Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX vs MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi: A Comprehensive Comparison
What To Know
- Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi are based on the Intel Z790 chipset, which supports the latest Raptor Lake processors.
- The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers a more comprehensive feature set and slightly better performance than the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi.
- If you want the absolute best performance and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is the better choice.
In the realm of high-performance motherboards for Intel’s 13th-generation Raptor Lake processors, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi stand out as two formidable contenders. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricate details of these motherboards, examining their features, performance, and value proposition to help you make an informed decision.
Features
Chipset and Socket
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi are based on the Intel Z790 chipset, which supports the latest Raptor Lake processors. They feature the LGA 1700 socket, ensuring compatibility with both 12th and 13th-generation Intel CPUs.
Memory and Storage
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts four DDR5 memory slots, supporting up to 128GB of RAM with speeds of up to 6400MHz. The MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi, on the other hand, has four DDR5 slots with support for up to 128GB of RAM, but its maximum memory speed is slightly lower at 5600MHz.
Storage options on both motherboards include four M.2 slots, providing ample space for NVMe SSDs. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX also features a SATA port for additional storage expansion.
Connectivity
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi both offer a wide range of connectivity options. They include multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Gen 1 ports, as well as Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data transfer.
In terms of networking, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX has a 2.5GbE LAN port and an Intel AX210 Wi-Fi 6E module. The MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi has a 2.5GbE LAN port and an Intel Wi-Fi 6 module.
Expansion Slots
Both motherboards provide PCIe 5.0 x16 slots for graphics cards, ensuring maximum performance for gaming and other demanding applications. Additionally, they offer multiple PCIe 4.0 slots for expansion cards such as NVMe SSDs, sound cards, and network adapters.
Performance
CPU Overclocking
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi both have robust overclocking capabilities. They feature advanced voltage regulation systems and cooling solutions to support high-frequency operation for Raptor Lake processors.
Memory Overclocking
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX has a slight edge in memory overclocking, supporting higher memory speeds than the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi. This can result in improved performance for applications that rely on memory bandwidth.
Storage Performance
Both motherboards offer excellent storage performance, with support for NVMe SSDs in RAID configurations. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX has an additional SATA port, which can be beneficial for users who need more storage options.
Value Proposition
Pricing
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX typically retails for a slightly higher price than the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi. However, this price difference is justified by the additional features and enhanced performance capabilities of the Gigabyte motherboard.
Features and Performance
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers a more comprehensive feature set and slightly better performance than the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi. It has higher memory speed support, an additional SATA port, and a more advanced Wi-Fi module.
Warranty
Both motherboards come with a 3-year limited warranty from their respective manufacturers. This provides peace of mind and ensures that you are covered in the event of any hardware defects.
The Verdict
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi are both excellent choices for building high-performance gaming or workstation PCs. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers a slightly better feature set and performance, but it comes at a slightly higher price. The MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi is a more budget-friendly option that still provides excellent performance and features for most users.
Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you want the absolute best performance and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is the better choice. If you are looking for a more affordable option that still offers great performance, the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which motherboard has better memory overclocking capabilities?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX supports higher memory speeds than the MSI PRO Z790-A WiFi.
Q: Which motherboard offers more storage options?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX has an additional SATA port, providing more storage expansion possibilities.
Q: Which motherboard comes with a longer warranty?
A: Both motherboards come with a 3-year limited warranty from their respective manufacturers.
