Which Z690i AORUS Motherboard is Right for You? Ultra vs. Lite Comparison
What To Know
- The Z690I Aorus Ultra features a robust 16+1+1 phase digital power delivery system, while the Lite model has a slightly less powerful 12+1+1 phase design.
- The Aorus Ultra boasts a Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec, while the Lite has a Realtek ALC897 codec.
- The Lite is a more affordable option with a slightly less powerful power delivery system and fewer storage options, but it still provides a solid foundation for a compact and capable gaming or productivity system.
In the realm of high-performance computing, the motherboard serves as the backbone of your system, connecting all essential components and enabling seamless communication. When it comes to the latest Intel LGA 1700 platform, Gigabyte has introduced two exceptional Mini-ITX motherboards: the Z690I Aorus Ultra and the Z690I Aorus Lite. Both boards offer a compact and feature-rich solution for enthusiasts and builders alike. However, understanding their differences is crucial to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these motherboards, highlighting their strengths and differences.
Dimensions and Form Factor
The Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra and Lite share a compact Mini-ITX form factor with dimensions of 170mm x 170mm. This compact size makes them ideal for small form factor (SFF) builds where space is at a premium.
Chipset and Socket
Both motherboards are based on the latest Intel Z690 chipset, which supports 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors. The LGA 1700 socket ensures compatibility with a wide range of Intel CPUs, providing ample upgrade options.
Power Delivery
The Z690I Aorus Ultra features a robust 16+1+1 phase digital power delivery system, while the Lite model has a slightly less powerful 12+1+1 phase design. Both systems are capable of handling even the most power-hungry processors, ensuring stable and reliable performance under demanding workloads.
Memory Support
Both motherboards support dual-channel DDR5 memory with speeds up to 6400MHz (OC). They feature four DDR5 DIMM slots, allowing for a maximum memory capacity of 128GB.
Storage Options
The Aorus Ultra offers three M.2 slots, including one PCIe 5.0 x4 slot and two PCIe 4.0 x4 slots. The Lite model has two PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, providing ample storage expansion options for high-speed NVMe SSDs.
Connectivity
The Z690I Aorus Ultra and Lite both come equipped with a comprehensive range of connectivity options. They feature a 2.5GbE LAN port, multiple USB 3.2 Gen 1 and 2 ports, and a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port for high-speed data transfer.
Audio and Networking
The Aorus Ultra boasts a Realtek ALC1220-VB audio codec, while the Lite has a Realtek ALC897 codec. Both codecs provide high-quality audio output, but the ALC1220-VB offers slightly better sound quality and support for DTS:X Ultra.
Expansion Slots
The Aorus Ultra features a single PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, while the Lite has a single PCIe 4.0 x16 slot. Both boards have a single PCIe 3.0 x1 slot for additional expansion options.
RGB Lighting
The Aorus Ultra comes with built-in RGB lighting, allowing you to customize the aesthetics of your system. The Lite model does not have any RGB lighting capabilities.
BIOS and Overclocking
Both motherboards feature a user-friendly BIOS with advanced overclocking options. The Aorus Ultra has a slightly more robust BIOS with additional features and settings for fine-tuning your system.
Price and Availability
The Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra is priced slightly higher than the Lite model, typically around $250-$300. Both motherboards are widely available from major retailers and online marketplaces.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Motherboard for Your Needs
The Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra and Lite are both excellent Mini-ITX motherboards for Intel’s latest processors. The Ultra offers a more robust power delivery system, additional M.2 slots, and better audio capabilities, making it a better choice for enthusiasts and overclockers. The Lite is a more affordable option with a slightly less powerful power delivery system and fewer storage options, but it still provides a solid foundation for a compact and capable gaming or productivity system. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
The Gigabyte Z690I Aorus Ultra has a more robust power delivery system and BIOS features, making it better suited for overclocking.
Q2: Can I use both M.2 slots on the Aorus Lite?
Yes, you can use both M.2 slots on the Aorus Lite, but only one of them supports PCIe 5.0 speeds.
Q3: Does the Aorus Ultra support DDR4 memory?
No, both the Aorus Ultra and Lite only support DDR5 memory.
Q4: Which motherboard has better audio quality?
The Aorus Ultra has better audio quality due to the Realtek ALC1220-VB codec, which supports DTS:X Ultra.
Q5: Does the Aorus Lite have RGB lighting?
No, the Aorus Lite does not have any RGB lighting capabilities.
