboard that supports less memory.
DisplayPort 1.4: It is a versatile and powerful display interface that offers a number of benefits for gamers, creative professionals, and consumers alike. If you are looking for a display interface that can support the latest and greatest display technologies, DisplayPort 1.4 is a great option to consider.
What is bad about the motherboard?
No doubt the motherboard is one of the top performers on the market and you will not feel any restriction when pairing and working with it. But you must keep a few things in mind when getting your hands on the product.
Price: The motherboard has a hefty price tag, so if you are looking for a reasonably priced ranged motherboard then you have to go for another model.
Complicated BIOS: The motherboard has a complicated BIOS because it is designed for overclockers and enthusiasts who need to have precise control over their hardware. The BIOS includes a wide range of settings and options that can be overwhelming for new users.
What is our opinion about the motherboard?
We found the motherboard outstanding and highly satisfied with its performance. It does not cause bottlenecking to the latest 14th-gen CPUs and is equally compatible with the previous generations.
We don’t say that the product is priced fairly but we trust that once you will get you will love it for its mindblowing gaming and multitasking performance. It is one of the proud products of the manufacturer.
The Pros
✓ AI COOLING II
✓ DisplayPort 1.4
✓ Supports WiFi 7
✓ 192GB memory storage
✓ 5X M.2 Slots & PCIe 5.0 x16
✓ Massive heatsinks with integrated I/O cover
✓ Front panel connector with PD 3.0 up to 30W
The Cons
✗ Over priced
✗ Complicated BIOS
ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II
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Key Specs:
Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 192GB | Compatible Processors: Intel 14th gen, 13th gen , 12th gen, Pentium Gold & Celeron Processors | Chipset Type: Z790 | Memory Speed: 7800MHz | Form Factor: ATX | Windows: Windows 10 & 11
What is best about the motherboard?
The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II is one of the best motherboards for Intel 14th-gen CPUs. This product has proven unbeatable in front of its competitors by offering all the high-end features and functionalities. Let’s explore the product in depth to consider if it meets your requirements.
PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlot: It is a new type of PCIe slot that is designed to protect devices from physical damage. It is also capable of supporting the high bandwidth and power requirements of PCIe 5.0 devices.
USB 20Gbps Rear I/O Ports: It offers a number of benefits over traditional USB ports, including faster data transfer speeds, improved performance for external devices, and future-proofing.
DIY-friendly Q-Design Feature Set: It is a set of features that are designed to make it easier for users to build and maintain their own computers. These features can be especially beneficial for beginners and users who are not familiar with computer hardware.
Supports 8K Graphics: Motherboards supporting 8K graphics offer a number of benefits for users who need or want to use 8K graphics. These benefits include improved image quality, smoother animations, support for future technologies, and better performance for tasks such as gaming, video editing, and content creation.
Combo-Sink U-shaped Direct Contact Heatsink: It is a great choice for users who need a high-performance, quiet, and durable CPU heatsink. This allows the Combo-Sink U-shaped Direct Contact heatsink to cool the CPU more efficiently than a traditional heatsink.
What is bad about the motherboard?
Although every inch of the product is top-notch you may consider the missing factors of the motherboard mentioned below.
No debug LED Display: It is a valuable tool for troubleshooting problems with motherboards and other components. It can help users save time and frustration by making it easier to identify the specific cause of a problem. If you are considering purchasing a motherboard, it is recommended that you choose one with a debug LED display.
Rear Panel Lime Port Doesn’t Support Spatial Audio: If the rear panel lime port on your motherboard does not support spatial audio, you will not be able to use it to connect to speakers or headphones that support spatial audio. However, you may still be able to use the port to connect to traditional stereo speakers or headphones.
What is our opinion about the motherboard?
According to our opinion, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II is an excellent option you can go for. It is packed and powered with high-end technologies that are more than enough to push your gaming enthusiasm and productivity to the next level.
