ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Overview of the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi

The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi is priced at £424.94, making it a premium choice for high-performance systems. This motherboard is designed to support AMD’s Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors, positioning itself as a forward-thinking option for gamers and AI enthusiasts alike. With features such as ASUS-exclusive AI Overclocking and advanced thermal management, it is engineered for demanding computing tasks, particularly in AI applications.

The motherboard boasts an impressive 18+2+2 power solution rated for 110A per stage, ensuring robust support for multi-core processors. Its extensive connectivity options, including dual USB4 Type-C ports and onboard Wi-Fi 7, cater to the needs of modern users seeking high-speed data transfers and network reliability. The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E is clearly positioned for top-tier performance in gaming and other resource-intensive applications.

Overview of the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX, available for £226.99, is a more budget-friendly motherboard that supports Intel's 12th and 13th Gen CPUs, making it a solid choice for users committed to Intel's ecosystem. This motherboard utilises a twin 16+1+2 phases digital VRM solution, which provides stable power delivery for demanding tasks, ensuring solid performance for gaming and productivity alike.

Equipped with four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors, it offers ample storage expansion options, albeit not as advanced as the PCIe 5.0 support found in its ASUS counterpart. The Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also features 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E, which, while not as cutting-edge as Wi-Fi 7, still promises fast network speeds and reliable connectivity. Overall, the Gigabyte motherboard presents a balanced combination of performance and value for users seeking a robust platform for Intel processors.

Performance Capabilities

In terms of performance, the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi is positioned to excel, featuring advanced overclocking technologies like Dynamic OC Switcher and PBO Enhancement. This allows users to push their AMD processors to new heights, making it ideal for high-end gaming and professional applications that require maximum performance.

Conversely, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also offers commendable performance with its digital VRM solution and support for DDR5 memory. However, it lacks the same level of advanced features found in the ASUS motherboard. While it is capable of handling demanding tasks, the absence of cutting-edge overclocking features may limit its performance potential compared to the ROG Strix model. Hence, for users prioritising extreme performance, the ASUS model is the more suitable choice.

Thermal Management

Thermal management is crucial for maintaining performance and longevity in high-performance motherboards. The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi is equipped with a robust thermal design, including massive heatsinks and high-conductivity thermal pads, ensuring that it can handle the heat generated by high-end components. Its L-shaped heatpipe further enhances cooling efficiency, making it an ideal choice for overclockers.

On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX features Advanced Thermal Design and M.2 Thermal Guard III, which helps maintain VRM power stability and M.2 SSD performance. While it provides adequate cooling, it does not match the comprehensive thermal solutions found in the ASUS board. Users focused on extreme performance and overclocking may find the ASUS motherboard superior in this aspect due to its more advanced thermal management capabilities.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is one of the standout features of the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi, which provides dual USB4 Type-C ports alongside a USB 20Gbps Type-C rear I/O port. This extensive range of options ensures that users can connect multiple high-speed devices simultaneously, catering to the needs of modern gamers and content creators.

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX, while offering a respectable set of connectivity options including DP, HDMI, and USB-C ports, does not quite reach the level of the ASUS board. It features rear USB-C 20Gb/s but lacks the dual USB4 Type-C ports, which could be a disadvantage for users needing maximum connectivity. Therefore, for those who prioritise versatile and high-speed connectivity, the ASUS motherboard takes the lead.

User Experience and Features

The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi is designed with user experience in mind, featuring ASUS-exclusive AI technologies that simplify setup and enhance performance. Its intelligent control features, like AI Cooling II and AI Networking II, make it easier for users to optimise their systems without extensive technical knowledge.

In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX offers its own set of user-friendly features such as Smart Fan 6 and Q-Flash Plus, which allows for BIOS updates without the need for a CPU or memory installed. However, the overall experience may not be as streamlined as that of the ASUS motherboard, particularly for users looking for advanced automation in their system management. Thus, those valuing intuitive features may prefer the ASUS board.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor when comparing these two motherboards. The ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi retails at £424.94, reflecting its premium features and capabilities aimed at high-performance users. This price point suggests a motherboard that is built for serious gamers and professionals who demand the best performance.

On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is priced at £226.99, making it a more accessible option for users looking to build a capable system without breaking the bank. While it offers solid performance, the lower price reflects its more modest feature set compared to the ASUS model. For budget-conscious consumers, the Gigabyte motherboard is an attractive choice, while those prioritising top-tier specifications will find value in the ASUS offering.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the ASUS ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WiFi and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you seek cutting-edge performance, extensive connectivity, and advanced thermal management, the ASUS motherboard is the clear winner, albeit at a higher price of £424.94. However, if you are looking for a reliable motherboard that supports Intel processors and offers good performance for a lower investment of £226.99, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is a commendable option.