Which Motherboard Reigns Supreme? Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro AC V1 vs V2 Shootout

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and B550 AORUS PRO AC V2 are two high-performance motherboards that cater to the needs of demanding PC builders. Both boards offer robust features, but the V2 model brings several enhancements that make it worth considering. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC vs V2, helping you make an informed decision.

Chipset and Socket

Both motherboards utilize the AMD B550 chipset, which supports AMD Ryzen 5000, 4000, and 3000 series processors. They feature the AM4 socket, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of AMD CPUs.

Memory and Storage

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and V2 provide four DDR4 memory slots, supporting up to 128GB of RAM. Both boards feature dual-channel memory architecture and support memory speeds of up to 5400MHz (OC).

For storage, the B550 AORUS PRO AC offers six SATA III ports and two M.2 slots, while the V2 model upgrades to eight SATA III ports and three M.2 slots. The additional M.2 slot on the V2 allows for greater storage expansion options.

Expansion Slots

In terms of expansion slots, the Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and V2 are well-equipped. Both boards feature two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, supporting multi-GPU configurations. Additionally, they include one PCIe 4.0 x1 slot and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots.

Connectivity

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and V2 offer comprehensive connectivity options. Both boards include an Intel I219-V Gigabit Ethernet port, providing stable and reliable wired internet access.

For wireless connectivity, the B550 AORUS PRO AC features an Intel AX200 Wi-Fi 6 module, offering speeds of up to 2.4Gbps. The V2 model upgrades to an Intel AX210 Wi-Fi 6E module, supporting the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard with speeds of up to 6Gbps.

Audio and Video

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and V2 boast high-quality audio and video capabilities. Both boards feature the Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec, delivering immersive and crystal-clear audio.

For video output, the B550 AORUS PRO AC provides one HDMI port and one DisplayPort, while the V2 model includes one HDMI port and two DisplayPorts. The additional DisplayPort on the V2 allows for more flexible multi-monitor setups.

Other Features

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and V2 come with a range of additional features to enhance user experience. Both boards include:

• RGB lighting control
• BIOS flashback and Q-Flash Plus
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A and Type-C ports
• Smart Fan 5 cooling technology

Pricing and Availability

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC is available for around $180, while the B550 AORUS PRO AC V2 is priced slightly higher at around $220. Both motherboards are readily available from major retailers.

The Final Verdict

The Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and B550 AORUS PRO AC V2 are both excellent motherboards for high-performance PC builds. The B550 AORUS PRO AC offers a solid foundation with its robust features, while the V2 model brings improvements in storage, connectivity, and audio.

For users seeking a well-rounded motherboard with ample storage and wireless connectivity options, the Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC V2 is the better choice. However, if you prioritize affordability and don’t require the additional features of the V2, the B550 AORUS PRO AC remains a compelling option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the key differences between the Gigabyte B550 AORUS PRO AC and V2?

A1: The V2 model offers more storage options (eight SATA III ports vs six), better wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 6E), and an additional DisplayPort.

Q2: Which motherboard is better for gaming?

A2: Both motherboards are suitable for gaming, but the B550 AORUS PRO AC V2 may have a slight edge due to its improved connectivity and audio capabilities.

Q3: Can I use the same RAM on both motherboards?

A3: Yes, both motherboards support DDR4 memory and feature four memory slots.