Quick summary
- The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts a 16+1+2 phase digital power design, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite features a slightly less powerful 14+1+1 phase design.
- However, if you prefer a more affordable option with a slightly lower power delivery and memory speeds, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.
- The main difference between the two motherboards is the inclusion of a 10GbE LAN port on the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX.
In the realm of high-performance computing, the release of Intel’s 13th-generation processors has sent shockwaves through the industry. With its unparalleled performance and efficiency, this latest generation of CPUs demands a motherboard that can unleash its full potential. Enter the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite, two premium motherboards that stand ready to meet the challenge. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit these two powerhouses against each other to determine which one emerges as the ultimate choice for enthusiasts and overclockers alike.
Chipset and Socket: The Foundation of Performance
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite are built around the latest Intel Z790 chipset, providing support for Intel’s 13th and 12th-generation processors. This chipset offers a wide range of connectivity options, including PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support, ensuring blazing-fast data transfer speeds.
Power Delivery: Fueling the Beast
When it comes to overclocking, a robust power delivery system is crucial. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts a 16+1+2 phase digital power design, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite features a slightly less powerful 14+1+1 phase design. Both motherboards utilize high-quality components and advanced heat sinks to ensure stable voltage delivery even under demanding loads.
Memory Support: Unleashing the Potential
Both motherboards support DDR5 memory, with the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offering slightly higher memory speeds of up to 6400MHz compared to the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite’s 5600MHz maximum. This difference may not be significant for most users, but it could provide a slight edge for enthusiasts looking to push their memory to the limits.
Storage Options: Blazing-Fast Connectivity
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite offer a comparable range of storage options. Both motherboards feature multiple PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, providing support for ultra-fast NVMe SSDs. They also include several SATA III ports for additional storage expansion.
Connectivity: Bridging the Gap
When it comes to connectivity, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX takes the lead with the inclusion of a 10GbE LAN port, providing blazing-fast wired network speeds. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite, on the other hand, features a more standard 2.5GbE LAN port. Both motherboards offer built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity for wireless convenience.
Features and Aesthetics: Elevating the Experience
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite offer a host of features to enhance the user experience. These include:
- RGB Lighting: Both motherboards feature customizable RGB lighting zones, allowing users to personalize their system’s aesthetics.
- Q-Flash Plus: This feature allows users to update the motherboard’s BIOS without a CPU or memory installed.
- Smart Fan 6: Advanced fan control software that provides precise temperature monitoring and cooling optimization.
Pricing and Availability: The Value Proposition
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite are both premium motherboards with comparable pricing. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX typically retails for a slightly higher price due to its inclusion of the 10GbE LAN port.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize blazing-fast wired network speeds and are willing to pay a slight premium, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is the clear choice. However, if you prefer a more affordable option with a slightly lower power delivery and memory speeds, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Q: What is the difference between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite?
A: The main difference between the two motherboards is the inclusion of a 10GbE LAN port on the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX. Additionally, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX has a slightly more powerful power delivery system and higher maximum memory speeds.
2. Q: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent overclocking capabilities, but the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX has a slight edge due to its more robust power delivery system.
3. Q: What type of memory do these motherboards support?
A: Both motherboards support DDR5 memory, with the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offering slightly higher maximum speeds of up to 6400MHz.
4. Q: Do these motherboards have built-in Wi-Fi?
A: Yes, both motherboards feature built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
5. Q: Which motherboard is a better value for money?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite offers a slightly better value for money, providing comparable performance to the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX at a lower price point.