Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX vs Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: A Comprehensive Comparison
What To Know
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a solid motherboard with good performance, the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus is an excellent option.
- Both the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus are exceptional motherboards that will provide a solid foundation for your next PC build.
- The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX has a slightly better audio codec, the Realtek ALC4080, compared to the Realtek ALC1220 on the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus.
When building a high-performance PC, choosing the right motherboard is crucial. Two of the top options for the latest Intel 12th Gen CPUs are the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus. Both motherboards offer impressive features, but they differ in some key aspects. This comprehensive comparison will help you make an informed decision between these two excellent choices.
Features and Specifications
Form Factor and Design:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: ATX
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: ATX
Socket and Chipset:
- Both: LGA 1700, Intel Z690 chipset
Memory Support:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: Up to 128GB DDR5, 6400MHz (OC)
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: Up to 128GB DDR5, 5333MHz (OC)
Storage Options:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: 3x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, 6x SATA ports
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: 3x M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, 4x SATA ports
Networking:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: 2.5GbE LAN, Intel Wi-Fi 6E
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: 2.5GbE LAN, Realtek Wi-Fi 6
Expansion Slots:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 4.0 x1, 3x PCIe 3.0 x1
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: 2x PCIe 5.0 x16, 1x PCIe 3.0 x4, 2x PCIe 3.0 x1
Performance and Features
Power Delivery:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: 16+1+2 phase VRM
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: 16+2 phase VRM
Cooling:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: Large heatsinks on VRM and chipset
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: VRM heatsinks and M.2 heatsinks
BIOS and Software:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: UEFI BIOS with Q-Flash Plus
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: UEFI BIOS with EZ Flash 3
Connectivity and Expansion
USB Ports:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: 5x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 6x USB 3.2 Gen 1
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: 5x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 5x USB 3.2 Gen 1
Audio:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: Realtek ALC4080 codec
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: Realtek ALC1220 codec
RGB Lighting:
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: RGB headers with Fusion 2.0 support
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: RGB headers with Aura Sync support
Pricing and Availability
- Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX: Around $270
- Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus: Around $250
Pros and Cons
Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX
Pros:
- Excellent power delivery
- Wi-Fi 6E connectivity
- Large heatsinks for cooling
- Q-Flash Plus for easy BIOS updates
Cons:
- Higher price
- Limited USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports
Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Good power delivery
- M.2 heatsinks for storage protection
- Aura Sync support for RGB lighting
Cons:
- Lower memory overclocking capabilities
- Wi-Fi 6 only
Which is Right for You?
The best choice between the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize power delivery, Wi-Fi 6E, and premium cooling, the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX is worth the extra cost. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and still want a solid motherboard with good performance, the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus is an excellent option.
Takeaways: A Matter of Preference
Both the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus are exceptional motherboards that will provide a solid foundation for your next PC build. Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your individual preferences and requirements.
Popular Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX has a higher memory overclocking limit of 6400MHz compared to the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus’s 5333MHz.
Q: Does the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus support PCIe 5.0?
A: Yes, both motherboards support PCIe 5.0 on the primary PCIe x16 slot.
Q: Which motherboard has more M.2 slots?
A: Both motherboards have three M.2 slots, but the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX has an additional SATA port.
Q: Is the Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX compatible with Intel 13th Gen CPUs?
A: Yes, both motherboards are compatible with Intel 13th Gen CPUs with a BIOS update.
Q: Which motherboard has a better audio codec?
A: The Gigabyte Z690 Aorus Elite AX has a slightly better audio codec, the Realtek ALC4080, compared to the Realtek ALC1220 on the Asus TUF Gaming Z690-Plus.
