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The Machinist X99‑PR9 is a solid entry‑level motherboard for LGA2011‑3 that stands out thanks to its surprisingly decent stock firmware and reliable build quality for the price.
There are several similar boards from the same manufacturer: Machinist X99‑PR8 (DDR3 version with limited CPU compatibility) and Machinist X99‑PR9‑H (simplified model based on the HM55 chipset).
Specifications
| Model | X99-PR9 |
|---|---|
| Socket | LGA 2011-3 |
| Chipset | B85 / Q87 / Z97 / C222 |
| Supported Processors | Intel Core i7 (5000, 6000 series, Haswell-E/Broadwell-E) Intel Xeon E5-1600 v3/v4, E5-2600 v3/v4, E5-4600 v3/v4 (Haswell-EP/Broadwell-EP) |
| VRM Configuration | 3 phase (6 virtual via doublers) Total MOSFETs: 12 (6 high-side + 6 low-side) |
| Maximum Recommended TDP | ≤110W (v3 processors) ≤120W (v4 processors) |
| Supported Memory | 4 x DDR4 DIMM (dual-channel) with ECC and non-ECC support Maximum capacity: 128 GB |
| Sleep Mode Support | No |
| Expansion Slots | 1 x PCI-e x16 (Gen 3.0) 1 x PCI-e x1 (Gen 2.0) |
| Storage | 3 x SATA 3.0 1 x M.2 (NVME/NGFF, Gen 3.0 x4) |
| Fan Connectors | 1 x CPU cooler (4pin) 1 x case fans (4pin) |
| PS/2 Ports | 2 (mouse + keyboard) |
| USB 3.0 Ports | 2 (+ front panel support) |
| USB 2.0 Ports | 6 (+ front panel support) |
| Network | Gigabit LAN (RTL8111 \ RTL8168) |
| Audio | 5.1 channel (ALC897) |
| TPM 2.0 header | No |
| Form Factor & Dimensions | mATX 215 x 185 mm |
| Approximate Price | $30 - $45 (Aliexpress) |
The board is based on desktop chipsets B85, Q87, or Z97, and some samples use the server‑grade C222. Regardless of the PCH installed, overall functionality is the same.
Like most budget boards, the X99‑PR9 uses a power stage with three doubled phases (3×2), two MOSFETs per phase. It employs SM4377NHKP (50 A / 7 mΩ) and SM4522NHKP (110 A / 2.65 mΩ) MOSFETs, uP1961S (×3) drivers, and a uP1649Q controller. This setup handles entry‑ and mid‑range CPUs without issues. Higher‑TDP models (~120 W+) are possible, but we recommend extra airflow across the VRM in those cases.
There’s a 2‑pin fan header next to the VRM heatsink where you can attach a small blower — handy for adding localized cooling.
Storage consists of three SATA 6 Gb/s (SATA III) ports and one M.2 slot. The M.2 slot supports both NVMe (default) and SATA modes — switching between them requires adjusting the jumpers shown in the image below.
Otherwise, this model doesn’t stand out much among similar budget boards. It also inherits most of the traditional drawbacks:
- Enable status bar: View → Status Bar
- Right-click the status bar at the bottom → HWMon Modules → uncheck PCH / Bibxy
- If this doesn’t help – disable all sensors and enable them one by one to identify the culprit.
BIOS Capabilities
The stock firmware is this model’s strong point. The BIOS is based on American Megatrends code and looks similar to other Chinese boards, but it includes almost everything you need: from DRAM timing controls to Resizable BAR (ReBAR) support. There’s even separate control for the second 4‑pin fan header. About the only feature you might add is Turbo Boost Unlock (TBU) for V3 Xeons; if you’re using V4 CPUs, there’s little reason to change the firmware at all.
| Chipset | BIOS version & date | Ram Timings | ReBAR | Unlocked CPU OC | Turbo Boost unlock | Undervolt | Notes & Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B85 / Q87 / Z97 | 10/10/2023 Ver: X99HA00Q | + | + | - | - | - | Stock BIOS [Download] |
| B85 / Q87 / Z97 | 10/10/2023 Ver: X99HA00Q | + | + | - | + | -50 mV | Stock BIOS + TBU [Download] |
Simple BIOS Flashing Guide (Windows)
- Download FPTW 9.1.10 from this page.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Copy your BIOS file (
bios.binorbios.rom) into the same folder as FPTW. - In the Command Prompt, navigate to the FPTW folder using the
cdcommand. - Flash the BIOS with the following command:
fptw64 -f bios.bin
Note: Replace bios.bin with the actual name of your modded BIOS file, if it’s different.
After flashing, reset settings to defaults (Clear CMOS) before first boot.
Frequently Asked Questions
The board won’t boot, black screen, etc. What should I do?
See our article about the most common LGA2011‑3 issues.
Where can I find drivers for this board?
The page with current drivers for socket 2011‑3 boards is located here.
Is there a manual available, maybe a PDF?
The official Machinist manual can be downloaded here.
How do I connect the front panel?
Conclusion
The Machinist X99‑PR9 offers a sensible balance for budget‑conscious builders who need baseline functionality without major compromises. It won’t win awards for innovation, but the mix of a decent stock BIOS, adequate power delivery, and reasonable build quality makes it a reliable choice for entry‑level LGA2011‑3 builds.