ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX vs GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX
Updated August 2026 — GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX leads on design and cooling.
The ASRock B850M-X offers great value for budget builders, while the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX excels in advanced features and power delivery.
Why ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX is better
Price
ASRock is $60 cheaper.
Size
Micro-ATX is better for compact builds.
Basic Features
Adequate for casual users.
Why GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX is better
Power Delivery
16+1+2 phase design for better stability.
Memory Support
More DIMM slots for upgrades.
Connectivity
Enhanced M.2 support and USB options.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX | GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX LGA 1700 ATX |
|---|---|---|
| Processor Support | AMD Ryzen 9000/8000/7000 | Intel Core 14th/13th/12th Gen |
| Memory Type | DDR5 8200+ (OC) | DDR5 with XMP 3.0 |
| Power Phases | 6+1+1 | 16+1+2 |
| M.2 Slots | 1 | 4 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 is priced at $129.99, making it significantly cheaper than the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX, which retails for $189.99. This price difference of $60 translates to about a 46% savings when choosing the ASRock motherboard. For budget-conscious builders or those seeking value, the ASRock option provides a compelling entry point into the AM5 platform, especially for users who plan to utilize AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, or 7000 CPUs.
Compatibility with Processors
The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 Series processors, showcasing its compatibility with the latest AMD offerings. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX is designed for Intel Core 14th, 13th, and 12th generation processors. This distinction is crucial for consumers; choosing between AMD and Intel ecosystems will dictate which motherboard is suitable for their needs. If you're leaning towards AMD's latest technology, the ASRock motherboard is the clear choice here.
Memory Support
When it comes to memory support, the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 accommodates up to DDR5 8200+ (OC) with its dual-channel configuration, which is a strong point for high-performance gaming and multitasking. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX also supports DDR5 memory but offers four DIMM slots with XMP 3.0 Compatibility. This means that while both motherboards support high-speed memory, the GIGABYTE board provides more flexibility for future upgrades and greater memory capacity.
Power Delivery and Thermal Management
The power delivery systems are another area where these two motherboards differ significantly. The ASRock B850M-X features a 6+1+1 phase power design with Dr.MOS for VCore, providing adequate power for most users. However, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX boasts a more robust 16+1+2 phase digital VRM solution, which is rated at 70A per power stage. This substantial difference in power phase design can lead to better system stability and performance, particularly when overclocking or under heavy loads.
Connectivity Options
In terms of connectivity, both motherboards offer modern features, but they cater to different needs. The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 includes USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C ports, Realtek 2.5G LAN, and Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring fast and efficient networking. Meanwhile, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX is equipped with four PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 slots, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C, and a similar Wi-Fi 6E capability. For users who prioritize storage expansion and advanced connectivity options, the GIGABYTE motherboard stands out due to its enhanced M.2 support.
Audio Features
Audio capabilities differ between the two products as well. The ASRock B850M-X features a Realtek ALC897 7.1 CH HD Audio Codec, which is suitable for most casual users and gamers alike. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX does not specify its audio codec in the provided data but is generally associated with high-quality audio output. Users requiring superior audio performance may lean towards the GIGABYTE option, especially for gaming or multimedia applications where sound quality is paramount.
Design and Aesthetics
Design plays an important role in motherboard selection. The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 is a Micro-ATX form factor, making it ideal for compact builds. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX is an ATX motherboard, providing additional space for components and better airflow. The aesthetic appeal of the GIGABYTE board is enhanced by features like RGB Fusion, which allows for customizable lighting effects. For users who prioritize a visually striking build, the GIGABYTE option may be more appealing.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the choice between the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 and the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS Elite AX boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you're seeking a cost-effective solution with solid performance for AMD processors, the ASRock is about 46% cheaper and an excellent entry point. However, for those looking for more advanced features, better power delivery, and greater upgrade potential with Intel processors, the GIGABYTE motherboard justifies its higher price with superior specifications and capabilities. Your final decision should align with your performance requirements and system compatibility preferences.