Soyo X99 D4 Review

soyo x99 d4 v5 bsw

Soyo X99 D4 is a white mATX motherboard for LGA2011‑3 released in 2025. The model is labeled D4‑V5‑BSW and looks very similar to the Qiyida X99‑D4, but it has a few advantages.

Like most modern boards for this socket, Soyo’s model includes a header for TPM 2.0 modules, making it compatible with Windows 11.

Specifications

ModelSoyo X99 D4-V5-BSW
SocketLGA 2011-3
ChipsetC612
Supported ProcessorsIntel 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 Configuration3 phase (6 virtual via doublers)
Total MOSFETs: 12 (6 high-side + 6 low-side)
Maximum Recommended TDP≤130W (v3 processors)
≤140W (v4 processors)
Supported Memory4 x DDR4 DIMM (dual-channel) with ECC and non-ECC support
Maximum capacity: 128 GB
Sleep Mode (S3) SupportNo
Expansion Slots1 x PCI-e x16 (Gen 3.0)
1 x PCI-e x1 (Gen 2.0)
Storage4 x SATA 3.0
1 x M.2 (NGFF\NVME, Gen 3.0 x4)
1 x M.2 (NVME, Gen 3.0 x4)
Fan Connectors1 x CPU cooler (4pin)
1 x Case fan (3pin)
PS/2 Ports2 (mouse + keyboard)
USB 3.0 Ports4 (+ front panel support)
USB 2.0 Ports2 (+ front panel support)
NetworkGigabit LAN (RTL8111 \ RTL8168)
Audio5.1 channel (ALC897)
Bios ChipW25Q128FV
Super I/ONCT5532D
JLPC headerYes
TPM 2.0 headerLPC 14 Pin
ExtraActive VRM cooling
metal‑reinforced X16 slot
Form Factor & DimensionsmATX 220 x 190 mm
Approximate PriceAliExpress: $45 - $65 (Check Price)

As with the Qiyida model, the board is built on the server‑grade C612 chipset, but it makes better use of its capabilities. You get more USB 3.0 ports, and the storage subsystem, in addition to four SATA III ports and a dual‑mode M.2 slot, has gained a second M.2 NVMe slot. That’s a welcome and logical addition.

qiyda x99 d4 M2 ngff nvme switch
M.2 mode switching for the upper slot is done with jumpers located nearby

 

PCIe connectivity is identical to the Qiyida variant and likewise consists of only one full‑length x16 (Gen 3) slot and one x1 slot whose lanes come from the chipset (Gen 2). To give it a more stylish and premium look, the x16 slot is metal‑reinforced, although once you install a graphics card you’re unlikely to notice.

One might expect the VRM configuration to be exactly the same as well, but there was a surprise. Although it uses the classic 3×2 layout common to budget boards, in this case a uP1651 PWM controller is used along with MOSFETs from Infineon. The high side has six 060N03L MOSFETs (50 A / 6 mΩ), and the low side has six 026N03L5 MOSFETs (100 A / 2.6 mΩ). This configuration outclasses most inexpensive LGA2011‑3 boards we’ve encountered. With the active VRM cooling implemented as a small fan integrated into the heatsink and spinning at a fixed speed, the D4‑V5‑BSW can comfortably run CPUs with a TDP around 130–140 W.soyo x99 d4 v5 bsw VRM

Unfortunately, there are still only two fan headers and only one of them (4‑pin) is controllable, so it’s better to get a fan hub or a fan controller for case fans. There’s also a small regression: instead of a built‑in PC speaker, there’s now only a header for connecting one.

BIOS Capabilities

soyo x99 d4 v5 bsw bios

The board runs a traditional UEFI BIOS based on Aptio V. There’s no fancy graphical UI or mouse control, but you get virtually the full set of features typically found on Chinese boards. You can adjust RAM timings, enable ReBAR, Secure Boot, and configure the TPM 2.0 module. There’s no overclocking for unlocked‑multiplier CPUs, but that feature isn’t often needed on budget boards.

As usual, the firmware exposes a large number of settings, but a significant portion of them simply doesn’t work. Also present are the standard quirks found in almost every such firmware: non‑functional motherboard temperature sensors (don’t be alarmed if you see around 120 °C) and a power‑consumption sensor that reports heavily understated values.

Nevertheless, the stock BIOS is quite suitable for daily use, and after the initial setup you’ll rarely need to go back in.

Simple BIOS Flashing Guide (Windows)

BIOS version & dateRam TimingsReBARUnlocked CPU OCTurbo Boost unlockUndervoltSecure Boot & TPM2.0 Notes & Link
XD4V5 Ver:001 03/26/2025++---+Stock BIOS
[Download]
⚠️ WARNING: BIOS flashing carries real risks and can permanently damage your motherboard if the firmware is incompatible or the process fails. We cannot guarantee compatibility with every board revision or hardware configuration. Failed flashes typically require a hardware programmer for recovery. Make sure you understand the risks first.
  1. Download Intel Flash Programming Tool (FPTW) 9.1.10 from this page.
  2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  3. Copy your BIOS file (bios.bin or bios.rom) into the same folder as FPTW.
  4. In Command Prompt, navigate to the FPTW folder using the cd command.
  5. Back up first: fptw64 -d backup.bin
  6. Flash the BIOS: fptw64 -f bios.bin

Notes: Replace bios.bin with the actual name of your BIOS file.

After flashing, we recommend resetting settings or clearing CMOS.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I connect the front panel?

Front panel connectors pinout

Which memory slots are primary?
The gray slots (the ones farther from the CPU). The black slots are secondary and should be populated last.

The board won’t boot, black screen, etc. What should I do?
See our article about the most common LGA2011‑3 issues.

Is Turbo Boost Unlock possible on this board?
Yes, you can perform the unlock yourself using S3TurboTool by following our guide, or wait for a ready‑made BIOS with the unlock applied.

Where can I find drivers for this board?
The page with current drivers for socket 2011‑3 boards is located here.

Where is the BIOS chip located?
To the right of the chipset heatsink. The location is convenient for attaching a programmer clip.soyo x99 d4 v5 bsw bios chip

Which TPM 2.0 module is compatible with this board?
You need an MSI 14‑pin LPC TPM 2.0 module — for example, this one.
TPM2 0 MSI 14pin LPC module

Conclusion

The Soyo X99 D4 definitely deserves attention. It’s an inexpensive yet stylish board that offers a sufficient number of ports and a respectable VRM for its category. Good build quality, solid component choices, functional firmware, full TPM 2.0 support, and a generally convenient layout — not every budget board can boast all of that. It’s a pity we only get dual‑channel memory, but otherwise the model wouldn’t be as affordable. Even considering a few of the typical rough edges found on Chinese boards, the overall impression is positive. We can confidently recommend it as the foundation for a budget LGA2011‑3 build.

Written by

Senior Hardware Specialist proving you don't need top-tier gear to game. Expert in smart upgrades and budget-friendly PC restoration.

Published: January 19, 2026 Updated: January 20, 2026

Leave a Comment