Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX vs ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H: A Comprehensive Comparison for Motherboard Dominance
What To Know
- The Aorus Elite AX features a 16+1+2 phase design, while the ROG Strix Z790-H employs a 16+2 phase configuration.
- The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H, on the other hand, utilizes a more elaborate heatsink design with a dedicated aluminum heatsink for the M.
- The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H are both exceptional motherboards that offer a compelling blend of performance, connectivity, expansion, and aesthetics.
The latest generation of motherboards, designed to unleash the full potential of Intel’s 13th Gen Raptor Lake processors, has arrived. Among the top contenders are the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H. Both boards offer a formidable arsenal of features, but which one reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into their key specifications, performance, connectivity, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Unleashing the Raptor Lake’s Might
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H boast robust power delivery systems to handle the demanding power requirements of Raptor Lake processors. The Aorus Elite AX features a 16+1+2 phase design, while the ROG Strix Z790-H employs a 16+2 phase configuration. Both boards provide excellent voltage regulation and ensure stable operation even under heavy loads.
Cooling: Keeping the Heat at Bay
Efficient cooling is crucial for maintaining optimal performance. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX incorporates a VRM heatsink with direct-touch heat pipes and an extended surface area. The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H, on the other hand, utilizes a more elaborate heatsink design with a dedicated aluminum heatsink for the M.2 slots. Both boards offer effective cooling solutions to prevent thermal throttling.
Connectivity: Embracing the Future
Connectivity is paramount for modern motherboards. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts an impressive array of ports, including 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3. The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H matches these capabilities with its own 2.5GbE LAN, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity. Additionally, both boards offer USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports for high-speed data transfer.
Expansion: Unleashing Potential
For users seeking to expand their system’s capabilities, both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H provide ample expansion options. The Aorus Elite AX features four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, and three PCIe 3.0 x1 slots. The ROG Strix Z790-H offers a similar configuration with four PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, two PCIe 4.0 x16 slots, and two PCIe 3.0 x1 slots.
Storage: Blazing-Fast Access
Storage performance is essential for today’s demanding workloads. Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H support NVMe SSDs via four M.2 slots. The Aorus Elite AX features three PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots and one PCIe 4.0 M.2 slot, while the ROG Strix Z790-H offers four PCIe 5.0 M.2 slots. Both boards provide ample storage options for lightning-fast data access.
Aesthetics: A Feast for the Eyes
In addition to performance and features, aesthetics play a role in motherboard selection. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX exhibits a sleek and aggressive design with RGB lighting zones. The ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H, on the other hand, adopts a more subtle and sophisticated aesthetic with customizable RGB lighting. The choice between these two boards depends on personal preferences and the desired system build.
Verdict: A Closely Contested Battle
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H are both exceptional motherboards that offer a compelling blend of performance, connectivity, expansion, and aesthetics. The Aorus Elite AX provides a robust power delivery system, effective cooling, and ample expansion options. The ROG Strix Z790-H counters with its elaborate heatsink design, comprehensive connectivity, and customizable RGB lighting.
Ultimately, the choice between these two motherboards comes down to specific preferences and individual needs. For those seeking raw performance and maximum expansion potential, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is an excellent option. However, if aesthetics, advanced cooling, and a more polished user experience are paramount, the ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H stands out as the superior choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H offer excellent overclocking capabilities. However, the Aorus Elite AX has a slight edge due to its robust power delivery system and comprehensive BIOS options.
Q: Does either motherboard support PCIe 5.0 graphics cards?
A: Yes, both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H support PCIe 5.0 graphics cards via their PCIe 5.0 x16 slots.
Q: Which motherboard has more USB ports?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and ASUS ROG Strix Z790-H both offer a wide range of USB ports. However, the Aorus Elite AX has a slight advantage with two additional USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports.
