Unleashing the Power: Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX vs Asus ROG Strix Z790-E – Which Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right motherboard for your next PC build is a crucial decision, and with the release of Intel’s 13th Gen processors, the Z790 chipset has become a popular choice. Two contenders that have captured the attention of many builders are the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E. Both motherboards offer a compelling blend of features and performance, but which one emerges as the victor? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Performance: A Close Contest

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E boast impressive performance capabilities. They utilize the Z790 chipset, enabling them to support Intel’s latest 13th Gen processors and DDR5 memory. Both motherboards feature high-quality components and robust power delivery systems, ensuring stable operation even under demanding workloads.
In benchmark tests, the two motherboards demonstrate very similar performance levels. Both deliver exceptional overclocking headroom, allowing you to push your CPU to its limits. The differences in performance are negligible, making this a tie in terms of raw power.

Features: A Detailed Look

While performance is essential, features play a significant role in determining the overall value of a motherboard. Let’s examine the key features of each board:
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX:

• Connectivity: The Aorus Elite AX offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and multiple USB ports, including USB 4 Type-C.
• Audio: It features the Realtek ALC4080 audio codec with DTS:X Ultra support, delivering high-quality audio output.
• M.2 Slots: The Aorus Elite AX provides three M.2 slots, allowing for ample storage expansion.
• RGB Lighting: The motherboard features RGB lighting zones with support for Gigabyte’s RGB Fusion 2.0 software, enabling customization of the lighting effects.

Asus ROG Strix Z790-E:

• Connectivity: The ROG Strix Z790-E also boasts excellent connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and numerous USB ports, including USB 4 Type-C.
• Audio: It features the Realtek ALC4082 audio codec with SupremeFX and Sonic Studio III support, offering immersive audio experiences.
• M.2 Slots: The ROG Strix Z790-E provides four M.2 slots, offering even greater storage flexibility.
• RGB Lighting: The motherboard features Aura Sync RGB lighting with extensive customization options through the Armoury Crate software.

Feature Comparison:

• Both motherboards offer excellent connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 6E and USB 4 Type-C.
• The Asus ROG Strix Z790-E has one more M.2 slot than the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX, providing greater storage flexibility.
• The Asus ROG Strix Z790-E features a slightly more advanced audio codec and software suite.
• The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers a more streamlined RGB lighting experience with its RGB Fusion 2.0 software.

Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Taste

The design and aesthetics of a motherboard are subjective, but both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E offer distinct styles that cater to different preferences.
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX:

• The Aorus Elite AX features a sleek and minimalist design with a black and silver color scheme. It has a clean layout with well-organized components and a subtle RGB lighting scheme.

Asus ROG Strix Z790-E:

• The ROG Strix Z790-E boasts a more aggressive and gamer-centric design with a black and red color scheme. It features a bold and eye-catching aesthetic with prominent RGB lighting zones and a distinctive ROG logo.

Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX offers a more understated and elegant look, while the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E provides a bolder and more gamer-focused aesthetic.

Price: A Key Factor

The price of a motherboard is a crucial factor for many builders. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is generally priced slightly lower than the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E. However, prices can fluctuate depending on retailers and promotions.

Overall Verdict: Choosing the Right Motherboard

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E are excellent motherboards that offer a compelling blend of performance, features, and value. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX:

• Best for: Builders seeking a well-rounded motherboard with a sleek design, excellent connectivity, and a competitive price.

Asus ROG Strix Z790-E:

• Best for: Builders who prioritize a gamer-centric aesthetic, extensive connectivity, and a robust feature set, even if it means a slightly higher price.

The Final Word: Beyond the Specs

Ultimately, the best motherboard for you is the one that best meets your individual needs and budget. Consider your intended use case, desired features, and aesthetic preferences when making your decision. Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E are excellent choices that will provide a solid foundation for your next PC build.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q: What is the difference between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E in terms of overclocking potential?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent overclocking potential, allowing you to push your CPU to its limits. The differences in overclocking capabilities are negligible, and both boards can achieve similar results with proper tuning.
Q: Which motherboard has better audio quality?
A: The Asus ROG Strix Z790-E features a slightly more advanced audio codec (Realtek ALC4082) and a dedicated audio software suite (SupremeFX and Sonic Studio III), potentially offering a slightly better audio experience. However, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX also delivers high-quality audio with its Realtek ALC4080 codec and DTS:X Ultra support.
Q: Which motherboard is better for gaming?
A: Both motherboards are excellent for gaming, offering high-performance capabilities and robust features. The Asus ROG Strix Z790-E might have a slight edge with its gamer-centric design and more advanced audio features. However, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is still an excellent choice for gamers, providing a balance of performance and value.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM on both motherboards?
A: Yes, both motherboards support DDR5 memory and allow for upgrades to higher capacity and speed. However, it’s essential to check the motherboard specifications for supported RAM configurations and speeds before purchasing.
Q: Which motherboard is the better value for money?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is generally priced slightly lower than the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Asus ROG Strix Z790-E offers a more premium feature set and a gamer-centric design, which may justify the higher price for some users. The ultimate value proposition depends on your individual needs and budget.