Asus has encountered issues with its premium gaming motherboards, particularly concerning the Q-Release Slim system. This mechanism, designed to facilitate easy removal of GPUs without latches or buttons, has been reported to cause scratches and chips on graphics cards.
Reviewers and testers noticed these defects as they worked with newly launched GPUs, prompting speculation about design flaws. Retail images suggest Asus has since revised the slots on its latest motherboards to address the issue, possibly modifying the materials and structure of the Q-Release Slim mechanism.
Asus Modifies Q-Release Slim Design to Prevent GPU Damage and Improve Safety
Hardware enthusiasts have observed changes in the latch design of the Asus X870E Apex motherboard, which is now available for pre-order. Uniko’s Hardware, a Twitter/X account focused on PC hardware, pointed out a visibly altered bracket structure. The previously used metal bar between the retention peg and the x16 pin area seems to have been replaced with either plastic or a thinner metal construction. These modifications suggest Asus is making subtle but meaningful refinements to avoid further GPU damage.
Asus Revises Q-Release Slim Design After Reports of GPU Scratches and DamageQ-Release Slim is a specialized feature available only on select Asus motherboards, aiming to make GPU removal easier by requiring just a slight pull. However, the design has raised concerns due to the potential risk of damage to expensive components.
In contrast, the standard Q-Release mechanism, which includes an extended lever and button, offers a more traditional and safer way to detach GPUs. Experts, such as PCWorld’s Adam Patrick Murray, have expressed a preference for the latter, noting that removing a GPU without additional protection feels unnatural and risky.
Concerns Over Q-Release Slim’s Durability and Asus’ Efforts to Address Issues
The scratching issues with Q-Release Slim have primarily been reported by professional testers who frequently install and remove GPUs. For most casual PC builders, the problem may not be as significant. That said, considering the high price of premium GPUs and motherboards, even cosmetic damage can be a major concern for buyers. Asus has acknowledged the issue to some extent but has not made any official statements regarding a complete redesign or discontinuation of the feature.
So far, the updated Q-Release Slim mechanism has only appeared in pre-order listings, and its effectiveness remains uncertain. Once reviewers test these revised motherboards, it will become clearer whether Asus has successfully addressed the problem. If the issue persists, Asus may need to invest more in research and development to ensure that future motherboards provide both ease of use and protection for high-end GPUs. Until then, buyers may want to consider whether the convenience of Q-Release Slim outweighs the potential risks.
