Don’t Settle for Less: Rog Strix X570-E vs WiFi II – The Gaming Showdown You Won’t Want to Miss

Choosing the right motherboard for your Ryzen 3000 or 5000 series CPU can be a daunting task, especially with the sheer number of options available. Two popular contenders in the X570 chipset segment are the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming and the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II. Both offer excellent performance and features, but subtle differences set them apart. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each motherboard, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Aesthetics

Both motherboards boast a striking black and silver color scheme, embodying the ROG Strix aesthetic. The X570-E Gaming features a more traditional layout with a black PCB and silver accents, while the WiFi II model adopts a more aggressive design with a black and silver PCB and a bold ROG logo. Both boards have a sleek and modern look, making them suitable for any gaming PC build.

Chipset and Connectivity

Both the X570-E Gaming and the X570-E Gaming WiFi II are built upon the AMD X570 chipset, offering excellent connectivity and performance. Both boards support PCIe 4.0 for faster storage and graphics card speeds, along with multiple USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports for high-speed data transfer. The key difference lies in the built-in networking capabilities.
The X570-E Gaming features a Gigabit Ethernet port, providing reliable wired connectivity. Conversely, the X570-E Gaming WiFi II boasts a built-in Intel WiFi 6 AX201 module, enabling fast and stable wireless connectivity with speeds up to 2.4 Gbps. This makes the WiFi II model a better choice for users who prioritize wireless networking or prefer a clutter-free desktop setup.

Audio and Sound

Both motherboards incorporate the SupremeFX S1220A audio codec, delivering high-quality audio for an immersive gaming experience. The X570-E Gaming features a dedicated audio amplifier for improved headphone output, while the WiFi II model offers a slightly enhanced audio experience with the addition of a dedicated headphone amplifier and a Sonic Studio III software suite for advanced audio customization.

Overclocking and BIOS

Both motherboards offer robust overclocking capabilities, allowing users to push their Ryzen CPUs and RAM to their limits. The BIOS interface on both boards is user-friendly and intuitive, providing comprehensive control over various system settings. The X570-E Gaming WiFi II features a slightly updated BIOS with additional features and optimizations, making it a slightly better choice for experienced overclockers.

Cooling and Power Delivery

Both motherboards are equipped with robust power delivery systems to ensure stable performance under heavy workloads. The X570-E Gaming features a 12+2 power stage design with a heatsink to keep the VRM cool. The X570-E Gaming WiFi II takes it a step further with a 14+2 power stage design and an improved heatsink, offering even better thermal performance.

Features and Expansion

Both motherboards offer a wide range of features and expansion options. Both include multiple M.2 slots with PCIe 4.0 support, allowing for blazing-fast NVMe SSDs. They also feature a wealth of USB ports, including Type-A and Type-C connections, along with headers for additional fans and RGB lighting. The X570-E Gaming WiFi II boasts an additional M.2 slot, providing even greater flexibility for storage expansion.

The Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Both the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming and the X570-E Gaming WiFi II are exceptional motherboards that offer excellent performance and features. The choice ultimately boils down to your specific needs and priorities.
If you prioritize wired connectivity and a slightly lower price point, the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming is a great option. It offers robust performance, excellent cooling, and a comprehensive feature set.
If you value wireless connectivity, enhanced audio, and additional features, the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming WiFi II is the superior choice. It offers a faster and more stable wireless connection, improved audio quality, and a more refined overclocking experience.

Beyond the Comparison: Considerations for Your Build

While this comparison focuses on the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming and the X570-E Gaming WiFi II, it’s crucial to consider other factors when choosing a motherboard for your PC build.

• Budget: Both boards are priced at the higher end of the X570 spectrum, so consider your budget and whether these motherboards align with your financial constraints.
• Specific Features: Evaluate the features you require, such as the number of M.2 slots, USB ports, and fan headers, to determine which board offers the best fit for your needs.
• Future Upgrades: Consider the potential for future upgrades and whether the motherboard provides enough flexibility to accommodate your evolving needs.

The Future of X570 Motherboards

While AMD has released the newer X670 and B650 chipsets, the X570 platform continues to be a solid choice for budget-conscious builders. Both the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming and the X570-E Gaming WiFi II remain excellent options for building powerful Ryzen-based PCs.

Final Thoughts: A Powerful Choice for Any Build

Whether you opt for the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming or the X570-E Gaming WiFi II, you’re choosing a high-quality motherboard that will serve you well for years to come. Both boards offer exceptional performance, robust features, and a sleek design that will enhance any gaming PC build.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Are both motherboards compatible with Ryzen 7000 series CPUs?
A: No, both the ROG Strix X570-E Gaming and the X570-E Gaming WiFi II are not compatible with Ryzen 7000 series CPUs. These CPUs require motherboards based on the newer X670 or B650 chipsets.
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: While both offer excellent overclocking potential, the X570-E Gaming WiFi II has a slightly more refined BIOS with additional features and optimizations that could be beneficial for experienced overclockers.
Q: Can I upgrade the WiFi on the X570-E Gaming model?
A: While it’s possible to add a PCIe WiFi card to the X570-E Gaming, it won’t offer the same performance and integration as the built-in WiFi 6 module on the X570-E Gaming WiFi II.
Q: Are there any significant differences in terms of VRMs?
A: The X570-E Gaming WiFi II boasts a more robust 14+2 power stage design with an improved heatsink, offering better thermal performance and potentially allowing for higher overclocking headroom compared to the 12+2 design on the X570-E Gaming.
Q: Which motherboard offers better value for the price?
A: The value proposition depends on your individual needs. If you prioritize wireless connectivity and the additional features of the WiFi II model, it might be worth the slightly higher price. However, if you’re happy with wired connectivity and prefer a more budget-friendly option, the X570-E Gaming still offers excellent performance and features.