At a Glance
- However, if you are on a tighter budget and still want a high-quality motherboard, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite is an excellent option.
- The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Z790 Aorus Master are both outstanding motherboards that offer a combination of performance, features, and value.
- However, if you are on a tighter budget and want a high-quality motherboard, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite is an excellent choice that will not disappoint.
The latest generation of Intel motherboards has arrived, and Gigabyte’s Z790 series stands out as a formidable contender. Among the most sought-after options are the Z790 Aorus Elite and the Z790 Aorus Master. These two motherboards offer an impressive array of features and capabilities, making them ideal choices for both enthusiasts and professionals. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of these two motherboards, comparing their specifications, performance, and overall value proposition.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite | Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master |
| — | — | — |
| Chipset | Intel Z790 | Intel Z790 |
| Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Form Factor | ATX | ATX |
| Power Phases | 16+1+2 | 20+1+2 |
| Memory Support | DDR5 up to 7600 MHz | DDR5 up to 8000 MHz |
| PCIe Slots | 3 x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 4.0 x1 | 4 x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1 x PCIe 4.0 x1 |
| M.2 Slots | 4 x M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0) | 5 x M.2 NVMe (PCIe 4.0) |
| SATA Ports | 6 | 8 |
| USB Ports | 10x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 | 12x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 |
| Ethernet | 2.5GbE | 10GbE |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.2 |
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and the Z790 Aorus Master deliver exceptional results. They offer excellent overclocking capabilities, allowing users to push their systems to the limits. However, the Z790 Aorus Master has a slight edge due to its higher power phases and better memory support. This enables it to handle more demanding workloads and achieve higher stable overclocks.
Features and Connectivity
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Z790 Aorus Master come equipped with an extensive suite of features and connectivity options. Both motherboards support the latest Intel 13th and 12th generation processors, as well as DDR5 memory. They also offer a wide range of PCIe 5.0 and M.2 slots for high-speed storage and graphics card connectivity.
However, the Z790 Aorus Master offers some additional features that set it apart from the Elite model. These include:
- 10GbE Ethernet: Provides ultra-fast wired network connectivity for high-bandwidth applications.
- Thunderbolt 4 Port: Enables high-speed data transfer and display output to compatible devices.
- Smart Fan 6 Technology: Offers advanced fan control and monitoring capabilities for optimal cooling performance.
Aesthetics and Design
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Z790 Aorus Master feature a sleek and modern design. The Elite model has a black and silver color scheme with RGB lighting accents, while the Master model has a more subdued black and gray design with subtle RGB lighting.
Ultimately, the choice between the two motherboards depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance and features, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master is the better choice. However, if you are on a tighter budget and still want a high-quality motherboard, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite is an excellent option.
Value Proposition
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Z790 Aorus Master offer exceptional value for money. The Elite model is priced at around $300, while the Master model is priced at around $400. For the additional features and performance improvements, the Z790 Aorus Master is worth the extra cost for enthusiasts and professionals.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Z790 Aorus Master are both outstanding motherboards that offer a combination of performance, features, and value. Whether you are building a high-end gaming rig or a workstation for demanding applications, these motherboards will provide a solid foundation for your system.
Ultimately, the best choice between the two depends on your specific requirements and budget. If you prioritize performance and features, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master is the superior option. However, if you are on a tighter budget and want a high-quality motherboard, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite is an excellent choice that will not disappoint.
What You Need to Know
Q: What is the main difference between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Z790 Aorus Master?
A: The main difference lies in the performance and features. The Z790 Aorus Master has higher power phases, better memory support, and additional features such as 10GbE Ethernet and Thunderbolt 4.
Q: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master is better for overclocking due to its higher power phases and better memory support.
Q: Which motherboard offers better connectivity options?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master offers better connectivity options, including 10GbE Ethernet, Thunderbolt 4, and more USB ports.