Motherboard Superiority: Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX or Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero?

The release of Intel’s 13th-generation Raptor Lake processors has sparked a fierce competition among motherboard manufacturers. Two of the most highly anticipated contenders are the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero. Both these motherboards boast cutting-edge features, exceptional performance, and premium aesthetics. In this detailed comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, helping you make an informed decision for your next PC build.

Design and Aesthetics

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero present distinct design philosophies. The AORUS Elite AX embodies a sleek and modern aesthetic, with a predominantly black color scheme accented by silver and RGB elements. In contrast, the ROG Maximus Z790 Hero exudes a more flamboyant and gamer-centric design, featuring a bold black and red color combination and intricate ROG-themed graphics. Ultimately, the choice between these two aesthetics comes down to personal preference.

Chipset and Features

Both the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero are based on Intel’s Z790 chipset, which supports the latest 13th-generation Raptor Lake processors. However, each motherboard offers a unique set of features and capabilities.

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX features DDR5 memory support, with four DIMM slots capable of handling up to 128GB of RAM. It also boasts an impressive array of expansion slots, including four PCI-Express 5.0 x16 slots and two PCI-Express 4.0 x1 slots. Additionally, it includes a built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 module for wireless connectivity.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, on the other hand, offers DDR5 memory support with four DIMM slots capable of handling up to 128GB of RAM. It features three PCI-Express 5.0 x16 slots and two PCI-Express 4.0 x4 slots, providing ample expansion possibilities. It also includes a built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 module for enhanced wireless connectivity.

Power Delivery and Cooling

The power delivery system is a crucial aspect of any motherboard, ensuring stable and efficient operation of the CPU. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX boasts a 16+1+2 phase power delivery system, featuring 90A power stages. This robust power delivery ensures optimal performance for even the most demanding processors.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features a 20+1 phase power delivery system with 110A power stages. This even more powerful power delivery system provides ample headroom for overclocking and ensures stable operation under heavy loads.

Both motherboards are equipped with comprehensive cooling solutions to dissipate heat effectively. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX features a large VRM heatsink and a heat pipe to transfer heat away from the power delivery components. The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, on the other hand, boasts a massive VRM heatsink with a unique “CrossChill EK III” design, which allows for both air and liquid cooling options.

Connectivity and I/O

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX offers a wide range of connectivity options, including 10Gb Ethernet, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6E. It also features a variety of USB ports, including four USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, six USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero provides equally impressive connectivity options, including 10Gb Ethernet, 2.5Gb Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6E. It also includes a comprehensive selection of USB ports, with four USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 ports, six USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports.

BIOS and Overclocking

The BIOS is an essential aspect of any motherboard, providing users with control over various system settings and overclocking options. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX features a user-friendly BIOS with a clear and intuitive interface. It offers extensive overclocking options and allows for detailed tuning of the CPU, memory, and other system components.

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero also boasts a well-designed BIOS with a modern and visually appealing interface. It provides comprehensive overclocking capabilities, including AI-assisted overclocking for beginners and advanced manual overclocking options for experienced users.

Performance and Benchmarks

Both the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero deliver exceptional performance in various benchmarks and real-world applications. The robust power delivery systems ensure stable operation and allow for high overclocking potential.

In terms of CPU performance, both motherboards perform similarly, providing excellent support for the latest 13th-generation Raptor Lake processors. However, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero may have a slight edge in overclocking due to its more powerful power delivery system and advanced cooling solution.

Final Thoughts: Deciding the Best Choice

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero are both outstanding motherboards that offer a premium experience for PC enthusiasts. The choice between these two motherboards ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.

If you prioritize a sleek and modern aesthetic, a robust power delivery system, and a comprehensive set of features, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX is an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a more gamer-centric design, a powerful power delivery system with advanced cooling capabilities, and a user-friendly BIOS, the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is the ideal option.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. Which motherboard has better memory support?

Both the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero support DDR5 memory with up to 128GB of capacity.

2. Which motherboard offers more expansion slots?

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX features four PCI-Express 5.0 x16 slots and two PCI-Express 4.0 x1 slots, while the ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero provides three PCI-Express 5.0 x16 slots and two PCI-Express 4.0 x4 slots.

3. Which motherboard has a more robust power delivery system?

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features a more powerful 20+1 phase power delivery system with 110A power stages compared to the 16+1+2 phase power delivery system with 90A power stages on the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS Elite AX.

4. Which motherboard has better cooling capabilities?

The ASUS ROG Maximus Z790 Hero features a more advanced cooling solution with a massive VRM heatsink and a unique “CrossChill EK III” design, which allows for both air and liquid cooling options.

5. Which motherboard offers more connectivity options?

Both motherboards offer similar connectivity options, including 10Gb Ethernet, 2.5Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and a wide range of USB ports.