What To Know
- The Z690 AORUS Elite AX’s superior power delivery system gives it a slight edge in this area, allowing for higher clock speeds and improved performance.
- The Z690 AORUS Elite AX features a premium Realtek ALC4080 audio codec, while the TUF Gaming Z690-Plus uses a Realtek ALC897 codec.
- However, it offers a more robust feature set, including a better power delivery system, more storage options, and a premium audio codec.
In the realm of high-end motherboards, the Gigabyte Z690 AORUS Elite AX and ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus stand as formidable contenders. Both boards offer a robust feature set and exceptional performance, catering to the demands of discerning gamers and enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of these two powerhouses, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimately determining which motherboard reigns supreme.
Performance
The Z690 AORUS Elite AX boasts an impressive 20+1+2 power phase design, ensuring ample power delivery for even the most demanding CPUs. Its VRM heatsink features a large surface area and high-quality thermal pads, effectively dissipating heat and maintaining stable performance under heavy loads.
The TUF Gaming Z690-Plus, on the other hand, employs a 16+1+1 power phase design. While it may have fewer phases, its VRM is still capable of delivering reliable power to the CPU. Its VRM heatsink is also well-designed, providing adequate cooling for most scenarios.
In terms of overclocking potential, both motherboards offer excellent headroom. The Z690 AORUS Elite AX‘s superior power delivery system gives it a slight edge in this area, allowing for higher clock speeds and improved performance.
Features
Connectivity: The Z690 AORUS Elite AX and TUF Gaming Z690-Plus both feature a comprehensive array of connectivity options. They include multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Gen 1 ports, as well as support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.
Storage: The Z690 AORUS Elite AX has a slight advantage in terms of storage options, with four M.2 slots compared to the TUF Gaming Z690-Plus’s three. Both motherboards support PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs for blazing-fast storage speeds.
Audio: The Z690 AORUS Elite AX features a premium Realtek ALC4080 audio codec, while the TUF Gaming Z690-Plus uses a Realtek ALC897 codec. Both codecs provide high-quality audio output, but the ALC4080 offers slightly better performance and features.
Design and Aesthetics
The Z690 AORUS Elite AX sports a striking black and silver design with RGB lighting elements. Its large heatsinks and angular lines give it an aggressive and futuristic aesthetic.
The TUF Gaming Z690-Plus has a more subdued design, with a black and gray color scheme and subtle RGB lighting. Its heatsinks are also large and well-designed, but they have a more understated appearance.
BIOS and Software
Both motherboards come with user-friendly BIOS interfaces that provide a wide range of customization options. The Z690 AORUS Elite AX‘s BIOS is slightly more feature-rich, with a dedicated overclocking section and advanced memory tuning options.
The TUF Gaming Z690-Plus’s BIOS is also well-designed, with a clear and intuitive layout. It offers a good range of customization options, but it may not be as comprehensive as the Z690 AORUS Elite AX‘s BIOS.
Price and Value
The Z690 AORUS Elite AX typically retails for a slightly higher price than the TUF Gaming Z690-Plus. However, it offers a more robust feature set, including a better power delivery system, more storage options, and a premium audio codec.
The TUF Gaming Z690-Plus provides excellent value for money, offering a solid feature set at a more affordable price point. It is a great choice for those who prioritize performance and features over aesthetics.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The Z690 AORUS Elite AX and TUF Gaming Z690-Plus are both excellent motherboards that cater to different needs and preferences.
Choose the Z690 AORUS Elite AX if:
- You demand the highest possible performance and overclocking potential.
- You need ample storage options with multiple M.2 slots.
- You value premium audio quality.
- You prefer a striking and aggressive design with RGB lighting.
Choose the TUF Gaming Z690-Plus if:
- You prioritize value for money and affordability.
- You need a reliable and stable motherboard for everyday use.
- You prefer a more subdued and understated design.
- You are not as concerned with overclocking or advanced features.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which motherboard has better VRM cooling?
A: The Z690 AORUS Elite AX has a larger and more robust VRM heatsink, providing better cooling under heavy loads.
Q: Does the TUF Gaming Z690-Plus support DDR5 memory?
A: No, both the Z690 AORUS Elite AX and TUF Gaming Z690-Plus support only DDR4 memory.
Q: Which motherboard has more PCIe expansion slots?
A: The Z690 AORUS Elite AX and TUF Gaming Z690-Plus both have four PCIe x16 slots.
