CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS Motherboard Review
The CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS motherboard is a strong contender in the ever-expanding DIY mini-server motherboard market. Priced between $239 and $250, this ITX board boasts features like PCIe Gen 5 support, DDR5 memory compatibility, and versatile storage options, catering to home lab enthusiasts and small business setups alike. It is designed for Intel’s 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors, offering users a robust and scalable platform for building custom NAS solutions. This motherboard succeeds its predecessor with noticeable improvements in storage and connectivity, making it more appealing to users looking for cutting-edge performance. It includes eight SATA drive connections over SFF fan out cables (available as an optional purchase), three M.2 NVMe slots, and a single PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot, all in a compact 17x17cm form factor. While it provides a solid foundation for a variety of NAS applications, it also introduces challenges, particularly around memory support, networking limitations, and lane management.
One of the key selling points of the CWWK Q670 is its modularity, allowing users to customize their builds to suit specific needs. However, this flexibility comes with a steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with BIOS tuning or component compatibility. Nevertheless, the board is a worthy option for DIY enthusiasts willing to invest time and effort into creating a high-performance storage solution. This review explores the board’s design, hardware, connectivity, and performance to help you decide if the CWWK Q670 is the right choice for your next NAS project.
Note – This is a review of the newer generation version of this NAS motherboard, you can find my review of the previous revision HERE on NASCompares, or HERE on our YouTube Channel
CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo Review – Quick Conclusion
The CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS motherboard is a versatile and feature-rich platform that caters to a wide range of NAS builders. Its support for modern processors, DDR5 memory, and extensive storage options make it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between performance and scalability. However, its reliance on user customization and the absence of ECC memory or native 10GbE networking may limit its appeal for certain applications. For DIY enthusiasts and experienced NAS builders, the Q670 offers tremendous flexibility and value. Its compact ITX form factor, supporting 8 SATA drives, and PCIe Gen 5 support enable users to create powerful storage solutions tailored to their specific needs. The inclusion of Intel vPro adds an enterprise-grade feature, enhancing its appeal for remote management scenarios. While the board has its quirks, such as tight component placement and reliance on BIOS tuning, these are manageable for users willing to invest time and effort. For most users, the CWWK Q670 serves as a capable and cost-effective foundation for building a high-performance NAS. Bottom line, the CWWK Q670 is a compelling choice for those looking to balance advanced hardware features with affordability. It is not without its limitations, but for those willing to navigate its complexities, it delivers exceptional performance and scalability in a compact package.
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CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Design and Build
The CWWK Q670 packs an impressive array of features into its compact ITX form factor. Its 17x17cm footprint allows for installation in small cases, making it suitable for space-constrained setups. Despite its size, the board incorporates features typically found in larger motherboards, such as eight SATA drives supported, via SFF to SATA fanout cables, and support for DDR5 memory.
The off-white PCB design adds a modern aesthetic, distinguishing it from more generic black boards in the market. Not exactly a dealbreaker – but worthy of note.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU Compatibility | Intel 12th, 13th, and 14th Gen processors (LGA1700) |
| Memory | Dual-channel U-DIMM DDR5, 5600MHz (96GB max) |
| Storage | 3 x M.2 PCIe 4.0 (1 x 22110, 2 x 2280), 8 x SATA3 (via 2 SFF-8643) |
| Networking | 2 x 2.5GbE (Intel i226-V and i226-LM with vPro support) |
| Expansion Slot | 1 x PCIe 5.0 x16 (bifurcation supported: 8+8) |
| USB Ports | 1 x USB-C 3.2 (20Gbps), 3 x USB 3.2, 2 x USB 2.0 |
| Video Outputs | HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4 (4K@60Hz) |
| Power Connector | Standard 24-pin ATX |
| Form Factor | ITX (17x17cm) |
The layout is thoughtfully organized, with memory slots positioned near the CPU socket, and storage interfaces placed for easy cable management. However, the proximity of these components can create challenges when using large CPU coolers or compact NAS cases. Users should carefully consider their cooling solutions, as the board’s compact design can obstruct airflow in certain configurations.
The use of full-sized U-DIMM DDR5 slots is a notable choice, enabling higher memory capacities and speeds than SODIMM alternatives. However, the lack of ECC support may deter users looking for fault-tolerant setups.
The eight SATA connections via SFF are a standout feature, offering excellent storage expandability without the need for additional adapters, simplifying installation and minimizing compatibility issues. The previous gen of this board favoured physical SATA connections.
Overall, the CWWK Q670 strikes a fine balance between size, functionality, and scalability. Its thoughtful design and rich feature set make it a compelling option for those looking to build a high-performance NAS in a compact footprint.
CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Ports and Connectivity
The CWWK Q670 excels in connectivity, offering a wide range of ports and interfaces to meet diverse needs. Its dual Intel 2.5GbE Ethernet ports provide reliable networking, one of which supports Intel vPro for BIOS-level remote management. This feature is particularly beneficial for enterprise users or IT administrators who require remote access for troubleshooting or system configuration.
