ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX vs GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard,
Updated August 2026 — GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard, leads on power and thermals.
The GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX offers superior features and performance, making it the better choice for Intel users. However, the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 is a solid option for AMD users on a budget.
Why ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX is better
Price
Lower price point at $129.99
AMD Support
Supports AMD Ryzen CPUs
Compact Size
Micro-ATX form factor
Why GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard, is better
Power Design
12+1+1 phase power for better stability
Memory Slots
Supports 4 DIMMs for expandability
Thermal Management
Advanced thermal design with M.2 thermal guards
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 AM5 Micro-ATX | GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard, |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Micro-ATX | ATX |
| Socket Type | AM5 | LGA 1700 |
| RAM Type | DDR5 | DDR5 |
| M.2 Slots | 1 | 3 |
| USB Ports | 8 | 8 |
Dimension comparison
Overview
In this comparison, we will look at the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 and the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX motherboards. The ASRock motherboard retails for $129.99, while the GIGABYTE model is priced at $159.99, making it about 23% more expensive. Each motherboard supports different CPU architectures, making them suitable for users with distinct preferences and needs.
CPU Compatibility
The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 supports AMD Ryzen 9000, 8000, and 7000 series processors, while the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX is designed for Intel's 14th, 13th, and 12th generation Core processors. This fundamental difference in CPU compatibility will be a primary deciding factor for users depending on their existing hardware or future upgrade plans. If you are aligned with AMD, the ASRock is the clear choice. Conversely, Intel users will find the GIGABYTE motherboard better suited for their needs.
Memory Support
When it comes to memory, the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 supports up to 8200+ MHz DDR5 RAM in dual-channel mode across two DIMMs. On the other hand, the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX also supports DDR5, but it accommodates up to four DIMMs. This gives the GIGABYTE motherboard an advantage in terms of expandability and potential memory performance, especially for users who plan to run memory-intensive applications.
Power Design
The power design of both motherboards demonstrates their capabilities. The ASRock B850M-X features a 6+1+1 phase power design, which is suitable for stable performance with AMD CPUs. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX boasts a more robust 12+1+1 power phase setup, enhancing its stability and performance with Intel processors. This difference makes the GIGABYTE motherboard more appealing to users seeking high performance and overclocking potential.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity features vary significantly between the two motherboards. The ASRock B850M-X offers various ports, including USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen1, and Realtek 2.5G LAN alongside Wi-Fi 6E support. The GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX also includes USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C, providing faster data transfer rates. Both motherboards support PCIe 5.0, ensuring future compatibility with the latest graphics cards and storage devices. However, the GIGABYTE model excels with its additional M.2 slots, offering more flexibility for high-speed storage options.
Thermal Management
Thermal management is crucial for maintaining performance, particularly in gaming and heavy workloads. The ASRock B850M-X is equipped with adequate thermal solutions for its power design, but it does not highlight any advanced thermal features. Conversely, the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX emphasizes its comprehensive thermal design, including enlarged MOSFET heatsinks and M.2 thermal guards. This added focus on thermal efficiency makes the GIGABYTE motherboard a better pick for users concerned about overheating during intense tasks.
Aesthetics and Build Quality
In terms of aesthetics, both motherboards exhibit a modern design with RGB lighting features. The GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX leverages its RGB Fusion technology, allowing users to customize lighting effects, which can enhance the visual appeal of a gaming rig. While the ASRock B850M-X maintains a sleek and professional look, it doesn't highlight any RGB features. Users who prioritize aesthetics may lean towards the GIGABYTE motherboard for its customizable lighting.
Price Considerations
The ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 is priced at $129.99, which is a competitive price point considering its features and capabilities. In contrast, the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX is priced at $159.99, making it about 23% more expensive. This price difference reflects the additional features and superior specifications of the GIGABYTE motherboard, such as enhanced power delivery and more extensive connectivity options. Buyers should weigh the benefits of these features against their budget when making a decision.
Which should you buy?
In deciding between the ASRock B850M-X WiFi R2.0 and the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX, consider your CPU preference, memory needs, and budget. The ASRock is ideal for AMD users looking for a cost-effective solution, particularly given its lower price point. However, if you are an Intel user or plan to push your system's performance with advanced thermal management and expandability, the GIGABYTE Z790 Eagle AX, despite its higher price, offers significant advantages. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific requirements and future upgrade plans.