Asus Tuf Gaming B650-plus Vs Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite Ax

With the advent of AMD’s latest AM5 platform, motherboard manufacturers have unleashed a plethora of options for PC builders. Among these, the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX stand out as two of the most compelling choices. Both motherboards boast impressive features, but which one is the better choice for your next build? This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of these motherboards, examining their specifications, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Specifications Comparison: Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus vs Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX

At first glance, the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX share several similarities. Both motherboards support AMD’s AM5 socket, enabling compatibility with the latest Ryzen 7000 series processors. They also feature the B650 chipset, offering a solid foundation for a well-rounded system. However, upon closer inspection, subtle differences emerge.

The Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus features a slightly more robust VRM configuration, with 14+2 power stages compared to the Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX‘s 12+2+1 design. This difference may be significant for users planning to overclock their CPUs or utilize power-hungry components.

In terms of expansion slots, both motherboards offer ample options. The Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus provides two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. The Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX counters with two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 4.0 x16 slot, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. Both motherboards also include an M.2 slot for high-speed storage devices.

Performance and Features: Uncovering the Strengths of Each Motherboard

When it comes to performance, both the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX deliver solid results. They exhibit similar levels of stability and responsiveness in various applications and gaming scenarios. However, there are some notable differences in their feature sets.

The Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus boasts a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. It also features a Realtek ALC4080 audio codec for immersive audio experiences. The Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX, on the other hand, shines with its Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec, which offers high-quality audio output. Additionally, it includes a dedicated USB Type-C header for front-panel connectivity.

Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Personal Preference

The Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX adopt distinct design philosophies. The Asus motherboard sports a rugged, military-inspired aesthetic with black and gray accents. In contrast, the Gigabyte motherboard exudes a more refined and elegant look with its black and silver color scheme. Ultimately, the choice between these two motherboards in terms of design comes down to personal preference.

Pricing and Value: Determining the Best Bang for Your Buck

The Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX occupy similar price ranges, making them direct competitors in the mid-range motherboard segment. While the exact pricing may vary depending on retailers and promotions, both motherboards offer excellent value for their respective feature sets.

Which Motherboard Should You Choose?

The decision between the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize robust power delivery and comprehensive connectivity options, the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you seek a motherboard with a more refined design and high-quality audio, the Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX is a compelling option.

The Verdict: A Close Contender, But One Stands Out

In the fierce battle between the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX, both motherboards deliver exceptional performance and features. However, the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus emerges as the victor due to its superior VRM configuration, more comprehensive connectivity options, and slightly more affordable price point.

What You Need to Learn

1. Which motherboard has better VRM cooling?

The Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus features a more robust VRM heatsink, providing superior cooling for power delivery components.

2. Does either motherboard support DDR5 memory?

Yes, both the Asus TUF Gaming B650-Plus and Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX support DDR5 memory, allowing for blazing-fast system performance.

3. Which motherboard offers better audio quality?

The Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX boasts a higher-quality Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec, delivering exceptional audio output for both gaming and multimedia applications.