Gigabyte B450 Aorus M vs Gigabyte B450M DS3H: The Shocking Results of Our In-Depth Comparison!

Choosing the right motherboard for your PC build can be a daunting task, especially when presented with a plethora of options. Two popular choices for AMD Ryzen processors are the Gigabyte B450 Aorus M and the Gigabyte B450M DS3H. Both motherboards offer solid features at attractive price points, but which one comes out on top? This detailed comparison will examine the key differences between the Gigabyte B450 Aorus M and the Gigabyte B450M DS3H to help you make an informed decision.

The Basics: A Quick Overview

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly summarize what each motherboard brings to the table.
Gigabyte B450 Aorus M: This motherboard is designed for gamers and enthusiasts looking for a balance of performance and features. It boasts a sleek design with RGB lighting, robust connectivity options, and a solid VRM for overclocking.
Gigabyte B450M DS3H: This motherboard focuses on value and practicality. It offers a more budget-friendly price while still providing reliable performance and essential features for everyday use.

The Showdown: Comparing Key Features

Now let’s delve deeper into the key features that differentiate these two motherboards:

1. Form Factor: Micro-ATX vs. Mini-ITX

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M utilizes the Micro-ATX form factor, offering a standard size for most PC cases. On the other hand, the Gigabyte B450M DS3H adopts the smaller Mini-ITX form factor, ideal for compact builds and smaller PC cases. This difference in size is crucial for deciding what case you can use and how much space you have in your build.

2. Chipset and Socket Compatibility: A Shared Foundation

Both motherboards are built on the AMD B450 chipset and support AMD Ryzen processors, including the first, second, and third-generation Ryzen CPUs. This means you can use either motherboard with a wide range of AMD processors, giving you flexibility in your build.

3. Memory Support: DDR4 for Performance

Both motherboards support DDR4 memory, offering high bandwidth for demanding applications and games. The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M supports up to 32GB of DDR4-3466 memory, while the Gigabyte B450M DS3H supports up to 32GB of DDR4-3200 memory. While the difference in memory speed might be negligible in most scenarios, the Aorus M offers a slight advantage for those who want to push the limits of their system.

4. Expansion Slots: Flexibility for Future Upgrades

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M offers two PCIe x16 slots, one PCIe x1 slot, and three M.2 slots. This setup provides ample room for expansion, allowing you to install multiple graphics cards, high-speed NVMe SSDs, and other expansion cards. The Gigabyte B450M DS3H, however, offers only one PCIe x16 slot, one PCIe x1 slot, and one M.2 slot. While it still provides essential expansion capability, it offers less flexibility than the Aorus M.

5. Storage Connectivity: Keeping Your Data Secure and Fast

Both motherboards offer a mix of SATA and M.2 slots for storage options. The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M features six SATA ports and three M.2 slots, providing ample room for multiple storage drives. The Gigabyte B450M DS3H has four SATA ports and one M.2 slot, offering a more streamlined storage setup.

6. Audio: Immersive Sound for Gaming and Entertainment

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M boasts a Realtek ALC1220 codec with a dedicated audio amplifier, delivering high-fidelity audio for an immersive experience. The Gigabyte B450M DS3H utilizes a Realtek ALC892 codec, providing decent audio quality but lacking the dedicated amplifier and advanced features found on the Aorus M.

7. Networking: Staying Connected

Both motherboards feature a Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit Ethernet controller, ensuring fast and reliable network connectivity. The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M also includes Intel Wireless-AC 9260 for Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, offering faster and more stable wireless connections. The Gigabyte B450M DS3H lacks built-in Wi-Fi, requiring a separate Wi-Fi adapter for wireless connectivity.

8. Aesthetics and Features: A Matter of Personal Preference

The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M sports a sleek black PCB with RGB lighting, adding a touch of style to your build. It also features a dedicated BIOS flash button, making updating the BIOS a breeze. The Gigabyte B450M DS3H has a more understated design with a black and blue PCB and lacks RGB lighting. However, it still offers a solid and functional design with essential features.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Motherboard for Your Needs

So, which motherboard reigns supreme? The answer depends on your specific needs and budget.
Gigabyte B450 Aorus M: This motherboard is ideal for gamers and enthusiasts who prioritize features, performance, and aesthetics. Its expanded connectivity options, robust VRM, and RGB lighting make it a compelling choice for high-end builds.
Gigabyte B450M DS3H: This motherboard is perfect for budget-conscious users who need a reliable and functional motherboard for everyday use. Its compact size and value-oriented features make it a great option for compact builds and those who prioritize affordability.

Beyond the Specs: What Else Matters?

While specs and features are important, there are other factors to consider when choosing a motherboard:

• Brand Reputation: Gigabyte is a well-established brand with a solid reputation for quality and reliability.
• Software and Support: Both motherboards come with Gigabyte’s BIOS and software suite, offering comprehensive control and customization options.
• Warranty: Gigabyte offers a 3-year warranty on both motherboards, providing peace of mind in case of any issues.

Weighing the Options: A Final Thought

Ultimately, the best motherboard for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M offers more features, performance, and aesthetics, while the Gigabyte B450M DS3H provides a more affordable and compact solution. Carefully consider your budget, build size, and specific needs before making your decision.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I overclock my CPU on either motherboard?
Both motherboards support overclocking, but the Gigabyte B450 Aorus M has a more robust VRM, making it better suited for pushing your CPU to its limits.
2. What are the main differences between Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX form factors?
Micro-ATX motherboards are larger and offer more expansion slots, while Mini-ITX motherboards are smaller and more suitable for compact builds.
3. Which motherboard is better for gaming?
The Gigabyte B450 Aorus M offers better audio, networking, and expansion options, making it a better choice for gaming.
4. Can I upgrade to a newer Ryzen CPU on these motherboards?
Both motherboards support the first, second, and third-generation Ryzen CPUs, but they might not be compatible with future generations.
5. What are the pros and cons of each motherboard?
Gigabyte B450 Aorus M:
Pros:

• More features and connectivity options
• Robust VRM for overclocking
• RGB lighting and aesthetics
• Intel Wireless-AC 9260 for Wi-Fi 6

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Larger Micro-ATX form factor

Gigabyte B450M DS3H:
Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Compact Mini-ITX form factor
• Reliable performance

Cons:

• Fewer features and connectivity options
• No built-in Wi-Fi