ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Price Comparison

In terms of pricing, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is significantly more expensive than the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX. The ASUS motherboard is priced at £499.99, while the Gigabyte motherboard comes in at a much lower £226.99. This price difference of £273 can be a critical factor for consumers when deciding which motherboard to purchase, especially for those on a budget or looking for greater value in performance per pound spent.

Processor Compatibility

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero is designed for the AMD platform, specifically supporting AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series Desktop Processors. In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is geared towards Intel processors, supporting 12th and 13th Gen Series CPUs. This fundamental difference in processor compatibility means that users must choose their motherboard based on the CPU they intend to use, making it essential to align their choice with their existing hardware or preferred brand.

Performance Capabilities

When it comes to performance, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero features a robust power solution with 18(110A)+2(110A)+2 power stages, designed to deliver superior performance under demanding workloads. On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX utilises a digital VRM solution with twin 16+1+2 phases, which, while capable, does not match the extensive power delivery of the ASUS model. This difference can impact performance in high-load scenarios, particularly for users who engage in overclocking or require maximum stability.

Memory Support

The memory support capabilities of both motherboards are noteworthy yet distinct. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero supports the latest DDR5 memory technologies, optimising performance for demanding applications. In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also supports DDR5 but offers 4*SMD DIMMs with XMP 3.0 memory module support, ensuring compatibility with high-performance memory sticks. This means both motherboards are well-equipped for modern memory requirements, but the ASUS model may offer a slight edge in terms of overall compatibility with future technologies.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another area where the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero excels, featuring dual USB4 Type-C ports, two USB 20Gbps Type-C front-panel connectors, and an extensive array of additional USB ports. In comparison, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX provides a slightly less comprehensive selection with front USB-C 10Gb/s and rear USB-C 20Gb/s ports. The ASUS model's advanced connectivity options make it particularly appealing for users requiring high-speed data transfer and multiple connection possibilities for peripherals.

Networking Features

For networking capabilities, the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero boasts on-board Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) along with Intel 2.5Gb Ethernet and Realtek 5Gb Ethernet, ensuring top-notch wireless and wired connectivity. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX, while also featuring strong network performance with 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E 802.11ax, does not quite reach the cutting-edge standards set by the ASUS model. The difference in Wi-Fi technology could be a deciding factor for users who prioritise fast and reliable internet connections.

Thermal Management

Thermal management is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, and both motherboards have robust designs. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero incorporates a sophisticated thermal solution with massive heatsinks and high-conductivity thermal pads to ensure effective cooling. The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also features an advanced thermal design with M.2 Thermal Guard III, aimed at stabilising VRM power and M.2 SSD performance. While both models offer impressive thermal management, the ASUS's more extensive cooling capabilities may provide an advantage during prolonged high-performance tasks.

Which should you buy?

Ultimately, the decision between the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX hinges on your specific needs and budget. If price is a critical factor, the Gigabyte motherboard offers excellent performance for £226.99, supporting Intel processors and providing essential features for gaming and productivity. However, for those willing to invest more for advanced capabilities, the ASUS motherboard at £499.99 provides superior performance, robust power delivery, and cutting-edge connectivity, making it a strong choice for high-end builds focused on future-proofing and maximum efficiency.