Quick summary
- When it comes to motherboards, two prominent options that have captured the attention of enthusiasts are the Gigabyte B550M DS3H and the Aorus Elite.
- The Aorus Elite provides a superior audio experience with a higher-quality audio codec and faster networking capabilities.
- The Aorus Elite offers superior connectivity and a more robust VRM, making it the better choice for gaming.
The world of PC building revolves around making informed decisions to create the ultimate gaming or productivity machine. When it comes to motherboards, two prominent options that have captured the attention of enthusiasts are the Gigabyte B550M DS3H and the Aorus Elite. Both motherboards cater to different needs and budgets, so let’s delve into their key features and determine which one emerges victorious.
Form Factor and Design
The Gigabyte B550M DS3H adopts a micro-ATX form factor, making it suitable for compact builds. It features a sleek black PCB with simple aesthetics, focusing on functionality over flashy designs.
On the other hand, the Aorus Elite boasts an ATX form factor, providing ample space for expansion and accommodating high-end components. Its design is more elaborate, with a black and silver color scheme, RGB lighting, and a reinforced PCIe slot.
Connectivity and Expansion
Gigabyte B550M DS3H:
- 2x PCIe 4.0 x16 slots
- 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 slot
- 4x SATA ports
- 2x M.2 slots (1x PCIe 4.0, 1x PCIe 3.0)
- 1x Gigabit Ethernet port
Aorus Elite:
- 3x PCIe 4.0 x16 slots
- 1x PCIe 3.0 x1 slot
- 6x SATA ports
- 3x M.2 slots (2x PCIe 4.0, 1x PCIe 3.0)
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port
The Aorus Elite offers superior connectivity options with more PCIe slots, SATA ports, M.2 slots, and a faster Ethernet port.
VRM and Power Delivery
The VRM (voltage regulator module) is responsible for providing stable power to the CPU.
Gigabyte B550M DS3H:
- 6+2 power phases
- 50A power stages
Aorus Elite:
- 12+2 power phases
- 80A power stages
The Aorus Elite has a more robust VRM with more power phases and higher-rated power stages, ensuring better power delivery for high-end CPUs.
Audio and Networking
Gigabyte B550M DS3H:
- Realtek ALC887 audio codec
- Gigabit Ethernet
Aorus Elite:
- Realtek ALC1220 audio codec
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
The Aorus Elite provides a superior audio experience with a higher-quality audio codec and faster networking capabilities.
BIOS and Features
Gigabyte B550M DS3H:
- UEFI BIOS with simple interface
- Q-Flash Plus for easy BIOS updates
Aorus Elite:
- UEFI BIOS with advanced features
- Q-Flash Plus and BIOS flashback for flexible BIOS updates
- RGB Fusion 2.0 for lighting control
The Aorus Elite offers a more comprehensive BIOS with advanced features and lighting control options.
Price and Value
The Gigabyte B550M DS3H is priced around $100, while the Aorus Elite retails for approximately $150. Considering the additional features and connectivity options, the Aorus Elite provides better value for users who prioritize expandability and performance.
Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
Both the Gigabyte B550M DS3H and Aorus Elite are excellent motherboards, but their strengths lie in different areas. If you prioritize compact builds and budget-friendly options, the B550M DS3H is an ideal choice. However, if you demand maximum expansion, superior connectivity, and a robust VRM, the Aorus Elite emerges as the clear winner.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which motherboard is better for gaming?
A: The Aorus Elite offers superior connectivity and a more robust VRM, making it the better choice for gaming.
Q: Which motherboard has better audio quality?
A: The Aorus Elite features a higher-quality audio codec, providing a better audio experience.
Q: Which motherboard is easier to overclock?
A: Both motherboards offer user-friendly BIOS interfaces, but the Aorus Elite has more advanced overclocking features.