The rear I/O panel features HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4, capable of outputting 4K@60Hz resolution. These are useful for initial setup or troubleshooting, especially for users running graphical interfaces on their NAS. While video output is not typically essential for headless server applications, its inclusion adds flexibility for multi-purpose builds.
USB connectivity includes a single USB-C 3.2 port with 20Gbps bandwidth, three USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and two USB 2.0 ports. Additionally, the board includes internal headers for USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, allowing users to add front-panel connections or bootable storage devices. The presence of an internal USB 2.0 port is a thoughtful addition, making it ideal for booting NAS operating systems like UnRAID directly from a USB drive.
The board’s PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot offers significant expandability, enabling users to install GPUs, high-speed NICs, or storage accelerators. Bifurcation support (8+8) further enhances its versatility, allowing users to connect multiple devices simultaneously. However, the single PCIe slot requires careful planning, as it must accommodate both networking and storage upgrades in most builds.
CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Storage and Expandability
Storage is one of the key strengths of the CWWK Q670, 8x SATA media and three M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots offering ample capacity for large-scale data storage and high-speed applications.
The two SFF-8643 connectors simplify the integration of multiple SATA drives, eliminating the need for adapters or complex wiring setups. This makes the board particularly appealing for users planning to build RAID arrays or multi-drive setups.
The three M.2 NVMe slots are positioned strategically to maximize cooling and accessibility. One slot supports the longer 22110 form factor, ideal for high-capacity SSDs with improved heat dissipation. The other two slots support the more common 2280 size. Performance testing revealed read speeds of 5-5.6GB/s and write speeds of 3.7-3.8GB/s, which are consistent with PCIe 4.0 standards.
However, users should note that storage performance can vary significantly depending on the CPU and configuration. Lane-sharing between the PCIe and M.2 slots may lead to bottlenecks in certain setups, particularly when multiple high-speed drives are in use. Transfers between NVMe drives showed reduced throughput (~1GB/s), highlighting the need for careful resource management.
The PCIe Gen 5 x16 slot adds further storage flexibility, supporting advanced SSD expansion cards or bifurcation for multiple devices. This makes the Q670 an excellent choice for flash-based servers, provided users are prepared to invest in compatible components and optimize their configurations.
CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Performance Potential
Performance testing on the CWWK Q670 revealed a capable and efficient platform, capable of handling demanding workloads with ease. Using an Intel i5-12500 CPU and 16GB DDR5 memory, the board delivered consistent results across a variety of benchmarks. Idle power consumption was measured at ~30W, while load conditions with active drives peaked at 57-58W.
NVMe performance was a particular highlight, with read/write speeds reaching 5-6GB/s under optimal conditions. While these speeds are impressive, lane-sharing and resource allocation in the BIOS may limit performance in more complex setups. For example, transferring data between NVMe drives resulted in reduced speeds (~1GB/s), underscoring the need for careful configuration.
Networking performance, while reliable, may be a limiting factor for some users. The dual 2.5GbE ports provide adequate bandwidth for most home and small business applications but fall short for larger-scale deployments. Users requiring higher throughput will need to invest in a PCIe-based NIC or USB-C adapters, adding to the overall cost and complexity.
Ultimately, the CWWK Q670’s performance is highly dependent on the components selected and the time invested in BIOS optimization. While it offers a strong foundation for a high-performance NAS, its full potential can only be unlocked through careful planning and customization.
CWWK Q670 NAS Mobo – Review Verdict and Conclusion
The CWWK Q670 8-Bay Gen5 NAS motherboard is a versatile and feature-rich platform that caters to a wide range of NAS builders. Its support for modern processors, DDR5 memory, and extensive storage options make it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between performance and scalability. However, its reliance on user customization and the absence of ECC memory or native 10GbE networking may limit its appeal for certain applications. For DIY enthusiasts and experienced NAS builders, the Q670 offers tremendous flexibility and value. Its compact ITX form factor, supporting 8 SATA drives, and PCIe Gen 5 support enable users to create powerful storage solutions tailored to their specific needs.
The inclusion of Intel vPro support (CPU dependant) adds an enterprise-grade feature, enhancing its appeal for remote management scenarios. While the board has its quirks, such as tight component placement and reliance on BIOS tuning, these are manageable for users willing to invest time and effort. For most users, the CWWK Q670 serves as a capable and cost-effective foundation for building a high-performance NAS. Bottom line, the CWWK Q670 is a compelling choice for those looking to balance advanced hardware features with affordability. It is not without its limitations, but for those willing to navigate its complexities, it delivers exceptional performance and scalability in a compact package.
| PROs of the CWWK Q670 v.2 NAS Motherboard | CONs of the CWWK Q670 v.2 NAS Motherboard |
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