The Ultimate Showdown: Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX vs Asus ROG Strix Z790-H – Which is the Best Buy?

Choosing the right motherboard for your next PC build can be a daunting task, especially in the competitive landscape of high-end motherboards. Two popular contenders vying for your attention are the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H. Both offer robust features and impressive performance, but each comes with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both motherboards to help you make an informed decision.

Performance: A Close Race to the Top

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H are built on the Intel Z790 chipset, designed to unlock the full potential of 13th Gen Intel Core processors. You can expect top-notch performance from either motherboard, enabling you to push your CPU to its limits for demanding tasks like gaming, content creation, and overclocking.
However, subtle differences in their VRM configurations and power delivery might give one a slight edge in certain scenarios. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX features a 14+1+1 phase VRM with 70A DrMOS power stages, while the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H boasts a 10+1+1 phase VRM with 80A power stages. The Gigabyte board might offer slightly better thermal performance under extreme overclocking conditions due to its higher phase count, but the Asus board compensates with higher current capacity per phase. Ultimately, both motherboards are capable of handling even the most demanding processors and overclocking scenarios, so the difference in performance is likely negligible for most users.

Features: A Tale of Two Approaches

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H are packed with features, but they take different approaches to their implementation. The Gigabyte board emphasizes a more straightforward and user-friendly approach, while the Asus board leans towards a more feature-rich and customizable experience.
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX:

• Connectivity: The Gigabyte board offers a good selection of connectivity options, including 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and a wide range of USB ports, including USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2.
• Audio: The board utilizes the Realtek ALC1220 audio codec with a dedicated amplifier for high-quality audio output.
• Cooling: The Gigabyte board features a comprehensive cooling solution with multiple heatsinks and a large heatsink for the VRM.
• BIOS: The Gigabyte BIOS is known for its user-friendly interface and ease of navigation, making it a good choice for beginners.

Asus ROG Strix Z790-H:

• Connectivity: The Asus board also boasts a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and a plethora of USB ports, including USB-C and USB 3.2 Gen 2.
• Audio: The board features the SupremeFX audio codec with a dedicated amplifier for high-quality audio output.
• Cooling: The Asus board offers an even more robust cooling solution with multiple heatsinks, including a large heatsink for the VRM and a dedicated heatsink for the M.2 slots.
• BIOS: The Asus BIOS is known for its extensive customization options and advanced features, making it a great choice for experienced users.

Design and Aesthetics: A Matter of Personal Preference

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H feature sleek and modern designs, but they cater to slightly different aesthetics. The Gigabyte board boasts a more understated design with a black and silver color scheme and subtle Aorus branding. The Asus board, on the other hand, adopts a more aggressive and gamer-centric design with a black and red color scheme and prominent ROG branding.
Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a clean and minimalist aesthetic, the Gigabyte board might be a better fit. If you’re looking for a more eye-catching and gamer-oriented design, the Asus board might be more appealing.

Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot

The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H are both priced in the upper mid-range segment of the Z790 motherboard market. The Gigabyte board typically has a slightly lower price point than the Asus board, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, the Asus board offers a more feature-rich and customizable experience, which might justify the slightly higher price tag for some users.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Motherboard for You

So, which motherboard reigns supreme? The answer, as with most things in life, depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX:
Pros:

• User-friendly BIOS
• Excellent cooling solution
• More affordable price point

Cons:

• Fewer customization options compared to the Asus board

Asus ROG Strix Z790-H:
Pros:

• Extensive customization options
• Robust cooling solution
• Premium features and design

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to the Gigabyte board

If you’re looking for a solid motherboard with a user-friendly BIOS, excellent cooling, and a more affordable price point, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is an excellent choice. If you prioritize extensive customization options, robust cooling, and a premium feature set, the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H might be the better option.

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the difference in the VRM configurations of the two motherboards?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX features a 14+1+1 phase VRM with 70A DrMOS power stages, while the Asus ROG Strix Z790-H boasts a 10+1+1 phase VRM with 80A power stages. The higher phase count on the Gigabyte board might offer slightly better thermal performance under extreme overclocking conditions, but the Asus board compensates with higher current capacity per phase.
Q: Which motherboard has a better audio solution?
A: Both motherboards feature dedicated audio codecs and amplifiers. The Gigabyte board utilizes the Realtek ALC1220 audio codec, while the Asus board features the SupremeFX audio codec. Both offer high-quality audio output, and the difference in sound quality is likely negligible for most users.
Q: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent overclocking capabilities. The Gigabyte board might have a slight advantage due to its higher phase count VRM, but the Asus board compensates with higher current capacity per phase. Ultimately, both motherboards are capable of handling even the most demanding overclocking scenarios.
Q: Which motherboard is better for beginners?
A: The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is a better choice for beginners due to its user-friendly BIOS and straightforward design. The Asus ROG Strix Z790-H, while powerful, offers a more complex BIOS and a wider range of customization options that might be overwhelming for novice users.
Q: Which motherboard offers better connectivity?
A: Both motherboards offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and a wide range of USB ports. The Asus board might have a slight edge in terms of the sheer number of USB ports, but the difference is likely negligible for most users.