MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI Motherboard vs Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX Motherboard - Supports Intel Core 14th CPUs

Price Comparison

The MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI is priced at £169.99, making it significantly more affordable than the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX, which retails for £226.99. This £57 price difference is considerable, particularly for budget-conscious builders seeking a reliable motherboard for Intel processors. The MSI board provides a competitive offering for those who want high performance without a hefty price tag. In contrast, the Gigabyte model, with its higher cost, targets users looking for advanced features and support for the latest Intel Core 14th generation CPUs.

Processor Support

The MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI supports the latest Intel Core Ultra processors from Series 2, while the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is compatible with Intel's 12th and 13th generation CPUs, and optimised for the newer 14th generation. This makes the Gigabyte board a more future-proof option for users planning to upgrade their CPU in the near future. The flexibility of the Gigabyte board, supporting a wider range of processors, can be a determining factor for those looking to invest in longevity and performance.

Power Delivery and VRM Design

In terms of power delivery, the MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI features a 12 Duet Rail Power System with Core Boost architecture, which ensures stable performance for high-demand applications. In comparison, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX boasts a more robust Twin 16+1+2 Phases Digital VRM Solution. This enhanced power delivery system is particularly beneficial for overclocking and maintaining system stability under heavy loads. Users who plan to push their hardware to the limits may find the Gigabyte's advanced VRM design more appealing for optimal performance.

Memory Support

The MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI supports DDR5 memory with four DIMM slots, allowing for excellent overclocking speeds of up to 8800+ MT/s. However, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX also features dual-channel DDR5 support with four SMD DIMMs, including XMP 3.0 memory module support for enhanced performance. While both motherboards handle DDR5, the inclusion of XMP support in the Gigabyte board may provide additional ease for users looking to optimise their memory settings, simplifying the overclocking process.

Storage Options

Storage capabilities differ notably between the two motherboards. The MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI includes three M.2 connectors: one Gen5 x4 slot, one Gen4 x4 slot, and one Gen4 x2 slot, providing flexibility for high-speed storage solutions. Conversely, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX offers four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 connectors, allowing for even more high-speed storage options. This advantage in storage connectivity makes the Gigabyte board a better choice for users who need extensive storage solutions or plan to use multiple M.2 drives.

Networking Features

When it comes to networking, the MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI is equipped with a full-speed Wi-Fi 7 module and Intel Killer 5G LAN, providing advanced connectivity options. On the other hand, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX includes 2.5GbE LAN and Wi-Fi 6E 802.11ax, which offer significant speed improvements over standard options. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E in the Gigabyte board ensures better performance in environments with multiple connected devices, making it a suitable choice for gamers and content creators who require stable and fast internet connections.

Thermal Management

Cooling solutions are critical for maintaining performance, particularly during intense workloads. The MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI features a combination of 7W/mK MOSFET thermal pads and an Extended Heatsink, designed to keep temperatures in check. In comparison, the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX is equipped with Advanced Thermal Design and M.2 Thermal Guard III, ensuring VRM power stability and enhanced M.2 SSD performance. The superior thermal management features found in the Gigabyte board may appeal to users who plan on overclocking or using high-performance components that generate more heat.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the MSI B860 GAMING PLUS WIFI and the Gigabyte Z790 AORUS ELITE AX ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a more cost-effective solution that still provides solid performance for Intel’s latest processors, the MSI option at £169.99 is a great choice. However, if you require advanced features such as support for the latest Intel Core 14th generation CPUs, superior power delivery, and enhanced thermal management, the Gigabyte board at £226.99 offers better long-term value. The decision should hinge on whether you prioritise immediate affordability or future-proofing your system with cutting-edge technology.