X99‑XD4 Review: The Best 2011‑3 Budget Board of 2026?

The X99‑XD4 is a solid mATX motherboard from Angthumb. Released in 2025, it can be found under multiple brands: Machinist, KEYIYOU, Atermiter, and others. There’s also a DDR3 version with a more limited CPU support list, sold as X99‑XD3.

Judging by the layout, this board is related to Angthumb’s X99D4M4 and looks like a refined iteration — and we like the result. Let’s take a closer look.

In this article we cover the second revision, which is indicated by the marking next to the 24‑pin connector. We don’t know whether there was an earlier “first” revision or if this is just a quirk of Chinese naming. In any case, be aware that other revisions may exist and their characteristics may differ.

Specifications

Built on a server‑class chipset, the X99‑XD4 leaves a good impression. It has everything you need for a modern X99 build: sufficient I/O, quad‑channel memory, a competent VRM, a stable BIOS, and native TPM 2.0 support, making the board effectively Windows 11‑ready.

The main drawback is the non‑functional sleep mode; you’ll have to use hibernation instead. A smaller annoyance is the placement of the TPM 2.0 header: with bulky triple‑slot GPUs, there’s almost no clearance between the card and a TPM module.

BIOS Capabilities

The stock BIOS is based on AMI Aptio and, unlike most Chinese boards, includes nearly everything you need.

Out of the box you get RAM timing control, working Resizable BAR, PCIe bifurcation, and Smart Fan control on both 4‑pin fan headers. Naturally, there’s TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot support as well.

The usual Chinese quirks remain: non‑functional motherboard temperature sensors (don’t panic if you see readings around 120°C), no control for 3‑pin fan headers, no overclocking for unlocked‑multiplier CPUs, and the “Restore on AC Power Loss” option is hidden by default. Even so, the stock firmware is perfectly usable for daily operation.

One frustrating detail worth mentioning is that the manufacturer often uses FUDAN BIOS chips. Unlike the widely adopted Winbond chips, FUDAN hardware is less common, making compatible BIOS files harder to find. Additionally, not all flashing utilities support these chips.

Simple BIOS Flashing Guide (Windows)

1. Download 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. Backup first: fptw64 -d backup.bin
6. Flash the BIOS: fptw64 -f bios.bin

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

After flashing, load BIOS defaults or clear CMOS to reset settings.

Must-have Tool

The CH341A is a compact USB tool that saves motherboards. It’s perfect for flashing SPI BIOS chips directly when the system won't boot.

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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?
Current drivers for socket 2011‑3 boards can be found here.

How do I connect the front panel?

Can the board boot without a graphics card?
Yes, headless boot is possible on the stock BIOS.

Where is the BIOS chip located?
To the right of the chipset heatsink.

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.

Conclusion

Written by

Dmitrii Sadikov

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

Published: December 2, 2025 Updated: June 5, 2026