B650 Motherboard Comparison: Gigabyte Gaming X AX vs Aorus Elite AX – Who Wins?
What To Know
- In the realm of PC hardware, motherboards play a pivotal role in determining the overall performance and capabilities of a gaming system.
- The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX and B650 Aorus Elite AX share a multitude of features that cater to the demands of modern gamers.
- The B650 Gaming X AX sports a sleek black and gray color scheme, while the B650 Aorus Elite AX showcases a more vibrant black and orange aesthetic.
In the realm of PC hardware, motherboards play a pivotal role in determining the overall performance and capabilities of a gaming system. With the advent of AMD’s latest Ryzen 7000 series processors, the market has witnessed the emergence of cutting-edge motherboards based on the B650 chipset. Two such exceptional offerings from Gigabyte are the B650 Gaming X AX and the B650 Aorus Elite AX. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricate details of these two motherboards, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different gaming scenarios.
Feature Overview
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX and B650 Aorus Elite AX share a multitude of features that cater to the demands of modern gamers. Both motherboards support the latest AM5 socket, enabling compatibility with AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. They also feature DDR5 memory slots, ensuring blazing-fast data transfer speeds.
Connectivity and Expansion
When it comes to connectivity, the B650 Gaming X AX and B650 Aorus Elite AX offer a wide range of options. Both motherboards boast multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, providing ample connectivity for peripherals and external storage devices. Additionally, they feature USB-C ports with support for fast charging and data transfer.
In terms of expansion slots, the B650 Gaming X AX comes with two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots and two PCIe 4.0 x1 slots. The B650 Aorus Elite AX, on the other hand, offers three PCIe 4.0 x16 slots and a single PCIe 4.0 x1 slot, providing more flexibility for multi-GPU setups.
Audio and Networking
For an immersive gaming experience, both motherboards offer high-quality audio solutions. The B650 Gaming X AX utilizes a Realtek ALC897 codec, while the B650 Aorus Elite AX features a Realtek ALC1220 codec. Both codecs deliver pristine audio with excellent dynamic range and clarity.
In terms of networking, both motherboards come equipped with Intel I225-V 2.5Gb LAN controllers, providing ultra-fast and stable internet connectivity. They also support Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring seamless wireless connections for online gaming and streaming.
BIOS and Software
Gigabyte equips both motherboards with its renowned BIOS interface, which offers a user-friendly design and comprehensive customization options. The B650 Gaming X AX comes with the Gigabyte App Center software suite, while the B650 Aorus Elite AX features the Aorus Control Center. These software suites provide easy access to system monitoring, fan control, and RGB lighting customization.
Build Quality and Aesthetics
The B650 Gaming X AX and B650 Aorus Elite AX are constructed with high-quality materials and feature durable designs. The B650 Gaming X AX sports a sleek black and gray color scheme, while the B650 Aorus Elite AX showcases a more vibrant black and orange aesthetic. Both motherboards come with integrated RGB lighting, allowing users to customize the look of their systems.
Price and Value
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX and B650 Aorus Elite AX are priced competitively within the mid-range motherboard segment. The B650 Gaming X AX typically retails for around $200, while the B650 Aorus Elite AX is slightly more expensive, costing around $250. Both motherboards offer excellent value for money, providing a balance of features, performance, and aesthetics.
In a nutshell
The Gigabyte B650 Gaming X AX and B650 Aorus Elite AX are exceptional motherboards that cater to the diverse needs of gamers. The B650 Gaming X AX is an ideal choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a solid foundation for their gaming rig. The B650 Aorus Elite AX, on the other hand, is a premium option that offers additional expansion capabilities and enhanced audio and networking features. Ultimately, the best choice between these two motherboards depends on individual preferences and budget constraints.
What You Need to Learn
1. Which motherboard has better audio quality?
Both motherboards offer high-quality audio solutions, but the B650 Aorus Elite AX has a slight edge with its Realtek ALC1220 codec.
2. Which motherboard provides more expansion slots?
The B650 Aorus Elite AX offers more expansion slots, with three PCIe 4.0 x16 slots compared to two on the B650 Gaming X AX.
3. Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
Both motherboards support overclocking, but the B650 Aorus Elite AX has a more robust VRM design, making it better suited for extreme overclocking.
