ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI AMD ATX motherboard vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is slightly cheaper than the ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI, retailing at £226.99 compared to £229.99. This difference of just £3 may seem minimal, but it may influence budget-conscious buyers. Both motherboards offer competitive pricing considering their features, but the Gigabyte option provides a marginally more affordable entry point for users looking to build a high-performance PC.

Compatibility with Processors

The ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI is designed for AMD’s AM5 socket, making it compatible with the Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors. On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX supports Intel's LGA 1700 socket, compatible with both 12th and 13th generation Intel Core processors. This distinction is crucial for users who have a specific brand preference or plan to upgrade their CPU in the future. If you're leaning towards an AMD build, the ASUS motherboard is the clear choice, while the Gigabyte board serves Intel enthusiasts well.

Power Delivery and VRM Design

In terms of power delivery, the ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI boasts an enhanced power solution featuring 14+2+1 80A DrMOS power stages. This robust configuration is designed to ensure stable power delivery, essential for high-performance computing. In comparison, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX offers a competitive twin 16+1+2 phases digital VRM solution. Both motherboards provide excellent power management, but the ASUS's slightly higher number of power stages may offer marginally better stability under heavy loads, making it appealing for users who push their systems to the limit.

Memory Support and Performance

The ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI supports AMD’s latest memory standards, allowing for high-speed DDR5 RAM configurations. While it doesn't specify the maximum memory speed, it is designed to fully leverage the capabilities of Ryzen processors. Meanwhile, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX supports dual-channel DDR5 with four SMD DIMMs, along with XMP 3.0 memory module support. This means both boards can handle high-performance memory, but the Gigabyte motherboard's explicit support for XMP 3.0 may provide a more straightforward overclocking experience, appealing to enthusiasts looking to optimise their system's performance.

Storage Options

For storage, the ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI features a PCIe 5.0 M.2 slot, which allows for incredibly fast data transfer rates, crucial for modern SSDs. Additionally, it includes a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for next-gen graphics cards, further enhancing its appeal for gamers and content creators. In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX provides four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors, which, while not as advanced as PCIe 5.0, still support high-speed SSDs. The Z790's design focuses on practicality with features like EZ-Latch Plus for easy M.2 installation. Therefore, while both motherboards offer excellent storage options, the ASUS board edges ahead with its support for the latest storage technology.

Connectivity Features

When it comes to connectivity, both motherboards are well-equipped. The ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI boasts WiFi 7, which promises superior wireless speeds and stability, along with USB 40Gbps Type-C ports. This level of connectivity is ideal for users looking to future-proof their setup. On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX supports Wi-Fi 6E, which is also very capable, along with various USB-C options (including a rear USB-C 20Gb/s port). While both motherboards provide advanced connectivity, the ASUS board's inclusion of WiFi 7 may be more appealing for those who require the fastest wireless performance available today.

Thermal Management

Effective thermal management is essential for maintaining system performance. The ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI includes a comprehensive cooling solution with a large VRM heatsink and dual M.2 heatsinks. This design helps regulate temperatures during intensive tasks. Conversely, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX features advanced thermal design with M.2 Thermal Guard III, ensuring that SSDs maintain peak performance without overheating. Both boards are designed with heat management in mind, but the ASUS motherboard provides a more extensive cooling setup, potentially benefiting users who plan to overclock their systems or run demanding applications.

DIY-Friendly Features

Both motherboards are designed with the DIY enthusiast in mind, offering various features that simplify installation and upgrades. The ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI includes a pre-mounted I/O shield and several Q-Release tools for easy access to components. Meanwhile, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX features Q-Flash Plus, allowing BIOS updates without the need for a CPU or memory installed. Both options cater to builders looking for user-friendly designs, but the unique features offered by each may appeal to different types of users depending on their specific needs.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASUS PRIME X870-P WIFI and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are an AMD enthusiast looking for the latest technology and superior cooling capabilities, the ASUS motherboard offers a robust feature set and future-proof options. However, if you prefer Intel processors and seek a slightly more budget-friendly option with solid performance, the Gigabyte board provides excellent value. Both motherboards excel in different areas, so consider your processor choice and specific requirements when making your decision.