The Ultimate Showdown: Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX vs Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite – What You Need to Know

Choosing the right motherboard can be a daunting task, especially when faced with similar models like the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite. Both boards offer a compelling set of features and cater to a specific type of user. This detailed comparison will help you navigate the intricacies of these two motherboards, ultimately guiding you towards the best fit for your needs and budget.

The Core Differences: AX vs. Non-AX

The most significant distinction between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite lies in the “AX” designation. This indicates the presence of an Intel AX211 Wi-Fi 6E module on the AX version. This module enables incredibly fast and reliable wireless connectivity, supporting the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard for ultra-low latency and high bandwidth. This makes the AX version a compelling choice for users who prioritize wireless performance, especially gamers and content creators.

Similarities: A Shared Foundation

Despite the AX distinction, both motherboards share a strong foundation of features and capabilities. Let’s delve into the common ground they share:

• Z790 Chipset: Both boards leverage the Intel Z790 chipset, providing full support for the 13th and 12th generation Intel Core processors. This ensures compatibility with the latest CPUs and unlocks advanced features like PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory support.
• Robust Power Delivery: Both motherboards boast a robust 16+1+1 phase digital VRM with 90A DrMOS, ensuring stable power delivery for even the most demanding CPUs. This translates to reliable performance and overclocking potential.
• M.2 Slots: Both offer a generous selection of M.2 slots. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX boasts three M.2 slots, while the non-AX version offers two. These slots support the latest PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 standards for blazing-fast storage speeds.
• Connectivity: Both motherboards offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports (including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C), HDMI, DisplayPort, and Gigabit Ethernet.

The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX: A Wireless Champion

The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX shines in the realm of wireless connectivity. The built-in Intel AX211 Wi-Fi 6E module provides a significant advantage for users who rely heavily on wireless networks. This module offers several advantages:

• Faster Speeds: Wi-Fi 6E operates in the 6GHz band, offering significantly higher speeds and lower latency compared to traditional Wi-Fi networks.
• Increased Capacity: The 6GHz band provides a wider spectrum, reducing congestion and allowing for more simultaneous connections.
• Enhanced Stability: The AX211 module boasts advanced features like OFDMA and MU-MIMO, ensuring a more stable and consistent wireless connection.

If you’re a gamer who prioritizes low latency for online gaming, a content creator who relies on fast and stable uploads, or a user who simply enjoys the benefits of a high-speed wireless connection, the Z790 Aorus Elite AX is the clear winner.

The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite: A Value-Oriented Choice

The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite, while lacking the AX211 module, still offers a compelling value proposition. It provides a solid foundation for building a powerful gaming or workstation PC, without breaking the bank. The absence of Wi-Fi 6E may be a drawback for some, but it allows Gigabyte to offer the board at a slightly lower price point.

Beyond the Core: Examining Other Features

While the AX module is a key differentiator, both motherboards share several other features worth considering:

• Audio: Both boards feature a Realtek ALC4080 codec with a dedicated audio amplifier, delivering high-quality audio output for immersive gaming and multimedia experiences.
• Lighting: Both offer RGB lighting control, allowing you to customize the aesthetics of your build with various lighting effects and profiles.
• BIOS: Both motherboards feature a user-friendly UEFI BIOS with extensive customization options, making it easy to fine-tune your system’s performance and settings.

Choosing the Right Board: A Practical Guide

Ultimately, the decision between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite boils down to your priorities and budget.

• If you prioritize wireless connectivity and are willing to pay a premium for the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX is the clear choice. Its fast and reliable wireless performance will be a game-changer for gamers, content creators, and anyone who relies on a stable and high-speed internet connection.
• If you’re on a tighter budget and don’t require the benefits of Wi-Fi 6E, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite offers a solid value proposition. It provides a strong foundation for building a powerful PC without sacrificing essential features.

Beyond the Comparison: A Broader Perspective

While the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite are excellent choices for their respective target audiences, it’s important to consider the broader landscape of Z790 motherboards. Depending on your specific needs and budget, other options might be more suitable.
For instance, if you require even more advanced features and higher-end performance, you might consider exploring the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master or the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Pro. These boards offer enhanced cooling solutions, more M.2 slots, and additional premium features for demanding users.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Champion

The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite offer compelling features and cater to different user needs. The AX version, with its Intel AX211 Wi-Fi 6E module, stands out for its exceptional wireless performance, while the non-AX version provides a solid value proposition for users who don’t require the latest Wi-Fi technology. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and budget.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q1: Does the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX support both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E?
A: Yes, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX supports both Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E. The built-in Intel AX211 module is compatible with both standards, providing flexibility for different network environments.
Q2: Can I upgrade the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite to support Wi-Fi 6E?
A: No, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite does not have the necessary hardware to support Wi-Fi 6E. The AX211 module is a dedicated component that cannot be added to the non-AX version.
Q3: Are there any other significant differences between the two motherboards besides the AX module?
A: The primary difference is the Wi-Fi module. However, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX also features a slightly different layout and might have minor variations in the number of USB ports or other connectivity options. It’s essential to refer to the official product specifications for detailed information.
Q4: Which motherboard offers better overclocking potential?
A: Both motherboards offer robust power delivery and extensive BIOS options for overclocking. The overclocking potential is largely dependent on the specific CPU and other components used. In general, both motherboards should provide similar performance for overclocking.
Q5: Can I use a different Wi-Fi adapter with the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite?
A: Yes, you can use a different Wi-Fi adapter with the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite. Both motherboards have a dedicated M.2 slot for installing a Wi-Fi card, allowing you to upgrade to a different model that supports Wi-Fi 6E or other wireless standards.