Gigabyte Z790 Aero G Vs Z790 Tomahawk

The world of PC building is constantly evolving, with new motherboards being released regularly to cater to the ever-changing demands of gamers and enthusiasts alike. Two such motherboards that have recently made waves in the market are the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and the MSI Z790 Tomahawk. Both boards offer a compelling combination of features and performance, but which one is the right choice for your next build? In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G vs. Z790 Tomahawk, exploring their key differences and similarities to help you make an informed decision.

Form Factor and Aesthetics

The Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk both adopt the standard ATX form factor, making them compatible with most mid-tower and full-tower cases. Aesthetically, the Aero G exudes a sleek and modern vibe with its black and silver color scheme, while the Tomahawk sports a more understated and utilitarian look with its black and red accents. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall theme of your build.

Chipset and Socket

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk utilize the latest Intel Z790 chipset, which supports 13th and 12th generation Intel Core processors. This means that both boards offer compatibility with the latest and greatest CPUs from Intel, ensuring that your system remains up-to-date for years to come.

Power Delivery and VRM

The power delivery system of a motherboard plays a crucial role in ensuring stable and reliable performance, especially when overclocking. The Gigabyte Z790 Aero G boasts a robust 16+1+2 phase VRM, while the Z790 Tomahawk features a slightly less powerful 14+2+1 phase VRM. Both motherboards employ high-quality components, including digital power controllers and durable chokes, to deliver clean and efficient power to the CPU. While the Aero G may have a slight edge in terms of VRM, both boards are more than capable of handling even the most demanding processors.

Memory Support

When it comes to memory support, the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk offer similar capabilities. Both boards support up to 128GB of DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 6600MHz (OC). They also feature dual-channel memory architecture and XMP profiles for easy overclocking. Whether you’re looking to build a system with ample RAM for heavy multitasking or high-speed memory for gaming and content creation, both boards have you covered.

Storage Options

In terms of storage options, the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk offer a versatile range of choices. The Aero G provides four M.2 slots, including three PCIe 5.0 slots and one PCIe 4.0 slot. The Tomahawk, on the other hand, offers three M.2 slots, with two PCIe 5.0 slots and one PCIe 4.0 slot. Both motherboards also include multiple SATA ports for additional storage devices. Whether you prefer the flexibility of multiple M.2 slots or the reliability of SATA drives, both boards have you covered.

Connectivity

When it comes to connectivity, the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk offer a comprehensive suite of options to keep you connected. Both boards feature multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Gen 1 ports, as well as USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support for ultra-fast data transfer speeds. For networking, both boards include Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, ensuring seamless and reliable internet access. The Aero G, however, has a slight advantage with its additional 10GbE LAN port, providing even faster network speeds for demanding users.

Expansion Slots

For those looking to expand their system with additional hardware, the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk offer a generous number of expansion slots. The Aero G features four PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot, and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. The Tomahawk, on the other hand, offers three PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, two PCIe 4.0 x1 slots, and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot. Both motherboards provide ample flexibility for adding graphics cards, sound cards, and other peripherals.

Audio and Networking

The Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk both feature integrated audio solutions from Realtek. The Aero G utilizes the Realtek ALC4080 codec, while the Tomahawk uses the slightly less powerful Realtek ALC897 codec. Both codecs offer high-quality audio output and support multiple audio channels. For networking, both motherboards include Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet access.

BIOS and Overclocking

The BIOS is an essential part of any motherboard, providing users with control over various system settings and overclocking options. Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk offer intuitive BIOS interfaces with a wide range of options to tweak your system’s performance. The Aero G, however, has a slight edge with its more user-friendly interface and advanced overclocking features, making it a better choice for enthusiasts looking to push their hardware to the limits.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing, the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G and Z790 Tomahawk fall into different price ranges. The Aero G is typically priced higher than the Tomahawk, reflecting its more robust VRM, additional storage options, and premium features. The Tomahawk, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option while still providing a solid foundation for a high-performance system. Ultimately, the best value for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

The Ultimate Verdict: Gigabyte Z790 Aero G vs. Z790 Tomahawk

So, which motherboard is the ultimate winner in the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G vs. Z790 Tomahawk battle? The answer, as always, depends on your individual needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a premium motherboard with top-of-the-line features, robust power delivery, and advanced overclocking capabilities, the Gigabyte Z790 Aero G is an excellent choice. It offers a comprehensive suite of features, including multiple M.2 slots, Thunderbolt 4 support, and a user-friendly BIOS. However, it comes at a higher price point.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that still offers solid performance and a wide range of features, the MSI Z790 Tomahawk is a great choice. It provides a strong VRM, ample storage options, and reliable connectivity, making it a great foundation for a mid-range or high-end gaming or content creation system.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which motherboard has better VRM performance?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aero G has a slightly more powerful VRM than the Z790 Tomahawk, with a 16+1+2 phase design compared to the Tomahawk’s 14+2+1 phase design.

Q: Which motherboard has more storage options?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aero G offers more storage options, with four M.2 slots compared to the Tomahawk’s three M.2 slots.

Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aero G has a more user-friendly BIOS interface and advanced overclocking features, making it a better choice for enthusiasts looking to push their hardware to the limits.