MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E Motherboard vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Overview of the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX

In the battle of motherboards, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX stand out for their unique features and functionalities. The MSI board is priced at £119.99, making it a more budget-friendly option, while the Gigabyte board comes in at £226.99, targeting enthusiasts who demand higher performance for Intel's latest processors.

The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E supports the latest Ryzen processors from the 7000 series and beyond, thanks to its AM5 socket. Meanwhile, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is designed for Intel's 12th and 13th generation CPUs, including the latest 14th Gen processors, showcasing its versatility for those invested in Intel's ecosystem.

Performance Capabilities

Performance is a key differentiator between these two motherboards. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS features a robust 12 Duet Rail Power System (P-PAK) VRM tailored for high-performance AMD Ryzen processors. This architecture allows for stable overclocking and effective power distribution, enhancing overall system performance.

On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX boasts a more advanced VRM solution with a 16+1+2 phase design, providing unparalleled performance and stability, especially under heavy loads. This makes it particularly beneficial for users looking to push their Intel CPUs to the limit, especially for gaming or content creation tasks.

Memory Support

Memory support varies significantly between the two motherboards. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E supports DDR5 memory with four DIMM slots, allowing for impressive memory overclocking capabilities, with speeds exceeding 8200 MT/s. This high-speed memory support aligns well with the performance targets of modern gaming and productivity applications.

Conversely, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also supports DDR5 but with a dual-channel configuration and offers XMP 3.0 memory module support. This can facilitate easy memory overclocking. However, given both boards support DDR5, the choice may come down to specific memory speed requirements and configurations desired by the user.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity is another critical aspect where both motherboards excel but in different ways. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E includes a premium Wi-Fi 6E module alongside Bluetooth 5.3 and a 2.5Gbps LAN connection, catering well to modern networking needs. It also features USB 10Gbps Type-C ports for high-speed data transfer, ensuring that users can connect various peripherals seamlessly.

In contrast, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX includes a similar Wi-Fi 6E capability and 2.5GbE LAN but goes a step further with additional connectivity options such as HDMI and DisplayPort, alongside front USB-C 10Gb/s and rear USB-C 20Gb/s ports. This extended connectivity can be particularly advantageous for users needing multiple high-speed connections for devices like monitors and external storage.

Storage Capabilities

When it comes to storage, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E offers two M.2 connectors, including one Gen5 x4 slot capable of reaching 128Gbps and another Gen4 x4 slot at 64Gbps. This setup is designed for users who require fast, reliable storage solutions, especially for gaming and high-performance applications.

The Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also features four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors, providing ample storage options for users looking to install multiple high-speed NVMe SSDs. Additionally, it incorporates an advanced thermal design with M.2 Thermal Guard III to maintain optimal drive temperatures, thereby enhancing both performance and longevity.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling solutions are paramount for maintaining performance, especially in high-demand scenarios. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E is equipped with excellent cooling features such as 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an extended heatsink. The inclusion of an M.2 Shield Frozr helps prevent thermal throttling, ensuring that both the CPU and storage devices maintain optimal temperatures.

Meanwhile, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX features advanced thermal design elements, including its own M.2 Thermal Guard III, which is specifically aimed at ensuring stable performance under heavy loads. Both motherboards offer solid cooling solutions, but the Gigabyte board's design may provide additional assurance for users planning to overclock or run intensive applications regularly.

User Experience and Features

User experience is enhanced on both boards through unique features tailored to different needs. The MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E includes an EZ M.2 Clip II for easier installation of M.2 drives, making it user-friendly for DIY enthusiasts. The inclusion of 7.1 HD audio with Audio Boost further elevates the gaming experience.

On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX offers features like Smart Fan 6, which includes multiple temperature sensors and hybrid fan headers with FAN STOP capabilities, automating cooling based on system demands. Additionally, the Q-Flash Plus feature allows BIOS updates without needing to install a CPU or graphics card, simplifying maintenance for users.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS WIFI6E and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that supports AMD Ryzen processors and offers solid performance features at £119.99, the MSI B850 GAMING PLUS is an excellent choice.

However, if you require a motherboard that supports the latest Intel CPUs and offers advanced features such as superior VRM design, extensive connectivity, and enhanced cooling at £226.99, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX stands out as the better option for high-performance computing. Each board caters to different user profiles, so consider your requirements carefully before making a decision.