Elite vs. pro: the ultimate guide to gigabyte b660m aorus motherboards

The world of PC hardware is constantly evolving, with new motherboards emerging to meet the demands of the latest processors and technologies. In this article, we delve into the captivating comparison between two exceptional motherboards from Gigabyte: the B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4. Both boards offer a formidable combination of features, but which one emerges victorious in this head-to-head battle? Let’s embark on a comprehensive analysis to uncover the strengths, weaknesses, and decisive factors that set these motherboards apart.

Form Factor and Aesthetics: Compact Elegance

Both the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 boast the compact and versatile Micro-ATX form factor. This compact design makes them ideal for smaller builds or systems with limited space constraints. In terms of aesthetics, both motherboards exude a sleek and stylish appearance, with a predominantly black color scheme complemented by subtle RGB accents. The Aorus Elite AX DDR4 features a more angular design with sharp lines and a prominent Aorus logo, while the Aorus Pro AX DDR4 opts for a more subdued and streamlined look.

Chipset and Socket: Unlocking the Power of Intel

At the heart of both motherboards lies the Intel B660 chipset, which provides support for Intel’s 12th and 13th generation Core processors. This chipset offers a wide range of features, including support for PCIe 4.0, DDR4 memory, and Intel Optane memory. The B660 chipset also includes integrated Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity, eliminating the need for separate network adapters.

Memory and Storage: Blazing Speed and Ample Capacity

When it comes to memory, both the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 support up to 128GB of DDR4 memory, with speeds of up to 5333MHz (OC). They feature four DIMM slots, allowing for flexible memory configurations. In terms of storage, both motherboards offer a comprehensive array of options. They include six SATA III ports for traditional hard drives and SSDs, as well as an M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs. The Aorus Elite AX DDR4 boasts an additional M.2 slot, providing even more storage expansion possibilities.

Connectivity: A Comprehensive Suite

The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity options. Both motherboards feature a Gigabit Ethernet port for wired network connections, as well as built-in Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless connectivity. Additionally, they include a range of USB ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and USB 2.0. The Aorus Elite AX DDR4 has a slight edge in this aspect, offering an additional USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C port and a Thunderbolt 4 header.

Audio and Video: Immersive Experiences

For audio enthusiasts, both motherboards feature high-quality audio codecs. The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 utilizes the Realtek ALC1220-VB codec, while the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 employs the Realtek ALC897 codec. These codecs provide clear and immersive audio experiences, perfect for gaming, music, and movies. As for video output, both motherboards include an HDMI port and a DisplayPort, allowing for connectivity to various monitors and displays.

BIOS and Overclocking: Unleashing Performance Potential

The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 both come equipped with user-friendly BIOS interfaces. These BIOSes offer a wide range of options for tweaking system settings, including overclocking. Both motherboards support overclocking of both the CPU and memory, allowing users to push their systems to the limits. However, the Aorus Elite AX DDR4 has a slight advantage in this area, as it features a more comprehensive set of overclocking options and a dedicated overclocking button on the motherboard itself.

Verdict: Declaring the Champion

After meticulously comparing the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 and the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4, it’s time to declare the victor. While both motherboards offer exceptional features and performance, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 emerges as the superior choice. Its superior overclocking capabilities, additional USB connectivity options, and Thunderbolt 4 header give it a decisive edge. For users seeking the ultimate combination of performance, flexibility, and connectivity, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 is the undisputed champion.

Alternatives and Recommendations

If the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 or the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 do not meet your specific requirements, here are a few alternative motherboards to consider:

• Asus ROG Strix B660-A Gaming WiFi: A premium motherboard with robust power delivery, excellent cooling, and a full suite of features.
• MSI Pro B660-A WiFi: A budget-friendly motherboard that provides a solid foundation for Intel 12th and 13th generation processors.
• ASRock B660M Steel Legend: A compact and affordable motherboard with a focus on stability and reliability.

What You Need to Learn

1. Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 has superior overclocking capabilities compared to the B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4.

2. Does either motherboard support DDR5 memory?
No, both motherboards support DDR4 memory only.

3. What type of audio codec is used on the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4?
The Gigabyte B660M Aorus Pro AX DDR4 utilizes the Realtek ALC897 audio codec.

4. Does the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 have a Thunderbolt 4 header?
Yes, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 features a Thunderbolt 4 header, allowing for the connection of Thunderbolt 4 devices.

5. Which motherboard is better suited for gaming?
Due to its superior overclocking capabilities and additional USB connectivity options, the Gigabyte B660M Aorus Elite AX DDR4 is the better choice for gaming.