However, it is not a budget-friendly option but once you get it you will praise it. There are some minor issues that will not restrict you from overclocking and putting heavy workloads on the motherboard.
The Pros
✓ PCIe 5.0 x16 SafeSlot
✓ USB 20Gbps rear I/O port
✓ 11 additional USB 10Gbps ports
✓ DIY-friendly Q-Design feature set
✓ Excellent support for 8K graphics
✓ 4 x PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots with heatsinks
✓ Combo-Sink U-shaped Direct Contact heatsink
The Cons
✗ No Debug LED display
✗ Rear panel lime port doesn’t support spatial audio
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero
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Key Specs:
Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 192GB | Compatible Processors: Intel 14th gen, 13th gen & 12th gen | Chipset Type: Z790 | Memory Speed: 3200MHz | Form Factor: ATX | Windows: Windows 10 & 11
What is best about the motherboard?
Here is another proud product by ASUS and it has come to bless its users once again with the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero and you can get it with all the miracles of computer hardware and software utilities. Let’s explore it here!
Rear Optical S/PDIF Out Port: The rear optical S/PDIF out port on a motherboard offers a number of benefits, including high-quality audio, compatibility, and versatility. Overall, the rear optical S/PDIF out port is a valuable feature that can offer a number of benefits to users who need or want to connect their computers to high-quality audio devices.
High-conductivity Thermal Pads: High-conductivity thermal pads can offer a number of benefits for motherboards. They can improve heat transfer, reduce throttling, increase stability, and prolong the lifespan of components.
6 x Additional USB 10Gbps Ports: USB 10Gbps is a promising new standard that has the potential to revolutionize the way we connect devices to our computers. Motherboards with 6 additional USB 10Gbps ports are well-positioned to take advantage of the benefits of USB 10Gbps.
SupremeFX Shielding Technology: It is a technology that helps to reduce noise and interference in audio signals. This helps to prevent noise and interference from other components on the motherboard from affecting the audio signal.
Easy Optimization With AI Overclocking: It is a beneficial technology that can improve the performance, stability, and convenience of motherboards. It is a good feature to look for in a motherboard if you are looking to get the most out of your system.
What is bad about the motherboard?
No doubt the product is unique and newly launched on the market and pro users and passionate gamers are buying it like hotcakes but when picking the motherboard you must look at its dark sides.
No Support For 8K Graphics: It can impact users who need or want to use 8K displays or devices. If you are considering purchasing a motherboard, it is important to choose one that supports 8K graphics if you plan on using 8K displays or devices in the future.
Low Value to Investment: The motherboard is one of the premium-priced products and is almost unreachable for many users. So if you are on a tight budget and want to save some bucks for other components you must go for other products that provide high value to your investment.
What is our opinion about the motherboard?
ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero is more than enough potential to provide you the quality performance you ever wished for. Although the product is newly launched it has a long way to for to beat its competitors and prove itself as the best motherboard for Intel 14th gen CPUs.
You can pair it with the top-end i9-14900K and the i7-14700K. It is equally compatible with the 13th-gen CPUs as well. You will be able to get the maximum blessing of ASUS with all the top-notch technologies it is packed with but honestly, you need to pay a lot for this performance.
The Pros
✓ Rear optical S/PDIF out port
✓ High-conductivity thermal pads
✓ Compatible with PD3.0 and PPS
✓ 6 x additional USB 10Gbps ports
✓ SupremeFX Shielding Technology
✓ Dual Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-C ports
✓ Easy Optimization with AI Overclocking
The Cons
✗ No support for 8K graphics
✗ Low-price-to-performance value
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE
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Key Specs:
Brand: ASUS | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 32GB | Compatible Processors: Intel 14th gen, 13th gen & 12th gen | Chipset Type: Z790 | Memory Speed: 7800MHz | Form Factor: ATX | Windows: Windows 10 & 11
What is best about the motherboard?
The ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE is the talk of the town and the gamers have a lot of hype to get the product and rush to build their dream PC.
