What to know
- Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X feature the Intel Z790 chipset, which is designed to support the latest 13th generation Intel Core processors (Raptor Lake).
- The design and aesthetics of a motherboard can play a significant role in the overall look and feel of your build.
- Performance is a key factor to consider when choosing a motherboard, and both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X deliver in this regard.
The release of Intel’s 13th generation processors has brought a surge of excitement to the PC hardware industry. To cater to these powerful CPUs, motherboard manufacturers have unveiled their latest offerings, and among them, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X stand out as compelling options. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two motherboards, analyzing their features, specifications, design, and performance to help you make an informed decision when choosing the ideal platform for your next build.
Chipset and Socket
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X feature the Intel Z790 chipset, which is designed to support the latest 13th generation Intel Core processors (Raptor Lake). The Z790 chipset offers a range of enhancements, including support for DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0 connectivity, and advanced overclocking capabilities.
Power Delivery
The power delivery system is crucial for ensuring stable and efficient operation of high-performance CPUs. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X both feature robust power delivery systems, but they differ slightly in their design.
The Aorus Elite employs a 16+1+2 phase digital power design, while the Gaming X utilizes a 19+1+2 phase design. Both motherboards feature high-quality components, including durable chokes and capacitors, to ensure reliable power delivery even under demanding loads.
Memory Support
DDR5 memory is the latest standard for high-performance computing, and both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X support this technology. They offer four DIMM slots, allowing for up to 128GB of memory capacity.
Expansion Slots
For expansion cards, the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X provide ample options. Both motherboards feature multiple PCIe 5.0 x16 slots, enabling the use of the latest graphics cards and other high-speed devices. Additionally, they offer PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 3.0 slots for additional expansion capabilities.
Storage Options
Storage options are essential for any modern PC build, and the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X deliver in this aspect. They both support multiple M.2 NVMe SSDs, providing blazing-fast storage speeds. The Aorus Elite offers four M.2 slots, while the Gaming X provides five, giving you more flexibility in configuring your storage setup.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetics of a motherboard can play a significant role in the overall look and feel of your build. The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X feature distinct designs that cater to different preferences.
The Aorus Elite sports a sleek and understated black and gray color scheme, with subtle RGB lighting accents. The Gaming X, on the other hand, exudes a more aggressive aesthetic, with bold red accents and a more elaborate RGB lighting system.
Connectivity
Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X offer a comprehensive range of connectivity options. They feature multiple USB ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB 3.2 Gen 1, as well as Gigabit Ethernet and Wi-Fi 6E connectivity.
BIOS and Overclocking
The BIOS is an essential part of any motherboard, providing users with control over various system settings, including overclocking. Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X feature user-friendly BIOS interfaces with advanced overclocking capabilities.
Performance
Performance is a key factor to consider when choosing a motherboard, and both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X deliver in this regard. They provide stable and reliable operation for 13th generation Intel processors, enabling users to push their systems to the limits.
Which Motherboard is Right for You?
The choice between the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a balanced feature set, understated design, and solid performance, the Aorus Elite is an excellent option. For those seeking a more aggressive aesthetic, enhanced power delivery, and more extensive storage options, the Gaming X is a compelling choice.
Recommendations: Unlocking the Potential of Intel’s 13th Gen
The Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X are both exceptional motherboards that provide the perfect foundation for building a high-performance PC with Intel’s 13th generation processors. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a first-time builder, these motherboards offer the features, design, and performance you need to unlock the full potential of your system.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which motherboard has better overclocking capabilities?
A: Both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X offer excellent overclocking capabilities, but the Gaming X may have a slight edge due to its more robust power delivery system.
Q: Does the Aorus Elite support DDR4 memory?
A: No, both the Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite and Gaming X only support DDR5 memory.
Q: Which motherboard has more M.2 slots?
A: The Gaming X offers five M.2 slots, while the Aorus Elite provides four.