Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Pricing Comparison

The Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI is significantly more affordable than the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX, priced at £121.99 compared to £226.99. This difference of £105 highlights the cost-effectiveness of the Asus model for budget-conscious consumers. While both motherboards offer robust features tailored to their respective platforms, the substantial price gap makes the Asus an attractive option for those who require solid performance without breaking the bank.

Socket Compatibility

The Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI is designed to support AMD's AM5 Socket, making it compatible with the latest Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series Desktop Processors. In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is built around Intel's LGA 1700 socket, supporting Intel's 12th and 13th Generation CPUs. This distinction is crucial for consumers choosing between AMD and Intel platforms, as it determines the type of processors that can be utilised. Thus, your choice depends heavily on your preferred CPU brand and the associated ecosystem.

Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, both motherboards excel but cater to different needs. The Asus model features ultrafast connectivity options, including WIFI 6E, M.2 PCIe 5.0, and USB 10Gbps Type-C. The Gigabyte motherboard, on the other hand, provides a robust dual-channel DDR5 setup with four SMD DIMMs and advanced storage capabilities via four PCIe 4.0 M.2 connectors. While the Asus motherboard is equipped with a variety of modern connectivity solutions, the Gigabyte's focus on next-generation performance and more extensive M.2 support might appeal to tech enthusiasts looking for advanced features.

Cooling Solutions

The cooling solutions differ notably between the two motherboards. The Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI incorporates a comprehensive cooling design, featuring a VRM heatsink, M.2 heatsink, and PCH heatsink, along with hybrid fan headers and ASUS's Fan Xpert 2+ technology. In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX boasts an advanced thermal design with M.2 Thermal Guard III to ensure VRM power stability and M.2 SSD performance. Both motherboards are engineered for performance, but the choice may come down to how cooling is prioritised based on the components you plan to use.

Memory Support

Memory support is another area where the two motherboards diverge. The Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI utilises the latest memory technologies to enhance overclocking capabilities, thanks to its ASUS OptiMem II feature that optimises trace and via routing. Meanwhile, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX supports dual-channel DDR5 memory with XMP 3.0 memory module support, which can provide superior performance for gaming and demanding applications. This contrast means that users with specific memory performance needs may favour one board over the other based on their chosen memory architecture.

RGB Lighting Features

For users interested in aesthetics, the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI features Aura Sync RGB Lighting, allowing for easy synchronisation with other Aura Sync-capable hardware through its onboard addressable Gen 2 headers and RGB header. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX does not explicitly mention RGB lighting features in its specifications, which may be a consideration for those wishing to create a visually appealing build. The inclusion of RGB on the Asus motherboard could be a decisive factor for gamers and builders who value a visually cohesive rig.

Additional Functionalities

Both motherboards include additional functionalities that enhance user experience. The Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI supports Thunderbolt 4 header functionality, adding versatility for high-speed connections. Conversely, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX features EZ-Latch Plus for its M.2 connectors, allowing for quick release and a screwless design, simplifying the installation process. These unique features highlight the different approaches each brand takes to improve usability and performance, ultimately catering to different user preferences.

Which should you buy?

In conclusion, the choice between the Asus PRIME B650-PLUS WIFI and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you're looking for an affordable motherboard that supports AMD's latest processors with excellent connectivity options and RGB lighting, the Asus model is a strong contender. However, if you prioritise advanced thermal management, dual-channel DDR5 memory support, and are committed to an Intel CPU, the Gigabyte motherboard offers superior performance features at a higher price point. Ultimately, both motherboards present compelling choices tailored to distinct user preferences and requirements.