Fan Xpert 4: It is a powerful and versatile fan control utility that can benefit a wide range of users. It is a good feature to look for in a motherboard if you want full control over the cooling of your system.
BIOS Flashback: It is a beneficial feature that can save users time, hassle, and frustration. It is a good feature to look for in a motherboard if you want a convenient and safe way to update or recover the BIOS.
Digital Power Control: DPC is a beneficial technology for users who need or want the improved efficiency, voltage regulation, heat generation, and overclocking headroom that it offers.
BlueTooth v5.4: It is the latest version of BlueTooth and a motherboard with Bluetooth v5.4 offers a number of benefits for users who need or want fast data transfer speeds, long-range, improved reliability, and support for a wide range of devices.
Quick Charge 4+ Up To 60W: It offers a number of benefits over previous Quick Charge standards and other fast charging technologies, including faster and more efficient charging speeds, improved safety, and wider compatibility. Also, it is a beneficial technology that can offer a number of benefits to users who need or want fast, efficient, and safe charging for their devices.
What is bad about the motherboard?
Although is a flagship product by the manufacturer and you will hardly find significant drawbacks in the motherboard our responsibility is to elaborate you the each and every aspect of the motherboard.
Limited M.2 slots: The motherboard only has two M.2 slots, which may be limiting for users who need to install multiple high-speed storage devices.
No 40Gbps version of USB4: The lack of the 40Gbps version of USB4 on a motherboard is a limitation that can impact users who need or want the highest possible bandwidth, support for future devices, and compatibility with the latest and greatest devices. If you are considering purchasing a motherboard, it is important to choose one with the 40Gbps version of USB4 if you need or want these features.
What is our opinion about the motherboard?
ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE is a high-end motherboard with the potential to deliver excellent performance. However, it is still a new product and needs to prove itself as the best motherboard for Intel’s 14th-gen CPUs.
It is compatible with both 13th and 14th-gen CPUs, but it comes at a high price. So if you want to enjoy the maximum blessings of PC technologies you have to pay for it. We assure you will not regret your purchase at all.
The Pros
✓ Fan Xpert 4
✓ BIOS flashback
✓ ROG memory fan kit
✓ Digital power control
✓ Supports BlueTooth v5.4
✓ Quick Charge 4+ up to 60W
✓ ROG DIMM.2 CARD heatsink
The Cons
✗ Limited M.2 slots
✗ No 40Gbps version of USB4
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi
Budget Pick
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Key Specs:
Brand: MSI | CPU Socket: LGA 1700 | RAM: DDR5 64GB | Compatible Processors: Intel 14th gen, 13th gen & 12th gen | Chipset Type: Z790 | Memory Speed: 7800MHz | Form Factor: ATX | Windows: Windows 10 & 11
What is best about the motherboard?
The MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi, with all of the top-end specs and features it is worth wearing the crown of the best motherboards for Intel 14th gen CPUs. Let’s explore what is it going to offer you and how it will make a change to your gaming experiences.
AUDIO BOOST 5: It is a suite of audio technologies developed by MSI for its motherboards. It aims to improve the audio quality of the motherboard by providing better sound quality, reduced distortion, and increased dynamic range.
Depop Buyer Protection: It is a valuable program that protects buyers from fraud and scams. It is a good reason to shop on Depop with confidence. If you meet these criteria, Depop will investigate your claim and work to resolve the issue. If the issue cannot be resolved, you may be eligible for a refund.
Wi-Fi 7 Solution Availability: A motherboard with a Wi-Fi 7 solution is a good choice for users who need or want the fastest speeds, lowest latency, and most advanced security features.
Heavy Plated VRM Heatsink: It is a beneficial addition to any motherboard that is used for demanding tasks. It can improve performance, stability, overclocking headroom, and the lifespan of the motherboard.
M.2 Shield Frozr: It is a beneficial addition to any system that uses an M.2 SSD. It is easy to install and offers a number of benefits, including reduced temperatures, improved throttling, quieter operation, and extended lifespan.
