Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite vs V2: Which Motherboard Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of PC building, motherboards serve as the foundation upon which all other components come together. Among the most popular choices in the mid-range segment are the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite and its successor, the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite V2. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two motherboards to help you make an informed decision for your next build.

Chipset and Compatibility

Both the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite and V2 are based on the AMD B450 chipset, providing support for AMD Ryzen processors of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generations. However, the V2 version features an updated BIOS that allows for compatibility with AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors.

VRM and Power Delivery

The VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) is responsible for providing stable power to the CPU. The Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite V2 boasts a 12+2 phase VRM with robust heatsinks, offering better power delivery and overclocking capabilities compared to the Elite’s 10+2 phase VRM.

Memory Support

Both motherboards support dual-channel DDR4 memory with speeds up to 4400MHz. However, the V2 version offers a slightly higher maximum memory capacity of 128GB compared to the Elite’s 64GB.

Expansion Slots

In terms of expansion slots, both motherboards provide:

• 1 x PCI-Express 4.0 x16 slot
• 1 x PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slot
• 2 x PCI-Express 3.0 x1 slots

Storage Connectivity

For storage, both motherboards offer:

• 6 x SATA III ports
• 2 x M.2 slots (one PCIe 4.0 x4, one PCIe 3.0 x4)
• 1 x U.2 connector (V2 only)

Connectivity and Features

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite V2 excels in connectivity, offering:

• 2.5Gb Ethernet
• Wi-Fi 6 AX200
• Bluetooth 5.0
• 7.1-channel Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec
• RGB Fusion 2.0 lighting control

The Elite, on the other hand, features:

• Gigabit Ethernet
• Bluetooth 4.2
• 7.1-channel Realtek ALC892 audio codec
• RGB Fusion lighting control

Aesthetics and Design

Both motherboards sport a stylish black and silver design. However, the V2 version features a more modern and angular design with an illuminated I/O shield and additional RGB lighting zones.

Price and Availability

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite is typically available for around $120, while the V2 version retails for around $150.

Which Motherboard Should You Choose?

The choice between the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite and V2 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you require the latest connectivity features, support for Ryzen 5000 series processors, and improved VRM performance, the V2 is the better option. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and can sacrifice some of these features, the Elite remains a solid choice.

Takeaways

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite and V2 are both excellent motherboards for mid-range PC builds. The V2 version offers a host of improvements over the Elite, including better power delivery, expanded connectivity, and a more modern design. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual requirements and preferences.

What You Need to Know

Q: What is the key difference between the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite and V2?
A: The V2 version features an updated BIOS that supports AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors, an improved VRM, and expanded connectivity options.

Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking potential?
A: The Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite V2 offers better overclocking capabilities due to its more robust VRM.

Q: Does the V2 version support DDR5 memory?
A: No, both the Gigabyte B450 Aorus Elite and V2 support DDR4 memory only.