The Ultimate Showdown: Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master vs Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero – Which Motherboard Wins?

Choosing the right motherboard for your next high-end build can be a daunting task, especially with the plethora of options available. Two contenders consistently vying for top spot are the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master and the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero. Both offer exceptional features and performance, but subtle differences can make one a better fit for your specific needs. This in-depth comparison explores the strengths and weaknesses of each motherboard, helping you decide which one is the ultimate champion for your dream PC.

Feature Showdown: A Detailed Breakdown

1. Core Features: Power, Connectivity, and More

Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master: The Aorus Master boasts a robust power delivery system with 20+1+2 phases, ensuring stable performance for even the most demanding CPUs. It offers extensive connectivity with three PCIe 5.0 slots, a whopping 10 SATA ports, and an impressive array of USB ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C ports. The integrated Wi-Fi 6E module provides blazing-fast wireless connectivity.
Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero: The Maximus Z790 Hero matches the Aorus Master in terms of power delivery with 20+1+1 phases. It also offers three PCIe 5.0 slots, but it only has six SATA ports and a slightly less extensive USB configuration. However, it features the latest Wi-Fi 7 module, promising even faster wireless speeds.
Verdict: Both motherboards excel in core features, but the Aorus Master edges out the Hero with its superior SATA port count and USB connectivity.

2. Audio: Immersive Sound for Your Gaming Experience

Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master: The Aorus Master features the renowned ALC4080 audio codec and ESS Sabre HiFi DAC, delivering high-fidelity audio with a rich and detailed soundstage. It also includes a dedicated audio amplifier for high-impedance headphones.
Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero: The Maximus Z790 Hero also utilizes the ALC4080 codec, but it lacks the dedicated DAC. However, it includes a SupremeFX audio chip and a dedicated audio amplifier for both headphones and speakers, delivering impressive audio quality.
Verdict: The Aorus Master wins this round with its superior audio codec and dedicated DAC, offering a more nuanced and immersive audio experience.

3. Aesthetics and Design: A Matter of Personal Preference

Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master: The Aorus Master sports a sleek and stylish design with a black and silver color scheme. The large heatsinks and RGB lighting create a visually appealing aesthetic, especially when paired with a matching Aorus case.
Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero: The Maximus Z790 Hero embraces a more aggressive and futuristic design with a black and gray color scheme. Its signature ROG branding and intricate design elements add a touch of cyberpunk flair.
Verdict: The choice between the two designs boils down to personal preference. The Aorus Master offers a more understated elegance, while the Maximus Z790 Hero delivers a bolder and more striking aesthetic.

4. BIOS and Software: Easy Setup and Customization

Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master: The Aorus Master features a user-friendly BIOS with clear menus and intuitive navigation. Gigabyte’s Q-Flash Plus technology allows for easy BIOS updates without the need for a CPU. The accompanying software, Gigabyte’s App Center, offers a range of utilities for system monitoring, fan control, and RGB customization.
Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero: The Maximus Z790 Hero also boasts a well-organized BIOS with a wealth of customization options. Asus’s AI Suite 3 software provides a comprehensive suite of utilities for system optimization, performance tuning, and RGB control.
Verdict: Both motherboards offer excellent BIOS and software experiences. The Aorus Master’s Q-Flash Plus technology provides a slight edge for BIOS updates, while Asus’s AI Suite 3 offers a more comprehensive set of software utilities.

Performance: Unleashing the Power of Your CPU

Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master and the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero deliver exceptional performance thanks to their robust power delivery systems and advanced features. In benchmark tests, they consistently achieve comparable results, with slight variations depending on the specific CPU and workload. Ultimately, the performance difference between the two is negligible in real-world scenarios.

Choosing the Right Champion: What Matters Most?

When deciding between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master and the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero, consider your specific needs and priorities:
Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master:

• Best for: Users prioritizing extensive storage options, superior audio quality, and a sleek and understated design.
• Pros: Robust power delivery, exceptional audio, abundant connectivity, user-friendly BIOS, stylish aesthetics.
• Cons: Slightly less extensive USB connectivity than the Hero.

Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero:

• Best for: Users seeking the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology, a more aggressive design, and a comprehensive suite of software utilities.
• Pros: Latest Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, impressive audio performance, robust power delivery, extensive software features, bold aesthetics.
• Cons: Fewer SATA ports than the Aorus Master, slightly less extensive USB connectivity.

The Verdict: A Close Call

Ultimately, the best motherboard for you depends on your specific requirements and preferences. Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master and the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero are top-tier motherboards offering exceptional performance, features, and aesthetics. The Aorus Master excels in storage, audio, and user-friendliness, while the Maximus Z790 Hero shines with its latest Wi-Fi technology, design, and software suite.

Beyond the Battlefield: A Final Thought

Choosing a motherboard is a crucial decision for any PC enthusiast. While the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master and the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero are both excellent choices, the “best” motherboard is subjective and depends on your individual needs and preferences. Take your time, weigh your options, and select the motherboard that best complements your build and budget.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which motherboard is better for overclocking?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent overclocking capabilities, but the Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero might have a slight edge due to its more extensive BIOS settings and software features.
Q: Which motherboard has better cooling?
A: Both motherboards feature robust heatsinks and cooling solutions. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master has a slightly larger heatsink for the VRM, but the Maximus Z790 Hero’s heatsinks are also very effective.
Q: Which motherboard is more expensive?
A: The Asus ROG Maximus Z790 Hero is typically slightly more expensive than the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master.
Q: Which motherboard is better for gaming?
A: Both motherboards offer excellent gaming performance. The Aorus Master‘s superior audio quality might provide a slight edge for immersive gaming experiences.