What is bad about the motherboard?
While this is the manufacturer’s flagship product and you are unlikely to find any major drawbacks, it is our responsibility to provide you with a comprehensive overview of every aspect of the motherboard.
No PCIe 5.0 M.2 Slot: The lack of a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot on a motherboard is a disadvantage for users who need or want the fastest speeds and the most future compatibility. If you are considering purchasing a motherboard, it is important to choose one with a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot if you need or want these features.
No RGB Effects: This motherboard has a very plain design and does not come with RGB effects. So if you are looking for an aesthetically pleasing product then you can look for other options.
What is our opinion about the motherboard?
MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi is a fairly priced motherboard and we can consider it as a budget-friendly option for your Intel 14-gen PC. Not everybody is fond of aesthetically pleasing hardware so it is an option for elegant lovers.
You have so many options when going for the best motherboard for Intel 14th-gen CPUs. So, if you are looking for a balanced quality and mediocre performance product then it is one of the great options you can opt for.
The Pros
✓ M.2 Shield Frozr
✓ AUDIO BOOST 5
✓ Lightning Gen 5 M.2
✓ Depop Buyer Protection
✓ Wi-Fi 7 solution availability
✓ Heavy plated VRM heatsink
✓ DDR5 Memory Up To 7800+(OC) MHz
The Cons
✗ No RGB effects
✗ No PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot
Summary
| Award | Modal | Design | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Premium Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Master X |
|
View on amazon |
| Best ATX Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming WiFi II |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Flagship Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG Strix Z790-E Gaming WiFi II |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Networking Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Dark Hero |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Memory Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | ASUS ROG MAXIMUS Z790 APEX ENCORE |
|
View on amazon |
| Best Budget Motherboard For Intel 14th-gen CPUs | MSI MAG Z790 Tomahawk MAX WiFi |
|
View on amazon |
Conclusion
After rounding up the most suitable options for your brand new Intel 14th-gen-CPUs. All of the products are unique in themselves and bring the all possible utilities invented so far. We tried to consider each product from different points of view, they vary in performance and price range but all of them are best in one way or another.
Finally, your choice depends upon your preferences, but the most satisfactory thing is that you can use some hardware like graphics card and RAM from your previous build and upgrade to the best possible system that can let you challenge the competitors in full swing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the motherboard be repaired?
Yes, the motherboard can be repaired, but it depends on the damage. If the damage is minor, such as a blown capacitor or resistor, it can be repaired relatively easily and cheaply. However, if the damage is more severe, such as a broken trace or fried chip, it may be more difficult and expensive to repair, or even impossible.
Is the i5 processor good for gaming?
Yes, the i5 processor is good for gaming. It is a mid-range processor that offers good performance for most games at advanced gaming. Intel i5-14600K has integrated Intel UHD 770 graphics that can support up to four 3840 x 2160 resolution 4K displays with high-dynamic range. It is also compatible with the latest gaming technologies, such as ray-tracing and DLSS.
Do I need a new OS if I change the CPU?
No, you don't need a new OS if you change the CPU. As long as the new CPU is compatible with your motherboard and OS, you can use your existing OS.
Will Intel 14th-gen need a new motherboard?
It depends upon what motherboard you have currently, if your current motherboard has LGA 1700 socket and Z790 chipset then you don’t need to for a new motherboard you can just upgrade it with a new CPU. But if your current motherboard is not compatible then you have to go for the new one.
Can I upgrade from i5 to i7 without changing the motherboard?
Yes, you can upgrade from i5 to i7 without changing the motherboard, but only if your motherboard supports the new i7 CPU. You can check your motherboard's manufacturer website or manual to see which CPUs are supported.
Rustam Iqbal
Hi, I'm Rustam Iqbal. I love traveling, computer hardware, and software. I’m constantly trying to learn new skills and programming languages. Reviewing new pieces of hardware is one of my favorites hobbies. Drop by any time to leave me a message if you have any questions.
