What To Know
- Both the Z690 Aorus Pro and Elite AX are built on the Intel Z690 chipset, supporting the latest 12th Gen Intel Core processors with DDR5 RAM.
- The Aorus Pro offers a more comprehensive set of I/O ports, including a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, which enables faster data transfer speeds and device connectivity.
- The Aorus Pro features a more aggressive design with a black and silver color scheme, while the Elite AX adopts a more subtle approach with a black and grey color scheme.
Choosing the right motherboard for your next Intel 12th Gen build can be daunting, especially with the plethora of options available. Two popular choices from Gigabyte’s Aorus lineup are the Z690 Aorus Pro and the Z690 Aorus Elite AX. Both motherboards offer impressive features and performance, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and help you decide which motherboard best suits your needs and budget.
Performance and Features: A Close Contest
Both the Z690 Aorus Pro and Elite AX are built on the Intel Z690 chipset, supporting the latest 12th Gen Intel Core processors with DDR5 RAM. They offer excellent performance for gaming, content creation, and everyday tasks. However, there are subtle differences in their feature sets that might sway your decision.
Processor Support and Overclocking
Both motherboards support Intel‘s latest 12th Gen Core processors, including the flagship i9-12900K. They also enable overclocking, allowing you to push your CPU to its limits for maximum performance. However, the Aorus Pro boasts a more robust VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) design with 16+1+1 power phases, compared to the Elite AX’s 14+1+1 phases. This translates to better power delivery and thermal stability during demanding workloads and overclocking.
Memory Support
Both motherboards support DDR5 RAM with speeds up to 6400 MHz, providing ample bandwidth for demanding applications. However, the Aorus Pro offers a slightly higher maximum memory capacity of 128GB compared to the Elite AX’s 64GB. This might be a significant factor for users who require a large amount of RAM.
Storage Capabilities
Both motherboards offer a comprehensive set of storage options, including multiple M.2 slots for PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs, providing blazing-fast data transfer speeds. The Aorus Pro includes one additional M.2 slot compared to the Elite AX, giving you more flexibility for storage expansion.
Connectivity: The Aorus Pro Takes the Lead
When it comes to connectivity, the Z690 Aorus Pro shines brighter than the Elite AX. Let’s explore the key differences:
Networking
The Aorus Pro offers a more robust network solution with both 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet and Intel Wi-Fi 6E (Gig+), providing blazing-fast wired and wireless connectivity for online gaming and content streaming. The Elite AX, on the other hand, only features Gigabit Ethernet and Intel Wi-Fi 6, which is still capable but falls short of the Pro’s capabilities.
Audio
Both motherboards feature Realtek ALC1220 audio codecs for high-quality audio output. However, the Aorus Pro takes the edge with a dedicated ESS Sabre DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter), delivering even more accurate and immersive audio for music and gaming.
I/O Ports
The Aorus Pro offers a more comprehensive set of I/O ports, including a USB-C port with Thunderbolt 4 support, which enables faster data transfer speeds and device connectivity. The Elite AX lacks Thunderbolt 4 support, limiting its connectivity options.
Aesthetics and Features: A Matter of Preference
Both motherboards boast stylish aesthetics with RGB lighting and sleek design elements. The Aorus Pro features a more aggressive design with a black and silver color scheme, while the Elite AX adopts a more subtle approach with a black and grey color scheme.
RGB Lighting
Both motherboards include RGB lighting zones, allowing you to customize the lighting effects to match your system’s aesthetics. The Aorus Pro offers more customizable lighting zones and effects compared to the Elite AX, providing more creative freedom.
BIOS and Software
Both motherboards feature Gigabyte’s intuitive BIOS interface, offering easy navigation and configuration options. They also come with the Gigabyte App Center, which provides a suite of utility software for system monitoring, performance optimization, and RGB lighting control.
Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot
The Z690 Aorus Pro is priced slightly higher than the Z690 Aorus Elite AX, reflecting its more advanced features and performance capabilities. While the Elite AX offers great value for its price, the Aorus Pro justifies its premium with its comprehensive feature set, robust connectivity, and enhanced performance.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Motherboard
Ultimately, the best motherboard for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the Z690 Aorus Pro if:
- You prioritize top-tier performance and overclocking capabilities.
- You need robust connectivity with 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Intel Wi-Fi 6E, and Thunderbolt 4.
- You value a comprehensive feature set including additional M.2 slots and more customizable RGB lighting.
- You’re willing to invest in a premium motherboard for its enhanced capabilities.
Choose the Z690 Aorus Elite AX if:
- You’re looking for a great value motherboard with solid performance.
- You don’t require the most advanced connectivity features or a large number of M.2 slots.
- You’re on a tighter budget and prioritize affordability without sacrificing essential features.
A Final Thought: Beyond the Specs
Remember, choosing a motherboard goes beyond simply comparing specs. Consider your future upgrade plans, your preferred aesthetics, and the software features that matter most to you. Both the Z690 Aorus Pro and Elite AX are excellent choices for building a powerful and reliable gaming or content creation PC.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
A: The Z690 Aorus Pro offers a more robust VRM design with 16+1+1 power phases, providing better power delivery and thermal stability for overclocking.
Q: Which motherboard has better connectivity?
A: The Z690 Aorus Pro offers superior connectivity with 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Intel Wi-Fi 6E, and Thunderbolt 4 support, while the Elite AX only features Gigabit Ethernet and Intel Wi-Fi 6.
Q: Which motherboard is more affordable?
A: The Z690 Aorus Elite AX is generally more affordable than the Z690 Aorus Pro.
Q: What is the main difference between the two motherboards?
A: The Z690 Aorus Pro offers a more comprehensive feature set with enhanced connectivity, overclocking capabilities, and additional storage options, while the Elite AX provides a more budget-friendly option with solid performance and essential features.
Q: Which motherboard is better for gaming?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent performance for gaming, but the Z690 Aorus Pro’s enhanced connectivity, including 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet and Intel Wi-Fi 6E, might provide a slight advantage for online gaming.
