Main points
- Both the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX sport the ATX form factor, providing ample space for expansion and customization.
- The Gaming X AX boasts a sleek black and silver design, while the Aorus Elite AX exudes a more vibrant aesthetic with its black and orange color scheme.
- The Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX features a 16+1+2 phase digital VRM, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts a 20+1+2 phase digital VRM.
In the realm of PC gaming, the motherboard serves as the foundation upon which all other components rest. With the advent of the latest Intel 13th-generation processors, the Gigabyte Z790 chipset has emerged as a frontrunner, offering unparalleled performance and connectivity. Two standout contenders in this arena are the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key features, specifications, and performance aspects of these two gaming powerhouses to help you make an informed decision for your next gaming rig.
Form Factor and Aesthetics
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX sport the ATX form factor, providing ample space for expansion and customization. The Gaming X AX boasts a sleek black and silver design, while the Aorus Elite AX exudes a more vibrant aesthetic with its black and orange color scheme.
Chipset and Socket
At the heart of both motherboards lies the Intel Z790 chipset, which supports the latest Intel 13th-generation Core processors. This chipset provides a robust foundation for overclocking, high-speed memory, and advanced connectivity features.
Power Delivery
The power delivery system is crucial for ensuring stable and reliable operation, especially under demanding gaming loads. The Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX features a 16+1+2 phase digital VRM, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts a 20+1+2 phase digital VRM. Both motherboards utilize high-quality components and heatsinks to ensure efficient heat dissipation.
Memory Support
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX support up to 128GB of DDR5 memory. The Gaming X AX supports memory speeds up to 6000MHz, while the Aorus Elite AX supports speeds up to 6600MHz.
Storage Connectivity
In terms of storage connectivity, both motherboards offer a wide range of options. The Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX features six SATA III ports and three M.2 slots (two PCIe 4.0 and one PCIe 3.0). The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX, on the other hand, offers four SATA III ports and four M.2 slots (three PCIe 4.0 and one PCIe 3.0).
Expansion Slots
For graphics card enthusiasts, the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX provide ample PCIe expansion slots. Both motherboards feature two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for high-speed graphics cards. Additionally, the Gaming X AX offers one PCIe 3.0 x16 slot and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots, while the Aorus Elite AX offers two PCIe 3.0 x16 slots and one PCIe 3.0 x1 slot.
Networking and Connectivity
When it comes to networking, both motherboards come equipped with Intel 2.5GbE LAN ports for high-speed wired connectivity. The Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX also features built-in Wi-Fi 6E support, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.
Audio and Lighting
For an immersive gaming experience, both motherboards offer high-quality audio solutions. The Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX features the Realtek ALC4080 audio codec, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX utilizes the Realtek ALC1220-VB codec. Both motherboards also support RGB lighting, allowing you to customize your rig’s aesthetics with vibrant colors and effects.
BIOS and Overclocking
The BIOS plays a vital role in system configuration and overclocking. Both the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offer user-friendly BIOS interfaces with advanced overclocking options.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, both the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX deliver exceptional performance. In gaming benchmarks, both motherboards demonstrate minimal differences in frame rates and overall gaming experience. However, the Aorus Elite AX may have a slight edge in productivity tasks due to its slightly higher memory speeds.
Key Points: The Verdict
Choosing between the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize aesthetics, Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and slightly higher memory speeds, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with a solid feature set, the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX is a formidable contender.
Answers to Your Questions
1. Which motherboard has better VRM cooling?
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX features a more robust VRM heatsink design, providing better cooling performance.
2. Does the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX support PCIe 5.0 storage?
Yes, the Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX features two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots that can support PCIe 5.0 storage devices with a firmware update.
3. Which motherboard offers more USB ports?
The Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX offers a total of 10 USB ports, while the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers 12 USB ports.