ASUS Prime B840-PLUS WiFi AMD AM5 B840 ATX Motherboard vs GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 AMD AM5 LGA 1718 Motherboard

Price Comparison

The ASUS Prime B840-PLUS WiFi is priced at C$153.44, while the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 comes in at a significantly higher C$349.99. This price difference of C$196.55 reflects the distinct features and capabilities offered by each motherboard. The ASUS model aims to provide a balance of performance and affordability, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious builders. In contrast, the GIGABYTE motherboard targets high-end users looking for advanced features and future-proofing, justifying its premium price tag.

Performance and Compatibility

When it comes to performance, the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 stands out with its 16+2+2 power design, optimising power delivery for high-performance AMD Ryzen processors. This model supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series processors, similar to the ASUS Prime B840-PLUS, which is also compatible with the same processor families. However, the ASUS motherboard boasts a robust 6-layer PCB, which aids in stability and performance, particularly when overclocking. Both motherboards feature DDR5 compatibility, but the GIGABYTE supports four DIMMs with AMD EXPO support, offering more flexibility for high-capacity memory configurations.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is a crucial factor in modern motherboards, and here the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 excels with its PCIe 5.0 support and four M.2 slots. This allows for faster data transfer rates and more options for storage expansion. In comparison, the ASUS Prime B840-PLUS features PCIe 4.0 and three M.2 slots. Both motherboards support advanced USB connectivity, including USB-C ports, but the GIGABYTE’s inclusion of dual USB4 ports provides an edge in terms of future-proofing and versatility. Additionally, both models feature 2.5Gb Ethernet, ensuring high-speed wired network capabilities.

Wireless Technology

In the realm of wireless technology, the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 clearly takes the lead with support for Wi-Fi 7, promising faster wireless speeds and improved performance in crowded environments. The ASUS Prime B840-PLUS, while still impressive, supports Wi-Fi 6E, which, although excellent, does not match the latest advancements in wireless technology offered by GIGABYTE. This difference can be particularly significant for users who rely heavily on wireless connectivity for high-bandwidth applications like gaming or 4K streaming.

Cooling Solutions

Effective cooling is essential for maintaining optimal performance, especially during prolonged use or heavy workloads. The GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 includes VRM and M.2 Thermal Guards, which help prevent overheating in critical areas. Meanwhile, the ASUS Prime B840-PLUS boasts a comprehensive cooling solution that includes VRM and M.2 heatsinks, alongside hybrid fan headers and Fan Xpert 2+ for custom fan control. Both motherboards are designed with thermal management in mind, but the GIGABYTE’s additional thermal features may provide enhanced reliability for overclocking enthusiasts.

DIY Friendliness

For DIY PC builders, ease of installation and setup is a priority. The ASUS Prime B840-PLUS is designed with user-friendliness in mind, featuring a pre-mounted I/O shield and BIOS FlashBack for quick updates. It also includes Q-Antenna and Q-Dashboard for simplified configuration. The GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 offers similar DIY-friendly features, such as M.2 EZ-Latch and PCIe EZ-Latch, making it straightforward to install components. Both motherboards cater to builders at different experience levels, although the ASUS model may be slightly more accessible for novice users.

Aesthetic and Personalisation

Aesthetics and personalisation capabilities can play a significant role in a PC build. The ASUS Prime B840-PLUS allows for unmatched personalisation through its three addressable Gen 2 headers compatible with ASUS-exclusive Aura Sync RGB lighting. This feature enables users to create visually stunning builds with custom lighting effects. The GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 does not explicitly mention RGB lighting features, which may appeal less to users focused on aesthetics. Therefore, for those who value visual appeal and customisation, the ASUS Prime B840-PLUS might be the better option.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the ASUS Prime B840-PLUS WiFi and the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. The ASUS motherboard offers excellent value at C$153.44, with good performance, decent connectivity, and DIY-friendly features. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE model, priced at C$349.99, provides advanced features, superior wireless technology, and enhanced cooling solutions, making it a better fit for high-performance builds. If you prioritise performance and future-proofing for demanding applications, the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Elite WIFI7 is the superior choice. However, for those on a tighter budget who still want solid performance, the ASUS Prime B840-PLUS is a commendable option.